Scripture Engagement in Lesotho

“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.  He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.” -1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (NIV)

Helping people use and actively engage with Scriptures is an essential part of the ministry of Wycliffe and other organizations involved in Bible translation.  However, many other organizations are equally passionate about and involved in Scripture engagement.  Africa Inland Mission (AIM) produced the following video about how AIM staff are helping the shepherds of Lesotho engage with God’s Word.

Lesotho [lih-SOO-too] is a small, land-locked and mountainous country located in the south eastern part of South Africa.  It is not part of South Africa, but an independent country of about 2 million people.  At least five languages are spoken there. Wool is one of its exports, and boys can be set apart to tend flocks of sheep from a very young age.

While Lesotho has an 85% literacy rate, shepherds have a strong oral culture and many are not literate.  AIM staff are helping some shepherds learn to read and write which gives them access to God’s word in their language.  Staff are also hoping to launch a Bible school which will transmit all of its teaching and Scripture orally and through audio.  This will allow shepherds to engage with God’s word and learn to teach others about God’s Word without having to learn to read.

Learn more about orality and ministry to peoples from oral cultures.

Learn more about Scripture engagement ministry.

Source:  http://www.thepubols.com/.

Heather Pubols is serving Wycliffe International as the director of the Africa Communications Network.