Blessings in the midst of disaster
Naomi* makes masks for her community
Naomi* is a Christian from a Muslim background in Indonesia, where converting from Islam often means believers are ostracized by their communities and families. Naomi and her husband lead a church, and get money from the congregation’s offerings – but the current crisis makes it difficult for most church members to feed themselves, let alone give offerings.
Naomi attended the Open Doors’ Women Training Centre to learn tailoring, knitting and making women’s accessories in 2018, and later she was provided with sewing machines for her own business and to teach others. But her income is not so good these days. “I have sewn clothes, made earrings, bags and other women’s accessories to sell, but people no longer buy them as they have to cut budget on such things. We can’t count on it anymore,” says Naomi.
After the coronavirus outbreak, Naomi realized she could use her skills to produce homemade masks. “I originally made the masks for my family, but also neighbours and church members, free of charge.” But one day, a shop owner requested her to produce it in large quantities. She now supplies them to the shop regularly.
“The income from the masks selling helps us a lot. The current economic situation makes things every difficult. I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to learn the skills in Women Training Centre because it became a blessing to our community now. Thank you, Open Doors!”
Naomi has a message of hope to share with all of us: “Please don’t lose hope despite the current situation. Although you must stay at home, when you are given a talent and skill, do make something out of it to be a blessing to your surroundings. This mask is my contribution to my family and community.”
Please pray
Pray for believers in Indonesia who are coping with the drastic effects of COVID-19. May they continue to be a source of hope to their community despite the difficulties they face.
Pray for the Open Doors partners who work hard to bring aid to those who are in need the most. Pray for protection for them from the virus as well as from Islamic extremists who oppose them.
