Tibetan

Background

The Chinese Communist occupation of Tibet began in 1950; the Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 along with more than 100,000 Tibetans. A half century later, many Tibetans still live as exiles in India, Nepal, Bhutan and elsewhere. More than 7 million Tibetans remain inside Tibet where they have endured persecution and hardship. Ethnic Chinese outnumber Tibetans 3 to 1 within Tibet itself. Recent protests in Lhasa reflect years of pent-up frustration and hopelessness under Chinese rule.

For over two decades, Words of Hope has broadcast a message of hope to the Tibetan people. Nightly programs produced in conjunction with indigenous partner Gaweylon avoid political issues, focusing instead on a variety of helpful topics which touch Tibetan hearts. Each 30-minute program features multiple segments including Biblical teaching. The broadcasts generate more than ten thousand responses each year–many from Buddhist monasteries where thousands of monks hunger for a better understanding about God.

Ministry Updates

“In many places people are indifferent and there is disappointment,” shares Gaweylon Director Anil Alfred, “but in many places people are responsive and hungry for the Word of God. In these last days, God is touching the hearts of many people through His Word. During the past four months, the team has visited many places, meeting people, distributing literature and CDs, and sharing about the radio program. Over 300 letters have been written to listeners all over and more than 3500 letters were distributed by hand to Tibetans in South India. In response to these efforts, many are writing back, calling us on the phone, and asking for literature and CDs. We rejoice each time our phone line [that is] dedicated for listeners rings.”

Listener Responses

I listen to your program regularly and like it very much. Your program benefits the whole community. You share the teachings of Jesus and you do so much for the Tibetan people.

I listen to your radio programs regularly. I am so happy as your program has a lot of variety. I feel very glad when I listen to the messages of the Lord Jesus in the program. I appreciate the work that you are doing and the life-giving messages you share.