Pr. Moses and Charlie pictured with the newly purchased thresher.
The Northwest Intermountain Synod has a Companion Synod, the Ulanga Kilombero Diocese (UKD) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania. This is a relationship that has been nurtured over for nearly 35 years in many ways. There have been visits both here and in Tanzania. There have been prayers and joint worship services held online. We have helped build a Dining/Assembly Hall for the Tumaini Lutheran Secondary School and have supported the Lugala Lutheran Hospital, both mission projects of the UKD. We offer scholarships for girls attending Tumaini school. Several congregations in our synod offer regular financial support for the UKD.
Pastor Moses Nwaka recently inquired of the NWIM Companion Synod Team about the purchase of a threshing machine for Tumaini school. This would not only help them save money when they harvest their crops but would also produce income by renting out its services for other local farmers. The Companion Synod Team discussed this and felt it was a win-win situation! Funds were transferred to the school and they have made the purchase of a used thresher. There is a local man who has often worked at the school who will maintain and manage the equipment. This gift was possible because of the generosity of donations from individuals and congregations.
Bwana Yesu Asifiwe is Kiswahili for Praise the Lord! It is the best response when our companionship can result in such wonderful things that benefit so many! Asanta Sana is Kiswahili for Thank you Very Much! Your financial gifts are what make this small part of our relationship possible! Asante Sana!
Deacon Heidi Cryer, on behalf of the Companion Synod Team of the NWIM Synod