On the Gregorian calendar, September 12, 2007, marks the beginning of the new millennium in the only country still using the ancient Julian calendar: Ethiopia.

Literature and Education

The literature department will publish millennium-specific materials, such as a special edition magazine, brochures for the church’s world-wide supporters, English translations of some previous publications, and a newsletter for all of the church members.

Medicine

The medical department continues to develop the Medan ACTS HIV/AIDS programs in different parts of the country. Existing project sites will look for ways to expand and offer more services while new project sites will begin with basic services such as counseling and testing, home-based care, and orphan care.

Strengthening Congregations

The head office will coordinate a schedule of focused prayer days throughout the year so that every congregation will be united in worship, confession, peace, or other such topics. They will also encourage each congregation to help and sustain needy people by sponsoring or caring for orphans, supporting HIV and AIDS patients, reaching out to elderly people, and befriending street kids.

In conjunction with one of the government’s celebratory plans, each of the six million members of the church will plant and maintain two indigenous trees. This will greatly relieve the need for reforestation and contribute to soil conservation.

Reflection and Renewal

As the EKHC reflects on its 80-year history, they would like to use this millennial celebration as a springboard for renewed church vision and mission. A historical monument will be erected at EKHC headquarters as a reminder and an encouragement to be bold and strong in the years to come.

Many of the plans depend on the availability of resources, but the most important goal for the millennial year won’t cost the church a thing. Before the year is out, they are hoping that every member of the church will make a point of sharing the Gospel with at least one other person. That means that within the coming year, six million people will have the chance to hear the Good News, perhaps for the first time.

Please Pray

Let’s pray as the Ethiopian Kale Heywet Church celebrates this millennium that the truth of their chosen theme resounds throughout Ethiopia and beyond. "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14