From December 1 to 7, 2024, the Women’s and Children’s Ministries Departments of the Nepal Section visited East Rukum, a remote and impoverished area in Nepal’s far western region. The Nepal Section is part of the Himalayan Section, which is located within the Southern Asia Division of Seventh-day Adventists.

East Rukum’s geographical isolation presents numerous challenges. Most residents live in poverty, lacking basic human needs. The community is heavily influenced by ancestral religious practices and superstitions, with nature, deities, and idols playing a central role in daily life. Despite their hardships, the people maintain cultural traditions and celebrate various festivals.

The region’s harsh climate and barren steppe terrain significantly hinder agricultural productivity. Families rely on a single annual harvest and rely heavily on livestock. With no medical facilities in the area, residents often suffer from untreated illnesses, and minor health issues can become life-threatening due to a lack of awareness and resources.

Education remains a distant dream for many children in East Rukum. While primary government schools exist, poverty prevents most children from attending. Instead, they help their families in the fields, care for livestock, or look after younger siblings. Boys often begin working by age 13, leading to high school dropout rates. Social challenges such as child marriage, divorce, substance abuse, gambling, and violence further compound the community’s struggles.

Amid these challenges, God has been working through the Adventist Church to bring hope to the people of East Rukum. Two decades ago, the message of Christianity reached this region, establishing two Adventist churches. Today, about two dozen believers are committed to serving their community.

Recognizing the need for continued support, the leadership of the Nepal Section, mainly the Women’s and Children’s Ministries and Ministerial Departments, visits East Rukum twice a year. These visits address the community’s spiritual, physical, and emotional needs.

During the December 2024 visit, the Women’s Ministries Department organized Bible studies and women’s meetings, teaching vital literacy, hygiene, and health skills. Children gathered to learn about cleanliness, Bible stories, and faithfulness. They also sang songs and received their Bibles. Women were gifted warm clothing, including shawls, woolen caps, and socks, to support the community through the cold winter. Special meals were prepared and shared with the community, fostering a sense of care and fellowship.

By supporting families in remote and struggling regions like East Rukum, the Adventist church continues its mission of sharing Christ’s love and building His kingdom—one life at a time.

The original article was published on the Northern Asia-Pacific Division website.