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About Bolivienhilfe

Who we are

Bolivienhilfe is supported by Mennonite church congregations from Germany (originally from Russia) with the support of several Mennonite congregations from Bolivia.

What we believe

  • That the writings of the Old and New Testaments are inspired by God and are therefore without error. They are the highest and final authority in matters of faith and life.
  • On the basis of the revelation in Holy Scripture, we believe in God, who through His almighty word created the earth, all living creatures and, as the crowning glory of creation, humankind.
  • That God exists eternally in three Persons – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
  • On the basis of Holy Scripture, we believe that all people are guilty before God because of their sinful nature.
  • That Jesus Christ, the Son of God, became human and died on the cross at Golgotha to bridge the chasm of sin between God and humankind.
  • That all people who recognise their guilt before God, confess it and, by faith, accept Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour and Lord, are born again through the Holy Spirit and belong to the Body of Christ.
  • That Jesus Christ rose from the dead and will one day return to take his church to be with him.

What we aim to do

  • To help people who are living in a state of guilt and hopelessness – and who recognise this – to choose Jesus Christ, and thereby find the path to true, meaningful and eternal life.
  • To serve people. Jesus teaches us to serve others. That is our aim. Furthermore, Jesus says in Matthew 25:40, ‘Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ It brings joy to be able to serve people in the name of Jesus.
  • Helping people. In the Gospel of John, chapter 5, we read of a sick man who had been lying by the pool Betesda (hence the name ‘House Betesda’) for 38 years, and no one was there for him. He said: ‘…I have no one to help me!’ No one paid him any attention; everyone turned away. He was alone, sick, and without help! And then Jesus comes and helps him! In this passage, Jesus shows us that things do not have to stay this way; everyone can be helped. The ministry at the House of Betesda is intended to contribute precisely to this.
  • Loving people. Our task as Christians is, and always will be, to be ambassadors of Christ with the call: ‘Be reconciled to God!’ To be ready to share our bread with our neighbour – that is, to help them until they can help themselves. To combine both: word and deed; the Gospel and practical help; the salvation of the soul and the bread of life.

Who do we work with?

Mainly amongst traditional emigrants of German descent and Mennonite origin. They live according to a Christian tradition, speak Low German and live in closed colonies. When one of them converts to Jesus Christ, they usually face persecution or are forced to leave their colony. We can do very little amongst them, which is why it is necessary to establish new churches made up of converted and born-again believers. They need role models – that is, churches in their vicinity where they can see what life in fellowship with Jesus Christ looks like.

Our programme

  • The principle behind our work is: from church to church.
  • Maintaining biblical fidelity, safeguarding against heresies and false spiritual movements.
  • Support in pastoral care matters.
  • Fostering spiritual fellowship amongst the colonies.
  • Guidance on youth and children’s work, where requested.
  • The Gospel of Jesus Christ is to be the centre of our preaching and way of life.
  • Support for improving healthcare, taking into account the local, impoverished population.
  • Support for the improvement of the education system.
  • Every activity should be carried out in connection with and out of respect for the Church of Jesus Christ and/or in collaboration with the local church.

Our vision

  • Vibrant churches! Our hope and prayer is that revival will come to every settlement and that vibrant churches will emerge. There are around 100 traditional settlements in Bolivia, home to more than 100,000 people. Here is the vision – 100 vibrant churches! Churches that bring light into the darkness, where seeking souls can find refuge and peace with God. To establish these churches, we need Spirit-filled workers.
  • We are also praying for a spiritual training centre, ‘Arche’, at Concordia. This is intended to train preachers and equip workers capable of carrying out children’s and youth ministry. Furthermore, it is intended to distribute spiritual literature and educational materials. The centre is to provide a venue for organising family and youth retreats, etc.

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