Anthony and Trudi Elyard

Anthony and Trudi have always sought ways to support other believers and walk beside them, asking, “How can we be good stewards with all that God has given us; our skills, interests and relationships?” So, now that their children have grown, they asked “What next?”

They have built relationships with the leaders of the Ethiopian Kale Heywet Church (EKHC) through various short-term visits over the past 15 years and have were asked by EKHC to join them long term.

Due to conflict in the area that they originally planned to serve, the Elyards relocated to southern Ethiopia where Anthony was asked to teach at the Dila Bible College, the first established theological college in the region of 22 million people, the Southern Nations. Trudi aims to support the leaders to learn English and think through how to contextually engage in often poor, rural communities in an area of much cultural diversity.

Northern Ethiopia Context

• Ethiopia’s latest population estimate (2023) is around 116 million, making it the 12th largest country in the worldFaith Backgrounds 2016 estimate: Christian Orthodox 43.8%; Muslim 31.3%; Protestant 22.8%; Other 2.1%. However, However, Southern Ethiopia is very different from the north.

Challenges

• Even though the south has more Christians overall, there are still:

• Large rural communities with limited access to trained pastors

• Rapidly growing churches that lack discipleship and leadership development

• Ethnic groups with minimal access to theological training or Scripture resources

• Areas where traditional beliefs and spiritual fears remain strong

Opportunities

• Jesus brings peace, and believers have opportunities to model reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity in regions affected by ethnic division or instability.

• Learning language and culture allows deeper engagement with local communities and more meaningful relationships.

• Building on long‑term relationships with churches and leaders in the south creates opportunities to strengthen, equip, and encourage pastors who are serving in challenging rural contexts.

• Supporting theological training and discipleship helps local churches grow in maturity and resilience.

Anthony and Trudy travelled to Addis Ababa in September 2024. Due to ongoing civil unrest and fighting in the northern region where their bible college is situated, they have needed to remain in Addis Ababa continuing with cultural and language learning. It is unclear whether they will be able to start at the bible college in Bahir Dar. Along with CMS they are currently evaluating other bible teaching options within other regions of Ethiopia.

Direct Transfer

• BSB: 032 188

• Account Number: 250007

• Description: 95052 + Donor Last Name

BPay

• Biller Code: 172247

• Reference Code: 95052

*Please note that paying by Bpay is anonymous. So, if you require a receipt, please use either the credit card or Direct Transfer options.

Credit or Debit Card

Payment portal (this link will take you to the Westpac payment portal)