When a heart remains with the Maithili people
Pastor Tomi's heart was touched by the Maithili. Ministry had begun with great momentum, only to be stopped, but never forgotten. Now, decades later, God has opened the door once again. The living stories of the Bible are finally being revealed to the Maithili people in their language, through Superbook.
Missionary Tomi first traveled to the Maithili region in 1998. It was “the call of his heart” to reach a people group who had yet to be reached by the Gospel.
Before long, radio programs in Maithili were reaching a large audience on a local radio station, when suddenly, their sponsor for the radio ministry withdrew their support. The door of opportunity closed.
That's when the connection to GCMM was established. Together with GCMM, the radio ministry continued in conjunction with the launch of the Superbook translation and dubbing project. All 52 episodes were translated, a massive undertaking. However, even though the project had been completed, the doors of opportunity to air the Bible series did not open. “Looking back, the ground was not yet ripe. We wouldn't have reached the people we hoped to reach," says Tomi. "It wasn't the right time yet."
Now, more than 20 years later, the situation has changed. Today, accessibility to media is different. While traditional evangelism was very difficult, the Maithili-speaking population can now be reached online, with new social media opportunities on Facebook and YouTube platforms.
The Maithili region, known as the “Missionary Graveyard” for its spiritual darkness and inaccessibility, can now be reached through the media. “The Superbook Bible series can now bring the light of the Gospel to the Maithili people. God has opened the door. I would not have peace of mind if I did not press hard now,” says Tomi, rejoicingly.
Superbook is an animated Bible series for children. Adventures begin with characters Chris Quantum, a typical middle school student, along with one of his best friends, Joy Pepper and a robot named Gizmo. They journey back in time to events described in the Bible.
Thank you very much for your prayers.
You can also financially support the spread of the gospel message among the Maithili people!
Are you inspired to pray for the Maithilis?
Prayer is the driving force behind the proclamation of the Gospel, and you are an important part of God's plan for the Maithili people.
You can pray, that:
– the light of the Gospel will penetrate the darkness and touch hearts for Christ.
– churches living amid persecution will be strengthened and grow in the knowledge of Jesus.
– Superbook, the children’s video Bible and other Christian media will direct children and families to Jesus.