Bonnie and Wayne were honored when Jonathan Bernis, Executive Director of Jewish Voice Ministries International and Chairman of the MJBI board, asked them to join a medical team of 85 from the USA ministering to poor Ethiopian Jews in the slums of Addis Ababa and Gondar. Jonathan felt now was the time to explore the idea of an MJBI in Ethiopia. Although definite origins are unclear, strong Hebraic influence is evident within Ethiopian culture. From primitive villages to cities, it is not uncommon to find Stars of David engraved on buildings like Orthodox churches or attached to grass huts. The national language, Amharic, is a Semitic language, with many Hebrew root words. Some have kept Jewish traditions for centuries; others have embraced the Orthodox Church and mixed traditions. Some are true Messianic believers, and others still are strong Zionists who believe in nothing but the state of Israel. A rabbinical decision from Israel declared that the Ethiopian Jews indeed were Jewish. Therefore, in 1984, the government airlifted 25,000 Ethiopian Jews to Israel, but they left many sick, orphaned, and elderly behind. Those who remain live in deplorable conditions. Truly, they are the poorest of the poor and desperate to hear a word of hope. During this recent medical outreach, it came time for a meeting with the key Jewish leaders of the community. We shared the vision of the MJBI and invited their input.  Amazingly, there was broad support, even among some of the leaders of the Zionist groups who do not yet embrace Yeshua.  These at least appreciate the restoration of the Jewishness of their community, while still pondering faith in the Messiah. We believe God also identified a strong and respected young Jewish man to lead the MJBI, as well as start the first Messianic congregation of Kechene. God's Word says:             Ethiopia will soon stretch out her hands to God (Psalm 68:11). The African Jews of Ethiopia have been rejected and almost forgotten...But not by God. There are thousands of His ancient people scattered around the globe who need a helping hand and tools to grow in their knowledge of salvation and leadership. Their untold stories are profound and must be voiced. Pray that MJBI leadership will carefully follow His path in Ethiopia as we move forward with His plan to help train a generation of Messianic Jewish leaders in this wonderful land.