So many stories of transformation. Which ones to share?

As we receive the incredible year-end reports from our partners across Africa and Asia, our small US-based team begins the process of evaluating and discussing which stories and which pictures best convey what God is doing through faithful men and women as they use the SIU Bridges oral Scripture engagement strategy, and train others to train others with these tools. We gather multiple times as a team and seek the Lord on which of these narratives and pictures will best communicate the Bridges network story to our faithful prayer partners and financial supporters. These true stories and testimonies are so powerful and impactful, they often bring us to tears. To be honest, it is extremely hard for us to choose just 7-8 stories for our Annual Report. So, for this month’s blog, we are sharing a couple of the hundred that did not make the cut for our soon to be released 2024 Annual Report:

Breaking Cycles Through the Story of the Samaritan Woman

The Bedia people group of northern India have historically been engaged in entertainment professions, and, in some cases, generational prostitution. Due to economic hardship and cultural norms, many Bedia women have been forced into exploitative trades, with little hope of change.

A Bridges storytelling group, led by a local woman in the Bedia community, began sharing the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). The story’s themes of redemption, breaking cultural barriers, and offering “living water” struck a deep chord in the hearts of these women who had been marginalized and rejected by society.

One woman listened intently, struck deeply by the fact that Jesus did not condemn the Samaritan woman and instead invited her into a new life. For the first time, this woman realized that she had worth beyond her circumstances. She began attending more storytelling sessions, learning about God’s love and His plan for her.

Encouraged by the community of believers, she left her past life behind and now helps mentor younger girls in the Bedia community. She has learned many Bible stories by heart and shares them in evening gatherings, offering an alternative path to many at-risk young women. Through the Bridges training, these storytelling groups continue to spread the message of transformation and hope among the Bedia people.

Finding Identity Through the Story of Joseph

The Musahar people, often referred to as “rat eaters” due to their extreme poverty and social stigma, are one of the most marginalized Dalit groups, formerly known as untouchables, in North India. With little access to education and economic opportunities, they face severe discrimination and are often trapped in generational poverty.

Several Bridges-trained storytellers have been working among the Musahar people. One shared the story of Joseph’s hardships in Egypt. The narrative of a young man betrayed, enslaved, and falsely accused deeply resonated with the Musahars, who also experience rejection and oppression.

One young man, who had spent his childhood begging and working in brick kilns, found new hope in the story. As he listened, he identified with Joseph’s suffering but was amazed at how God elevated him to a position of honor. Inspired by the message of divine justice and redemption, this young man gave his life to Christ.

Over time he became a storyteller himself. He now shares Bible stories in his village, encouraging others to trust God despite their struggles. A small group has formed where Musahar believers gather weekly to hear and discuss new Bible stories, strengthening their faith and identity in Christ.

2024 Annual Report – May Release

We are excited to share these stories of transformation and the impact of God’s Word in people’s lives in oral cultures around the world. This is just a taste of what is to come in the SIU 2024 Annual Report, which will be released in May.

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