You have given me the shield of your salvation, and your right hand supported me, and your gentleness made me great. You gave a wide place for my steps under me, and my feet did not slip.
Psalm 18:35-36
July was an exciting month as we helped launch an Adopt-A-Verse project with the book of James for a language group in East Africa. This initiative allows churches and individuals to directly fuel Bible translation one verse at a time.
Each adopted verse is more than funding—it’s a step toward someone receiving God’s Word in their language. Churches have already prayed over and celebrated verses, showing how unity in Christ brings transformation. Interested? Message us—we’d love to share how your church can join!
We’re trying something new for this update—a video! 🎥
As many of you know, we’ve been in Nigeria on a short-term vision trip.
By the time you read this, we’ll be flying back to the States, but we couldn’t wait to share what God has been doing.
This trip has been all about seeking God’s leading: introducing our kids to the culture, connecting with our potential future team, and prayerfully discerning if and when He’s calling us to serve here long term.
All while still serving in our roles back in the US. #ThankGodForTechnology #doubleduty
Click below to watch our Missionary Update video and hear how God moved during our time in Nigeria:
Nagode! (Thank you!) We’re so grateful that you’ve chosen to journey with us. Your prayers, encouragement, and faith in God’s work through this mission make all the difference. Truly, your partnership is what makes this possible. ❤️
Double the serving, double the videos, double the fun! 🎥✨
While in Nigeria we still had to work our US roles, which meant late nights on Eastern Standard Time. 🥱 But if it was double the serving, it was double the fun too! Do not miss our special extended family video update, Naija style.
Enjoy!
We were so blessed to take this trip with some of our kids! Countless memories and stories came from this journey. But pictures only capture part of it. If you want the full story, connect with us here:
Throughout history, God has called women to courageously move His mission forward. Sometimes that calling is lived out quietly, in unseen prayers whispered in the dark. Sometimes it’s lived out boldly, in leading a community, advocating for the vulnerable or stepping into global work that changes lives. Learn about these Women of the Word by:
Reading this blog article.
Watching this video.
Each month we want to highlight a Bible translation project from around the world. Join the movement—pray for our brothers and sisters still waiting for God’s Word in their language!
August 27, 2025
Christianity thrived in the Ashe area in central Nigeria during a time of relative peace several decades ago. As a result, churches exist in every town and in most villages.
In recent years, however, rising tensions have revealed a troubling reality: Many people remain influenced by traditional religion, turning to it especially during difficult times.
The persistence of such beliefs, even among those who attend local churches, can be attributed to the lack of God’s Word in the Ashe’s language, Ishe.
This lack of Scripture hindered the spiritual growth of many and left them vulnerable to long-held views that point to the power of spirits rather than to the living God.
Over the past three years, however, a dedicated team has published Scripture materials in Ishe, facilitated literacy initiatives and organized various cultural and church events to promote the Ishe language and culture.
As they continue translation and outreach efforts, let’s pray that the Ashe community will encounter God’s truth and experience His peace.
Watch a short clip of an Ashe community literacy lesson.
Recent meetings with church leaders have been helpful and productive.
God’s protection over Christian farmers during this new planting season, despite past disappointments and nearby incidents of interethnic conflict and kidnapping.
Farmers to entrust their farming and safety to the Lord.
Stronger connections among church members within congregations and across local churches, especially for training skilled Bible readers for churches.
Church members and leaders to recognize the value of clear and meaningful Scripture readings in worship.
Renewed enthusiasm and effectiveness among the 50+ trained local literacy teachers across several villages.
Wisdom for the literacy coordinator and translators in encouraging and supporting literacy teachers.
Creative and affordable ways to make engaging books available to Ashe readers.
NOTE: We had the privilege of sitting in with this team while here in Nigeria as they worked on this project. Their focus, dedication, and reverence for God’s Word showed the commitment to translate Scripture with excellence so people can encounter it in their own language and be transformed.
…discernment as we choose the right school for the certifications we need to serve in Nigeria when the time comes.
…wisdom as we prepare to wrap up all financial and personal commitments in the US during 2026.
…Catherine’s continued support-raising for her short-term mission trip to Thailand, where she will serve the local church.
…strength, courage, and encouragement for the churches in Nigeria, especially those facing persecution from surrounding oppressive communities.
…Your provision of every financial and physical need to get us to Nigeria, and for the deeper clarity we gained about our education requirements before a potential assignment there.
…the gift of experiencing Nigeria’s culture as a family—and for the joy of seeing our children fall in love with it too.
…the brothers and sisters who welcomed us into their homes, surrounding us with love and hospitality that made us feel like family.
…Your Hand of protection and peace as we traveled to and from Nigeria.
…the faithful friends and partners You continue to bring into our lives—those who lift us up in prayer as we seek Your guidance for future roles in Nigeria.
Contact us by responding to this email, or click the button below to set up a time to speak with us directly:
If you are not partnering with us monthly but would like to, you can respond to this newsletter or set up a meeting with us here:
Or you can skip all the formalities and start monthly partnership with us today:
Wycliffe Bible Translators
P.O. Box 628200
Orlando, FL 32862
1-800-WYCLIFFE
To give by check, please include a separate note in the envelope stating: “Preference for the Wycliffe ministry of Brandon and Cat Samuel”
Thanks so much for hanging out with us and checking out our newsletter! 🎉 If you’ve got any thoughts or ideas on how we can make it even better, drop a note below—we’d love to hear from you.
And be sure to like and share this newsletter with a friend or Ellis and Charlotte might stay stuck on this giant rock forever! 🪨😳
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