June, 2012—For the first time in her life, 50-year-old Mary Kotoi is a proud student. Growing up in rural Liberia, the mother of six was never given the opportunity to go to school or learn to read.
Less than half of the women in this African nation are literate. In many developing countries, war and poverty have prevented adults from attending traditional schools, resulting in poor literacy rates. The problem is especially prevalent with women.
Mary is one of 1,500 women who have benefitted so far from a Samaritan’s Purse program, operated in partnership with Liberian churches. It teaches reading, writing and math to women in impoverished rural communities. Those skills will help them with day-to-day market transactions and to provide for their families.
Mary has been touched not only by the reading and writing lessons, but also by the Scripture passages her teachers read and explain to her. She is especially interested in passages on forgiveness and her responsibilities as a parent.
Bible readings also captivated fellow student Hawa Korhene. Through the literacy program, she learned about God’s unconditional love and came to accept Christ as her personal savior.
“Now, I am able to go to church on Sundays and pray to God,” she said.
As she continues to attend class, Hawa looks forward to the bright future that her reading and writing abilities will provide.
“From what I am learning, I am able to read and write my own and other people’s names and read Bible stories,” she said. “I want to thank Samaritan’s Purse for this program, and may God bless the donors who are supporting them.”
Working tirelessly to meet the physical and spiritual needs in their communities, many local churches around the world are a source of help, comfort, and support. Your gift will allow Samaritan's Purse to help the international church continue to be a tangible model of Christ's love.