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Shewa and I joined the Ministry of Campus Crusade in Ethiopia in 1993. Since then, we served the Lord in various locations and roles; as national director in Ethiopia for five years, director for Southern and Eastern Africa for 11 years, and serving as a global VP of Cru responsible for Global Church Movements since 2010.

We are blessed with four wonderful children, two sons and two daughters. Nathan has graduated from University of South Carolina in Software Engineering and now working with Wycliffe; Elim has graduated from Wheaton College in international relations and now working in Chicago; Philip is senior at University of Central Florida and studying Writing and Journalism; and Nessy is in 7th grade at The Master's Academy. 

In the last 25 years of ministry journey, Shewa and I have seen the amazing favor of God in our life. For example, in 1998, we led Operation Philip, an evangelistic campaign to reach the capital city of Ethiopia that saw 49,000 decisions for Jesus in 52 days.

In 2002, we led Operation Sunrise Africa, an evangelistic campaign to reach 50 million people in 50 cities in 50 days and in 23 countries. The result: 21,000 local churches mobilized, 64.5 million people heard the Gospel, and 1.72 million people prayed to receive Christ.  

Now, working together with like-minded churches and  mission organizations, we are trusting God to use us to help plant an additional five million multiplying churches and faith communities -- one for every 1,000 people in every village, neighborhood, high-rise apartment, digital space, and workplace.   

Next to the grace of God, your prayer and financial partnership enable us to serve the purpose of God in our generation. Thank you for your prayers and generous partnership in the Gospel. 

Bekele & Shewa Shanko