ASK 2019 PRAYER DIARY Welcome from the International Director

Dear praying friends and colleagues,

As I write, representatives from countries across The Leprosy Mission (TLM) PATANA’S STORY Global Fellowship are about to travel to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia for our Annual Members Assembly. During this time I first got leprosy when I was three or four years we are planning to adopt a new Global old. I had red patches on my arms. When I was Strategy for 2019-23. Part of this new six or seven a missionary found me and took me strategy talks about us being a Christ- to a hospital in central Thailand. This missionary was very kind to me. She brought me sweets centred organisation, seeking to bring and pictures and told me about Jesus. She about transformation and ‘Life in all its used to send blankets to me at the hospital. Fullness’ for people affected by leprosy.

While I was at this hospital I got leprosy reaction. We can consider transformation in both the physical and spiritual sense. TLM’s founder, Wellesley So I was sent to McKean Rehabilitation Center Bailey, acknowledged as much when he first came across people affected by leprosy in India (a partner of TLM). I was a real mess. I couldn’t walk. I had lumps all over my body and bad more than 140 years ago; Bailey considered the consolation or comfort of the Gospel to be both went to live in a cottage for people affected by nerve pain. So I spent months in the hospital its proclamation and its demonstration. While many things have changed with how we work leprosy. Eventually I moved to a “rehabilitation” receiving treatment. When I was well enough to village set up by McKean, where I was able with people affected by leprosy, this concept of the consolation of the Gospel, to bring about leave the ward I moved into the boys’ hostel at to earn a living through my wood carving. I transformation, has not changed at all. McKean. It was here that I first started school. married a girl from the village who didn’t have I am reminded of the story from the Book of Acts (Acts 3) where Peter and John heal the lame I had to stay at McKean because the community leprosy. After two years we moved down to in my home town wouldn’t accept me. Even as Bangkok to do some construction work with my beggar outside the temple gate; first the Gospel is demonstrated (the man is healed), and a little child I had to stay hidden in my house. brother. But because of loss of sensation I kept then the Gospel is proclaimed, and many present, including the beggar himself are saved – My parents wanted to protect me. They also injuring my hands. So I came back to McKean transformation and Life in all its Fullness. worried about being rejected themselves and started to work in the craft department. because of me. I remember going on a train Recently I was in the country of Timor Leste, a small nation in South East Asia which has not long I took a loan from McKean to buy a home and ride once and having to stand with my face was able to pay it off through wood carving. emerged from decades of terrible unrest and conflict. While there I visited a family where four hidden so people wouldn’t know I had leprosy. Later I became a shoe-maker at McKean. I of the children were affected by leprosy. I had never seen this many children from one family After I came to McKean my family didn’t made moulded shoes for people affected by affected by leprosy – it was a reminder that there is still much to do to achieve our global vision come to visit me. They knew I was well leprosy until I retired about five years ago. of ‘Leprosy Defeated, Lives Transformed’. looked after and receiving treatment. In I still face some discrimination because of those days if you had leprosy you went The ASK Prayer Diary highlights the work and ministry of The Leprosy Mission and how we seek leprosy, but much less than I used to. I want to away and lived separately from others. give thanks. If it wasn’t through the help of God to bring about transformation and Life in all its Fullness for people affected by leprosy. It is my But the kind missionary lady kept visiting me through this hospital, I would’ve been lost. pleasure to present these to you and ask that you join us in bringing these before The Most High and showing me great kindness. She taught God in prayer. And as you do so, may you be truly blessed. Thank you! I’ve kept going on my wood carving. I’m me about what Jesus had done for me. So I not motivated by payment, just by doing have had faith in Jesus since I was a child. In Christ, the best artwork I can do. I love that other When I left school I learnt wood carving from people are meeting God or receiving from Brent Morgan one of the other patients at McKean and God through the artwork that I have done. International Director The Leprosy Mission International Front cover photo and above © Daniel Christiansz Photography 1 CONTENTS

International Director’s welcome 1 Denmark 44 Our miSSION Our values TLM’s vision and values 2 England and Wales 18, 72 Our vision Where leprosy is found today – world map 4 Ethiopia 45 Following Jesus Christ, Because we follow Jesus Leprosy Defeated, Prayer Diary 8 Finland 44 The Leprosy Mission Christ, Country office contact details 80 France 32 Lives Transformed seeks to bring about we value Where TLM works – map 82 Germany 28 transformation; breaking • Compassion the chains of leprosy, • Justice Hungary 46 empowering people to • Integrity Features India – Advocacy and Communication 21 attain healing, dignity • Inclusion Yam’s story 6 India – Community-Based Rehabilitation 48 and life in all its fullness. • Humility Binta’s story 19 India – Countrywide 9 Dhanalakshmi’s story 30 India – Healthcare 36 Beverley’s story 41 India – Research and Training 62 I urge you, first of all, to Rabiul’s story 52 India – Vocational Education 75 Claire’s story 67 Indonesia 50 pray for all people. Ask God Hla Min’s story 78 Ireland 35 to help them; intercede on Josiane’s story 84 Italy 28 their behalf, and give thanks Mozambique 20 Devotions Myanmar 42 for them. Friendship 17 Nepal 14, 70 1 Timothy 2:1 (NLT) The Least of These 34 Netherlands 54 The Woman at the Well 56 New Zealand 47 Trusting in the knowledge that God From Dream to Destiny 71 Niger 26 hears and answers prayer, holding to Nigeria 10, 64 the belief that our work is the Lord’s, Prayer diary by theme Northern Ireland 66 and realising that all our human Fundraising 39 Papua New Guinea 63 efforts are in vain without God’s Global Voice 58 Scotland 33 blessing and power, we share this ASK Integral Mission 77 Singapore 69 Prayer Diary to encourage believers People of TLM 8 Southern Africa 23 everywhere to pray for the extension Research 76 South Korea 69 of God’s Kingdom through this work. Speaking Out 27 Spain 74 The Global Fellowship 60 Sri Lanka 55 The Leprosy Mission International 68 Sudan 38 The Leprosy Mission Trading 13 Sweden 57 International Chairman ASK 2019 Prayer Diary Switzerland 16 Colin Osborne Published by The Leprosy Prayer diary by country Tanzania 74 International Mission International Vice-Chair Founded in 1874 Australia 24 Thailand 50 Anne Ratliff Production Editor Bangladesh – Community-Based Rehabilitation 73 Timor Leste 29 Treasurer Heather Warne Bangladesh – Countrywide and Healthcare 12 USA 35 Philip Putman Design Bangladesh – Leprosy Control and Research 40 International Director Mark and Heather Knight Brent Morgan Belgium 59 Printer KJB Print Parma (right) is a volunteer with TLM Trust India. She teaches Canada 35 women in adult literacy classes, supervises ten self-help groups, Chad 22 © The Leprosy Mission International 2018 facilitates advocacy with the village council, and informs the community about leprosy, health and gender equality. Democratic Republic of Congo 61 2 3 WHERE LEPROSY IS FOUND TODAY For a map of the countries where TLM works see page 82

TLM is committed to providing long-term quality care and support in the name of Jesus Christ as long as there are people affected by leprosy who need it.

GREENLAND

GREENLAND

ICELAND

NORWAY

CANADA ICELAND SWEDEN FINLAND RUSSIA NORWAY ESTONIA

CANADA SWEDEN FINLAND LATVIA NETHERLANDS RUSSIA DENMARK LITHUANIA IRELAND ESTONIA POLAND UK BELARUS LATVIA NETHERLANDS BELGIUM CZECHIA LUXEMBOURG GERMANY UKRAINE DENMARK LITHUANIA SLOVAKIA IRELAND FRANCE KAZAKHSTAN POLAND BELARUS MOLDOVA UK AUSTRIA MONGOLIA BELGIUM SWITZERLANDCZECHIA UKRAINE USA LUXEMBOURG GERMANY SLOVENIA ROMANIA GEORGIA SLOVAKIA UZBEKISTAN FRANCE CROATIA ITALY KAZAKHSTANBULGARIA AUSTRIA BOSNIA AND MOLDOVA KYRGYZSTAN ARMENIA TURKMENISTANMONGOLIA NORTH SWITZERLAND HERZEGOVINA SPAIN TURKEY KOREA USA GEORGIA TAJIKISTAN SLOVENIA ROMANIA UZBEKISTAN CYPRUS AZERBAIJAN CROATIA ITALY PORTUGAL JAPAN BULGARIA HUNGARY BOSNIA AND SYRIA ARMENIA TUNISIAALBANIA KYRGYZSTAN NORTH TURKMENISTANGREECE LEBANON HERZEGOVINA SPAIN TURKEY IRAQ KOREA CHINA MOROCCO JORDAN IRAN SOUTH CYPRUS AZERBAIJAN TAJIKISTAN NEPAL BHUTAN MEXICO PORTUGAL AFGHANISTAN JAPAN KOREA HAITI HUNGARY CUBA WESTERN SAHARA SYRIA DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TUNISIAALBANIA ALGERIA KUWAIT GREECE LEBANON IRAQ LIBYA EGYPT CHINAPAKISTAN MOROCCO MAURITANIA JORDAN IRAN QATAR SOUTH MEXICO BELIZE NEPAL BHUTAN AFGHANISTAN UAE KOREA CUBA HAITI INDIA GUATEMALA JAMAICA PUERTO WESTERN SAHARA BURKINA FASO SAUDI ARABIA DOMINICAN REPUBLIC RICO ALGERIA KUWAIT HONDURAS PANAMA SENEGALLIBYA EGYPT PAKISTAN LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC MAURITANIA QATAR ERITREA BELIZE TRINIDAD & TOBAGO MALI NIGER OMAN EL SALVADOR UAE INDIA THAILAND GUATEMALA JAMAICA PUERTO GUYANABURKINA FASO SAUDI ARABIA CHAD SUDAN NICARAGUARICO YEMEN BANGLADESH SURINAME LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC CAMBODIA HONDURAS PANAMA COSTA RICA SENEGAL GUINEA-BISSAU DJIBOUTI TRINIDADVENEZUELA & TOBAGO FRENCH GUIANA MALI ERITREA MYANMAR VIETNAM EL SALVADOR NIGER OMAN PHILIPPINES GUYANA GUINEA SUDAN NIGERIA THAILAND MALAYSIA COLOMBIA CHAD SOUTH NICARAGUA YEMEN ETHIOPIABANGLADESH SRI LANKA BRUNEI SURINAME CAR SUDAN SOMALIA CAMBODIA GUINEA-BISSAU SIERRA-LEONE DJIBOUTI SINGAPORE COSTA RICA VENEZUELA ECUADORFRENCH GUIANA MYANMAR MALDIVESVIETNAM KENYA PHILIPPINES BORNEO GUINEA NIGERIALIBERIA EG MALAYSIA PAPUA NEW COLOMBIA SOUTH TOETHIOPIAGO SRIUGANDA LANKA CAR SOMALIA BRUNEI GUINEA SIERRA-LEONE COTE D’IVOIRE SUDAN ECUADOR BENIN DR CONGOMALDIVES RWANDA SINGAPORE KENYA BURUNDI BORNEO PERU BRAZIL LIBERIA EG GHANA SEYCHELLES PAPUA NEWINDONESIA TOGO CAMEROON UGANDA TANZANIA GUINEA COTE D’IVOIRE GABON BENIN DR CONGO RWANDA TIMOR LESTE CONGOBURUNDI COMOROS BRAZIL BOLIVIA GHANA SEYCHELLES INDONESIA PERU CAMEROON ANGOLA MOZAMBIQUE SOLOMON TANZANIA GABON ZAMBIA MALAWI ISLANDS TIMOR LESTE SAMOA PITCAIRN ISLANDS PARAGUAY CONGO COMOROS BOLIVIA ANGOLA ZIMBABWE MOZAMBIQUE MAURITIUS SOLOMON FIJI ZAMBIA MALAWI MADAGASCAR ISLANDS BOTSWANA NEW SAMOA PITCAIRN ISLANDS PARAGUAY AUSTRALIA CHILE ZIMBABWE NAMIBIA MAURITIUS ESWATINI FIJI CALEDONIA BOTSWANA MADAGASCAR URUGUAY SOUTH LESOTHO NEW ARGENTINA AUSTRALIA CHILE NAMIBIA ESWAAFRITINICA CALEDONIA

URUGUAY SOUTH LESOTHO ARGENTINA AFRICA NEW ZEALAND

NEW ZEALAND

Annual New Cases of Leprosy 10,000+ 1,000–9,999 100–999 1–99 No new cases detected No data available SOURCE: WHO 2016 10,000+ 1,000–9,999 100–999 1–100 No new cases detected No data available SOURCE: WHO 2017 10,000+ 1,000–9,999 100–999 1–99 No new cases detected No data available SOURCE: WHO 2016

4 5 Padam Kumari mentioned that she had initially kept her leprosy diagnosis a secret. But as TLM has increased awareness in YAM’S communities, she has opened up and asked her son to do the same. Yam is studying in grade 8. He wants to join the army after completing his schooling. He was diagnosed in time and thus can fulfil his STORY dream – which is not the case for all people affected by leprosy. TLM Nepal continues to work in partnership with the Government of Yam is 14 years old. He lives in the Chitwan Nepal and with other leprosy organisations District of Nepal with his three elder sisters to increase timely diagnosis and treatment, and mother. His father has gone to India to so that more people affected by leprosy can work as a labourer. They don’t own enough continue to pursue their dreams like Yam. land to produce sufficient food for the whole year so his father is in India out of necessity, to earn for the family’s livelihood and children’s education. Yam’s mother Padam Kumari is affected by leprosy and was being treated with multi-drug therapy. One day Yam told his mother of a senseless feeling on his leg. Padam Kumari was shocked as she suspected leprosy. She acted quickly, calling TLM Nepal’s project staff to make enquiries. The staff, who have received leprosy training, were able to diagnose Yam with leprosy. His treatment started soon and in July 2017 he completed his course of multi-drug therapy. The local health worker in his community, suspecting other leprosy cases in the area, also conducted a house to house survey, but no further leprosy cases were found.

6 77 People of The Leprosy Mission 1–6 JAN INDIA 7–13 JAN

PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS

Tue: Although in some countries TLM staff Mon: TLM India’s seven-year country strategy are all or predominantly Christians, there (2019-25) has been rolled out this year. Praise are also many across The Leprosy Mission God for guiding the team to develop this world that come from different religious strategy. Pray for God’s grace to implement backgrounds. Pray that through the love of the strategy to realise its objectives. their Christian colleagues and our Christian Tue: Pray for God’s guidance for the senior activities and ethos they would come to management team, domain heads, unit know the love of Jesus. he Leprosy Mission Trust India, founded in 1874 heads, and programme managers, as they Wed: Thank God for all the volunteers past Tand headquartered in New Delhi, is the largest work to realise TLM India’s vision, ‘People and present who have generously given of leprosy-focused non-governmental organisation in affected by leprosy living with dignity in od’s blessing is foremost in the success or their time and skills to further the Mission’s India. It works with people affected by leprosy, people a transformed, inclusive society that has Gfailure of our work. That is why we pray. As work. Pray they would be abundantly with disabilities, and marginalised communities, overcome leprosy’. The Leprosy Mission’s founder Wellesley Bailey blessed. especially women. It has a diverse set of programmes Wed: Pray for God’s guidance and wisdom once said, prayer has been at the bottom of the Thu: Pray for the Christian staff working in – Healthcare, Sustainable Livelihood, Community as the team works on strategies to improve Mission’s success since the first moments of its countries where Christians are persecuted or Empowerment, Advocacy, and Research and Training the financial sustainability of the organisation life. And, because God works through people, the oppressed or where open Christian activities – and implements these programmes through 14 through fundraising, project development people of The Leprosy Mission are at the crux of are illegal. Pray for God’s protection, and for hospitals and 2 clinics, 6 vocational training centres, and internal revenue generation. what we are able to do. 5 residential care homes for elderly persons affected wisdom as they show God’s love through Thu: Pray for God’s blessings on people Around The Leprosy Mission Fellowship, by leprosy, community empowerment projects, and a their actions and find safe opportunities to affected by leprosy in their day-to-day lives. people of many different backgrounds and research laboratory, spread across 10 states of India. share their faith. Pray for the successful outcome of TLM India’s contexts are working with shared values towards TLM India conducts its programmes in Fri: Across TLM there is a lot of work that work among them so that God’s name is a common purpose. Some donate money, or give collaboration with people affected by leprosy and goes on behind the scenes, that has less glorified. Pray also that through the Mission’s their time as volunteers. Some work at the front their communities, central and state governments, direct contact with people affected by work, they will realise God’s love and care. the World Health Organization (WHO), the lines within our health, education, community leprosy and yet is crucial to our work. Give International Federation of Anti-Leprosy Associations Fri: We thank God for the wonderful donors development and research programmes. Some thanks for office staff in less visible roles and (ILEP) and civil society organisations. and partners of the work in India. Pray that are administrators, fundraisers or advisors. Some pray they would feel valued and know their TLM India’s vision is to see ‘People affected the team can successfully build partnerships, are speakers or advocates for the cause of leprosy. impact on people’s lives. Some pray and share the work of the Mission with by leprosy living with dignity in a transformed, especially with corporates and public sector friends, family and church. Some have personal Sat: Give thanks for the dedication of inclusive society that has overcome leprosy’. The undertakings, who may partner with us as a experience of leprosy or disability. All of them tens of thousands of staff members since Operations Team, comprising the Executive Director, part of their corporate social responsibility. are vital to our ongoing work. When The Leprosy the Mission’s founding in 1874. Their two Directors and seven Domain Heads, leads the Sat/Sun: TLM India has started new Mission’s people meet together, whether in- contributions have brought us from organisation in achieving this vision. fundraising initiatives, such as crowdfunding country or internationally, our diversity adds an providing relief to people affected by and digital campaigns, to build partnerships immense richness to our conversations, our way leprosy, to the holistic and life-changing across the country with people who have a of thinking, our prayer and worship together, and support we are able to give today. Pray for heart for supporting our work among people our decisions. current and future staff, especially decision- affected by leprosy. Pray for God’s guidance As we begin a new year, please lift the makers, for the wisdom and inspired and blessings. ideas that enable us to finish the work of Mission’s people up in prayer. Pray that we – from Top: The Leprosy Mission Trust India team. all corners of the world, in all the parts we play in eradicating leprosy and its consequences. The Leprosy Mission family – will be strengthened Sun: Wellesley Bailey, our founder, said that SENIOR Staff and inspired as we continue Christ’s good work of prayer was at the basis of every good thing Mr Amit Kumar – Head of Fundraising healing and restoration. that TLM was able to achieve. Give thanks Country Office Mr Melvin Moras – Head of Human Resources Management today for people like you, around the world, Dr Mary Verghese – Executive Director Mr Abraham George – Director of Operations Mr Benison Solomon – Head of Audit and Risk Management who uphold the Mission’s work in prayer. Mr Samuel V. Thomas – Director of Finance and Administration Pray too that, as Jesus taught, our persistent Programme Coordinators Dr Famkima Darlong – Head of Healthcare Mr Karthikeyan G. – Research prayer will open doors and opportunities Mrs Tina Mendis – Head of Sustainable Livelihoods and Community Mr Babu G. – Training that otherwise seemed impossible. Empowerment Mr Vijayasekar G. – Prevention and Management of Disability Mrs Nikita Sarah – Head of Advocacy and Communication Mr Vijay Patta – Vocational Training Top: Spending time together at the Members Meeting special Dr Joydeepa Darlong – Head of Knowledge Management Mrs Irudayapurana – Nursing award dinner. 8 9 Nigeria – Part 1 14–20 JAN WORLD LEPROSY DAY 21–27 JAN

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, Mon: Pray for the TLM Nigeria strategic Mon: Pray for TLM Global Fellowship And He shall direct your paths. fundraising plan for the next three years. Pray Members using World Leprosy Day as an Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) that the team will continue to find favour and opportunity to engage with churches. Pray access to existing and prospective individual that many churches will choose to recognise donors, corporate sponsors and institutional people affected by leprosy in an event funders. Pray that God will grant them or service and that congregations will be wisdom to take advantage of opportunities inspired to greater support and involvement. to develop new channels of partnership and Give thanks for the great generosity of income. donors who will give. Tue: In February, Nigeria will be conducting Tue: Pray for TLM Global Fellowship its presidential and governorship elections. Members running World Leprosy Day events Pray that the elections will be free and fair, such as lectures, advocacy visits, press and that transition of power to the new orld Leprosy Day is observed globally each conferences and visits to communities of government will happen smoothly without Wyear on the last Sunday in January, with persons affected by leprosy. Pray that these crisis or violence. the aim of raising awareness and knowledge events will further strengthen the fight Wed: The TLM Nigeria staff conference about leprosy, the fact that it can be cured and to against leprosy and its consequences. is scheduled to take place in May. It is a change attitudes that stigmatise and marginalise Wed: The International Federation of Anti- period of spiritual refreshment for board people affected by the disease. Leprosy Associations (ILEP), of which The LM in Nigeria works in collaboration with the members, staff, and volunteers. Please pray Within TLM it is celebrated by a variety of Leprosy Mission is a member, is focusing TGovernment, supporting them in their control that this year’s conference will be insightful activities appropriate within each country. In this year’s World Leprosy Day activities on of leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases, and impactful in the lives of all attending; some places where leprosy is a health issue these stigma, discrimination and prejudice. Pray and ministering to around 40,000 people affected that each one will be inspired by God’s may be about public education and advocacy, that their message would be far-reaching, by leprosy residing in communities across 11 states love and filled with renewed strength and and in others they may be about raising funds and shining a light on the injustices faced by of Nigeria. commitment towards the work. praying for the programmes that support people people affected by leprosy and inspiring the affected by the disease and its consequences. Around 2,500 new leprosy cases are diagnosed Thu: TLM Nigeria’s Board meets in May. public to action. In some countries where we work, TLM is each year in Nigeria. In 2017, over 7% of these Pray for wisdom, grace and foresight for all Thu: Pray for all those using digital and taking a flexible approach and inviting supporters were children less than 14 years of age, indicating members as decisions are made concerning social media to advocate for people affected to celebrate a Leprosy Sunday in the months ongoing transmission in the communities. the Mission’s responsibility to persons by leprosy, that their messages would inspire surrounding World Leprosy Day. This will give In addition, around 15% came with visible affected by leprosy and disabilities in Nigeria. and be picked up and shared to a wider impairments at diagnosis, which indicates late more opportunity for leprosy to be promoted in Fri: In recent times, herdsmen have killed audience and raise visibility of the needs of reporting. These two issues are of great concern. churches, schools and other communities. and destroyed many communities in various people affected by leprosy and of the work These statistics (based on data from the World states of Nigeria, and this has also affected of TLM. Health Organization) put Nigeria as the African some communities where TLM works. Pray Fri: Pray for associations of people affected country with the 3rd highest burden of leprosy. that the Federal Government will be impartial by leprosy and disability who are using World However, with support from her partners, TLM in the conflict resolution process between Leprosy Day as a platform to rally and lobby Nigeria works closely with leprosy-affected herdsmen and host communities; and that for their rights to be recognised. Pray that communities and other rural communities in God will restore the much needed peace in they would be heard and responded to, and ensuring early case finding in order to reduce the the nation. that TLM would provide appropriate support consequences of the disease. Sat/Sun: TLM Nigeria was nominated in where needed. 2017 as one of five beneficiaries of the Green Sat/Sun: Pray for partnerships with Worship Change Initiative, geared towards national and local governments, other NGO impacting the lives of thousands of orphans partners and communities, for relationships S enior Staff and children with special needs through the to be strengthened where we are working Dr Sunday Udo – TLM Country Leader proceeds of a worship recording. Pray for together on combined World Leprosy Day Mr Pius Ogbu Sunday – Head of Programmes & Operations good ongoing sales of the album, as the funds events and for smooth coordination and Mr Israel Kehinde Adio – Head of Finance & Administration generated will go to support educational positive results. Mr Terver Anyor – Head of Funds Development scholarships for children with leprosy and T op: A World Leprosy Day 2018 road walk/show carried out by TLM children from leprosy-affected homes. Nigeria in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the Lions T op: TLM Country Leader Dr Sunday Udo. Club, and the Federal Road Safety Commission. 10 11 bangladesh 28 JAN–3 FEB The Leprosy Mission Trading 4–10 FEB

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS consumed, for His compassions never fail. They of hard work we must help the weak, remembering are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Mon: TLM Bangladesh will conduct a mid- the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more Mon: Give thanks for the TLM Trading Spring Psalm 84:5 (NIV) term review of their current strategic plan blessed to give than to receive. catalogue which will be delivered by post to this year. Pray for the Senior Management Acts 20:35 (NIV) around 56,000 customers this week. Pray that Team to have wisdom and understanding. the loyal supporters will have time to look Tue: There are plans to extend the western through the catalogue and enjoy selecting portion of the DBLM Hospital building. Easter products to bless their friends and At the same time a lift will be installed in family. Please pray that the Easter gifts and this building for patients’ services. Pray for cards will highlight God’s love for the world God’s mercy that these big jobs may be and demonstrate the real meaning of Easter. accomplished well. Tue: Give thanks for all the wonderful artisans Wed: Pray for a stable situation in who make products sold by TLM Trading. Bangladesh following the national elections These products provide dignity, employment and pray too for the new Government. and a much-needed income for artisans affected by leprosy and poverty. Pray that God Thu: TLM Denmark’s management team C ountrywide and Healthcare nspired by the love of Jesus, TLM Trading strives will bless them with creativity and excellent will visit TLM Bangladesh in the first quarter he Leprosy Mission employs around 350 staff to show love and compassion towards people sales so that follow-up orders can be placed. of this year to participate in a partnership I in projects across Bangladesh. The country affected by leprosy, and to empower them to T workshop. Pray for a long term partnership Wed: Thank God for all the greeting cards office is in Dhaka, the capital. It is responsible attain life in all its fullness by providing resources agreement between TLM Denmark and TLM that are sold through TLM Trading each for overseeing and ensuring adequate support of money, awareness, new supporters and prayer Bangladesh as a result of this workshop. year – in the region of 1 million. Every Easter for projects, networking with partners, and for use by The Leprosy Mission charities. card and Christmas card features a story Fri: building relationships with relevant government By the grace of God, more and more TLM Trading, the trading arm of The Leprosy about a leprosy-affected family on the back, departments. patients are coming to DBLM’s outpatient Mission, is a mail order company selling a wide increasing awareness about our work. As Projects include leprosy control, as part of department. Staff shortages make it a range of gifts, greeting cards and books primarily more and more people send texts, emails and the government programme; community-based challenge to provide the quality services that to the Christian community. They produce three e-cards, please pray that the card sales will rehabilitation; advocacy that aims to influence are needed daily. Pray that God will bless main catalogues per year, as well as operating a remain strong. attitudes about leprosy at government and DBLM so that they can hire a medical doctor successful online shop which attracts thousands Thu: In 2017, TLM Trading moved to a new community level; and a leprosy referral hospital soon and meet the need. of customers each year. They also sell a range of and bigger warehouse in Yorkshire. Praise God located at Nilphamari. Aligning with a global Sat/Sun: Gifts for Life – ‘virtual’ gift cards which customers There are a few important for the new warehouse and customer services focus on ending transmission, TLM Bangladesh can buy to give to friends or to mark some special positions vacant at DBLM. There is also a teams who worked really hard to make the sees research on leprosy as a major vehicle to that occasion and which directly benefit someone high turnover of staff, especially health move a success. Pray that they will be blessed goal and is looking to establish a core research with leprosy. They include items such as school professionals. Please pray that DBLM can as they take calls from TLM’s supporters and programme so that the necessary facilities, equipment, eye surgery or even a donkey and select and recruit suitable candidates in the pack orders for them. knowledge and personnel (including a research vacant positions and retain good doctors to cart! Fri: Please pray for the TLM Trading staff coordinator) are available to sustainably support the provide uninterrupted, quality services for TLM Trading’s main aims are: team of just seven people, led by Jo-Anne various studies. all patients, especially people affected by To help provide livelihoods for people affected • Thomson. Pray that they will be blessed with Danish Bangladesh Leprosy Mission (DBLM) leprosy. by leprosy, through the products they sell. wisdom and creativity when working with Hospital has been functioning in Nilphamari To raise funds for TLM, through Gifts for Life • suppliers and designing products for the since 1977 and provides tertiary services for and donations generously added to orders by catalogues. Thank God also for the expertise leprosy complications. It is the largest dependable S enior Staff their customers. of the Board of Directors, chaired by Stephen specialised leprosy treatment centre in the To help raise awareness of TLM and its work Country Office • Hammersley, who generously give their country and also provides reconstructive surgery, Mr Salomon Sumon Halder – TLM Country Leader through inspiring books, cards and products. time and experience to help and advise TLM rehabilitation and assistive devices. The quality care Mr James Taposh Adhikary – Administration and Finance Coordinator To help acquire new donors for TLM. at DBLM Hospital is focused on leprosy patients Mr Jiptha Boiragee – Program Support Coordinator • Trading. but also includes patients with general disabilities, DBLM Hospital Sat/Sun: Praise God for the increase in sales prioritising children, women and the poor and Mr Augustine Amal D’ Rozario – Program Leader Leadership of Gifts for Life. Pray that more and more sharing expertise with others. Dr Benjamin Jewel Rozario – Residential Medical Officer people will want to buy these life-changing TLM Bangladesh also provides services for Mr Andrio Boiragi – Finance Manager Jo-Anne Thomson – CEO gifts and that TLM Trading will find new Stephen Hammersley – Chair tuberculosis patients in some districts, aiming to Md. Abu Helal – Project Manager, TB ways to market them and provide relevant reduce the disease’s prevalence in cooperation with feedback. the national tuberculosis programme. T op: Mr Salomon Sumon Halder, Country Leader. T op: The TLM Trading team. 12 13 Nepal – Part 1 11–17 FEB

But someone will say, “You have faith and I have PRAYER POINTS works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. Mon: Pray for God’s continuous grace, comfort James 2:18 (ESV) and strength for Shovakhar Kandel and his family; pray he may serve people with a loving and tender heart so that God’s love is reflected through his actions and words, and many more lives will be transformed through TLM’s ministry. Tue: TLM Nepal is involved directly and in partnership in all of the seven provinces of Nepal. Please pray that the team are able to negotiate well with national and local governments and register all projects successfully so that their work with people he Leprosy Mission began its work in Nepal affected by leprosy, disability and poverty can Tin 1957 with the establishment of Anandaban continue. Hospital, on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Now Wed: TLM Nepal is planning a combined Annual a local organisation with its own board, TLM Country Learning and Spiritual Retreat in March, Nepal works in partnership with the Government mainly for senior level staff. This exercise will of Nepal to provide specialist tertiary care provide learning opportunities to staff, partners, and technical support for leprosy control beneficiaries, and other TLM Fellowship programmes. It also carries out internationally Members. Please pray that this programme will recognised research into leprosy and implements be a blessed and fruitful one. disability-inclusive community development Thu: Give thanks that TLM Nepal has managed programmes through its own activities and to organise workshops, gatherings and strategic partnerships. TLM Nepal’s development fellowships with churches and Christian leaders. interventions focus in the areas of health, capacity Their enthusiasm and willingness to partner building, education, sustainable livelihoods, and support TLM Nepal’s endeavour of leprosy community development, advocacy and eradication and an equitable society has been research working towards equity and inclusion of inspiring. people affected by leprosy and disability in the Fri: TLM Nepal, in partnership with TLM development process. Bangladesh and TLM Myanmar, has successfully TLM Nepal is truly determined, through words completed a year of mutual exchange as and actions, to continually make a difference part of the FK Norway project funded by the that will transform the lives of people affected by Norwegian Government. This opportunity to leprosy, people with disability and those who are learn and share expertise has been of great marginalised. benefit. The project is continuing this year with the exchange of staff working in footwear, S enior Staff community-based inclusive development and Country Office nursing among the three countries. Please pray Mr Shovakhar Kandel – TLM Country Leader for increased learning, understanding, safety Mr Chiranjivi Sharma – Programmes Coordinator and guidance for all involved. Mr Sushil Khatiwada – Finance Manager Sat/Sun: Since the 2015 earthquakes, TLM Ms Rakchhya Maharjan – Programmes Support Officer Ms Geeta Gyawali – Human Resources Officer Nepal has been restoring the damaged infrastructure of Anandaban Hospital. A new trauma centre, staff quarter, guesthouse and T op: TLM Nepal country office senior team (L-R: Geeta Gyawali, ward building are underway. Pray that the Lord Shovakhar Kandel, Chiranjivi Sharma, Rakchhya Maharjan and Sushil Khatiwada). will remove all barriers to quality construction Opposite: Pooja, an inpatient at Anandaban Hospital, can write so that Anandaban Hospital can be a beacon of comfortably following reconstructive surgery and physiotherapy to excellence. correct the damage to her hands. 14 15 SWITZERLAND 18–24 FEB

I lift up my eyes to the mountains — where does PRAYER POINTS my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Mon: A group from Switzerland visits TLM Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV) India in March. Pray for safe travels and inspiring encounters with people affected by leprosy. Pray that participants after returning will become ambassadors for the Mission and FRIENDSHIP its work. Tue: Having been unable to find a new collaborator to help with fundraising Our relationships with those around us are the most (particularly with major donors), TLM valuable part of our lives, making our time on earth Switzerland have reorganised the both beautiful and worthwhile. From when we are responsibilities of their team. Pray for those very young, we yearn for loving relationships with taking on new tasks and for wisdom and people. Though our most important relationship is guidance from God for a long term solution to with God, the love and grace of God often touches us this need. through those who love us and whom we love, our Wed: TLM Switzerland are hoping for friends and family. increased income from institutional funders. Good friends are one of the most precious gifts that Pray their proposals for funding will be God blesses us with. As the saying goes, ‘Friends are successful. I no longer call you wiss support for people affected by leprosy the family you choose’, those with whom we share Thu: TLM Switzerland are planning a new was started by a young teacher who a close connection and who empathise with issues servants, because a S campaign called ZeroLepra, which aims to discovered The Leprosy Mission in London. Back even our family may not understand. Being blessed gain more resources to help in defeating in Switzerland, she decided not only to continue with wonderful friends who are there for us always, servant does not know leprosy and transforming lives. Pray this her support through prayer and donations but to even though there may be miles separating us, is a campaign would catch people’s attention and talk to people around her, distributing newsletters his master’s business. motivate them to join in this vision. priceless gift. I lost such a friend recently and often and encouraging others to join her endeavour. think of him – his constant support and unstinting Instead, I have called you The circle of supporters grew and in 1905, TLM Fri: Pray that God will continue to inspire the help in every difficulty, not just for me but for those team to find innovative and effective ways Switzerland was founded. close to me, teaching me a lot about God’s love and friends, for everything that to reach new supporters, and also to build Today, a small team operates from two offices, presence in every aspect of my life. He was a true donor loyalty. Pray that donors would feel the one in the French- and one in the German- example of the words from Proverbs: ‘A friend loves I learned from my Father I speaking part of the country. A dedicated board, importance and impact of their role in TLM’s at all times’ (Proverbs 17:17) and ‘..but there is a friend partnering churches and institutions as well as work. have made known to you. who sticks closer than a brother’ (Proverbs 18:24). many loyal donors are committed to helping Sat/Sun: Pray for people affected by John 15:15 (NIV) people affected by leprosy. leprosy in the countries supported by TLM Friendship brings us great joy, but being human, we TLM Switzerland works in partnership with Switzerland. Give thanks for the committed may sometimes make mistakes and hurt the friends other Members of the Global Fellowship and with project staff making a difference in these we love, or be disappointed by a friend we love people affected by leprosy to implement projects places. deeply; friends may move away and we may not be in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, DR Congo and Niger. able to reach them easily. But we have a friend above Within the country, TLM Switzerland raises all others, who will never leave us nor disappoint us, awareness about leprosy and themes related to whatever happens – Jesus, our most precious friend! it, such as poverty, exclusion and development. It offers people in Switzerland the opportunity to ‘I no longer call you servants, because a servant does be involved in praying for and supporting people not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called affected by leprosy or disabilities, and their you friends’ (John 15:15). It may seem presumptuous KEY Staff families. for us to call our Lord ‘friend’, but he has given us the Markus Freudiger – TLM Country Leader privilege, and we know that it will bring him great Annamma S John is the former Head of Anne-Claude Jonah – Representative in French Switzerland joy if we try to travel on our life’s journey, always Nadja Klarer – Fundraising and Communication Research and Training at TLM Trust India. Esther Kuny – Finance putting our friends first, as we will be able to do in Christine Schneeberger – Administration His strength, if we always put Jesus our Saviour as a T op: Markus Freudiger with Josiane, a project beneficiary in DR Congo. Jan Kuny – Chairman friend before everything and everyone else. Photo: Tailoring students at TLM Bankura Vocational You can read her story on page 84. Training Centre. 16 17 England and Wales – Part 1 25 FEB–3 MAR

….. as you help us by your prayers. Then many will PRAYER POINTS give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favour granted us in answer to the prayers of many. Mon: Praise God for the thousands of 2 Corinthians 1:11 (NIV) faithful supporters who give to appeals, often sacrificially. Pray that the Lord will greatly bless them as they bless others. Pray for new BINTA’S funding opportunities, and for wisdom for staff to know where to concentrate their efforts. Tue: Give thanks for the many churches around the UK who invite TLM speakers to STORY share the gospel and the latest progress and needs for people affected by leprosy. Pray that all the messages shared show the heart of Jesus, and that many new churches will invite TLM in to speak about the work. he Leprosy Mission England and Wales values Tits role as a partner in the Global Fellowship Wed: Members of the programmes team to bring transformation and healing to people regularly travel overseas to partner with the Binta started to show signs of leprosy at the this help, we were able to buy three sheep affected by leprosy by encouraging prayer and various projects supported by TLM England age of 12. “Nobody knew what the symptoms (two females and one male). We were able and Wales. Pray for safety, good health and financial support. were,” she tells us. “My father dismissed it as to groom them and we raised seven sheep. Peter Waddup became National Director in travel mercies as they often work unsocial hours and spend time away from their families a common illness which would pass soon. We sold one for 32,000 naira and from it we 2017 after being a trustee and Chair of the Board. After two years, the symptoms worsened and paid our children’s fees, bought them books His goal is for the TLM England and Wales team in order to ensure these projects have the I was taken to a native medicine man who and clothing and we have been feeding well. to consult with and hear from God in all areas of greatest possible impact. work and to enable staff members to realise their Thu: Collecting, processing, storing and kept giving me herbal medications to take.” What brings us great joy is that the sheep giftings. Please pray for protection and favour using data efficiently is essential to ensuring The illness continued to progress for several was bought by a rich non-leprosy-affected for Peter as he leads the team and for every team that supporters receive appropriate years, and Binta began to have problems man; we were glad because our sheep member to understand and enjoy their vital part in communications. Throughout 2018 the with ulcers that wouldn’t heal. “My legs and was accepted by others even though they this unique family. dedicated data team have been working hard hands began to grow worse; that was when knew we had leprosy. I know this is just the TLM England and Wales’s areas of work towards introducing a new data system. Please my father took me to Chanchaga Hospital in beginning and we are very grateful to God include fundraising through individuals, churches, pray for a smooth transition and that the Minna. Although I started receiving treatment that He sent us TLM Nigeria.” institutions and trusts, and it is truly blessed and management of data with this system will help almost immediately, the ulcers had worsened grateful for the ongoing loyal support in all of these other departments to be more efficient. from my legs up to my knees and from my areas. Fri: The supporter care team are the ‘engine hands up to my wrists. The only resort was Through their experienced programmes team, room’ at TLM England and Wales, dealing with TLM England and Wales provides support for thousands of emails, phone calls, requests for amputation.” project development in South Asia and parts of resources, and processing donations. They Once she had recovered, Binta travelled back Africa and works closely with overseas partners now also handle the stamps and collectibles to her home town and was married to her to ensure that projects are transforming lives and part of the fundraising activities. Please pray ultimately self-sustaining wherever possible. It is that God will bless everyone in this team husband, Alhassan. The couple, who are both committed to grow its influence in national and and that they will continue to receive His affected by leprosy, have now been married international advocacy, looking to combat stigma inspiration and guidance. for 18 years. They used to beg together – but and challenge anti-leprosy legislation. Sat/Sun: Give thanks and pray for the Board then in 2017, Binta was given startup funds by and the executive team as they work on TLM Nigeria to begin a sheep rearing business. S enior Staff ensuring that each team at TLM England and The business was a success! “This support Peter Waddup – TLM Country Leader Wales is well supported as they work towards from TLM Nigeria was a breath of fresh air,” Sian Arulanantham – Head of Programmes Co-ordination leprosy defeated and lives transformed. Pray says Binta. “The support came when we were Arminda O’Reilly – HR Manager that God will continually inspire them and Louise Timmins – Partnerships Manager beginning to lose hope. I didn’t have legs or for unity and co-operation in all that they do hands and my husband, who also has severe together so that this work always glorifies Him. T op: Peter Waddup, TLM Country Leader. disabilities, couldn’t do much either. With 18 19 Mozambique 4–10 MAR India – Advocacy and communication 11–17 MAR

And above all these put on love, which binds PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS everything together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:14 (ESV) Mon: The Leprosy Control Project along Mon: Advocacy is a major enabler in TLM with ALEMO is now giving greater emphasis India’s new country strategy (2019-25). Pray to follow up on chronic ulcers that still affect for God’s wisdom for each one in the team many people affected by leprosy. Pray that as they implement the strategy. Thank God the team in Mozambique will find someone for guiding TLM India all these years and specific for each district that has the skills and establishing them as an organisation that patience to give long-term care for those still supports people affected by leprosy in their suffering with this issue. fight for dignity and equality. Pray that they Tue: TLM Mozambique relies heavily on may get the right partners to continue their work and expand their reach and influence. the good cooperation and commitment he Leprosy Mission Trust India’s Advocacy of their government health partners in Tand Communication Domain supports Tue: Thank you all for standing with us in the Leprosy Control Project. Many of the people affected by leprosy to speak out on the prayer to end discrimination against people leprosy supervisors are new and do not issues important to them, defend and safeguard affected by leprosy. TLM India is working yet know much about leprosy. Pray that their rights, and have their voices heard when with law agencies and government bodies to he Leprosy Mission in Mozambique works these supervisors would have compassion repeal the discriminatory provisions from 119 in close cooperation with the Government policymakers make decisions that affect their T and would be committed to making a real lives. laws. Pray for success in all their endeavours. Health Department in support of the Leprosy difference to those affected by leprosy. Control Project in the province of Cabo Delgado. TLM India engages with strategic partners Wed: People affected by leprosy are There are also strong links with community Wed: Premature marriage is a big reason at state and national levels to highlight issues marginalised in many ways and often partners including community volunteers for girls to abandon their education in the that have a negative impact on the daily prefer to be in hiding. TLM India has been and self-care groups. ALEMO is an association north of Mozambique. Pray for new partners lives of people affected by leprosy, through equipping them with knowledge and of people affected by leprosy, supported by that can help TLM address this issue more strategic communications that target negative understanding about their rights and the TLM Mozambique, that works to improve the effectively in the communities where we attitudes and practices. It promotes the inclusive government social protection schemes. livelihoods of its members through improved support education for children affected by development of people affected by leprosy and However, many are left out from the access agriculture methods, training and advocacy. leprosy. other disabilities by influencing policies and framework. Pray for a newly proposed In other work, more than 200 children affected Thu: Many pastors and churches were practices involving them. It also uses innovative research study to help to understand why by leprosy are included in the Iphiro Yohoolo mobilised through TLM Mozambique’s communications to improve awareness and people are unable to access various schemes education project, which aims to keep them in UMOJA (‘unity’) project. Pray that their attitudes towards leprosy and other disabilities. and entitlements and enable TLM to sensitise school and inspire them to break the cycle of involvement is ever flowing from an internal them about the existing ones. poverty. motivation and that they are inspired by the Thu: Campaigns are a great way to create During 2019, TLM Mozambique will especially results that God brings. Especially pray for awareness among multiple stakeholders work to increase the coverage and impact of their unity among them. through a spectrum of media. TLM case-finding activities, using recently introduced Fri: The involvement of churches through India’s campaign, with the help of Sapna, case mapping abilities in the Leprosy Control the UMOJA project is a new experience for the campaign mascot – the dream of a programme to find leprosy hot-spots and stop TLM Mozambique. Pray that the team may leprosy-free India – was launched last transmission. find ways to better link churches to people year by the Government of India. Pray for Church community mobilisation is increasingly affected by leprosy and that churches would the Government, other partners, and all a priority for the programmes in Mozambique reach out to people affected spontaneously. TLM India’s teams to take it forward with a and the team dreams to have the local church renewed enthusiasm and make it a great Sat/Sun: A livelihoods project in as a stable partner engaging with communities success. Mozambique came to an end in 2018. Pray affected by leprosy and bringing hope and healing. that the knowledge and skills gained by Fri: Thank God for TLM India’s media members of savings groups and those who partners who show interest in the issue of SENIOR Staff Senior Advocacy Staff have learned agriculture techniques will be leprosy. Pray for God’s wisdom and guidance Dr Arie de Kruijff – TLM Country Leader maintained and strengthened. Mrs Nikita Sarah – Head of Advocacy and Communication in developing more partners and for the Sr Belarmino Reich – ALEMO and Iphiro Yohoolo Project Manager Mr Jacob Oommen – Team Leader, Communication success of awareness-raising activities. Sr Hipolito Cocorea – Monitoring Evaluation and Learning Officer Sat/Sun: TLM India carries out social media Sr Jorge Armindo – Prevention of Disabilities/Leprosy Control Project Manager T op: A Round Table on leprosy organised by the National Centre for campaigns to make people aware of leprosy. Sra Nelta Jumamossi – Accountant Promotion of Employment for Disabled People, New Delhi, along with Pray for the success of these campaigns and Sr Culaire Luis – Human Resources Manager the Government of India, and the Government of the United Kingdom, their impact on all audiences. T op: A savings group meeting. as a run up to the Global Disability Summit 2018. 20 21 FEATURE CHAD 18–24 MAR South Africa 25–31 MAR

But a Samaritan, as he travelled, came where the Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on be transformed by the renewing of your mind. him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, Mon: There is not much interest in the Then you will be able to test and approve what Mon: The Leprosy Mission Southern Africa pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on leprosy work in Chad as other problems such God’s will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will. assists countries in the region with very his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took as malnutrition, AIDS and malaria are given Romans 12:2 (NIV) low numbers of leprosy patients. The low care of him. priority. Please pray that health staff and numbers mean that health workers find it Luke 10:33-34 (NIV) stakeholders increase their commitment to difficult to recognise leprosy and patients leprosy control and disability prevention. remain undiagnosed for many years. Pray Tue: Leprosy reaction is a problem in Chad. that the team will find effective ways to raise Many patients come late, and often too late awareness of leprosy. to avoid permanent damage. Pray that health Tue: Pray that the general disability staff will be continuously reminded of the awareness project, RampUp, which focuses importance of regular neurological exams so on the exclusion of disabled people from as to detect early symptoms. the church, will expand into a wide range of Wed: The Republic of Chad is being affected congregations during 2019. by the strikes of government officials that are Wed: Join us in giving thanks for many he Leprosy Mission Chad works in the Guéra unhappy about their positions. The younger generous bequests received during 2018 and Tregion and its surrounding prefectures. It supports layer of society is particularly affected. Pray for pray for the release of funds from the many the National Leprosy Control Programme through a positive turn in this situation and new hope estates where payments of legacies to The training, supervision, active case detection and for the young people of this suffering country. he Leprosy Mission Southern Africa raises Leprosy Mission remain pending. reaction treatment for complicated cases. Thu: The community-based rehabilitation Tfunds for leprosy work and general disability Thu: Give thanks for the warm and generous TLM Chad also seeks to reintegrate people work with disabled children and young work in South Africa. The Leprosy Mission runs response to TLM Southern Africa’s adverts affected by leprosy within normal society through people is having a very positive impact on leprosy programmes in the Eastern Cape and in a variety of magazines during 2018. supporting the creation and development of Disabled their lives as desperate and sometimes hidden kwaZulu Natal and cooperates with the National Pray that these new friends will support People’s Organisations (DPOs) in which they can take children come forward and are attended to Department of Health in the provision of leprosy us as generously as earlier generations of an active role. It improves the living conditions of the through physiotherapy, medical care, the services in other areas. The RampUp general supporters. members of these organisations through training in provision of walking aids, support for school disability campaign promotes the inclusion of Fri: Pray for the safety of the field staff – good governance and technical advice for projects: education or micro-credit. Pray that the work people with disabilities in all aspects of society, Lucky Kunene (kwaZulu Natal) and Goodman food security (grain banks); managing of water may continue and benefit the lives of many but especially within the church. Qhosholo (Eastern Cape) – who travel long pumps; and income generation activities such as other children. distances on dangerous roads to assist micro-credit. These DPOs also provide a ‘home’ where Fri: The DPOs are thriving and developing patients and teach people about leprosy. people can share, support each other and become more and more into responsible, healthy active in local society. Sat/Sun: Give thanks for the many organisations where people living with A small pilot project that started last year supports congregations that have so liberally disabilities are meeting and flourishing children and young people living with disability supported The Leprosy Mission over many together. Pray for the consolidation of the through medical care, physiotherapy, walking years. Pray that they will continue to open DPOs and the development of new DPOs aids, promotion of school education, vocational their doors and hearts during 2019. within the Guéra and its neighbouring training and micro-credit. There are hopes for the regions. development of a new, larger project this year. TLM Chad works through partnership with the Sat/Sun: The Convention on the Rights of Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Social Affairs, and Persons with Disabilities was ratified by the local partners like the Regional Red Cross, the Blind Chadian Government in June 2018. Let us School of Mongo, Liliana Foundation and the local pray that slowly but steadily the Chadian church. community will start to put into practice its principles and obligations so as to work TLM Staff towards inclusion and active participation of persons living with disabilities in the Republic Bunmi Oluloto – TLM Country Leader of Chad. S enior Staff Geeske Zijp – Programme Manager Marc Djibrine Victor – Administrator Peter Laubscher – TLM Country Leader Zakaria Mahamat – DPO Trainer Theo de Villiers – Deputy Director Abdel Dejlil Hassane – Office Assistant/Driver T op: Mr Goodman Qhosholo on a home visit with Emily, one of TLM Erna Möller – Programme Manager (until end of May) T op: Geeske Zijp and Bunmi Oluloto. Southern Africa’s care after cure clients. 22 23 Australia 1–7 APR

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid PRAYER POINTS down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has Mon: Praise God for the generous material possessions and sees a brother or sister in Australians who pray and give financially to need but has no pity on them, how can the love of help people affected by leprosy. Pray that God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love their numbers and capacity will increase, as with words or speech but with actions and in truth. will the opportunities for the team to express John 3:16-18 (NIV) their gratitude. Tue: Give thanks for God’s creative vision and how it rests on the Merchandise team. Praise God, He has used this to successfully engage shoppers to help those affected by leprosy. Please pray the Lord will keep bringing in new supporters this way. Wed: Praise God for the safe travels programme staff have had overseas. This year five projects funded by The Leprosy Mission Australia supporters will be coming to an end. Thank God for their impact and ask Him for wisdom and continued safety for the programmes team as new projects are he Leprosy Mission Australia has a heart implemented. Tfor ‘the battler’ (an Australian colloquialism referring to “ordinary” individuals who persevere Thu: Please pray more churches and groups through adversity) and the spirit for giving them a will be open to and interested in hearing “fair go” – often what people affected by leprosy, from a speaker about how to help people disability and other neglected tropical diseases affected by leprosy. Praise God for people’s desperately need. willingness to connect, and bless those who Dedicated to daily prayer and with their faith have done so already. in Jesus, the team strive to love and serve their Fri: Pray more people will be motivated this partners overseas through servant-hearted year to ‘put the kettle on’ for a great cause relationships with their fellow ‘Aussies’. Through and host a ‘Cuppa For a Cure’ event to help various activities they help raise awareness and stop leprosy by 2035. facilitate people’s generosity. Australian supporters Sat/Sun: There are many wonderful pray and provide financially for projects in six supporters who volunteer in the office, their strategic countries: Timor Leste, Nepal, Nigeria, homes, and across Australia to help people India, Papua New Guinea and Thailand. affected by leprosy. Pray God’s blessing This year will see the introduction of the would be upon them and flow through them concepts ‘Shop To Stop Leprosy’ and ‘Safe Water to others. Saves Lives’, highlighting a number of key house- branded and exclusive products with proceeds going to support selected projects. This will be supported with targeted acquisition mailings and an increased online presence, particularly in social media. The ‘Cuppa For A Cure’ event programme will be refreshed to encourage more Aussies to SENIOR Staff “boil the billy” and stop leprosy transmission by Sheldon Rankin – Chief Executive Officer 2035. Geraldine Toh – Finance Manager Nerida Collard – Executive Assistant T op: Australian staff and supporters ‘Trek To Defeat Leprosy’ in Nepal. Paul Andrews – Marketing Manager Opposite: Sheldon Rankin, CEO of The Leprosy Mission Australia (left) Philip Hamilton – International Program Manager welcomes Amar Timalsina from Nepal on his first trip ‘down under’ for Supa Thejan – Merchandise Manager World Leprosy Sunday. 24 25 NIGER 8–14 APR SPEAKING OUT 15–21 APR

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that Mon: TLM Niger will be evaluating their Mon: Give thanks for the people affected your labour in the Lord is not in vain. country strategy this year and also developing by leprosy who are engaged in advocacy at 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV) new projects as one of their existing a national or international level. Pray that the community empowerment projects comes to great value of their personal experience would an end. Pray for wisdom and direction for the be recognised as they share in public forums. team as they seek to plan activities that will Tue: Pray for IDEA, the international make a major and sustainable difference in association of persons affected by leprosy, people’s lives. that they would continue to find the support Tue: TLM Niger is working with church they need and strengthen the voices and leaders and evangelists in communities to confidence of their members. encourage integral mission in reaching out Wed: ‘Mainstreaming’ is an important part to people affected by leprosy. Please pray of overcoming stigma – integrating people that their efforts will yield positive results so affected by leprosy and their concerns and that people affected by leprosy in Niger can he Leprosy Mission has been working in Niger eople affected by leprosy often say that the service needs into broader related sectors, receive spiritual and emotional care. Tsince 1956, supporting CSL (Centre de Santé et Pmost damaging aspects of the disease are the such as disability. Pray particularly that people de Léprologie) Hospital, Danja, in collaboration with Wed: Please pray for TLM Niger’s local prejudice, stigmatisation and social exclusion they affected by leprosy will be welcomed into SIM Niger. Since 2011 TLM Niger’s office has been Board as they aim to take full responsibility experience. To combat these obstacles, it is not Disabled People’s Organisations across all based in Niamey, the capital. Although fewer than for all TLM operations in the country. Pray enough to focus on delivering good quality health countries where we are working. 300 people were diagnosed with leprosy in Niger in that the Board will function well and help to and socio-economic programmes. The Leprosy Thu: In the pages of ASK there are many 2017, a third of these already had a visible disability. contribute to the success of TLM’s work in Mission needs to join hands with leprosy-affected accounts of TLM working to empower TLM Niger supports the National and Regional Niger. people and associations to speak out against people affected by leprosy – often through Ministry of Health to provide leprosy services Thu: CSL Danja is the only active leprosy the myths and misunderstandings that lead to involvement in self-help groups and including leprosy awareness and the training and referral hospital in Niger, but has been facing exclusion. associations – to speak for themselves. supervision of health workers. serious financial challenges due to a drop in Sometimes this involves ‘speaking truth to Praise God for the small successes that build TLM Niger’s vision is for people affected by funds from donors and low amounts of locally power’, influencing people in authority to change confidence among the groups and the TLM leprosy to have transformed lives through access to generated income. There is also the ongoing rules, restrictions, laws, customs or decisions staff who support them, and encourage sustainable leprosy and community services that challenge of finding a hospital director. that have these destructive effects. The most people to aim higher. enhance their full potential to actively participate Please pray that the Lord will turn around the successful advocacy is often by organisations of in society. This requires not just medical leprosy fortune of the centre and find a committed people affected by leprosy themselves, so we Good Fri: ‘And being found in human form, he services but also community development, and director to lead it. have an increasing focus in our projects around humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.’ Philippians TLM Niger facilitates this through microcredit for Fri: Pray that the TLM Niger Country Office the world on making sure people know their income generating activities, provision of drinkable team will work together in harmony and have rights, are assured of their value in society and 2:8 (ESV). Pray that we would always have water, building of latrines, promoting hygiene in the success in all their projects; for Yohanna as are equipped with the knowledge, confidence humility and respect when listening to the communities, and a housing project for homeless he builds the capacity of IDEA Niger leaders and appropriate platforms to speak on their own concerns of people affected by leprosy and people affected by leprosy. and follows up the activities of other partners; behalf. Through sharing their own stories, through would show God’s grace in our love for others. Lately, TLM Niger has been building for Ichaya the Office Administrator in advocating for the rights and entitlements Sat/Easter Sun: ‘He has saved us and called us partnerships with local church leaders, disability coordination of all finance, human resources that are important to them, communities and to a holy life—not because of anything we have organisations and government institutions. TLM and logistics; and for Saratou as she works individuals affected by leprosy are changing not done but because of his own purpose and grace. Niger also supports IDEA, an association of people only their own situations and social status but the with the leprosy coordinators at national and This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the affected by leprosy, through training in advocacy, minds and hearts of those around them. Over the regional level. beginning of time, but it has now been revealed empowerment and creating community awareness. last five years, the number of people affected by through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Sat/Sun: Pray for Bunmi and his family; leprosy who are tackling leprosy-related issues at Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought for Bunmi as he leads the Niger team, the national or regional political level across the SENIOR Staff life and immortality to light through the gospel.’ and for his wife Loveth and their children, countries we work in has been growing, with 493 2 Timothy 1:9-10 (NIV). Christ has defeated Bunmi Oluloto – TLM Country Leader Blessing, Favour and Goodness. Favour will individuals known to us in 2017. Abdul Yohanna – Programme Manager be graduating from high school in May and death and is risen – Hallelujah! Pray that God’s Saratou Barage – Technical Advisor hoping to start university in September; pray graciousness to us and His ultimate victory will Ichaya Garba – Office Administrator for a smooth transition to university and grace T op: Kofi Nyarko and Birke Nigatu Teka were each presented with the give us courage and persistence as we work to for the family to cope with the adjustment. Wellesley Bailey Award in 2018 for their incredible contributions to the build His kingdom here on earth. T op: TLM Country Leader Bunmi Oluloto. cause of persons affected by leprosy. 26 27 GERMANY and ITALY 22–28 APR TIMOR LESTE 29 APR–5 MAY

Love never fails. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS 1 Corinthians 13:8 (NIV) comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. Germany Romans 8:18 (NIV) Mon: Thank God that the new structures Mon: Give thanks for the TLM Germany of the Ministry of Health in Timor Leste Board team elected last spring. Pray for and all its components have renewed energy and unity as they seek to inspire their commitment to work towards zero people to join in our mission. transmission of leprosy. Tue: Give thanks for the many faithful Tue: Pray for the new project proposal of individuals and churches in Germany who the national leprosy control programme, for pray for TLM’s work and support us with their a better plan to address the needs of people donations and their engagement. affected by leprosy, as case numbers are increasing every year. Pray the proposal will Wed: In 2019, TLM Germany will tread a get funded by donors. new path and strengthen their fundraising efforts. Pray for more volunteers to help with Wed: Pray for self-help group members A bout TLM Germany this and for open ears and hearts from the who have received loans, that they will be LM Germany started as a local circle of friends people of Germany. committed to continue with their small Taround Dr and Mrs Riedel. They were pioneers businesses and earn a good income to in the fight against leprosy, worked from 1951 Italy support their families. to 1997 for The Leprosy Mission. Their hope was Thu: TLM Italy’s greatest need is to find Thu: Give thanks for the CBR SEHD field to bring all people God’s love and to make His more supporters and involve them in the he Leprosy Mission Timor Leste has been facilitators and pray for commitment and Kingdom visible. work. Pray for new contact with people who active since 2003, pushing towards elimination patience as they facilitate and assist the self- All members of TLM Germany’s executive T do not know the work of TLM and for more of leprosy, prevention of leprosy-related help groups to be independent for a better committee are volunteers and are part of different tools to reach out with, such as newspapers, disabilities and decrease of discrimination against future. parishes. They organise special fundraising brochures and events. persons with leprosy and disability, so they can be events and are invited to various groups and Fri: Pray for six Disabled People’s Fri: Pray that God will renew TLM Italy’s fully integrated in their communities. They seek communities in order to report on their projects. Organisations and one legal aid to continue working group with new sensitive, to be an open and learning organisation, always TLM Germany supports projects in Niger, India their advocacy and legal education about responsible people, who can help to developing themselves and others in order to and Chad. grow the services for their target individuals and the rights of people with disability to the promote new fundraising events and give community, churches, schools, universities information about TLM to the people groups. About TLM Italy and government. concerned. The Better Community Health for Communities LM Italy is a small group that works on a Affected by Leprosy (BHCAL) project, working Sat/Sun: Pray for the Government of Timor Sat/Sun: Pray for God’s hand over the voluntary basis to increase the knowledge with the Ministry of Health and other clinical Leste to ratify and adopt the UN Convention T difficult social and political situation in Italy, of the international work of TLM. To connect partners, aims to achieve leprosy elimination and on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. which is quite challenging for volunteering with the Italian public and encourage support, reduce leprosy-related disability in high endemic and fundraising. they publish a newsletter (a paper and a digital districts while also supervising and monitoring edition), organise small events and fundraising lower endemic districts. appeals, and communicate through a Facebook The Community-Based Rehabilitation Social, page and a website. Economic, Health, Development (CBR SEHD) project aims to integrate people affected by leprosy back into the community through self- help groups, contributing towards inclusive social, economic and health development. The Rights for Persons with Disability (RPD) project aims for people with disabilities to fully KEY Staff participate in society and have equal access to Italy rights and opportunities. Pietro Matino – Board Secretary S enior Staff Franco Ciuchi – Treasurer Elia Landi – Vice President Afliana (Nona) Lisnahan – TLM Country Leader Germany T op: Country Leader Afliana Lisnahan (left) with Petronela, who Francisco da Costa – Project Coordinator (BHCAL) Dr Johannes Schäfer – Chair of the Board was diagnosed and treated for leprosy thanks to TLM’s work raising Nelson da Silva – Project Coordinator (CBR SEHD) Bettina Merz – TLM Country Leader community awareness in her village. “I know that God is in control so I just Joel Costa – Project Supervisor (RPD) T op: The new German Board, April 2018. surrendered and went for treatment. I wasn’t afraid.” 28 29 worse. She also has developed difficulties with her sight. Despite her circumstances, she remains faithful and seems more on fire DHANALAKSHMI’S for Jesus than ever before. “God has provided for me ever since I first gave my life to Him.” The church have been very supportive of Dhanalakshmi and her mother, which she considers a big part of the way God has STORY provided for her. “It is only because of the generosity of the church that my mother and I have been able to live without fear Dhanalakshmi’s story is one of tragic loss, but It wasn’t until five years into their marriage of discrimination.” She goes on to share also of the tremendous hope that is found that Dhanalakshmi came to faith in Jesus enthusiastically about the importance of only in the gospel and good news of Christ. Christ. She had been experiencing some raising awareness about leprosy, as well as When her husband died suddenly nine issues with her previous leprosy ulcer, the importance of sharing the good news of years ago, Dhanalakshmi was devastated. so her husband recommended she visit Jesus. Salur Hospital again. She knew Salur was They had not had children either, which was “I now spread awareness about leprosy and a Christian hospital and didn’t want to go something she had always hoped for. speak to people about the causes so that there, so she visited a number of other health they go and get treatment. I also speak Dhanalakshmi was diagnosed with leprosy centres. But her ulcer got worse and she at churches whenever I can about the as a twelve year old when she began to lose knew she would have to go. “But my ulcer difference Jesus has made in my life… It is the sensation in her right foot. “An ulcer had actually healed in Salur hospital, and it didn’t all because of Jesus that I was healed, and I developed, and someone told me I was being elsewhere in all the other health centres even want people to know about that, particularly careless by not looking after myself, but I after receiving similar treatment… This is people affected by leprosy.” couldn’t feel the pain.” why I turned to Jesus. I believe God healed me at TLM Salur Hospital, and ever since then Dhanalakshmi shares an incredible miracle of After completing a full 12-month course of I believe it’s because of God that I’ve been how she came to be able to read. “I wanted to multi-drug therapy, Dhanalakshmi’s ulcer able to keep going.” Dhanalakshmi’s faith be able to read the Bible, but stopped going healed up but then it developed again in the helped her cope when her husband passed to school when I was in 3rd grade so haven’t same place when she was fourteen years old. away. been able to read. So one night God told me She then developed foot drop due to leprosy, to read Psalm 23 over and over, even though In 2014, Dhanalakshmi suddenly developed and was referred to TLM Salur Hospital by her I didn’t understand the words… After several a Type 1 leprosy reaction, a dangerous local government public health centre. After weeks of doing this, words started to form in reaction which needs steroid treatment. the ulcer had healed, she underwent surgery my head and five months later I was able to and was discharged. Then for around 10-15 She came back to Salur Hospital where read the whole Bible word for word!” years afterwards, she didn’t have any serious she recommenced multi-drug therapy complications or health complaints due to treatment after testing positive for a relapse “My hopes for the future are that I can having had leprosy. of leprosy. Unfortunately as Dhanalakshmi continue spreading the word of God, recommenced treatment, she also developed because I was raised to new life. I wanted Dhanalakshmi was grateful that having had another ulcer on her foot. Due to the steroid others to know this new life too. Whatever I leprosy didn’t affect her chances of getting treatment for the Type 1 reaction, it has been do, I will do in the name of Jesus Christ.” married. She believes that her husband very difficult for the ulcer to heal. Medically, accepted her because of his faith in Jesus. the priority must be on maintaining steroid “My husband’s Christian faith is what brought treatment as Type 1 reactions can be life us together – he was accepting of me” threatening, so the ulcer has gotten a lot Photo © Daniel Christiansz Photography

30 31 FRANCE 6–12 MAY SCOTLAND 13–19 MAY

PRAYER POINTS

Mon: Pray for staff and board members involved in a major project to revitalise and reimagine the fundraising message in Scotland. Pray for wisdom and clarity to distil the key stories and ideas which will inspire many more people in Scotland to bring healing and hope to people affected by leprosy in partner countries. Tue: Give thanks for volunteer board members; speakers; church representatives; community fundraisers and office administration helpers in Scotland. Pray that God will bless them for all that they do. Pray too for new volunteers LM France (known in the country as PRAYER POINTS ased in Stirling, The Leprosy Mission Scotland to step forward in key areas, especially for TMission Lèpre) consists of a small team Bworks to raise awareness of leprosy and its new board members with the right skills and of staff governed by a local board. The team effects and to act as a vehicle through which Mon: The financial help from the experience to fill important gaps. communicates with donors mainly through their people, churches, schools, community groups and Government that enabled TLM France to regular magazine ‘En Action’ and their website. others from across Scotland can find their role in Wed: Give thanks for the many donors who employ a secretary has ended. Pray for Staff, board members and volunteers also visit defeating leprosy and transforming lives. give generously to help people affected by other opportunities for TLM France to gain churches to present the work of the Mission. leprosy through the various projects that TLM secretarial support. A small staff group, supported by a larger team of Scotland supports. Pray that God will bless This year TLM France will participate in volunteers, Tue: Pray for the small team of TLM France, them for their love for people in need. Pray that meetings with the Fédération de Missions raises funds through a wide variety of national that they can cope with the increased • the team will be able to find new donors and Evangéliques Francophones (FMEF) and the and local activities from direct mail appeals workload after the departure of their to inspire all supporters to give so that they Association au Service de l’Action Humanitaire and digital campaigns to coffee mornings and (ASAH), two associations which bring together secretary. can meet their ambitious targets for increasing sponsored events; project support. Christian Mission organisations. It is an excellent Wed: TLM France is using a new all-in-one • encourages and enables relevant and timely opportunity for the spiritual encouragement for management platform. Pray that it will make prayer; Thu: Give thanks for those churches that all participants and a good way to stay connected a positive difference in their work. visits churches and groups to directly appeal for choose to support people affected by leprosy, with other Christian associations and think about • and TLM, with their gifts and prayers. Pray for Thu: TLM France hopes to find new support. the challenges of fundraising. opportunities to engage with more churches supporters by inserting their magazine into In 2018, TLM France was greatly encouraged TLM Scotland is asking people to stand in the to share details of what God is doing through several Christian newspapers. Pray that by the 10 volunteers who supported TLM by G.A.P. to uphold people affected by leprosy by TLM and that they will make helping people recipients of these newspapers will read the running the popular “Race of Heroes” event, an Giving, Acting or Praying to support the work of affected by leprosy part of their mission, just as magazine and be inspired to support the opportunity to raise both funds and awareness. God through TLM. Jesus did. cause of people affected by leprosy. In the summer of 2019 TLM Scotland plan to They are hoping to recruit more runners this year, Fri: Pray for team members travelling this Fri: Give thanks for the 10 people who ran in launch a major new fundraising campaign with and to expand their volunteer team to help them year to visit some of the projects helped by the Race of Heroes in June 2018 and raised a compelling idea of the difference that gifts will revive and raise the profile of The Leprosy Mission Scottish supporters. Pray for safety while €3,000 for a millet project in Chad. Pray for make for people affected by leprosy and to help among Christians and churches. travelling and that they will be inspired and more volunteers to run in this year’s race. bring about Zero Leprosy. challenged by what they see and the people Sat/Sun: Give thanks for Aude, a new they meet. Pray too that they will be a blessing member of the French Board, and the skills and encouragement to people at each of the and knowledge she brings to the team. Pray projects, strengthening the relationships they that the Board will work together well and have and the joint commitment to defeat make good decisions for TLM France. leprosy together. SENIOR Staff Sat/Sun: Pray that more people from across Linda Todd – Chief Executive Officer Scotland will join you in praying regularly for Stuart McAra – Head of Engagement KEY Staff people affected by leprosy, and the work of Mhairi Dawson – Head of Supporter Care and Volunteer Development The Leprosy Mission, using the ASK diary, TLM Tim Reed – Head of Insight Pascal Machefer – TLM Country Leader Scotland’s monthly prayer emails and prayer Carine Fotso – Finance T op: 10 volunteers ran in the 2018 ‘Race of Heroes’ and raised €3,000 for app. the emergency millet project in Chad. T op: Linda Todd, Chief Executive Officer. 32 33 Ca nada, USA and Ireland 20 –26 MAY

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes PRAYER POINTS from him. THE LEAST OF Psalm 62:5 (NIV) Mon: Pray that the implementation of effect:hope’s new strategic plan creates strong and dynamic results that share their message with Canadians and inspire them THESE to support those living with the effects of leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases. Tue: Pray that effect:hope will continue Recently we´ve been reading a biography of Mother to have collaborative relationships with Teresa of Calcutta. I was both challenged and inspired governments and other NGO partners as we by her life and work. But what struck me most was the work together to achieve zero transmission, attitude with which she treated everybody – from the zero disability, and zero discrimination from king of Norway to the person with leprosy begging in leprosy and NTDs. the streets of Calcutta. She treated each and everybody Wed: Pray that effect:hope’s work in the same. She saw Jesus in every person: no matter their preventative care, early diagnosis, and background, social status, or income (or lack of it). A bout effect:hope transmission research encourages donors, Restoring hope is the first step towards healing This reminded me of a passage in Matthew 25. Jesus is foundations, and governments to increase someone affected by leprosy. Inspired by Jesus, support for such programmes as Research talking of the time when the righteous will inherit the effect:hope works to free people from the disease, kingdom: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to Stop Neglected Tropical Diseases the disability and the stigma that often follow. They Transmission (R2STOP) and Every Child to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, also equip local health teams with the knowledge Thrives. I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes gained from serving those with leprosy and apply Thu: and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, it to people with similar diseases in the same Pray for new partnerships with funding I was in prison and you came to visit me”. The righteous communities. In so doing, they can prevent long- organisations and new donors who will answer by asking Him when they did these things. Jesus term disability from leprosy, Buruli ulcer, Lymphatic become champions of ALM’s ministry. continues (referring to himself): “The King will reply, filariasis and other diseases of the poor. Fri: Pray for cultural awareness and heeding ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of of in-country counsel as ALM promotes these brothers of mine, you did for me.’” About American Leprosy Missions a balance of gospel demonstration and Founded in 1906, American Leprosy Missions (ALM) proclamation (Integral Mission) across The Leprosy Mission logo of Jesus touching and healing is the oldest and largest Christian organisation in networks, partners and projects. a person with leprosy is inspiring and confirms our the United States dedicated to curing and caring Sat/Sun: Pray for wisdom as ALM and calling to serve people like Jesus did. But so often we for people affected by leprosy and related diseases. partner organisations scale up work in do so from a position of power, more resources and American Leprosy Missions has transformed the multiple neglected tropical diseases. Many superior knowledge, not always sufficiently valuing the lives of more than four million people worldwide countries in sub-Saharan Africa and elsewhere dignity of the person we are helping. through medical treatment and training, Christian struggle with five or more. outreach, prevention of disability, community But how would it change my relationship and attitude development and research. towards people affected by leprosy, if I would see Jesus in each one of them, as I serve them? I do not say it is The King will reply, ‘Truly About The Mission to End Leprosy wrong to imitate Jesus – we are also called to be His I tell you, whatever you The Mission to End Leprosy (formerly TLM Ireland) hands and feet here and now. But maybe we will have supports strategic interventions to map, prevent KEY Staff more respect for and honour each person more, if we did for one of the least of and treat leprosy by partnering with affected communities, researchers, government agencies, American Leprosy Missions see Jesus in each person – as we pray; raise funds for Bill Simmons – President and CEO projects in a far-away country; or shake a fingerless these brothers and sisters NGOs, hospitals, funders, and entrepreneurs. In effect:hope hand. addition to leprosy, they work with other neglected of mine, you did for me. infectious and parasitic diseases found in the same Peter Derrick – CEO If it is Jesus´ hand, I can shake it with a deeper love; if it is Matthew 25:40 (NIV) regions. Their areas of focus include health systems, The Mission to End Leprosy Jesus´ project that I´m raising funds for, I can raise it with breaking transmission, mobilisation, building Ken Gibson – CEO focused purpose; if I pray for a breakthrough in Jesus´ inclusive communities, leadership, and patient village, I can pray with more power. Marié de Kruijff is wife to Arie de Kruijff, care. The Mission to End Leprosy’s focus this year is T op left: Peter Derrick, CEO of effect:hope. TLM Mozambique´s Country Leader. on diversifying their funding streams. Top right: Bill Simmons, President and CEO of ALM. 34 35 India – Healthcare 27 MAY–2 JUN

PRAYER POINTS

Mon: Praise God for all the committed staff Thu: As TLM India implements its new country working in TLM India’s hospitals and snehalayas. strategy, pray for God’s guidance and wisdom in There is still a need for more skilled and running the healthcare programme so that TLM committed medical professionals and others to India can bring healing to many persons affected work in the hospitals. Pray for God to provide by leprosy. committed doctors and staff to run the hospitals. Fri: Praise God for taking care of the needs of the Tue: Many patients affected by leprosy are hospitals. Still, there are many needs left in the not able to seek medical treatment due to a hospitals. Pray for more individuals, corporate variety of reasons, major ones being stigma companies, and institutional donors to come and lack of awareness about the disease. TLM forward to support TLM India’s work among India’s hospitals and snehalayas support them in people affected by leprosy. getting quality medical care. Often, they conduct Sat/Sun: Leprosy is a leading cause of community outreach programmes to reach the permanent physical disabilities among unreached. Pray for the success of the work of communicable diseases. Timely diagnosis and these hospitals that strive to provide holistic care treatment can prevent disabilities. Many patients to leprosy patients. do not report for diagnosis in time and they Wed: Praise God for the nursing staff, doctors, suffer disabilities. Pray for patients to report physiotherapists, administrative staff, and others in time before disabilities set in so they can be working in TLM India’s hospitals. Pray for God’s healed completely. continued blessings on them so that they can witness God’s love through their work.

Senior Health Staff

Dr Famkima Darlong – Head of Healthcare TLM Hospital, Dayapuram, Tamil Nadu Dr Suresh Herbert – Deputy Medical Superintendent TLM Philadelphia Community Hospital, Salur, Andhra Pradesh Mr Surjit Pal – Superintendent TLM Hospital, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh he Leprosy Mission Trust India delivers its They also provide secondary-level healthcare in Mr Vijay Prathap – Deputy Superintendent Thealthcare programme through 14 hospitals other medical specialities, such as dermatology, TLM Hospital, Muzaffarpur, Bihar and 2 clinics spread across 10 states of India ophthalmology, general medicine, general Dr Milind Chavan – Medical Superintendent TLM Hospital, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh – Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, surgery, and obstetrics and gynaecology. Mr Bino Berry – Superintendent Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, TLM India also provides holistic care for the TLM Bethesda Leprosy Home and Hospital, Champa, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing of elderly Chhattisgarh TLM Hospital, Naini, Uttar Pradesh Dr Sandeep Kumar – Medical Superintendent Dr Ruby Marshala – Medical Superintendent The hospitals address all aspects of leprosy as persons disabled by leprosy in its five snehalayas a medico-social disease. They provide not only (a Hindi term which means ‘a house of love’) TLM Hospital, Chandkuri, Chhattisgarh TLM Premananda Memorial Leprosy Hospital, Kolkata, specialised leprosy referral services, but also spread across three states of India – Uttarakhand, Dr Manotosh Elkana – Medical Superintendent West Bengal primary-level preventive healthcare through Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. These people Dr Helen Roberts – Medical Superintendent community outreach. Leprosy is a major cause were rejected and abandoned by their families TLM Hospital, Shahdara, Delhi of disability, and the hospitals address the due to disabilities and the stigma associated with Mr Stephen Levi – Superintendent TLM Purulia Leprosy Home and Hospital, Purulia, West issue of disability through institution-based leprosy. Bengal and community-based disability management. TLM Kothara Community Hospital, Kothara, Maharashtra Dr Ujjwal Hembrom – Medical Superintendent Dr Asha Massey – Medical Superintendent TLM Clinic, Almora, Uttarakhand TLM Richardson Leprosy Hospital/CHANGED project, Miraj, Mr Anand Singh – Superintendent Maharashtra Dr Shirish Shegaonkar – In-charge/Senior Programme Manager TLM Clinic, Belgaum, Karnataka Dr Suresh Varghese – Medical Superintendent TLM Hospital, Vadathorasalur, Tamil Nadu Dr Ira Packyanathan – Medical Superintendent T op: An eye surgery for a leprosy patient at TLM Kothara Hospital, Maharashtra. 36 37 SUDAN 3–9 JUN FUNDRAISING 10–16 JUN

Each of you should give what you have decided Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under workers into his harvest field. compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Jeremiah 17:14 (ESV) Mon: Pray that God will provide TLM Sudan Mon: We give God thanks for the many with the right staff to support Aburoff Clinic, 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV) thousands of faithful donors who have given, especially in counselling for those persons often sacrificially, to care for people affected stigmatised because of leprosy. by leprosy. Pray blessing upon them. Tue: Pray for TLM Sudan’s venture to Tue: Today we pray for all those TLM integrate leprosy initiatives with those countries who have strategies to increase relating to other skin-related NTDs in 2019 their fundraising activity. Pray they will seek and for the training of TLM Sudan’s existing the Lord and that He will guide them ‘where staff to cope with these changes. to fish’ (John 21:6). Wed: Pray for an improvement in the Wed: There has been greater sharing of livelihoods of the staff as well as persons fundraising materials across the TLM Global affected by leprosy and their loved ones, as Fellowship in recent years. Pray this will the Sudanese pound is losing its value. continue, indeed increase. Thu: Pray that God would enable and inspire Thu: Pray for Peter Walker, Head the Episcopal Church of Sudan to contribute of Fundraising Development at the more proactively in the leprosy clinics, International Office, as he engages with ‘new’ through counselling and pastoral visits. countries who could raise funds for people Fri: The ongoing conflict in South Sudan affected by leprosy. makes it very difficult for health services to Fri: As plans are formed for a global operate. Pray that people affected by leprosy fundraising campaign, pray for wisdom on will be able to get the medical help and care the theme/topic. Also pray for the campaign, they need. that the Lord will ‘open the floodgates of he Leprosy Mission supports the leprosy Sat/Sun: Pray for God to bring peace to he vitally important projects of curing and heaven’ and see a great success. Tcontrol programme of the National Ministry South Sudan so that all those displaced and Tcaring for people affected by leprosy require Sat/Sun: We rejoice and give thanks to of Health in Sudan through the Department of separated by the war will be united with their financial resources in order to function. Some the Lord for His goodness and blessing on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), providing loved ones. 11 TLM countries are focused on this crucial fundraising campaigns in the past. Please national diagnostic skin smears and operating fundraising activity. With integrity, we share pray for His continuing and increasing favour, a national training centre for the treatment and the need with supporters, inviting them to that He will ‘establish the work of our hands’ diagnosis of leprosy. Through Aburoff Leprosy demonstrate their care and concern for people (Psalm 90:17). Clinic, TLM provides quality leprosy services, affected by leprosy through their prayers and eye care and counselling for persons who are financial gifts. Funds are raised from individuals, stigmatised because of leprosy. In collaboration churches, civic groups, trusts/foundations and with the national programme and Khartoum institutions (government bodies). This mix of “Fundraising is proclaiming College of Medicine, TLM also provides an fundraising streams is very important so that we internship programme to medical students visiting are not dependent on any single source. what we believe in such a way the country. In the coming year, TLM Sudan is that we offer other people an aspiring to help persons affected by leprosy grow economically though a new initiative to integrate opportunity to participate with them into the livelihood programmes of other disabled people’s organisations within Khartoum. us in our vision and mission.”

Henri Nouwen, A SPIRITUALITY OF FUNDRAISING

TLM Team Dr Yousif Deng Riak Deng – TLM Country Leader Ms Seela Kajo Shalluka – Aburoff Clinic Manager T op: Peter Walker sees the practical outcome of fundraising in the Mr John Kuku – Khartoum State Leprosy Supervisor small town of Tillabéri, where new latrines will make a big difference to T op: John Kuku caring for a patient. a very poor leprosy-affected community of 4,000 people. 38 39 Bangladesh 17-23 JUN

PRAYER POINTS

Mon: There is a great possibility for new studies in Bangladesh in 2019. Please pray for these studies to find new ideas to stop leprosy Jahangir lost his job as a transmission. BEVERLEY’S STORY driver because of an ulcer Tue: Pray for a successful funding allocation on his foot. After joining a self-help group, he for TLM Bangladesh’s core research project learned self-care to keep that should provide the facilities and human Beverley Cross, one of The Leprosy Mission the ulcer from worsening resources to ensure a stable base for leprosy New Zealand’s incredible supporters, joined and started wearing research in Bangladesh. protective sandals. He their Supporter Tour to India in 2016. She also received livelihood Wed: Please pray for continuing support brought William the Bear along, and together training and took a loan from effect:hope for a new Health System they visited The Leprosy Mission’s hospitals, from the group to open Strengthening phase from 2019 that would a small shop. He has allow TLM Bangladesh to continue their training centres, and community development regained his confidence programmes and had the chance to spend time and dignity. efforts to build sustainable capacity within government health departments, to ensure with people affected by leprosy. comprehensive leprosy services are ongoing. Leprosy Control and Research Last year Beverley penned her first children’s n Bangladesh, leprosy control and research Thu: The Leprosy Mission Bangladesh works book about the adventures of William, to help with the Government to strengthen health Iare conducted alongside community-based raise funds for The Leprosy Mission. rehabilitation services. This is to ensure that systems so that people affected by leprosy TLM’s projects address more than just the are able to get quality services on time. Pray “When I was five years old, I met a couple of physical needs of people affected by leprosy to the Lord that The Leprosy Mission staff elderly missionary ladies who had returned members can effectively develop the skills of and effectively work towards a leprosy-free from The Leprosy Mission fields of India and government health staff. Bangladesh. China, and their stories stayed with me. I knew I The aims of the leprosy control programmes Fri: Give thanks to God for previous years wanted to go there too,” says Beverley. are to ensure quality leprosy services; raise in which TLM Bangladesh has been able to awareness; stop the transmission of leprosy from complete all its Health System Strengthening Throughout her life, Beverley never lost sight person to person; and prevent disability. Patients activities smoothly with the support of local that one day she would be working for The with complications are referred to DBLM Hospital health and administrative authorities. Pray for Leprosy Mission. In 2004, she made her first trip for further treatment. TLM Bangladesh also works persons disabled by leprosy as they receive to strengthen the Government’s health services holistic health and disability services from the to India where she visited a leprosy hospital and build capacity of health staff. Government. in Faizabad in Northern India, and had the Although her opportunity to work in the operating theatre passion for The TLM Bangladesh has been undertaking Sat/Sun: Pray for the spiritual enrichment valuable leprosy research for years now, of TLM Bangladesh staff, especially those in there. Leprosy Mission contributing vital scientific knowledge for the has not diminished leadership roles, that they can be role models This is not only a story about one teddy bear’s treatment of leprosy. A new research project aims in the communities. over the years, the journey to India; it is also the story of a woman to understand in more detail how people respond way in which God has used of incredible faith, who kept alive a dream that immunologically to the presence of M. leprae, Beverley is so very different to what she had the causative bacterium of leprosy. Through Senior Leprosy Control and Research Staff she had nurtured for well over 50 years. researching this as well as the transmission ever imagined. Mr John Arpon Samaddar – Program Leader, Chittagong & Dhaka 12 years later, she wanted to celebrate a patterns of the bacterium, we can obtain insight Mr Surendra Nath Singh – Rural Health Program Leader Beverley’s mission is not only to raise awareness significant birthday by once again returning that helps pinpoint those at highest risk of Dr Jibok Chakma – Medical Officer, Chittagong Program of leprosy as a significant disease globally, but developing leprosy. TLM Bangladesh is also Mr David Singh – Finance Manager, Dhaka Program to India. Beverley knew that part of her task also to inspire and encourage children to have focusing on and encouraging local researchers Ms Topna Saha – Finance Manager, Chittagong Program was to go back to New Zealand and tell of the a dream, to keep the faith and believe that one and institutions to engage in social research which Project Managers – LCP/Research important work that The Leprosy Mission was day God will use you in His way to fulfil His plan should contribute to eliminating the barriers Mr Khorshed Alam – Project Manager, Leprosy Field Research and Leprosy doing. Over a dinner with friends prior to her against social integration, quality treatment and Control, RHP for you. stigma reduction. Mr Jeorge Biswas – Project Manager, ILSHSS – Dhaka & Gaibandha trip, she had the idea of bringing William the Mr Parach Chakma – Project Manager, Chittagong Hill Tracts Bear with her to India and documenting his Beverley kindly donates a percentage of every Sultan Md. Elias – Project Manager, CLMP adventure. book sale to The Leprosy Mission New Zealand. 40 41 MYAnmAR 24–30 JUN

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought PRAYER POINTS to love one another. 1 John 4:11 (NIV) Mon: This year, TLM Myanmar is piloting a new approach to serving people affected by leprosy and/or disability to increase their inclusion in mainstream society. Please pray for positive results for those we serve, and that the changes brought about can be seen for years to come. Tue: Please pray for TLM Myanmar as they work to establish new, and strengthen existing, partnerships with mainstream he Leprosy Mission has been working in actors, including government, churches, TMyanmar since 1898. Their vision is a “barrier- development organisations, and free Myanmar for persons affected by leprosy and communities. Pray for a shared vision and other disabilities.” TLM Myanmar works towards this passion for helping the most marginalised. vision by focusing on four strategic aims: 1) Persons Wed: Please lift up Mawlamyine Christian affected by leprosy and with disability are healthy, Leprosy Hospital, Yenanthar Leprosy educated, earning a living and know their rights; 2) Hospital, and the Christian Leprosy Mission Persons affected by leprosy and with disability are Eastern Shan. Please pray for wisdom and included and valued members of their communities God’s blessings on their work and on the and influence the public arena; 3) TLM Myanmar hospital staff, and that those affected by has a strong voice to positively influence change in leprosy can continue to be blessed by these regard to leprosy and disability issues in the public hospitals. arena; and 4) TLM Myanmar is a trusted, accountable Thu: In July and August this year, two teams and sustainable organisation that high-quality staff of young volunteers from World Servants members want to work for. from the Netherlands will come to continue TLM Myanmar currently works in 14 Disability construction of a building at Mawlamyine Resource Centres located in 7 of Myanmar’s States Christian Leprosy Hospital. Please pray for and Regions. It also supports Mawlamyine Christian Leprosy Hospital, the Myanmar Government’s various arrangements including visa, travel Yenanthar Leprosy Hospital and the Christian and accommodation permission and the Leprosy Mission Eastern Shan. With significant work as they would need to continue with numbers of leprosy still present (2,279 new cases what two teams built in 2018. Pray also for in 2017) and a high percentage already with visible the hospital team as they seek additional impairment at the time of diagnosis, it is important funding to match the need for completion of to maintain leprosy expertise in-country. TLM a new staff quarter. Myanmar’s projects cover a wide range of needs, Fri: Please pray for the people of Myanmar, including health, education, livelihoods, and that their hearts and minds can continue to empowerment. TLM Myanmar also works with the expand towards tolerance and acceptance of National Leprosy Control Programme to train newly minority groups, including people affected appointed Public Health Supervisors in leprosy. by leprosy and disability. Pray that the team can be a beautiful representation of the love Christ taught. S enior Staff Sat/Sun: Starting last year, TLM Myanmar Dr Zaw Moe Aung – TLM Country Leader is under the guidance of its first local Mr Nyi Nyi Lwin – Head of Programmes advisory board. Please pray for wisdom and Left: TLM Myanmar senior leadership team Ms Kalayar Tun – Finance Manager enthusiasm for the seven members of the (Dr Zaw Moe Aung, TLM Country Leader, Ms Naw Say Say Phaw – Human Resource/Office Manager second from left). Ms Katie Riley – Programme Development Manager Board, and for a smooth transition to local governance. This page: Receiving a new prosthesis. Dr Hla Hla Aye – TLM Myanmar Advisory Board Chair © Dan Church Aid – DCA

42 43 DENMARK and FINLAND 1–7 JUL ETHIOPIA 8–14 JUL

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s Let us then with confidence draw near to the PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTSPOINTS life for one’s friends. throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and John 15:13 (NIV) Finland find grace to help in time of need. Mon: Thank the Lord for the new Hebrews 4:16 (ESV) Mon: Give thanks that different churches in physiotherapy building and equipment for Finland have shown an increasing interest in the Boru Meda Hospital in Dessie. Pray that the work of the Mission. this provision will be a blessing for those affected by leprosy and for others. Tue: Pray for new supporters for TLM Finland and readers for their magazine. A generation Tue: Pray for the Government of Ethiopia, shift is taking place; pray the team will find that they will govern this great nation good methods to reach new supporters, according to God’s standards. Pray for unity especially young people. and peace. Wed: Pray for new people who are willing to Wed: Pray that the health extension workers take responsibility and develop the work in in Ethiopian communities are able to detect possible leprosy cases early and refer them to A bout TLM Denmark Finland, with fresh ideas on how to present the community health centres. Pray that the LM Denmark is administered by the Board, who The Leprosy Mission’s message to potential newly trained health workers will diagnose are all active contributors to the work, especially supporters. T and treat patients correctly. in the area of fundraising. They are partnered Denmark Thu: Thank the Lord for opening up new by the Danish Missions Council Development Thu: Give thanks for those members who partnerships in Ethiopia. Pray that He will Department. TLM Denmark’s support is primarily have decided to leave the Board. They have n Ethiopia, The Leprosy Mission works mainly provide for all the resources needed, human focused on Danish Bangladesh Leprosy Mission served TLM’s cause for 10, 20 and even 40 through partners. Our long-standing partnership I as well as financial. (DBLM) Hospital in Nilphamari, Bangladesh, as they years. Pray that they may enjoy more time with the Ethiopian National Association of Persons have a historical connection, having founded the with partners, children and grandchildren and Affected by Leprosy (ENAPAL) continues to be Fri: Pray that the 380 young students that programme. In addition to this they apply for and will continue to pray for the work undertaken fruitful. We also work with the All African Leprosy receive education support through different allocate government funds towards different projects by The Leprosy Mission. Tuberculosis Rehabilitation and Research Training projects will do well at school and will be in the same area, such as savings groups, disability Centre (ALERT) and Boru Meda Hospital. able to continue their education. Fri: Pray that the new project director at programmes, rehabilitation of prostitutes and their Leprosy is still a problem in the country. In DBLM Hospital will settle in well and feel Sat/Sun: Give thanks for the Leprosy children, and education in human rights. 2017, of the 3,114 people newly diagnosed with welcomed by staff and patients and that Champions being developed in Ethiopia. leprosy, 402 (13%) had visible disability at the future cooperation with TLM Denmark will be Pray that they will be courageous in About TLM Finland time of diagnosis. This indicates late detection joyful and fruitful. communicating and taking up issues upport for TLM started in Finland in 1968 and and is a major concern. It is therefore important regarding the rights and entitlements of Sat/Sun: Pray that Danish Government Sthe National Council was formed in 1981. TLM to raise awareness and improve knowledge about persons affected by leprosy at all levels. Finland is operated solely through the generosity Aid will be given for the projects among leprosy in communities. Mainstreaming leprosy of volunteers, who work with individuals, churches, people affected by poverty and disability into other initiatives is crucial to achieving this, and church groups and other organisations to raise in Nilphamari District, Bangladesh, as the we are working through self-help groups already prayer and funds for the leprosy and disability present project ends in 2019. The team in established by Tearfund as well as continuing prevention work in DR Congo. They also seek to Denmark will be applying for a new grant – to work through the ENAPAL associations at increase knowledge and interest in Finland about pray their application is successful. grassroots level. leprosy, how it affects people, and what can be In other work, around 380 children of parents done to help. When needed, they send professional affected by leprosy or with disabilities receive staff to work in and support TLM projects. education support with the aim to keep them SENIOR Staff TLM Finland produces a magazine in Finnish and in school and inspire them to break the cycle of Swedish; publishes articles and stories about leprosy SENIOR Staff poverty. ENAPAL also seeks to improve the lives Ms Tanny Hagens – Interim Country Representative work in Christian and secular magazines; shares at Denmark of its members with livelihood opportunities and Mr Berihun Legesse – Finance and Admin Officer churches, schools and other interested groups; and Jørgen Andersen – Chair of the Board training. Heads of Partners attends relevant festivals and events. Finland Training of health care professionals will Mr Tesfaye Tadesse – Managing Director of ENAPAL In 2019 TLM Finland gives thanks for 50 years Rev Eija Kilpi – Chair of the Board continue and there are promising new possibilities Mr Dagnew Hagezom – CEO of ALERT Mr Dawit Kidane Teku – CEO Boru Meda Hospital of faithful service at home and in the field. Finnish Ms Marja Aho – Vice chair opening up with ALERT. doctors, nurses and physiotherapists have served Ms Ritva Pohti – National Director/Secretary Mr Ephraim Tsegay – TEAR FUND Country Representative, Ethiopia in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Thailand and Indonesia. This would not have been possible T op: Eija Kilpi, Chair of TLM Finland, attending to an interested visitor at T op: Training of trainers with basic leprosy and self-care information for without those at home raising resources and praying. their desk at the ‘World comes to Village’ Festival, May 2018. members of ENAPAL local associations. 44 45 HUNgary 15–21 JUL NEW ZEALAND 22–28 JUL

The Lord… is patient with you, not wanting anyone How great are His signs, how mighty His wonders! PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. His kingdom is an eternal kingdom; His dominion 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) Mon: Give thanks for the strong links of TLM endures from generation to generation. Mon: TLM NZ has a new Strategic Plan for Hungary with Christian churches. All 1,500 Daniel 4:3 (NIV) 2019-2023. Pray for God’s guidance and local Presbyterian, Lutheran and Baptist provision as TLM NZ staff work towards its churches have been regularly contacted, goal in engaging New Zealanders to end and 1/3 of them are already financially leprosy and transform lives. supporting TLM’s cause besides their prayers. Tue: Give thanks for the appointment of Give thanks for the dedicated ministers and Anne Ratliff, TLM NZ Board Chair, as the Vice- volunteers keeping the flame alive in their Chair of the TLM Global Fellowship Board, in congregations and helping people affected conjunction with her role on the Governance by leprosy to Life in all its Fullness! Committee. Praise God for her expertise Tue: Give thanks for the final step last year and contribution to the life of The Leprosy to integrate all Christian churches in Hungary Mission. Pray for God’s blessings and wisdom into TLM’s work, a “legacy project” of the as she takes on this important role. Country Leader. Pray for good acceptance of Wed: This is the first year TLM NZ partners TLM’s message in the new spots: the 2,400 with other organisations in supporting the or 45 years, TLM Hungary has given prayer parishes of the major Catholic Church, and leprosy work in Indonesia. Praise God for Fsupport and raised funds for the work of the Neoprotestant churches. this opportunity and pray for God’s wisdom The Leprosy Mission around the world. Locally, Wed: Give thanks for the faithfully serving he Leprosy Mission has been in New Zealand and guidance as staff members reach out to the team in Hungary share knowledge and volunteers helping in different areas (such Tsince 1912. About 12,000 New Zealanders those most in need, that the chains of leprosy information on the needs of people affected by as database, administration, social media, regularly support the work of the Mission. Their can be broken in Indonesia. commitment to The Leprosy Mission has been leprosy to inspire Hungarian people to active church links, finances, schools and legal), Thu: Over the course of this year, TLM NZ passed down the generations, allowing TLM help. The main base of continual support are each one with a heart to share their expertise staff are conducting a range of fundraising New Zealand to transform lives and give hope to individuals and Christian churches. Reaching for the benefit of the Mission. activities to cure, care for and restore people countless leprosy-affected families in countries out to the wider population, TLM Hungary has Thu: From January onwards a new three affected by leprosy around the world. Pray like Bangladesh, Bougainville, Ethiopia, DR Congo, regular campaigns in different areas of the year term began for the Board in Hungary. that these initiatives will be fruitful and India, Indonesia, Nepal and Papua New Guinea. country, inserting leaflets into local and regional Pray for the Chair and other members, inspire new committed donors. Praise God TLM New Zealand is humbled and thankful magazines and newspapers, or in door-to-door whether they continue, or are new in their for New Zealanders who have faithfully for the love and compassion of their supporters visits. Different media appearances in Christian TV, roles. Pray for God’s guidance for them that supported people affected by leprosy living – who uphold the Mission’s work financially radio and press are extremely good opportunities they will be engaged and understanding, in some of the poorest regions of the world. and prayerfully; who give their time so freely to for raising and deepening interest. with a burning heart for Jesus and mission. TLM Hungary is also invited to hold volunteer at the office, and to speak at churches Fri: Each year a group of young people in performances in Christian schools, which they Fri: Pray for wisdom and vision for Marta and community groups. NZ are chosen to become advocates for the regard as sowing seeds for the future, as through Risko, Country Leader, both in her leadership TLM New Zealand also partners with The New life-changing work TLM does with people the sensitivity of children and, indirectly, some of role within Hungary and in the spiritual Zealand Aid Programme (Ministry of Foreign affected by leprosy. They then travel to their parents, the next generation can be inspired ministry working group of TLM Global Affairs and Trade), the Autonomous Bougainville Nepal and visit The Leprosy Mission hospital in charitable thinking and actions. Fellowship. Government, and other grassroots organisations and leprosy-affected communities. Pray In 2019, TLM Hungary is contributing to the Sat/Sun: Give thanks for the prayer support in the countries it supports. Together, they help this year’s Youth Advocates can meet their work of TLM in India, DR Congo and Ethiopia. coming from Hungary that nurtures the daily to cure, care for and restore people affected by fundraising commitment for the Mission’s life of The Leprosy Mission. ASK has been leprosy to fullness of life. work in Nepal. translated into Hungarian for the 13th year Sat/Sun: Praise God for TLM NZ’s many by a dedicated team of translators, enabling volunteers who give so freely of their time individual praying partners and church to assist with office administration tasks, and S enior Staff groups to use it in the national language. who speak at local churches and community Gillian Whitley – TLM Country Leader groups about leprosy. They play a vital Martin Malkaney – Finance Manager role in TLM NZ’s work and their support is Sarita Divis – Fundraising Manager invaluable. Jasleen Kler – Programmes Manager S enior Staff Jasper Oei – Programmes Manager Anne Ratliff – Chair of the Board (until May) Marta Risko – TLM Country Leader Odele Habets – Chair of the Board (from May) T op: Gillian meeting with a leprosy-affected couple in Kathmandu, T op: Takeaway prayer cards and flyers after a presentation at a school. Nepal. 46 47 India – Community-Based Rehabilitation 29 JUL–4 AUG

PRAYER POINTS

Mon: Children affected by leprosy experience their rights and entitlements; and enhance discrimination because of the stigma associated livelihoods. Pray for the success of these with the disease. Because of this, they can initiatives. lose the motivation to study or even end up Thu: TLM India has developed and trained civil dropping out of school. TLM India provides society organisations and leprosy champions educational support to these children and to advocate for the rights of people affected mentors them to continue their education. Pray by leprosy. Pray that they stand united in that they develop their potential and become identifying, highlighting, and addressing all responsible citizens. types of discrimination in their communities. Tue: Livelihood training is an important Fri: Give thanks for new partnerships with aspect of the inclusion and dignity of people the Government and other local organisations affected by leprosy. Self-help groups formed working with TLM India in community by TLM India have been trained in various development, early detection of leprosy, and livelihood practices to help them earn a secure awareness raising. Pray for the strengthening of income. Some have scaled up their livelihood all partnerships; that they join hands with TLM programmes and formed cooperative societies. India to fight stigma and discrimination against Pray for the growth and sustainability of the people affected by leprosy. self-help groups and cooperatives. Sat/Sun: Staff are the strength of TLM India’s Wed: TLM India’s hospitals, vocational training community empowerment projects. They work centres and community empowerment projects tirelessly to implement the various programmes. work together to make an impact through Pray for God’s guidance and protection for all community engagement programmes. These community empowerment project staff and for he age-old stigma associated with leprosy a broad-spectrum approach, ranging from local create awareness in communities about early the people affected by leprosy with whom they Toften leads to the social exclusion of people interventions to strategies for policy reform. Self- detection of leprosy and its treatment; combat work. affected by the disease. They are ostracised, help and other groups are formed to empower stigma and discrimination; form self-help excluded from community gatherings and communities. This helps many households to groups; educate and assist people to claim prevented from accessing community resources. earn additional income through livelihood These multiple deprivations result in people opportunities and thus have an improved quality affected by leprosy not being able to participate of life. fully in the economic, social and political life of the TLM India also provides educational Senior Community-Based Rehabilitation Staff society in which they live. scholarships for schooling, graduate, postgraduate Mrs Tina Mendis – Head of Sustainable Livelihoods and Children Unite for Action Project (CUFA) The Leprosy Mission Trust India works to and professional studies to children who have Community Empowerment Mrs Nitha Philip – Programme Manager restore people affected by leprosy and other a background of leprosy. Its adult literacy marginalised people to full participation in society. programme provides opportunities to gain Inclusive Holistic Development of Individuals with Customised Footwear Project Its community-based rehabilitation activities work functional literacy to people affected by leprosy Disabilities Project (IHDID) Dr Shirish Shegaonkar – Senior Programme Manager through the combined efforts of people affected or disability. This helps to reduce barriers and Mr Suresh Dhondge – Programme Manager by leprosy, persons with disabilities, their families increase their participation in community-level Comprehensive Health, Advocacy, Networking, Garnering Partnerships, Advocacy, Research and Training towards and communities, and relevant government decision-making. Empowerment and Development Project (CHANGED) Inclusion Project (PARTI) and non-government health, education, Dr Shirish Shegaonkar – Senior Programme Manager Mr G Manivannan – Programme Manager vocational, social and other services. TLM adopts Community Intervention Unit Securing Opportunities towards Advancing Revenue Project Ms M Phoebe – Programme Manager (SOAR) Civil Society Organisations for Resource Mobilisation, Mr David Jaganathan – Programme Manager Empowerment, Advocacy, Training and Employment Self-help groups towards Holistic Community Development Project (CREATE) Project (SHCD) Mr Harsha Gudasalamani – Team Leader Mr Kismat Nanda – Programme Manager Mr James George, Mr Ram K Robert, Mr Mathan Raj David – Women’s Empowerment through Advocacy, Livelihoods Programme Manager Training and Health Project (WEALTH) Mr Navdeep Goswami – Deputy Programme Manager Mr Naushad Hasan – Programme Manager T op: An adult literacy class in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, facilitated by TLM India’s WEALTH project. 48 49 THAILAND AND indonesia 5–11 AUG

Then the way you live will always honor and please PRAYER POINTS the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn T hailand to know God better and better. Mon: Praise God for the many disadvantaged Colossians 1:10 (NLT) and disabled patients in Thailand who have been enabled to find treatment and new hope through McKean. Pray for God’s blessing upon them. Tue: Pray for extension plans for residential aged care at McKean. Wed: In 2018, McKean celebrated 110 years of service to leprosy-affected and disadvantaged people in Thailand. Pray for all those now rehabilitated and seeking to live out new hope and faith in their communities. A bout McKean Rehabilitation Center n Thailand, The Leprosy Mission has had a long Indonesia Irelationship with McKean Rehabilitation Center. Thu: Pray that NLR and YIPTA are able to For 111 years McKean has provided leprosy and develop strong and sustainable partnerships disability services in north Thailand, giving a with the Government health department and practical demonstration of God’s love in action and communities. Strengthening the delivery of leading many to new hope, faith and quality of life. leprosy services through local health centres Now McKean is also pioneering the development and building the capacity of government of multi-tiered aged care for a broad range of health workers is an integral part of the international clients, while continuing to provide project. Pray for increased commitment from leprosy expertise, especially meeting the needs of government health authorities at district those marginalised by ethnicity and poverty. and local health centres to support the implementation of this project. About TLM Indonesia Fri: The project in Indonesia will implement ndonesia ranks third in the world in the number of community empowerment activities to Ileprosy cases. Leprosy continues to be one of the increase the community awareness to seek major causes of preventable disability. The Leprosy early treatment for leprosy symptoms and Mission New Zealand will be starting a new project reduce stigma. Pray for good community and partnering with Netherlands Leprosy Relief participation in Indramayu, West Java, with (NLR) and their allied local organisation, YIPTA community leaders and people affected by (Yayasan Indonesia Peduli Kusta dan Disabilitas). leprosy. The proposed project will be conducted in the Sat/Sun: The project is working on a Post district of Indramayu, one of the poorest districts in Exposure Prophylaxis approach to protect the the province of West Java. There is an urgent need high risk population from developing leprosy, for acceleration of case finding and stopping the by administering a single dose of rifampicin. transmission of leprosy. Pray for a cost-effective supply of rifampicin in This project will deliver a combined approach, Somboon went to McKean target communities. consisting of improved leprosy control in the Rehabilitation Center to be treated local health centres, the implementation of a for leprosy, but ended up staying and becoming a nurse. Since preventative antibiotic (rifampicin) to household SENIOR Staff retiring she has enjoyed gardening. and social contacts of someone affected by McKean Indonesia "I want to contribute to the village leprosy, and strong community involvement to here by making it beautiful," she Dr Tinakorn – Director Gillian Whitley – TLM NZ Country raise awareness. says. "I come outside and look at my Warit Anucheewachira – Manager Leader garden and I’m really happy at what Heather Smith – Deputy Director Jasper Oei – TLM NZ Programme I have achieved." Dr Ratana Pananich – Assistant Manager T op: Younger patients and staff at McKean Hospital in Thailand Director Photo © Daniel Christiansz participate in a traditional New Year ceremony of respect for elders. Photography 50 51 RABIUL’S STORY

Rabiul is an eight year old boy from Although Rabiul faces a long journey of Bangladesh. He lives with his mother in a recovery, he is very hopeful about his corrugated iron hut in the deprived outskirts future. The physiotherapist pays visits of Chittagong. Two years ago, he started to Rabiul’s house and Rabiul also visits developing serious lesions on his skin. TLM’s self-care centre for suggestions and exercises. Rabiul was diagnosed with leprosy. Soon his hands began to claw and become disabled. Rabiul’s prayer to God is simple and pure: Nerve damage made his eyes irritable and “I pray to God that The Leprosy Mission can hard to fully close. His facial nerve damage support other boys like me”. also meant that Rabiul lost the ability to Before, Rabiul was using a piece of wood as smile. a cricket bat, but Tony, a visitor from New Once an active and happy child, Rabiul Zealand, gave him a new cricket bat, cricket became increasingly sad and withdrawn. ball and gloves. Rabiul loves to play cricket Leprosy kept him from doing the things he with his neighbours and friends. loved. “I love to play cricket with my friends,” The kindness and prayers of TLM’s he said, “but I can’t hold the bat anymore.” supporters enable children like Rabiul to Thankfully, it was not too late for Rabiul. experience the love of God and life in all its He was put on multi-drug therapy and was fullness. cured of leprosy. He also had reconstructive surgery to restore his clawed hand. Rabiul is recovering well and does his physiotherapy exercises regularly. “I rub my hands and fingers with oil several times every day, and the stiffness in my fingers is going away,” Rabiul declares with joy. Now, Rabiul can go to school and play cricket with his friends again. He can write easily with the use of his fingers. Rabiul is very happy after surgery. Rabiul with the physiotherapist.

52 53 Netherlands 12–18 AUG SRI LANKA 19–25 AUG

We can make our plans, but the LORD determines They lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS our steps. have mercy on us.” Proverbs 16:9 (NLT) Mon: Thank God for the number of prayer Luke 17:13 (NHEB) Mon: Give thanks for the churches that supporters in the Netherlands. Since last year have been mobilised through ADT’s work almost twice as many people are praying to support the national leprosy control for people with leprosy, with now over 700 programme. Pray they will continue to find people involved. favour and have wisdom as they engage in Tue: The Dutch cross-cultural workers in the their communities and with the Government. field, Tanny Hagens in Ethiopia and Geeske Tue: Give thanks for the inter-faith groups Zijp in Chad, are doing a great job. Please pray involved in the leprosy control programme. for their safety, and bless the hands of both Pray that they will continue to prioritise these women for all they are doing for people leprosy-related activities and that they will who are affected by leprosy. be united in their approach. LM works through three partners in Sri Lanka: Wed: Thank God for the growth of funding TAlliance Development Trust (ADT), Kaveri Kala Wed: Pray that plans for partnership for in the Netherlands. Because of this they Manram (KKM) and the People’s Forum for Change. research on leprosy between ADT, the have been able to increase the amount they ADT is working to raise awareness about leprosy Government and Sri Lankan universities contribute to projects and also hire extra staff through mobilising religious leaders, inspiring come to fruition and that new research capacity to help them raise money for leprosy- projects shed light on the nature of he Leprosy Mission Netherlands (Leprazending churches with a passion to serve people affected affected people. leprosy, which will inform new initiatives to Nederland) was founded in 1980 to support by leprosy through ‘acts of love’, working with T dramatically reduce leprosy prevalence on The Leprosy Mission International with funds, Thu: Give thanks for the volunteers helping the Government to repeal discriminatory laws, this island. prayer and human resources. The office is in TLM Netherlands with their work. Volunteers conducting a national media campaign, and training Apeldoorn and there are nine members of staff, come to work in the office weekly, but there relevant Government teams on reconstructive Thu: Pray for the establishment and seven board members and thirteen volunteers. are also people knitting bandages for injured surgery and leprosy-specific counselling. expansion of the People’s Forum for Change, TLM Netherlands actively supports two Dutch leprosy patients, requesting donations to KKM’s holistic approach includes medical, social a leprosy-affected people’s organisation that cross-cultural workers: Geeske Zijp in Chad and The Leprosy Mission in lieu of wedding gifts, and economic support for people affected by was formed last year with support from KKM. Tanny Hagens, who has worked in Thailand, and so many others. Thank God for all these leprosy. They support the Government in identifying Pray that its capacity would be strengthened Indonesia and Papua New Guinea and is presently ambassadors for people affected by leprosy. new cases of leprosy and provide self-care training so that members can conduct awareness to working in Ethiopia. Fri: TLM Netherlands are thankful that they to prevent disability. Working with over 40 leprosy- reduce prejudice and obtain their rights and TLM Netherlands’ vision is to see leprosy and have found a new Chairman. He started at affected communities, they develop self-help groups entitlements. Pray that it would be effective rehabilitation services strengthened, to support the beginning of this year. Thank God for and livelihood activities; provide safe water; support in recruiting and engaging new members in research and to enable transformational change answering prayers. Pray for creativity, energy children affected by leprosy to attend school; and other parts of Sri Lanka. in the lives of people affected by leprosy in India, and the presence of God in the work of all the encourage healthy lifestyles and nutritious diets. Fri: Pray for KKM as it implements a holistic Bangladesh, DR Congo, Myanmar and Chad. In staff, volunteers and board members of TLM The People’s Forum for Change is a leprosy- range of initiatives to support people order to make this possible, TLM Netherlands Netherlands. affected people’s organisation that is now in its affected by leprosy and their families, and second year. Currently it is focusing on building the seeks support from donors, churches and funds Sat/Sun: Please pray for new opportunities works with the Government to diagnose new capacity of its members and expanding into new and works to get people in the Netherlands for TLM Netherlands in cooperation with cases of leprosy. districts. It will conduct awareness activities, provide engaged with those who suffer from this terrible churches, media and organisations in order Sat/Sun: Thank God for the support that peer support and advise Government as well as KKM disease. to increase awareness and support to people TLM India, TLM Nepal and TLM England and ADT on what people affected by leprosy in Sri affected by leprosy. and Wales have been able to give to work Lanka would like to happen in the country. on leprosy in Sri Lanka. Pray that plans for TLM Nepal to train Sri Lankan surgeons on KEY Staff leprosy reconstructive surgery is conducted ADT successfully in the most effective way Godfrey Yogarajah – CEO possible. Praveen Gomez – Head of Programmes, Health John Anthony Williams – Programme Executive S enior Staff Mahesh Perera – Programme Coordinator Mr Henno Couprie – TLM Country Leader KKM Mr Cor van Leeuwen – Team Leader, Administration & Back Office Rev Joshua Sivagnanam – Director Vacant – Team Leader, Project & Programmes Dr Preman Jeyaratnam – Chairman T op: Henno Couprie, Country Leader, visits a self-help group in Dhaka, Mrs Erika Haisma – Team Leader, Communication & Fundraising Miss Debora Jeeva Malar – Assistant Director T op: Leprosy awareness education and distribution of papaya plants Bangladesh. organised by KKM. 54 55 sweden 26 AUG–1 SEP

Speak up for those who cannot speak for PRAYER POINTS themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly, defend the rights of the Mon: Thank God for the Board of TLM THE WOMAN AT THE WELL poor and needy. Sweden and for the members’ willingness to Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV) When a Samaritan woman lead the work. Pray for wisdom and courage. In John 4:5-42 we see Jesus challenging gender Tue: Thank God for the good relationship and dynamics when the repercussions of not following came to draw water, Jesus fruitful cooperation between TLM Sweden the traditional gender norms were severe. Women and the Swedish Government through the in those days (and even now) would go in groups said to her, “Will you give Swedish Mission Council. Pray for continued early to fetch water to escape the heat of the day. me a drink?” (His disciples project funding and support. But here we see the Samaritan woman came to Wed: Pray for increased support and funding draw water from the well alone in the middle of the had gone into the town to from churches and organisations. Pray also for day in scorching heat, but why? She wasn’t a part new churches to cooperate with TLM Sweden. of the daily water fetching group, where women buy food.) The Samaritan Thank God for the work of TLM ambassadors would have fellowship with each other. Probably all over the country and for the increased she did not fit in with the set of rules or norms of woman said to him, “You are group of presenters. Pray for new inspiration the day, because of her lifestyle. She was excluded a Jew and I am a Samaritan and open doors. Thu: from society and people did not want to associate he Leprosy Mission has been active in Sweden Pray for positive developments in woman. How can you ask me the cooperation between different TLM with her. Tsince the mid-1970s. An important part of TLM Sweden’s work is to raise awareness of the needs organisations in the Nordic countries – there But Jesus did not exclude her – in fact he broke all for a drink?” (For Jews do not is great opportunity for collaboration and traditional norms and asked her for a drink. Jews of people affected by leprosy and to stimulate interest in how lives and families can be changed mutual support. and Samaritans were not supposed to even talk associate with Samaritans.) through supporting TLM. Fri: Give thanks for the faithful support to one another, yet Jesus engages this Samaritan John 4:7-9 (NIV) Through fundraising with individuals, of donors over many years. Pray for new woman, outcast from her own community, and organisations, churches and church groups, TLM individual donors and for the success of meets her where she is. Moreover, he doesn’t give Sweden works to fulfil its vision. In a monthly activities and campaigns to reach out to new up on her, he is patient with her and ultimately he magazine, reports from TLM’s projects are sent supporters. is able to transform her. What a transformation we all over the country with stories of restored lives Sat/Sun: Pray for the staff team of TLM see, that a woman who was excluded from society and families and how the work of TLM can change Sweden for God’s guidance and wisdom in the is now the bearer of good news and shares boldly even a whole village. A number of ambassadors work. Pray they will have the right priorities about her encounter with Jesus, and through her, and presenters keep contact with people and and openness for new initiatives. Pray for many people from the town are saved (verses 39- churches in their areas, and information on inspiration, teamwork and energy. 42). Jesus showed her compassion and gave her an leprosy and its consequences is given to Christian opportunity to enter the kingdom of God. conferences and gatherings and to schools and colleges. An agreed country strategy and Reflecting on our projects and communities where fundraising strategy are the foundation of these we work, we often come across women affected by activities. leprosy who are excluded and treated as outcasts. Through an initiative of TLM Sweden, They are often abused, deserted, called names fundraising activities have also restarted in and even deprived of their basic rights. But there the neighbouring Norway. TLM Norway has is hope. We need to have the same approach been closed down for some years but will be as Jesus, being intentional about engaging reactivated slowly. TLM Sweden also cooperates with women/girls affected by leprosy, showing with TLM Denmark and TLM Finland in various compassion and challenging gender dynamics and ways. discriminatory practices prevalent in society. Let’s TLM Sweden supports work in India, DR Congo and Nigeria and collaborates with Bangladesh, dare to believe that God will enable us to reach out S enior Staff Jasleen Kler is Programme Manager at TLM Myanmar and South Sudan. to many like the Samaritan woman and no one will Allan Ekstedt – TLM Country Leader New Zealand. be left behind. Jonas Fållsten – Programme Coordinator Photo by Qang Jaka on Unsplash Karl-Gustaf Mattson – Editor T op: TLM Country Leader Allan Ekstedt (right) with Bora, a volunteer Shelley Lado – Administration and Finance in DR Congo. 56 57 Global VOIce 2–8 SEP BELGIUM 9–15 SEP

Blessed is he who considers the poor; the Lord PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him and keep him alive, and he will be Mon: The Global Leprosy Strategy, endorsed Mon: Give thanks to God for the churches blessed on the earth; you will not deliver him to by the World Health Organization and and individual donors who support TLM organisations like TLM, calls on governments the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen Belgium, for their compassion for people to repeal legislation that discriminates against him on his bed of illness; You will sustain him on affected by leprosy in the countries TLM people affected by leprosy. Pray for all TLM his sickbed. Belgium partners with. countries in Asia and Africa as they work out Psalm 41: 1-3 (NKJV) Tue: Pray that more Christians in Belgium strategies to influence governments for change will become interested and involved in lobally, TLM is part of a range of networks and – and praise God for the successes to date. TLM’s work of leprosy control to enable the Gpartnerships relating to leprosy, disability, Tue: In 2018, delegates from TLM were able to organisations working in this field to reach neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and our Christian attend and speak at the Conference of States the goal of zero transmission of this disease identity. Some of these partnerships help us to Parties to the UN Convention on the Rights by 2035. strengthen the collective fight against leprosy and its of Persons with Disabilities. Give thanks for Wed: TLM Belgium needs ‘new blood’, not consequences, whereas some help us to make sure this and other opportunities to advocate at only at the level of its Board of Directors, the voice of people affected by leprosy is heard and an international level for the rights of persons but also Christian men and women who included in global issues. affected by leprosy. Pray for further such are motivated and committed to raise Some of the networks TLM is involved with are: opportunities, and for their impact on relevant Christian awareness through churches in • ILEP – The International Federation of Anti-Leprosy laws and policies. both the Dutch-speaking North and French- Associations works to ensure that the key messages Wed: Many of the networks we are part of are LM Belgium operates solely through the speaking South of the country. Pray for God’s shared by its members are voiced in all possible not Christian, though they include Christian contributions of volunteers, many of them provision. platforms, as well as boosting practical collaboration. T organisations. Pray for TLM to maintain and board members, having downsized in 2009 after Thu: Thank the Lord that He continues to • Global Partnership for Zero Leprosy – A recent uphold our values which are modelled on a reduction in government funding. They focus provide TLM Belgium with support from coalition of groups committed to ending leprosy, the example of Jesus Christ as we meet and their efforts on reaching and motivating Belgium’s TLM International and several TLM Global building on and strengthening existing collaborative collaborate with other workers in this area. Christian community, particularly connecting with Fellowship Member countries; that by networks to support leprosy programmes. Thu: Pray for the TLM Global Fellowship protestant and evangelical congregations. They working together as ‘one body’ we are able • Micah – A global Christian community of people Advocacy Network as they work together to seek to form lasting relationships by meeting to support each other in this way. and organisations committed to integral mission. identify key priorities for advocacy and also people face-to-face and sharing with them • IDDC – The International Disability and Fri: For many years TLM Belgium has been opportunities for us to advocate collectively about leprosy and the work of the Mission. TLM Development Consortium includes a wide working in collaboration with Solidarité and send a stronger message on an Belgium also has a long-standing partnership range of organisations that want to make sure Protestante. Pray that this cooperation may international scale. with Solidarité Protestante, a Christian NGO that development work is inclusive so that people with continue and become even more intensive in supports emergency and development projects. disabilities can fully engage in community life. Fri: Pray for Geoff Warne, CEO of ILEP, as he the years ahead, resulting in joint efforts and In the next few years, the team hope and • Leprosy Research Initiative – TLM is one of five leads the network’s response to the new results to defeat leprosy and transform lives. pray to grow again by attracting new dedicated organisations making major contributions each year opportunities for collaboration within the Sat/Sun: Please pray that the Lord will volunteers and by involving local churches who to this joint fund for leprosy research. Global Partnership for Zero Leprosy. touch the hearts of church leaders and are highly committed with a common sense of • NNN – A network of organisations that fund or Sat/Sun: In 2015, the nations of the inspire with His Holy Spirit more church purpose to serve people affected by leprosy implement programmes focused on NTDs such as world committed to the UN Sustainable congregations in Belgium, that they will through TLM Belgium. leprosy. It offers opportunities for new sources of Development Goals, a set of targets for 2030. find and send dedicated volunteers to TLM Belgium supports the work in DR Congo, funding and for joint programmes targeting multiple Goal 3.3 is to ‘By 2030, end the epidemics of reinforce the small team. Pray that together Sudan, Nigeria and Chad. neglected diseases. AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected they may feel privileged to be able to serve • EU-Cord – A network of 24 Europe-based Christian tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water- persons affected by leprosy, and develop organisations working towards the eradication borne diseases and other communicable a new dynamism to reach new supporters, of poverty. Together they share knowledge, seek diseases’. Pray that this goal will serve as a Board of Trustees including younger generations, through new funding and enable the voice of people living in springboard as we advocate with governments Paulin Songolea Bakalania – Acting Country Leader avenues of communication such as social poverty to be heard. and other stakeholders to prioritise leprosy, Francis Van De Walle – Chair media. TLM also lobbies with governments and one of the neglected tropical diseases, in their Marijke Sajet – Vice-Chair, Chair of Dutch-speaking Working Group multilateral bodies such as the United Nations, the health systems. Irène Masika Katselewa – Member, Chair of French-speaking Working World Health Organization, the European Union and Group Renée Hugaerts – Treasurer the G7. Norbert Ngila Bampunga – Member T op: Brent Morgan and Amar Timalsina at the Conference of States Tünde Csákány – Member T op: TLM Belgium’s General Members Meeting 2018. Country Leader Parties to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Mr Paulin Songolea Bakalania is fourth from the right. 58 59 Northern Ireland 16–22 SEP Democratic Republic of Congo 23–29 SEP

Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will Just as our bodies have many parts and each part PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS establish your plans. has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) Mon: Give thanks for the many churches that We are many parts of one body, and we all belong Mon: Give thanks for the Lord’s support in faithfully support TLM. Pray for the Northern to each other. strengthening the health systems in four Ireland team as they seek to initiate new Romans 12:4-5 (NLT) villages in Kasai over the past three years. relationships and deepen and develop existing Working in the Kasai is tough because of partnerships with churches. Pray specifically for bad roads, rivers without bridges, and an increase in church volunteers who help raise insecurity. Nevertheless, God has made the awareness and support. work possible and its outcome has been Tue: Give thanks for the faithful service and outstanding. Pray that its impact is sustained. Godly leadership of the Board of Directors. Tue: Please pray for people who have been Pray particularly for Fiona Davidson, Board rejected by their families because of leprosy Chairperson. Pray for direction, wisdom and and the misconceptions surrounding it. Pray God’s leading in all the decisions that are made. that, through advocacy, they can be restored As some members step down from their roles, to their families and communities. LM Northern Ireland engages and educates pray that God would raise up the right people Wed: Give thanks that TLM’s collaboration Tpeople to help resource and support the work in to replace them. ize, geography, poverty and lawlessness with relevant state partners and with Action leprosy-affected countries. Prayer is at the core of all Wed: Give thanks for the growing Scombine to make the Democratic Republic Damien has been strengthened by the activities. collaboration between TLM Scotland, Trading, of Congo a very challenging country in which development of the 2018-2020 National The four priorities in their strategic plan, 2017- England and Wales, and Northern Ireland. to work. The deficit in active case detection and Strategic Plan for Leprosy Control. Pray these 2020 are: During 2019, new joint ways of working are overall health infrastructure means that there are partnerships will bear fruit for the good of all 1. ENGAGE people from across Northern Ireland to being implemented. Pray for unity, direction likely to be millions of people still suffering from those in need in the country. help defeat leprosy and transform lives; and increased impact and that the Lord would undiagnosed leprosy and other neglected tropical Thu: Give thanks for the church leaders 2. RESOURCE – significantly increase financial pour out His blessings upon these initiatives. diseases (NTDs) in remote villages all over the who have understood the great role the resources to support those affected by leprosy and Thu: Give thanks for the many volunteers country, leading to disability and furthering the Church has to play in defeating leprosy and ensure maximum impact for every £1 donated; who help raise support for TLM Northern cycle of poverty. are urging other pastors to readapt their 3. EDUCATE and ADVOCATE – promote an accurate Ireland. Pray for increased opportunities to TLM Congo seeks to maximise its impact messages about leprosy. Pray for a sincere understanding of leprosy. Increase access to equal share stories from around The Leprosy Mission. by strategically targeting health zones, which partnership that involves churches in the human rights for those affected by leprosy by Pray that the volunteer speaker team would is bearing tremendous results – through fight against leprosy and the inclusion of tackling stigma and discrimination and promoting increase in size and impact. strengthening local health systems by those affected. positive change in public policy and practice; empowering health centre staff and local Fri: Give thanks for the faithful and generous Fri: Pray for DR Congo during this post- 4. ORGANISATIONAL EXCELLENCE – build an agile, communities, the detection of new cases of giving of supporters in Northern Ireland. Pray election period and for leaders at all levels of resilient organisation that can effectively deliver its leprosy and other NTDs has significantly increased for God’s direction, blessing and timing over the Government. May God guide their hearts strategic objectives. from around 50 new cases found per year to more TLM’s fundraising efforts . Pray for increased towards good governance. Pray for security Staff and volunteers are passionate about than 500 cases – people who can then receive the giving and surplus funds in 2019. for TLM Congo staff and for protection mobilising others to help defeat leprosy and treatment they need. But this outcome is only a against resurging tropical diseases like Ebola, transform lives. They do this by engaging with Sat/Sun: Pray for Joanne Briggs and the staff drop in a big ocean and an increased detection cholera and other epidemic diseases. churches, schools and Christian faith organisations, team as they work to raise awareness and campaign through local health systems is still and calling them to action. Staff and volunteers visit funds. Changes in staffing will occur during needed. The remaining challenge will then be Sat/Sun: Praise God that the TLM Congo churches and associated groups and speak regularly 2019 as Peter Hilton leaves TLM to become the management of disability and related stigma. team’s fundraising capacity is growing, and at services and events, and produce a magazine and a local church minister. Give thanks for his Partnerships are being developed with the will grow further when their guest house prayer update three times a year. faithful service and commitment over the years Government and with other local ILEP members is completed. Please continue to pray for In 2019, TLM Northern Ireland will prioritise and pray for new staff members joining the to make sure community-based rehabilitation is resources for building the guest house. and develop donor relationships and explore new Northern Ireland team. mainstreamed to combat poverty and promote opportunities to raise funds and increase long term integration. S enior Staff support. Collaboration will be key as they partner Staff Team TLM Congo’s hopes for 2019 are for a with TLM England and Wales, TLM Scotland and TLM dermatologist, who can support and sustain Louis Paluku Sabuni – TLM Country Leader Trading on joint campaigns, funding applications Joanne Briggs – TLM Country Leader leprosy knowledge in the country, and to make Christian Bulambo Bisimwa – Head of Finance and IT Advisor Hazel Coulter – Database Administrator sure the voices of people affected by leprosy are Raphael Mulamba Mbuyamba – Project Development Officer and fundraising support. Peter Hilton – Church & School Engagement Officer Doris Mukelengu Ndombe – Logistics and Administration Officer Joy Jamieson – Office & Finance Manager heard at all levels. Dr Jacob Kadima Kabamba – Medical Advisor T op: Peter Hilton, Church & School Engagement Officer, with volunteers Fiona Davidson – Board Chairperson Didier Muhima – Project Manager South Kivu & Maniema and HR Advisor. at a local fundraising dinner, ‘Taste of India’. T op: TLM team visit to a person affected by leprosy. 60 61 INdia – research AND training 30 SEP–6 OCT PAPUA NEW GUINEA 7–13 OCT

I can do all things through Christ who PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS strengthens me. Mon: TLM India is developing its Philippians 4:13 (NKJV) Mon: This is the third year of the Sustainable monitoring, learning, and evaluation Livelihood Development Project. It has framework in sync with the new seven-year expanded to two more provinces – Western country strategy (2019-25). Pray they can and Sandaun. Pray for the people affected develop a robust framework, and for wisdom by leprosy and disability who live in the 24 for the team to implement it. targeted leprosy-affected communities, as they Tue: TLM India’s training domain has start to engage in project activities. developed a new multi-year plan for the Tue: Pray for the five community mobiliser period 2019-22. Training modules are being mentors working in the four provinces, developed for doctors, physiotherapists, and especially for the three new ones who nurses, and allied health services. Training started this year. Pray that they will settle needs are being assessed. Pray that the into their roles quickly and feel at ease in the he Leprosy Mission Papua New Guinea’s role is training imparted would help build leprosy communities where they will be working. he Leprosy Mission Trust India is committed to to support the Government’s National Leprosy expertise among doctors and other staff T doing everything it can to improve the quality Elimination Program to ensure people affected by Wed: Pray for the project participants who T working in TLM India’s hospitals and among of life of people affected by leprosy. One approach leprosy are detected and treated with available are involved in developing their livelihood major stakeholders in the healthcare system. towards this is to find answers to the questions and accessible leprosy treatment. There continue businesses, as they take and repay loans. Pray relating to leprosy which remain unanswered and Wed: Thank God for the improved research to be approximately 500 new cases of leprosy that they will be able to grow their businesses pose barriers to the eradication of the disease. culture at TLM India. Each unit is committed found each year in PNG, and many others are and find enough funds to support their Leprosy has been affecting people for around 4,000 to undertaking studies in their capacities, disabled by the disease. families. years, and yet we do not have answers to many of encouraging and motivating staff to conduct TLM PNG has a five-year Sustainable Livelihood Thu: Pray for all the various training courses the problems it causes. relevant studies alongside their routine work. Development project which is funded by NZ Aid/ that will be going on – in community Some of these unanswered questions relate to: Pray that this trend continues. MFAT. This project helps individuals, communities facilitation, health, leprosy, budgeting and lack of knowledge about transmission; the reason Thu: Pray for the field staff who are and households affected by leprosy and savings and loan management. Pray for energy for the continued incidence of large numbers of involved in various research studies. They disability to develop and implement improved for the project team as they roll out project new cases with no significant decline over the last brave inclement weather and terrain to and sustainable incomes. This project is being activities each week. decade; causes of leprosy reactions; and nerve implemented in the National Capital District travel into communities to collect samples, Fri: Pray for the continued safety and security damage. These questions need to be answered if (Port Moresby), Central, Western and Sandaun trace people who have come off treatment of the team and its participants as they move leprosy is to be eradicated and affected people are Provinces. too early, screen the contacts of those around Port Moresby, travel to and in the four to experience ‘healing, inclusion and dignity’. TLM PNG moved its head office from Madang undergoing treatment for possible further provinces, and in the communities. PNG is a TLM India’s goal is to generate evidence-based to Port Moresby in 2017, so that it is more cases of leprosy, and follow up with multi- difficult country to work in and car-jackings knowledge through research to eradicate the strategically placed for the implementation of case families. Pray for their safety and good and burglaries are common occurrences. causes and consequences of leprosy. This is done health. leprosy work. The team is made up of eight staff by engaging in multi-disciplinary research in basic who work hard to raise awareness about leprosy Sat/Sun: Please pray that BHCP is able Fri: India’s public health system needs science and clinical, social and community aspects. in the country. to partner with more churches in the new strengthening in its various leprosy care TLM also works with the NZ Government, phase of the programme, as they are hugely activities. Pray for developing collaborations Autonomous Bougainville Government, influential in Bougainvillean society. Pray in the field of neglected tropical diseases and community leaders and other development that the Christian community will join hands leprosy with the Government of India and agencies to implement the Bougainville with BHCP in raising awareness on leprosy. other global partners. Healthy Communities Programme (BHCP). This Pray too for the BHCP team’s efforts to ensure Senior Research and Training Staff Sat/Sun: Thank God for each and every comprehensive and successful project improves continuous supply of multi-drug therapy to Dr Joydeepa Darlong – Head of Knowledge Management member of TLM India’s Research and Training health, hygiene and governance practices as part health facilities in Bougainville, lack of which is Mr Karthikeyan G. – Research Coordinator team. Pray for God’s direction and wisdom of a community-based and owned preventative currently an issue. Mr Babu G. – Training Coordinator to initiate and implement relevant studies health programme. Trained village leaders and Dr Loretta Das – Training In-charge, Training Unit and impart training to develop and sustain village health volunteers provide education and S enior Staff Mr Prashant Behary – Manager of Knowledge Management leprosy expertise. support for Bougainville’s population on disease Dr Raju M.S. – Social Scientist Natalie Smith – Country Leader Dr Mallika Lavania – Scientist and Lab In-charge, Stanley Browne prevention, health practices and improved access Rosa Koian – Project Manager Laboratory to healthcare. Mathias Manoa – Finance Manager Dr Utpal Sengupta – Consultant BHCP Itu Singh and Ravindra Turankar – Senior Scientists Top: Research activity at TLM India’s Stanley Browne Research T op: The team in PNG at their recent Business Mentor training with Blair Ruby Mirinka – Programme Director Laboratory, New Delhi. Matheson, their business consultant from TLM NZ. 62 63 NIGERIA – Part 2 14–20 OCT

PRAYER POINTS

Mon: Thank God for the volunteers faithfully serving in Niger State, Nigeria. Ask that God will bless their families and strengthen them as they have committed to serving in this capacity. Tue: TLM Nigeria currently enjoys support from two donors who are funding an educational project for children with leprosy or from leprosy-affected homes. This support is changing the lives of these LM Nigeria’s determination to continually children, reducing stigma and giving them Tmake a difference that will transform lives, an opportunity to have a better future. Please reduce stigma, establish sustainable livelihoods pray that God will bless these children as they and eradicate leprosy was tailored into the learn and grow; and also that the donors will development of their 2016-2020 country strategy. be blessed as they continue to give towards TLM’s projects in Nigeria focus on four major this cause. thematic areas: Health and management and Wed: The Nigerian economy is still going prevention of disability; Empowerment and through difficulties and this has put great livelihood; Advocacy and communication; pressure on the public and private sectors Learning and education. These were coined as with serious impact on the people. Pray the HEAL campaign. Leveraging on this strategic for a revived economy and stable work platform, TLM Nigeria continually explores environment, as the success of TLM opportunities to reach the unreached and programmes in Nigeria depend on it. expand the frontiers of its mission by scaling up efforts in early case detection, treatment and Thu: Pray for God’s protection, blessing and impact mitigation. Through this, over 50 new safety on all TLM Nigeria staff members who communities with over 10,000 individuals will be travel to remote places to minister love to the reached in the next 5 years. poor and marginalised people affected by Alongside their leprosy work, TLM Nigeria has leprosy. a fundraising strategy and works with churches, Fri: Give thanks for the many churches individual donors and companies to raise funds that have enthusiastically and generously for and awareness about TLM’s work in Nigeria. supported the work of TLM Nigeria for many Motivated towards holistic healing by the attitude years. Pray that more churches will embrace and virtue of compassion as demonstrated by the vision of TLM and open their hearts and Christ, TLM Nigeria is also focused on promoting doors to join the fight against leprosy and its inner wellbeing and advancing the course of consequences. providing spiritual support to individuals affected Sat/Sun: Please continue to pray for the by leprosy, Buruli ulcer and other neglected Board Chairman and other members of the tropical diseases. Board as they meet in November, that God will lead them in wisdom and engaged understanding of TLM Nigeria as they make decisions that affect its future.

Top: The Niger State Honourable Commissioner of Health, Dr Mustapha Jubril (shown drinking water), in company of the former TLM Board Chairman, Dr Shem Zagbayi Nuhu, at the commissioning of borehole water provided by TLM to the Chanchaga leprosy community. Opposite: Karima used to face discrimination because of leprosy, but thanks to vocational training from TLM Nigeria, she now runs a thriving sewing business. 64 65 The Leprosy Mission Global Fellowship 21–27 OCT

Be kind and compassionate to one another, PRAYER POINTS forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Mon: Pray that our new goal of zero new Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) leprosy cases by 2035 will motivate and galvanise action across TLM and partners. Pray for Brent Morgan, International Director, as he CLAIRE’S leads the Global Fellowship towards this vision. Tue: The Global Fellowship is based on a covenant relationship with one another and before God. Praise God for the strong inter- country relationships and pray for grace and STORY mercy for one another as we seek to work together in a loving and encouraging way. Wed: This month, TLM country leaders and chairpersons from around the world are gathering for several days of meetings. Pray he Leprosy Mission Fellowship consists of for a spirit of unity as decisions are made and TLM organisations or offices in 27 countries T that those attending will be invigorated in their she said. “I knew I could get treatment.” But that have made mutual commitments to work passion and commitment to serving people together as one Global Fellowship. The Fellowship she did feel anxious about what her friends affected by leprosy. was formed in 2011, when these Member would think of her at school. She and her countries agreed and signed TLM’s Charter. The Thu: Thank God that he continues to care family agreed that, though the community Charter commits each of us to: for the needs of people who are stigmatised knew about her father, they would not share • Uphold our common purpose and identity and excluded as a result of leprosy. Pray the knowledge that she also had leprosy, and that in responding to their needs, all offices • Contribute to the shared life of the Mission she continued to take her treatment in secret. and countries of The Leprosy Mission will • Strengthen our global unity Her family were understanding and were • Be mutually accountable demonstrate a true and caring heart, and skilful supportive of her wishes. A shy person, she still • Observe financial stewardship hands (Psalm 78:72). Fri: The Mission’s work is restricted when to this day hasn’t told her friends. Although her One of the joys of fellowship is that we work village community have been understanding we do not have the income to reach out to Claire was diagnosed with leprosy at the together towards our shared vision of leprosy more leprosy-affected people. Thank God for towards her father, and continue to accept same time as her father, Eddie, when the defeated, lives transformed. The two halves of our wonderful supporters around the world him even though he has leprosy, she didn’t that vision are equally important. We want to see who faithfully and sacrificially give despite Department of Health were conducting want the risk of misunderstanding and teasing leprosy defeated, brought to an end. That needs unstable financial markets in many countries. screening activities in their village. She had that can come with a leprosy diagnosis. This persistence, quality work, and strong connections Pray that God will grant favour as we seek new developed light skin patches on her arms, highlights the ongoing fear of stigma and with partners that have a similar commitment. donors and institutional funding, especially for which had no sensation – an early indication discrimination she has around the disease. And we want to see lives transformed through the research, which is one of our key priorities and of leprosy. She was only nine years old at the work we do. Not just the lives of people affected essential for reaching ‘zero transmission’. time, which shows that leprosy is still being This fear has not dampened her hopes for the and damaged by leprosy, but also the lives of our Sat/Sun: Governing boards have a vital transmitted in her village, as leprosy can often future. “One day I hope to become a teacher staff and supporters. Something changes in all responsibility throughout the Mission. Pray take many years to manifest but infection in or a nurse,” she says. This is why she wants to of us when we work together on our God-given that local and international board members mission and seek to demonstrate the truth and a young child can only have occurred within keep going to school, so she can get a good will understand and embrace the purpose their lifetime. In Papua New Guinea, around education. The challenge in her local village love of Jesus Christ in everything we do. and values of the Global Fellowship and will however is that the teachers will often not turn strive for unity. Pray that the unity felt at global 20-25% of new cases diagnosed each year are meetings will be passed on locally. children like Claire. up to teach lessons, so she is uncertain whether she will be able to realise her dream. Thankfully, Claire only needed to take six months of treatment, which she completed She enjoys playing games with her friends, successfully. Though her father unfortunately particularly ‘tin games’ – a game popular in needed to be treated for leprosy reaction, rural Papua New Guinea where you try to knock T op: Members of the Global Fellowship Board and the International Claire has not developed any other symptoms. down as many stacked tin cans as you can in Office at the annual gathering of Members in Addis Ababa, 2018 “I was not scared when I was diagnosed,” competition with your friends. 66 67 The Leprosy Mission International 28 OCT–3 NOV Singapore and south korea 4–10 NOV

Do your best to present yourself to God as one Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS approved, a worker who does not need to be called children of God. ashamed and who correctly handles the word of Mon: Every Monday, the staff of the Matthew 5:9 (NIV) S ingapore truth. International Office gather together to spend Mon: Thank God for the dedication of the 2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV) time being still and ‘Waiting on God’, focusing Singapore Leprosy Mission Board. Pray that on whoever features in the ASK Diary that week. the directors will have wisdom, strength and They then share any insights with the relevant God’s guidance as they promote the work of people. Give thanks for this opportunity to the Mission. encourage each other with God’s word. Tue: TSLM’s chairman, Dr George Seow, Tue: This year sees the start of a new five-year sends out a regular ‘Word from the Chairman’ Global Strategy for The Leprosy Mission. Pray newsletter to inform donors and ask for funds. for the International Office as it supports the Pray that God will use the newsletter to speak Global Fellowship in the various priorities and to people’s hearts and they would be inspired changes needed to reach our desired impact to give. by 2023. Wed: TSLM are looking to connect with Wed: Give thanks for the positive impact of A bout TLM Singapore new and existing supporters through new roles in advocacy and fundraising support he Singapore Leprosy Mission (TSLM) is a different avenues of communication, such as at the International Office. These have brought he Leprosy Mission International, led by Brent support group (established in 2004) that raises promoting the work through social media and cohesion and renewed vigour in these areas, as T Morgan (International Director), is a 22-person financial support for TLM, encourages people fundraising outside of the regular newsletter. T well as helping to coordinate key collaborations team, most of whom are based in Brentford in to pray for the work and raises awareness in Pray for success in these endeavours across the Global Fellowship. Pray that these West London. TLM International is funded by the Singapore of leprosy and The Leprosy Mission. and for God’s wisdom in knowing which roles will continue to develop and benefit the Members of the TLM Fellowship, who look to it for Their vision is ‘A world without leprosy’ and opportunities to pursue. work of the Mission. leadership, coordination and support. their mission statement is ‘Restoring Health, South Korea Thu: A key focus area for the International Rehabilitating Life, Restructuring Employability, The International Office holds a unique Thu: Give thanks to God for the Chairman Mr Office is the Leadership Development Resourcing Support’. In recent years they have global overview of the TLM Fellowship. Part of its Allun Cho and all TLM Korea’s board members Programme to equip and encourage our been raising support for Anandaban Hospital, mandate is helping the worldwide organisation and staff. Pray for wisdom and health as they leaders to thrive in their roles. The second Nepal, where major repairs are needed following to function effectively. Of increasing importance undertake leprosy work in Jesus Hospital and group to take part are now coming to the end the 2015 earthquakes in addition to the ongoing is its external work. The International Office is nursing home for the elderly. expanding TLM’s global profile through advocacy, of the year-long programme. Another group leprosy work. and supporting fundraising development in new will soon be beginning. Please pray for the Fri: Pray for the stabilisation of the social and countries or areas. God-given equipping of our leaders and the About TLM Korea psychological situation in South Korea, which Brent and his team are accountable to the unleashing of their leadership potential. lthough there are very few new cases of is confused by low economic growth and an aging population. International Board which consists of twelve Fri: Give thanks for Cindy Norfor and Jane Aleprosy detected each year in the Republic people from eight countries in the global South Willcocks, Global Human Resource Advisors. of Korea (South Korea), there are still elderly Sat/Sun: Give thanks for all the work of and North. Leading the Board are Colin Osborne Thanks to developments in their roles, the people living with leprosy-related disabilities. As TLM Korea, both with people affected by (Chair, based in England), Anne Ratliff (Vice International Office has been able to provide Korea rapidly changes into an aging society, the leprosy and with other disabled or otherwise Chair, based in New Zealand) and Philip Putman increased human resource support to the number of elderly people who are not protected disadvantaged elderly people. Pray it will (Treasurer, based in England). The Board meets Global Fellowship, building capacity with economically and emotionally is increasing. TLM continue to run smoothly and that all those face-to-face twice a year. webinars and other initiatives. Praise God for Korea is committed to protecting and treating using its services would be blessed and live in this opportunity to share knowledge. elderly people affected by leprosy or disability peace and security. through the Jesus Hospital in Daegu, which Sat/Sun: The International Office’s budget Leadership Team specialises in dermatology services and any cases is funded by contributions from Member Brent Morgan – International Director of leprosy. An adjacent nursing home protects and countries. There is a gap between the costs and Pete Garratt – Head of Operations Support cares for elderly people affected by leprosy, and the funds available. Please pray for Brent and Key Team Jannine Ebenso – Head of Quality Assurance other low-income elderly and disabled people. Gladstone Worthington – Head of Finance his team as they set priorities, look for ways to Singapore Peter Walker – Head of Fundraising Development control costs, and find other sources of income. Rev Dr George Seow – Chairman Pradeep Bagival – Head of Advocacy Pray especially for the project to install signage Ms Lam Yan Yan – Recording Secretary Damaris Villanueva – Human Resources Manager on the roof of the International Office – a good Rev Milton Lazarus – Committee Member South Korea potential source of income, but one that has Mr Jaewoong Choi – Programme Coordinator T op: Damaris Villanueva presents Peter Walker with an award of experienced a lot of challenges. Mr Allun Cho – Chairman appreciation at an office picnic. T op: A spring season outing with TLM Korea’s nursing home residents. 68 69 NEPAL – PART 2 11–17 NOV

PRAYER POINTS Mon: Each year, TLM Nepal is committed FROM DREAM TO DESTINY to providing leprosy training to hundreds of medical students and over 1,000 government He called down famine on the health personnel. Please pray for God’s The life of Joseph, found in Genesis 37-47, is in many strength and guidance for the training team ways a special one, yet it reflects much in our own lives. land and destroyed all their as they continue to build capacity of a disease God has a dream for each of us, no matter who we are. that is nearly forgotten, so that people supplies of food; and he sent affected by leprosy will not go undiagnosed Joseph grew up as his fathers favourite in a patchwork a man before them— Joseph, Anandaban Hospital and Urban Clinic and untreated. family where rivalry and jealousy were normal. Yet sold as a slave. They bruised nandaban Hospital is the central leprosy referral Tue: Please pray for Dr Indra Napit and team despite broken family relationships and a flawed his feet with shackles, his neck Ahospital in Nepal and provides holistic leprosy who run the hospital, clinic and leprosy character, he became a top leader in Egypt, guiding care as well as world class reconstructive surgeries. outreach satellite clinics. The team have the country (and surrounding countries) successfully was put in irons, till what he The hospital caters to the general public as well worked relentlessly to continue top quality through a famine. How does God bring this about? foretold came to pass, till the in its outpatient department and is renowned for leprosy, orthopaedic and dermatology Here are some insights from Joseph’s life that can help services and meet the needs of the local word of the Lord proved him its quality orthopaedic and dermatology services. us experience God’s plan: Nearly 8,000 leprosy outpatients and 1,000 population. true. The king sent and released inpatients were served in 2017. Wed: Anandaban Hospital provides technical 1. Our past cannot keep us from our God-given destiny. TLM Nepal also provides services to general expertise for a monthly leprosy outreach Yet sometimes God has to go the hard way with us him, the ruler of peoples set patients through an extended outreach clinic in clinic at the Koshi Zonal Government Hospital in order to bring necessary change in our character. him free. He made him master the urban part of Lalitpur district (Anandaban in a highly endemic area in Biratnagar. Please Joseph faced hardship (slavery, prison), but he relied Patan Clinic). Since its initiation in 2012, the number of his household, ruler over all pray that staff here and at monthly satellite on God and the change in his character was dramatic. of general cases coming for treatment has been clinics in two other endemic regions are able he possessed, to instruct his increasing, with dermatology and orthopaedic to increase the capacity of government staff 2. Through this hardship, Joseph discovered what princes as he pleased and teach consultations the most prominent. Patients are to diagnose and treat leprosy, and that the he was best at: managing and organising with referred to Anandaban Hospital for further specialist government staff are open and keen to learn. faithfulness. He did so in Potiphar’s house and later in his elders wisdom treatment from the clinic. Thu: Give thanks for the self-help groups prison. He learned how to interpret dreams in a Godly Psalm 105:16-22 (NIV) and cooperatives formed by TLM Nepal. way. This prepared him for a greater destiny - leading Community Based Inclusive Development Confidence has increased amongst the or more than a decade, TLM Nepal has been Egypt through a difficult time. group members since receiving leadership, implementing community-based inclusive F bookkeeping, business and gender equality 3. Sometimes, we will suffer for doing the right thing. development projects through self-help groups training. Please bless the group members Joseph refused the temptation of Potiphar’s wife in order to reach grassroots level communities. and staff with ideas and opportunities as and was falsely accused and sent to prison. Yet he These groups are provided with training on group they move away from the grip of persistent management, income generation, leadership, continued to serve God faithfully. Even the hardest poverty. rights and advocacy. To date, TLM Nepal has times can bring us closer to God’s intention for us. Fri: TLM Nepal has a close partnership with established 51 cooperatives and 101 self-help 4. Joseph forgave his brothers, showing a character groups in rural communities throughout Nepal IDEA Nepal, a leprosy-affected persons’ after the heart of God. Rather than taking revenge for with membership of 9,728 people. organisation with 1,000 members throughout Nepal. Please pray that the peer support past wrongs, he saw the bigger picture - how God had trainings, one of many activities to build knit everything together. He was brought to Egypt to capacity of IDEA members, will be well- save lives and this counted more than all the hardships. S enior Staff (Anandaban Hospital) received and fruitful. Psalm 105:16-22 shows us clearly how God’s dream Dr Indra B Napit – Medical Director/Orthopaedic & Reconstructive Surgeon Sat/Sun: TLM Nepal is blessed to partner for Joseph came through. What would you like such a Dr Mahesh Shah – Senior Consultant Dermatologist and Leprologist with Christian organisations such as summary to say of your own life? Are you facing hard Dr Deanna Hagge – Director of Mycobacterial Research Lab International Nepal Fellowship and Nepal Mr Gopal Hari Pokhrel – Training Officer Leprosy Fellowship. The Lord has guided us times on the way to your God-given destiny? God is to work closely with each other to serve those with you! Do not let thoughts of revenge fill your heart Joël Sommer is former Chair of TLM Switzerland in need throughout Nepal and we pray for – just keep doing what God intended and gifted you and member of TLM International Board. He has T op: With loans from the cooperative he chairs, Bhunesi bought also worked as a missionary in West Africa. vegetable seeds, fertilizers and insecticides and returned to his family continued partnership in the years to come. to do. trade of farming. Photo by Joran Quinten on Unsplash 70 71 ENgland and wales – part 2 18–24 NOV Bangladesh 25 NOV–1 DEC

Heal the sick, raise the dead to life, heal people PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS who have leprosy. Matthew 10:8 (CEV) Mon: Give thanks for the thousands of Mon: Pray that self-help groups and their church representatives who keep their associations can become self-sustaining, that church families informed and engaged in the their members may have the knowledge work of The Leprosy Mission. Pray that they and capacity to continue their activities feel valued and know that they are a making independently. an impact. Pray that as some come towards Tue: The main focus of the Hagar Centre is to retirement, others will be willing to take on reintegrate women into their communities. this important responsibility. Please pray women who have returned to Tue: Give thanks for the volunteer speakers Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) their communities from the Hagar Centre can who ensure that the needs of people ften the greater challenge of ‘defeating leprosy’ live in their society with dignity. is not the physical cure, but restoring the affected by leprosy are heard in churches and O Wed: Pray that TLM Bangladesh will be able dignity of the affected person. TLM Bangladesh small groups all over the United Kingdom. to find sufficient funding support to continue helps enable economic and social empowerment Pray for protection as they travel around, and their community-based rehabilitation work through self-help groups, which provide mutual that they will be blessed as they bless others. developing communities and reintegrating support and livelihood opportunities for people Wed: The work of The Leprosy Mission excluded people. Pray especially for the affected by leprosy, disability and poverty. was birthed and cradled in prayer and financial resources to support the work in Through these groups TLM provides training, we give thanks for all the supporters who Chittagong for another five years. skills development, access to micro credit, and already pray for our work. Please pray that educational opportunities for children. Thu: The central committee, an apex body of more people will sign up to receive prayer In other cases, an individual approach is needed. 1,500 self-help groups, is seeking to register olunteers are a vital bridge to engaging resources from TLM England and Wales as The North West Bangladesh Ultra Poverty Initiative as a national-level leprosy organisation in supporters and potential supporters in they look to encourage a new generation V Project (NUPIP) works to overcome extreme poverty Bangladesh. Please pray for the registration praying for and financially supporting the work of prayer warriors; Prayer Partners to pray among people with leprosy-related disabilities. The process and for the ongoing activities of the of The Leprosy Mission. Many are unsung heroes, regularly for the work of the Mission. doing what God has prompted them to do for the Hagar centre is a short term shelter where ostracised committee. least and the lost. We are so grateful for everyone Thu: Please pray for TLM staff as they rally women can receive shelter, treatment, legal aid and Fri: Pray for self-help group members in who is doing their part. MPs and Peers in Parliament to increase support to reintegrate into their life and community. Dhaka that receive training in such skills as One volunteer speaker, Sally Esdale, took her government support for leprosy work. Pray bookkeeping, ulcer care, networking and efforts to raise awareness and funds to another that the ongoing applications to UK Aid for Advocacy vocations. Pray that with these skills they can level and walked 50 miles in Holy Week of 2018. funding for new projects will be approved dvocacy is a cross-cutting issue across all TLM build up and support their groups, increase Sally has supported The Leprosy Mission since and that thousands of people affected by ABangladesh projects. TLM aims to influence group income and gain access to livelihood 1985 and, after retiring from her teaching career, leprosy will benefit. policies and practices of the Government and other opportunities as well as contacts that help has dedicated herself to speaking about the Fri: TLM England and Wales are so blessed decision-makers, and develop positive attitudes them advocate for their rights. among medical personnel, NGOs and communities charity’s work in churches and community groups. with the support of a diverse range of vice Sat/Sun: A significant number of people regarding the rights of people affected by leprosy. In 2017 she travelled to India to visit two Leprosy presidents who speak out on behalf of affected by leprosy live and work in tea It is striving to ensure that leprosy services are Mission hospitals which further fuelled her heart leprosy-affected people and give their time plantations. HEED Bangladesh, a partner provided in previously uncovered southern districts to help those with leprosy. Sally said, “I always to talk at events and gatherings. Give thanks of TLM, is engaging with these people and of Bangladesh. TLM Bangladesh also promotes self- think what would Jesus do and in the Bible we for these champions and pray for more with the plantation owners, advocating for advocacy through the self-help groups, enhancing read He took every opportunity to help someone. people who can engage with the media leprosy to be included in the plantations’ their capacity and negotiating ability. There’s a person attached to every story.” and at events to galvanise existing and new health programmes. Duncan Brothers, a Sally and her husband Charles are now supporters into action. renowned tea estate company, have already planning a tandem cycle ride to raise money Sat/Sun: Give thanks for the stamps and S enior CBR and Advocacy Staff included leprosy in their regular health service for The Leprosy Mission’s work at Premananda collectible volunteers who spend hours Mr Surendra Nath Singh – Program Leader, Community Program activities. Pray that other companies will do Hospital. She says, “I can’t ride a bicycle because sorting through the various collectibles and Mr Noel Manna Dey – Finance Manager, Community Program likewise. I’m useless at steering, but I can go on the back sorting and trimming stamps donated over Mr Dalwor Hossain (Delu) – Manager, CBR Partners of a tandem – no problem. It’s a fantastic way of the year, in the office and in their own homes. Mr Ambor Chisim – Manager, NuPIP and Hagar Centre meeting people and telling them about these Mr Richard Mondal – Manager, Chittagong People-led Development terribly isolated and marginalised people in Asia Project Mrs Kalpona Kispotta – Manager, TLM Nilphamari Training Centre T op: Ratna was able to open a shop selling sari and other ladies’ and Africa who desperately need our help.” Mrs Lovely Probhati Mrong – Manager, Dhaka CBR Project garments with a loan from her self-help group. The shop was a success Mrs Masuma Parvin – Manager, Advocacy and Empowerment Project and Ratna and her husband can now support their children to fulfil T op: Sally Esdale on her 50 mile walk. their dreams. 72 73 Spain and Tanzania 2–8 DEC india – vocational education 9–15 DEC

Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice. PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS Philippians 4:4 (JUB) Spain Mon: Relevant, useable skills are essential Mon: Pray for the preparation of TLM Spain’s for gainful employment. Pray for excellent annual magazine and other resources, that collaborations with industries in the Thanks to community selection of trades and curriculum, practical health education from the team will be able to source photos and CHEP, Veronica recognised testimonies that inspire their donors with the training for students, and capacity building the symptoms of leprosy life-changing impact of the work they support. of instructors. and sought a diagnosis. Tue: Pray for good collaboration with local Because of the increased Tue: Since updating its website, TLM Spain understanding of leprosy in has been blessed by an increase in online communities in mobilising trainees for her community, she has not donations. Pray for the upkeep of the website, he Leprosy Mission Trust India has six vocational community-based vocational training, as been stigmatised. that it would continue to engage supporters Ttraining centres (VTCs) spread across six states of well as the needed logistical support (such and this increase in giving would continue. India – Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, as space for training, accommodation for instructors, and access to loans/grants) to A bout TLM Spain Wed: Pray for God’s peace and provision for Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. conduct these skills trainings. LM Spain is operated by a small volunteer team the small team in Spain as they juggle their VTCs provide institution-based vocational Tthat receives support from individual donors work, church and family commitments. Pray training to young boys and girls affected by leprosy Wed: Besides providing quality technical and churches. It produces an annual magazine, that they will have sufficient income for their or with disabilities. The training prepares them for skills, the vocational education programme sharing stories and photos so that donors can feel needs and that they and their families will be in gainful employment. The job-oriented trades taught teaches life skills, disability prevention, and close to the projects they’re supporting despite the good health. in the VTCs include diesel mechanics, printing, management. Pray that through the life- distance. TLM Spain focuses its revenue on TLM’s computers, two/three-wheeler mechanics, and Tanzania skills programme, students from vulnerable work in Nigeria, particularly in projects with an electrics. backgrounds will grow in self-esteem emphasis on prevention of disability and provision Thu: The Diocese of Central Tanganyika Through its community-based vocational and self-confidence and gain a thorough of medical supplies. is planning to run eye and dental clinics training, TLM India provides vocational training to understanding of their rights and duties. and a health training centre at Hombolo married women and young girls and boys who are Thu: VTCs maintain regular contact About TLM’s work in Tanzania Hospital, with the help of doctors from two unable to benefit from the institutional training due with their graduates even after they are n Tanzania, TLM works with Hombolo Hospital, other centres. Part of the income from these to family commitments. employed, and support them to grow owned by the Diocese of Central Tanganyika, to initiatives would be channelled to fund CHEP I TLM India not only provides them job placement professionally. Pray for growth and capacity support its Community Health Education Project activities. Please pray to our Lord that these support after they complete the courses but also of the alumni associations and that they may (CHEP). This project works to identify and treat activities would go ahead as planned. advocates for fair labour and safe and suitable enable graduates to remain in touch with community members with symptoms of leprosy Fri: Last year CHEP activities were expanded working conditions for the students in their their colleagues and support each other. and other major diseases, educate people in into three other villages that had high employment. Fri: villages and local schools about these diseases and numbers of new leprosy cases from 2015 to People who have been trained through community-based vocational training how to avoid them, and promote social security 2017. The members of the CHEP team travel Stenior Voca ional Education Staff and independence, along with other activities, long distances to cover their monthly mobile programmes most often opt for self- Mrs Tina Mendis – Head of Sustainable Livelihoods and Community among self-help groups adjoining the hospital. clinic timetable, delivering community health employment. Pray that they receive support Empowerment from the Government and community in The overall objectives of the project are to combat education to combat leprosy. Please pray for Mr Vijay Patta – Vocational Training Programme Coordinator leprosy in the district; fight social stigma; and establishing their businesses. Pray also that them to have safe travel every month. Pray TLM Platinum VTC, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh support people affected by leprosy towards food successful entrepreneurs with disabilities will too for the trained volunteers implementing Mr Vijay Patta – Principal and Coordinator security, good shelter, safe and clean water and a many of the programme’s activities in their be positive role models and inspire potential better environment. Having had good success with TLM Chhattisgarh VTC, Champa, Chhattisgarh entrepreneurs to take up the challenge of respective villages. Mr Mahendra Rao – Principal their first two objectives, the project team is now self-employment. Sat/Sun: Samaria village near Hombolo focusing on the third. TLM VTC, Nashik, Maharashtra Sat/Sun: TLM India’s job placement Hospital is the home of 34 families that include Mrs Shyla Francis – Principal people affected by leprosy. Last year the local services promote inclusive employment TLM Regional VTC, Vadathorasalur, Tamil Nadu in fair labour conditions. Pray that they are government authorities started to support Mr Tinson Thomas – Principal S enior Staff able to raise awareness about the work these families by providing them annual health TLM Wellesley Bailey VTC, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh Spain insurance so that family members would be potential and right to employment of people Mr Jose Manual Carballo – Chairman Mr Keshaba Thanapati – Vice Principal given free medical services in all government affected by leprosy or living with disability Mr Miguel Torralba – Vice-President TLM Bill Edgar Memorial VTC, Bankura, West Bengal successfully among potential employers. Ms Vivian Calderón – Executive Secretary hospitals. Please give thanks for Dodoma City Mr Gabriel Pani – Principal Administration who led this decision and pray Pray also that employers are encouraged Tanzania to ensure their enterprises conform to fair Rev Mganulwa Masima – CHEP Director (temporary) to our Lord God that this exercise would be Lt Col Daudi Tandila – Business Advisor sustainable. T op: Students learning the diesel mechanics trade in TLM Champa labour standards. Vocational Training Centre, Chhattisgarh. 74 75 Research 16–22 DEC Integral Mission 23–31DEC

Following Jesus Christ, The Leprosy Mission seeks PRAYER POINTS PRAYER POINTS to bring about transformation; breaking the chains Mon: TLM maintains two modern research of leprosy, empowering people to attain healing, MNO : Pray that in all of TLM’s work around the laboratories – the Mycobacterial Research dignity and life in all its fullness. world our approach to all people, especially Laboratory in Nepal, headed by Dr Deanna those we work with, will be like Jesus – full Hagge; and the Stanley Browne Laboratory in of compassion and love, but also with a holy India, headed by Dr Utpal Sengupta. Pray for anger at injustice and oppression. the key staff, as they prioritise the issues they Christmas Eve: ‘The Word became flesh and will work on and write relevant proposals for made his dwelling among us. We have seen his grant funding. here are many unanswered questions in the field glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who Tof leprosy, from the mechanism of transmission, Tue: The Rural Health Programme at came from the Father, full of grace and truth.’ to why some people get severe nerve damage Nilphamari, Bangladesh, is seen as a third John 1:14 (NIV). Give thanks for the gift of despite good treatment, to the best ways to reduce centre for research within TLM, focusing on God’s Son to us and ask for His grace to be the stigma of leprosy. TLM is part of the Leprosy the changing epidemiology of leprosy in a overflowing in your life today. large population and the activities that can Research Initiative (LRI), a partnership through which Christmas Day: Happy Christmas! ‘For to best serve those who develop the disease. funds for research are pooled, giving researchers us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the the possibility of accessing greater and more secure Pray for the staffing situation in this remote ntegral mission is at the heart of our vision. In government will be on his shoulders. And he will funding for high priority projects. area, with some posts still vacant and other all we do we are committed to following Jesus’ be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Projects with a more limited scope can also lead senior staff nearing retirement. I example in pursuing a holistic approach to our Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.’ Isaiah 9:6 to important improvements in the care of patients. Wed: By collaborating with various partners work; we seek to enable transformation to take (NIV). Celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus There have been a number of recent workshops to working with some of the other so-called place through caring and wellbeing for body, mind Christ today and declare this verse over our help country-level staff engage in small research ‘neglected tropical diseases’ it is possible and spirit. communities and countries. projects, enabling them to understand their own to access a wider range of research funding The Five Marks of Mission by the Anglican Thu: Pray for new church partners so that programmes better and search for improvements in opportunities. Pray for staff within TLM who Communion is a useful framework to help us churches are places of healing, wholeness and service provision. are working on such partnerships, that they understand how integral mission is outworked in all fullness of life for those excluded or on the TLM’s current and in-development research would be successful in accessing funds and that we seek to do as a mission. All five are centred margins of society. covers a wide range of areas. Through projects that such collaborations would improve the around the centrality of the gospel truth that Jesus using self-care groups to deliver leprosy treatment, quality of services available. Fri: ‘And what does the Lord require of you? To is Lord: To proclaim the good news of the Kingdom; through investigating how faith communities and act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly Thu: One such collaboration being developed To teach, baptise and nurture new believers; To traditional healers can assist in identifying and with your God’. Micah 6:8 (NIV). Pray for the is between TLM and the Damien Foundation respond to human need by loving service; To seek referring leprosy cases, we can help people receive Micah network as they put this verse into in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with to transform unjust structures of society; To strive to timely, regular treatment and halt transmission of action; motivating and equipping a global American Leprosy Missions as another partner. safeguard the integrity of creation and to sustain the leprosy. Newly developed smartphone applications community of Christians to embrace and Pray for a good understanding between life of the earth. These marks are all-encompassing enable easy access to leprosy and disability practice integral mission. partners in this large country with a very weak and grounded in the Bible. When we do these things knowledge and services, as well as allowing infrastructure. we are following in the steps of Jesus. What a joy to Sat/Sun: As a Global Fellowship we seek more efficient data collection. Furthermore, by be joining with God where He is already at work! to integrate the marks of mission into our investigating the causes of stigma and the barriers to Fri: TLM’s partner ENAPAL, the Ethiopian The Leprosy Mission is a member of the Micah everyday life; pray for God’s spirit to lead us accessing rights such as disability pensions, we can National Association of People Affected by Network and their definition is helpful to further as we build the church, care for creation and find better ways to reduce discrimination. Leprosy, is large and active and is playing an important role in some new research projects. unpack what Integral Mission means: ‘Integral mission serve society. is the proclamation and demonstration of the gospel. Mon: Pray that we would have a strong sense TLM Research working group Pray that their contribution to planning and implementation of projects will be welcomed It is not simply that evangelism and social involvement of the value of our time spent worshipping Prof Warwick Britton (Chair) – University of Sydney, Australia and encouraged. are to be done alongside each other. Rather, in integral and praying to God together – that we would Dr Paul Saunderson – American Leprosy Missions mission our proclamation has social consequences Sat/Sun: Dr Deanna Hagge is TLM’s senior not see it as a break from our work, but the Prof Diana Lockwood – London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine as we call people to love and repentance in all areas research advisor. As well as heading up the essential core on which all the rest relies. Prof Jan Hendrik Richardus – Erasmus University, The Netherlands of life. And our social involvement has evangelistic Prof Pushpendra Singh – University of Boroda, India laboratory in Nepal, she also spends time New Year’s Eve: ‘Arise, shine, for your light consequences as we bear witness to the transforming Dr Pim Kuipers – Griffiths University, Queensland, Australia each year at the National Hansen’s Disease has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon grace of Jesus Christ’ (www.micahnetwork.org/ Dr Deanna Hagge – Head of the Mycobacterial Research Laboratory, Programmes in Louisiana, and supports other you.’ Isaiah 60:1 (NIV). Pray as we prepare for a integral-mission). Anandaban Hospital, Kathmandu TLM countries in their research. Pray that these new year that we, as a Global Fellowship, will Dr Joydeepa Darling – Head of Research, TLM Trust India roles will enable her to develop and encourage continue to follow Jesus in all that He asks us to a wide variety of partnerships in research. T op: Presenters from TLM and partners at the 7th Micah Global do; and to shine brightly for Him. T op: At work in TLM Trust India’s Stanley Browne Laboratory. Consultation in 2018. 76 77 HLA MIN’S STORY

While Hla Min was 18, he fell ill and was In 2010, TLM Myanmar started a new self- Following a flood in 2015, Hla Min’s self- bedridden. His whole body was in such help group in Hla Min’s village. Hla Min was help group, together with a group from pain that it was assumed that he might be inspired by the activities of the 15 members another village, reached out to the flooded suffering from arthritis. By the age of 19, the and decided to join the group. He started villages and participated in the emergency pain became so intense that Hla Min went to attending regular meetings, saving money, response. They contributed some of their his village health nurse for medication. She helping handle the group’s finances, and savings, helped TLM Myanmar’s flood relief did some initial tests, then asked him to visit spending time together with the other activities, shared awareness on disability a clinic in another village, where he stayed members. He gradually became more to the neighbouring villages, encouraged with his mother and aunty until further test responsible within the group and more other people with disabilities to refer to results could be taken to the town’s national involved in his community. disability resource centres for therapy, and leprosy control programme department even helped with basic therapy and self-care where it was confirmed – Hla Min had training. leprosy, not arthritis. He felt so desperate Hla Min’s community participation improved following this diagnosis that, on their way further and he became a member of a village back to the village, he attempted to run in charity group formed in 2017 that helps with front of an oncoming vehicle, but was pulled religious and social events and takes care of to safety by his mother and aunty. the elderly people in the village. The next day the nurse visited his house to Before, Hla Min was very afraid, a timid deliver Hla Min’s first month of multi-drug person, often trembling if he had to speak therapy treatment. She explained to him that with others. It was a big struggle for him to if he took the medicine regularly, the pain go out in his own community, not to mention would go away and he would be cured from travelling to another town. But he has the disease. He was encouraged and took the gradually gained confidence, and last year, he dosage regularly for one year. was selected to attend a community-based Although he had completed his treatment rehabilitation conference in Bangladesh, and been cured, Hla Min had reduced and was able to represent his country. This contact with his former friends in the village journey has being challenging for him, but and stayed away from community events for Hla Min was able to overcome the obstacles. fear of discrimination. He thought that, not having much awareness about the disease, people would be afraid of him, thinking that he was still infectious. He seldom went out, staying indoors most of the time. 78 79 COUNTRY CONTACT DETAILS

International Office Denmark Hungary Netherlands Republic of Korea S witzerland 80 Windmill Road Spedalskhedsmissionen Lepramisszió Stichting Leprazending Nederland 31 Duryugongwon-ro 28gil French speaking: Brentford Peter Bangs Vej 5B 1151 Budapest, Alag u. 3. Postbus 902 Dalseo-gu Mission Évangélique contre la lèpre Middlesex TW8 0QH 2000 Frederiksberg Tel: +36 30 638 4729 7301 BD Apeldoorn Daegu Route de Denges 38 UK Tel: +45 3529 4254 Email: [email protected] Tel: +31 (0) 55 7 600 500 Rep. of Korea (42670) 1027 Lonay Tel: + 44 (0)20 8326 6767 Email: [email protected] www.lepramisszio.hu Email: [email protected] Tel: +82 (53) 623 1001 Tel: +41 (0)21 801 50 81 Email: [email protected] www.spedalsk.dk www.leprazending.nl Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.leprosymission.org India www.missionlepre.ch DR Congo The Leprosy Mission Trust India New Zealand S cotland German speaking: The Leprosy Mission Congo CNI Bhavan PO Box 96262 Suite 2, Earlsgate Lodge Evangelische Lepra-Mission 283, Avenue Kato, 16 Pandit Pant Marg Balmoral Livilands Lane Bernstrasse 15A Commune de Lingwala, New Delhi 110 001 Auckland 1342 Stirling FK8 2BG T LM Trading Ltd Postfach 175 Kinshasa Tel: +91 (0) 11 43533300 Tel: +64 9 630 2818 Tel: +44 (0) 1786 449 266 Goldhay Way 3360 Herzogenbuchsee Orton Goldhay B.P. 14.347 Kinshasa 1 Email: [email protected] Email: enquiries@leprosymission. Email: [email protected] Tel: +41 (0)62 961 83 84 Peterborough PE2 5GZ Tel: +243 (0) 99 34 44 584 www.tlmindia.org org.nz www.leprosymission.scot Email: [email protected] UK Email: [email protected] www.leprosymission.org.nz www.lepramission.ch Tel: +44 (0) 1733 239252 Indonesia Singapore Email: [email protected] England, Wales, Channel [email protected] Niger Republic TSLM Ltd. www.tlmtrading.com TLM-Niger Office Tampines Central Post Office, T imor Leste Islands and Isle of Man PO Box 84 Kouara - Kano PO Box 181, The Leprosy Mission England and Italy Dili Rue KK - 138 915207 A ustralia Wales Str. S. Pietrino 1/b Tel: +670 331 0456 PO Box 293 BP844, Niamey Tel: +65 96543752 Goldhay Way 06129 Perugia (I) Email: [email protected] Box Hill, Victoria 3128 Orton Goldhay Tel: +39 07550 58352 Tel: +227 2035 1128 Email: [email protected] Tel: +61 3 9890 0577 Peterborough PE2 5GZ Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0) 1733 370505 www.missionelebbra.org Southern Africa www.leprosymission.org.au Email: [email protected] Nigeria PO Box 46002 www.leprosymission.org.uk Mozambique C12/14 Fort Royal Homes Estate - Orange Grove 2119 Bangladesh CP 138 Lugbe, South Africa The Leprosy Mission International – Ethiopia Pemba P.M.B. 494, Tel: + 27 (11) 440 6323 Bangladesh PO Box 30480 Cabo Delgado Province Area 10, Garki, Email: [email protected] House # 483, Road # 32 Addis Ababa Tel: +258 82 300 2734 F.C.T. Abuja. www.leprosymission.co.za Mohakhali New DOHS Ethiopia Email: [email protected] Tel: +234 (81) 1791 8420 Dhaka – 1206 Tel: +251 113 698 235 Email: [email protected] Spain Tel: +88 (2) 9882058, 9881620, Email: [email protected] Myanmar www.leprosymission-nig.org Misión Evang. Contra La Lepra 9846395 2/K, Pyithu Lane Apartado De Correos, 51332 Email: [email protected] Finland 7th Mile, Pyay Road, Northern Ireland E-CP 28080 Madrid www.tlmbangladesh.org Uotinmäentie 9 B 12 Mayangone Township Lagan House Tel: +34 910 075 213 00970 Helsinki Yangon 2a Queens Road Email: [email protected] Belgium Tel: +358 04497 08615 Tel: +95 1 666851 Lisburn BT27 4TZ Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Sudan www.tlmbelgium.org Tel: +44 (0) 28 9262 9500 PO Box 15079 Email: [email protected] Amarat France Nepal www.tlm-ni.org Chad 3 Square de Megève TLM Nepal Country Office Khartoum Mission Evangélique Contre la Lèpre 95380 Louvres PO Box 151 Tel: +249 912547080 (MECL) Tel: +33 (0) 7 83 85 74 95 Kathmandu Papua New Guinea Email: [email protected] Unit 4, Level 10, BP 10, Mongo, Guéra, Email: [email protected] Tel: +977 98511 59710 Pacific View Apartments, 2 Mile, République du Tchad www.missionlepre.org Email: [email protected] S weden PO Box 3041, Boroko 111, Tel: 00235 66480913 / 98187190 www.tlmnepal.org Lepramissionen – Sverige National Capital District E-mail: [email protected] Mastgatan 2D Germany Tel: +675 7377 9974 Lepra-Mission e.V. SE 692 71 Kumla Email: [email protected] In der Halde 1 Tel: +46 (19) 583790 75365 Calw Email: [email protected] Tel: +49 (0) 1575 2590217 www.lepramissionen.org Email: [email protected] www.lepramission.de

80 81 where we work

The Leprosy Mission believes that strength comes from unity, working together SWEDEN towards a common goal. FINLAND We work hand-in-hand with SCOTLAND governments and with local DENMARK communities, with partner N. IRELAND NGOs, local churches, WHO, NETHERLANDS Christian partners and ENGLAND GERMANY many others to bring about WALES the defeat of leprosy and BELGIUM HUNGARY FRANCE transformation in the lives of SWITZERLAND people affected. Together we provide treatment and care for SPAIN girls, boys, men and women ITALY living with the effects of SOUTH leprosy in 18 countries across KOREA Asia, Africa and the Pacific. This NEPAL would not be possible without the support of hundreds of NIGER CHAD SUDAN thousands of people around BANGLADESH the world that have responded INDIA to this call. MYANMAR ETHIOPIA THAILAND

SRI LANKA SINGAPORE PAPUA NEW NIGERIA DR CONGO GUINEA

INDONESIA

TANZANIA TIMOR LESTE

MOZAMBIQUE

AUSTRALIA SOUTH AFRICA NEW ZEALAND

82 83 JOSIANE’S STORY

Josiane lives with her mother Josephine in a little grass hut with a beautiful view of the hills “The Leprosy near Bukavu, Eastern Congo. She welcomes us with a smile and our visit creates quite a stir Mission has meant among the neighbours. They don’t get visitors here very often. a lot to us. God “I was born in 1970 on this hill,” Josiane tells us. “There was never any talk about my going must have sent to school when I was a little girl but I was expected to help with the housework. When you to me. I am so I was 17 I started to get spots on my skin and I wondered what that could be.” The spots Josiane was married and had 11 children, but were numb, and Josiane soon discovered that grateful.” sadly, most of them died at childbirth. Her her hands and feet were affected. She also husband drove her away when the signs of got grave ulcers. She went to two different leprosy became apparent. She then went back hospitals but didn’t receive any help. to her mother, who also had leprosy, and today “Six years ago I finally got help and received they share the hut. Josiane’s one surviving surgical treatment for my ulcers,” she child, a son, lives in Bukavu and sometimes continues. “However, my hands are not okay, comes home to visit. He is her pride and joy. several fingers are damaged, and my toes Josiane has a deep dream and longing for her have disappeared.” own house with room enough for her son. At first, Josiane experienced stigma from She also has other dreams for the future: her community. “When the signs of leprosy “I would like to set up a simple little shop. became visible, my neighbours disappeared. Imagine being able to sell rice, soap, palm oil, Nobody said hello to me and they avoided salt and a few other necessities.” meeting me.” Thanks to the visits and Every Sunday Josiane and her mother go to the awareness raising campaigns of TLM Congo church that they belong to, even though it is a however, Josiane and her mother are now long walk. They have always been welcomed accepted in the village and no longer shunned into the church and they really appreciate the by their neighbours. “They even bring their fellowship there. children for me to look after, when they are out in the fields working. This child belongs to Thank you for a neighbour,” Josiane says, pointing to a little child asleep on the floor. “Now my neighbours have learned that I am not dangerous or your prayers contagious, so they ask me for help with babysitting.” 84 85 Our Vision: Leprosy Defeated, Lives Transformed

T he Leprosy Mission Prayer

Almighty Father, the giver of life and health, look mercifully on those who suffer from leprosy. Stretch out your hand to touch and heal them as Jesus did during his earthly life. Grant wisdom and insight to those who are seeking the prevention and cure of the disease. Give skill and sympathy to those who minister to the patients. Reunite the separated with their family and friends. And inspire your people with the task set before The Leprosy Mission, that it may never lack the staff or the means to carry on its healing work, in accordance with your will, and to the glory of your holy name. We ask this for the sake of Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord. Amen

@LeprosyMissInt

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