In an effort to spread the gospel and tend to the need of its community, the Northern Nigeria Conference women’s division provided free medical services and other support to those in need in the Yapilo Village, Chonge District in Gombe State.
This year’s outreach brought together hundreds of women from across the conference, as commanded in Matthew 28:19: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” Moving from village to village within the district, the women preached the message of Jesus Christ, sang praises and engaged in prayer sessions.
The outreach included free medical check-ups and treatments for various health conditions, including hepatitis, high blood pressure, tuberculosis, vision problems, typhoid and malaria. Those diagnosed with ailments received medications and counseling on proper health management. During the event, 114 individuals received free medical services, while 78 people received food and other supplies.
Rose Adamu, the conference women’s president, expressed her gratitude to the conference leadership for their support in making the event a success. Addressing the beneficiaries, she reassured them that the United Methodist Women’s Fellowship stands with them during this difficult time.
“It is our sacred mission to serve our communities, offer prayers, and extend love and support to those in need,” she said.
Fundraising efforts Changes lives
The women’s group raised funds for the outreach through budget remittances at charges across the conference and personal donations from members. The money enabled the women to purchase food, clothes, detergent, medical equipment and medicine.
“This food and medicine came when we had nowhere to turn. May God bless everyone who made this possible,” said Rabi Jabbo, a beneficiary.
Another beneficiary, Amina Jauro, shared, “I am a Muslim, but the church provided us with medical support. We are happy and ask that the UMC Nigeria continue to remember us in future programs.”
The outreach was organized by Adamu, alongside key conference leaders, including the Rev. Daniel O. Mathew, evangelism director; Altine Kilyobas, women’s secretary; Innatu Eliphaz, treasurer; the Rev. Atiku Bappah, Chonge District superintendent; and Danjuma Audu, director of connectional ministries.
story by Ibrahim Babangida, communicator for the Northern Conference in Nigeria.
This story represents how United Methodist global churches through their Central Conferences are living as Vital Congregations. A vital congregation is the body of Christ making and engaging disciples for the transformation of the world. Vital congregations are shaped by and witnessed through four focus areas: calling and shaping principled Christian leaders; creating and sustaining new places for new people; ministries with poor people and communities; and abundant health for all.
