Since 2016 we have served full-time as intercultural team members in Malawi. We teach a number of subjects at the Baptist College of Lilongwe, a partner of Baptist Mission Australia, and also serve in the College library.

Training pastors and offering leadership development is so important because only 5% of pastors and church leaders worldwide have formal theological training. In Malawi, the church is growing rapidly and there is a great need for theological training.

Here are the stories of two College students and how they’re using their training to share God’s love through word and deed.

Ben’s Story:

On our first trip to Malawi in 2016 we met a student named Ben. The Baptist College of Lilongwe identified him as a gifted student, especially in languages, and while completing his degree he started teaching Hebrew as well.

Through financial support from Baptist Mission Australia, Ben not only passed his degree but also completed his master’s degree. During this time, he taught at the College and has now also received his Doctor of Ministries through a distance education program.

Ben is the Dean of Theology at the College, a pastor, husband and father. And with continued assistance from Baptist Mission Australia, Ben is about to start his PhD through a university in South Africa. This will support him in his leadership role at the College.

Like Ben, many of the students not only become pastors but also return to teach at the College or Bible Schools around the country. Malawi needs well trained teachers, especially local people who know the language and culture.

Thank you to Australian Baptists who have given to support the scholarships of Ben and other students at the College! You can give to support the training of more emerging leaders through our Global South Leadership Fund >>

Gostino’s story:

Gostino was one of the first students we met in 2016. He is now the senior pastor of a church in a village on the edge of Lilongwe.

In Gostino’s village there are many widows and people living with disabilities. Gostino was moved by their stories and although experiencing poverty themselves, Gostino’s church decided to help those struggling in any way they could.

Each week Gostino’s church invites those living in poverty to join their gathering and post-service meal. Everyone is welcome and in this way, Gostino’s faith community is showing God’s love through practical and sacrificial care.

We are inspired by the way graduates of the Baptist College are making a difference across Malawi. Please pray for the teachers and students at the College. May God raise up many new faith leaders, equipping them for service in the areas where they are most needed.