|  80% of the illnesses and deaths that plague most areas of Africa are related to unclean water. 8 out of 10. Bono, of the band U2, would call this “stupid poverty.” Reading that statistic can make us go, “Hmmm” after which we simply move on to thinking about what’s on ESPN later. But sometimes, in the right place, hearing about 8 out of 10 people being ill or even dying because of unclean water can sink in and take root. I heard this statistic because of a ministry called fermiproject, and for me, and my church, it did sink in.
Fermiproject was given national attention during the 2005 Catalyst Conference. There, an African woman shared the truth of the water situation in Rwanda, and then a solution was proposed. For $3000, a fresh-water well could be drilled and put into operation, and that well could provide clean, safe water for 750 people. A challenge was issued to those attending that conference, and they responded with a collection of $138,000.
This year, I was able to attend Catalyst, and fermiproject provided an update on their ongoing efforts to end the water crisis in Africa. They provided everyone with a DVD, asked us to share it with our churches, and continue to help. During an 8 hour drive from Atlanta to Mitchell, our group decided that not only could Tulip Street help, but we must.
On November 26, God’s people at Tulip Street Church heard the cries of God’s people in Africa. Jesus talked of simply giving a cup of water in His name. And so we did. $5338.47 was raised to provide clean water to do what water has always been divinely intended to do: Give life.
I want to say “Thank you!” to my church. Thank you for responding to this chance to help. Thank you for seeking to become fully engaged in the difference that Jesus is making in the world. And I also want to say this: We’re just getting started. May the Kingdom come. |
