Hope in Hard Places: The Gospel Moves Quietly Through Upper Egypt
Names, locations, and images have been changed to protect the identity of individuals in sensitive regions.
In the remote villages of Upper Egypt, where tradition runs deep and openness to the Gospel is often met with resistance, God is quietly and powerfully at work through small groups of women gathering around stories from Scripture.
Women Carrying Light into Dark Places
This past quarter, eight new women’s groups began meeting across communities in Upper Egypt. In a region marked by poverty, rigid gender roles, and a high degree of spiritual resistance, these groups are more than gatherings—they are lifelines. Facilitators, often local women themselves, guide discussions using stories from both Scripture and everyday life, sparking questions, conversations, and sometimes opposition.
In one community, a facilitator shared the story of Adam and Eve. The response was immediate—but not what was expected. The women shared the story with their husbands, who in turn accused the facilitator of attempting to convert their wives and promptly closed the group. Yet, even in this pushback, seeds were planted.
In another location, the topic of circumcision brought Qur’anic arguments and tension into the circle. When the story of Jesus was introduced in a separate group, the environment shifted into one of defensive comparison, as women recited verses from the Qur’an in response. These experiences underline both the spiritual hunger and the spiritual warfare at play.
“We need to pray for the Lord’s protection over the facilitators. The women often go home and share what they learned with their husbands. This can be risky in some places.”
Testimonies of Transformation
But among the resistance, there are also signs of spiritual breakthrough.
In one group, a woman named Khadijah asked a deep, personal question: “How can my heart be changed?” This led to a follow-up visit where the facilitator shared the full message of the Gospel, including the story of Christ’s sacrifice. As they spoke of forgiveness, eternal life, and the nearness of God, Khadijah listened intently and asked, “Does Christ’s death on the cross and his blood forgive all sin, and I don’t need to do anything else?” Her eyes filled with tears as she heard the answer: yes.
Another woman, burdened by her son’s strange medical condition and growing despair, shared her experience of fruitless visits to spiritual healers. Through prayer and gentle encouragement, she was led to consider both medical care and the healing power of Christ. She later remarked, “Your words make sense. Let’s pray for him.”
Hunger for More
Despite setbacks, the women’s groups are growing in number and depth. Many now request private sessions to explore personal struggles. In one instance, a woman made a humorous—but revealing—comment after the story of Adam and Eve: “My husband is married to two. Is that how God broke Adam’s rib into two?”
These interactions are opening doors to explain God’s design, His character, and His heart for women. Questions about polygamy, monotheism, and forgiveness surface naturally, giving facilitators many entry points to share biblical truth.
“We found more turnout than before. Women are asking for individual visits. They are hungry for more.”
Preparing for Future Harvest
Looking ahead, the team is prayerfully exploring ways to expand their reach. They hope to establish a permanent presence in another part of Upper Egypt through a new kindergarten, vocational training for both men and women, and discipleship classes. Their vision includes seeing entire families transformed—one story, one visit, one prayer at a time.
Eight groups were launched this quarter, reaching new households with the hope of Christ. Every act of love—whether a home visit, help during illness, or simply listening—becomes a testimony to God’s compassion and truth.