Planting Initiative
A remarkable church planting movement continues to unfold in Ethiopia. What began in the late 1990s—when church leaders boldly sent planters into previously unreached and hostile communities—has grown into a powerful expression of faith and multiplication.
Through this movement, thousands have come to know Jesus each year. In one extraordinary moment, over 3,700 former Muslims were baptized in a single service—marking the depth of transformation taking place across the region.
One story reflects the power of this movement.
Years ago, in the midst of tribal conflict, a young Christian woman—whom we will call Amina—was taken from her community and forced to marry a Muslim leader from a neighboring tribe. Separated from her family and surrounded by uncertainty, she cried out to God for help. Though she lived under oppression, she sensed the Lord asking her to stay, and through the years, she remained faithful.
Later, a church planter—trained and sent through this very movement—entered into her region. In a life-changing encounter, he shared the Gospel with Amina’s husband, who gave his life to Jesus. When the church planter visited their home, an incredible connection was uncovered: both he and Amina had grown up in the same church before conflict had divided their communities.
God used that moment to bring restoration—within a marriage, within a family, and even between once-hostile groups.
In 2025, this vision continued to expand. A PAOC-planted church in Ethiopia took up the mantle of multiplication, committing to send 75 church planters into the harvest field. Through partnership, these workers are being equipped and sent to bring the hope of the Gospel to communities with little to no access to Jesus.
Lives are being transformed, communities are being reconciled, and the Gospel is advancing—proving once again that when the Church steps out in faith, God brings the increase.
