Mozambique Initiative supporters,

Despite the difficulties COVID-19 presented, 2020 has been an exciting and eventful year for our shared work alongside our siblings in Mozambique.

This year 40 new wells brought water to over 60,000 people across Mozambique. Reliable access to safe, clean water means that drinking, cooking, washing, watering crops and animals, and washing hands in time of COVID-19 no longer pose a risk of illnesses, such as malaria, cholera and diarrhea. It means children and women, who typically must walk miles to collect water for their families, now have a source nearby, allowing them more time for school and church activities. Wells provide an opportunity to deliver the word of God and invite people to know Christ.

Related to clean water needs, your generosity on Giving Tuesday will provide 13 hand-washing stations to communities across Mozambique. The COVID-19 pandemic has made access to a clean place for hand-washing a necessity. Our partners in Mozambique shared their hope to supply hand-washing stations to all Methodists institutions across the country - hospitals, schools, church missions, orphanages, elderly centers and churches. Thanks to your generosity, we are 13 stations closer to that goal.

This fall we hosted our second Moto Rally for Mozambique. Ten riders, including Bishop Bob Farr, traveled across central and eastern Missouri to raise awareness about MI and the critical role motorcycles play for pastors in rural Mozambican communities. Without a motorcycle, many pastors do not have access to transportation and have to walk miles to each of their churches. Your gifts towards this project in 2019 and 2020 provided 13 motorcycles to pastors in rural communities!
 

 
In 2020, the United Methodist News Service featured some of MI’s partnering work in Mozambique. UMNS is shining a light on the important role women in African countries play in providing water for their families through its photo essay titled “Water is Life.” Ezequiel Nhantumbo, MI Representative in Mozambique, helped UMNS develop this story.

Additionally, the Smithsonian Institute’s traveling exhibit "Water/Ways" arrived at the Kellerman Foundation for Historic Preservation in Cape Girardeau in October. MI materials along with the story of La Croix UMC's extensive work in Mozambique will be on display until January 13, 2021.

Lastly, this December many of our usual patterns have been disrupted. For many, Advent and Christmas Eve giving is an opportunity to remember others in a busy time of the year. MI's website provides an easy way for you to continue supporting those in need. There are options to give towards the greatest need or to support an ongoing project in Mozambique. No matter how you give, know that it makes an impact.

We continue to give thanks for the ways you have supported the Mozambique Initiative in 2020 and look with hope towards what 2021 will bring.
 
Blessings,
 
Lucas Endicott, Missouri Representative
Ezequiel Nhantumbo, Mozambique Representative