Around fifty people chose to follow Jesus at a public debate in Rutana in the Spring. Then in July, 15 of them stepped into the water and were baptised – what an amazing day!

APRID does something few would attempt. It brings Muslims and Christians together in public, in front of mixed crowds, to talk openly about faith. These dialogues sit at the heart of its work, and in Rutana back in March, one of these gatherings truly changed lives with approximately fifty people accepting Jesus as their Saviour.

Leaving Islam, can be extremely costly. The faith runs through family, community and identity. Choosing Christ can mean losing the support of the people closest to you, and in Burundi new believers from a Muslim background can face severe persecution, requiring support.

That’s why APRID’s work makes such a difference. They don’t leave new believers to work it out alone. Together with the local Moriah Temple Burundi church, the team walked with them through the months that followed, helping them grow in their newfound faith in Jesus.

Baptism is a public declaration. Each person who went into the water was telling their community, and their own families, that they now belong to Jesus. They knew what it might cost them, and they chose it anyway. That takes real courage, and it also speaks clearly of a sense of freedom they’ve found.

The journey we have described does not end in water. APRID and Moriah Temple Burundi will keep nurturing these new believers as they grow and guide them in the vital walk as disciples.

Will you pray?

Please pray for the 15 who were baptised, for strength and courage as they live out their faith among their families and communities. And for the many others from that day in Rutana who are still taking their first steps with Jesus.