MANJUI WOMEN BREAK FREE
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| Charlene with the Manjui ladies reading in public for the first time. |
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November 17, 2008
by David Bell
A hush fell over the crowd as nine women stepped forward. It would be the first time in history that they would hear a Manjui woman read.
Missionary Charlene Hunt had a long-time burden that the Manjui women in Paraguay learn to read and write their own language.
In March the missionary team presented the people with bound copies of 15 books of the Bible that had been translated into Manjui. Charlene used this time "as a platform to communicate the importance of women reading, and to recognize those women who would be willing to break free from the chains of shame that bind them and read a verse from the Bible to the whole community."
For months, with much coaxing and encouragement, women have been practicing their verses. Of the many who started, nine women persevered to the end. Many gave up in fear.
As the nine women stood before the group that day, one woman whispered to another, "Do not be afraid. God's Spirit is strong and knows how to help you."
When the last woman finished reading her verse, the crowd erupted in applause.
"I believe that their huge step of faith will have a ripple effect into the lives of the other women, beyond what we can imagine," wrote Charlene.
The women are taking even greater steps now. Several of them are writing stories to be used in primers.
Please pray that through the reading of the Scriptures the women will maintain a strong faith in Christ.
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