WELS news

Living Water in Nigeria

The Lutheran church has had a presence in Nigeria for 75 years—since the first missionaries journeyed to the nation to help quench spiritual thirst with the gospel message. Now, funding from Christian Aid and Relief is helping give life-giving water in another way—by digging wells to provide clean water.

Water-borne parasites in unsafe water sources are a problem in both rural areas and cities. Clean water can be the difference between life and death. Through Christian Aid and Relief funding along with supporting congregations, the wells (boreholes) are dug next to the churches and are open to anyone. Besides providing fresh water, the wells get people onto the church’s property for countless outreach opportunities, in addition to building goodwill in the communities. Many people come from miles around, especially in the bush areas, where dug wells are harder to come by.

Getting the water is no small undertaking. Project organizers work with local Nigerian companies to conduct geophysical surveys for water and to do the actual digging and installation of pumps and pump houses. Once the wells are installed, the congregation is responsible for maintaining its operation.

The goal is to have wells dug next to every church in our fellowship in Nigeria. To date, about 20 wells have been dug. Additionally, Christian Aid and Relief is involved with well digging all over the world, such as Zambia, Malawi and India.

Nigeria is home to two sister synods to WELS— Christ the King Lutheran Church of Nigeria and All Saints Lutheran Church of Nigeria—comprising more than 10,000 members, served by 23 pastors. Though Nigeria is no longer a regular mission field, a WELS liaison and volunteer pastors make semi-annual visits to advise, encourage, and assist our Lutheran brothers and sisters.

Christian Aid and Relief grants funds for numerous humanitarian aid projects ranging from medical care to wells to literacy programs, in addition to helping with disaster relief efforts.

Support Christian Aid and Relief

Christian Aid and Relief provides support to areas hit with natural disasters, such as tornados and hurricanes. To support relief efforts, send a check to WELS Christian Aid and Relief, 2929 N Mayfair Rd., Milwaukee WI, 53222-4398.

Give a gift online

Volunteer with Christian Aid and Relief

Christian Aid and Relief is always looking for volunteers to help with disaster relief efforts. If you'd like to volunteer, complete the registration form. Note: Your willingness to serve at least two weeks is preferred.

Complete the volunteer form

EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES

Are you looking for national or international service opportunities? Many are available through WELS Kingdom Workers, an organization that coordinates volunteer efforts in WELS mission fields and provides financial support for unfunded mission programs.

View opportunities