Martin Luther believed that deeds of love expressed toward one’s fellow human beings through works of charity were the vocation to which every Christian is called. This is also the teaching of Jesus Himself, who said the “greatest commandment” is to love God and love your neighbor “with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (see Matthew 22:36-39).
What Lutheran Hour Ministries calls “holistic ministry” today is aimed at loving our neighbor, and therefore loving Christ Himself, through word and deed. LHM’s ministry centers often incorporate holistic approaches to sharing the Gospel that address people’s physical and emotional needs as well as spiritual ones.
LHM’s on-the-ground presence in many locations around the world often allows staff and volunteers to respond quickly following natural disasters. This was the case in Myanmar following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in March that devastated not only that country but reached into neighboring Thailand. Thankfully, LHM staff in both locations are confirmed safe. However, the earthquake resulted in more than 3,500 deaths and left thousands of others injured or missing.
LHM–Myanmar staff recently visited the earthquake zone to provide much needed assistance to the survivors. In addition to providing daily necessities, staff supported victims with Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Psychosocial Spiritual Support (PSS) programs. These programs encourage affected individuals to better cope with their situation, connect them with others who can provide support and understanding, and allow them to focus on a future filled with recovery and healing. Please continue to pray for those affected by this devastating tragedy as well as our staff and volunteers as they build ongoing relationships with survivors in the coming months.
LHM–Sri Lanka recently organized four successful events to assist more than 300 families who had been impacted by severe flooding. Each event provided essential dry cooking items like rice, flour, milk powder, spices, tea, and biscuits as well as hygiene items such as soap. LHM staff also had an opportunity to share the Gospel message through songs, a short message, and a teledrama. The response from affected families was overwhelming, and many expressed their sincere gratitude to LHM–Sri Lanka for assisting them in this way.
“Often the recipients of holistic efforts like this desire to learn more about the God who motivates these Christians to reach out in love,” says LHM CEO Kurt Buchholz.
In communities where people struggle with poverty, LHM ministry centers often assist individuals through vocational training, educational materials, nutritional supplements, hygiene supplies, or medical clinics. These efforts open doors for LHM to share Christ-centered resources and invite people to participate in Bible Correspondence Courses and other ministry programs.
In early March, LHM–Cameroon celebrated the 11th graduating class from its Divine Sewing School. The celebration was featured on the national news in Cameroon that evening where millions of people watched and heard about this transformative program that rescues women who have been victims of violence by teaching them a trade.
The young women learn how to dye cloth, create and cut clothing patterns, sew, and custom tailor their creations so they can financially support themselves upon graduating from the program. The relationships established during this long-term course help LHM staff and volunteers share their faith as trusted friends to these young women. But above all, the program helps these women find hope through Jesus, so they can face life with confidence.
A similar program in Liberia, the Dorcas Sewing Class, continues to experience great success in attracting both Christians and non-Christians and empowering them through skills development and fellowship. This initiative not only helps women gain practical skills for developing financial independence but also fosters a sense of community among the participants—many who hear the Gospel for the first time during the ongoing classes.
During the program’s most recent graduation ceremony, 38-year-old Lovetta was recognized not only for her exceptional skill but also for her inspiring resilience. Having recently lost her husband, Lovetta faced the daunting challenge of providing for her family on her own. Despite her grief, she committed herself wholeheartedly to the sewing program, determined to build a new life for herself and her five children. As the ceremony progressed, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation as LHM–Liberia prepared to honor her dedication in a special way.
To Lovetta’s surprise and delight, ministry staff presented her with a brand-new sewing machine, a gesture that brought tears to her eyes. The machine was more than just a tool—it was a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a means to rebuild her life after the devastating loss of her husband. The room erupted in applause as Lovetta, overwhelmed with gratitude, expressed her thanks to LHM–Liberia for empowering her to turn her skills into a sustainable livelihood.