They worshipped mountains and hills, with the sun as their most important god. Circumcision, both for males and females, was a common practice. “We lived in primitivity,” Lucas bluntly states. “Our family was poor and ignorant.”

Lucas grew up in Issenye, Tanzania, in a family of cattle keepers and farmers. He joined a traditional dance group and became involved in a life of alcohol abuse and adultery. Even when he married, he didn’t change his immoral behavior. “I used to beat my wife whenever I was drunk,” Lucas admits with remorse.

More and more, Lucas sensed how hopeless and empty his life was. In his search for meaning, he joined a Roman Catholic church when he was 42. “However, the teachings in that church didn’t help me understand the newborn life,” he says, looking back. Lucas’ search finally ended when a Bible League-trained Christian visited Issenye and introduced the Project Philip Bible study program.

“When I heard about Bible League, I desired to learn from them and get my own Bible,” he says. The teachings from the Gospel helped him understand the purpose of life. “We knew no better than that man was created by the sun-god,” he reflects. “In the Bible study, I recognized my Creator, who loves me. In John 6:37, Jesus says: ‘The Father gives me my people. Every one of them will come to me. I will always accept them.’  This verse exposed the assurance of salvation and made my faith grow.”

Enlightened by the Word of God, Lucas quit his sinful lifestyle. His wife noticed the transformation in his life, and it made her accept Jesus in her heart as well. “Now, our marriage is happy,” Lucas rejoices. “I also show my love to my children, which I didn’t do before. We are all members of the local church. Our family life has totally changed.”

Lucas is grateful for the Bible you helped provide. “The testimony of my new life goes to assure you that your work is fruitful,” he stresses. “Pray for me,” he adds. “I want to be an impactful evangelist and bring the lost to Christ.”