Latest News from BMS World Mission

 

The world's newest republic was born this week. Through last month's elections, the people of Nepal placed their trust in the hands of the Maoist party and, on Wednesday, a newly-elected assembly voted to end the monarchist rule that has lasted in Nepal since the 1800s

 

You can also get the latest on how BMS is helping the relief effort in Burma, plus there's a lesson in giving from a mission worker in Angola

 

 

People in Nepal are celebrating the country becoming a republic

 

The country is on the brink of a new era as it abolishes monarchy rule that has lasted for two centuries and becomes a republic.

Following elections last month – won convincingly by the Maoist party – a newly-elected assembly was sworn in on Tuesday (27 May).

 

The Assembly, comprising 600 members, today (28 May), then voted overwhelmingly to abolish royal rule, with just four opposing the change.

It has two years to finalise permanent arrangements for a new constitution, though, in the short term, must organise interim structures, including a new role of president.

Thousands of people have gathered on the streets of the capital, Kathmandu, in support of ‘republic day’ and the BBC reported "wild celebrations" after news of the assembly vote. This has happened relatively peacefully, with heavy security, although two people were injured in a bomb explosion.

Through nearly 50 workers and supported partner workers, and relationships with numerous partner organisations, BMS World Mission aims to make a difference to the poorest of the poor.

Margaret Gibbs, BMS regional secretary for Asia, and a former mission worker in herself, hopes and prays the country’s new status will mean tangible change, especially for the third of the population living in poverty.

She says, “Nepal’s declaration of a republic brings a real opportunity to end political corruption, rebel insurgency and a monarchy whose rulers have rarely shown compassion for the people.

“For ordinary Nepalis and for the church however, the future looks as unpredictable as ever. The Maoists will need to persevere with integrity and determination to bring real transformation to ”

 

BMS mission worker Joan Woodyer gives food for thought about the principle of giving. Read about how receiving a chicken made Joan's day by clicking here

 

Click here to get the latest update, posted on 23 May, on how BMS continues to respond following the cyclone in western Burma. Give today so we can carry on making a difference.

 

Details are now available about Church Teams planned for next year. Make sure your church doesn't miss out on a chance to experience mission overseas - go here for more details http://http://www.bmsworldmission.org/churchteams

 

Be inspired and let BMS take the strain out of sermon preparation by downloading sermon outlines. Click here.

 

BMS is advertising for a volunteer programmes organiser to co-ordinate this particular area of our exciting short-term suite of opportunities. Click here for more.

 

Pray each day for BMS by clicking here. This week's focus is on Croatia and Portugal; next week prays for relief work.