Vision and Goals

Our Name: Desert Tree Ministry

“The palm tree, beaten by the scorching sun and the fierce sandstorm, stands green and flourishing and fruitful in the midst of the desert. Its roots are fed by living springs. Its crown of verdure is seen afar over the parched, desolate plain; and the traveler, ready to die, urges his failing steps to the cool shade and the life-giving water.
“The tree of the desert is a symbol of what God means the life of His children in this world to be. They are to guide weary souls, full of unrest, and ready to perish in the desert of sin, to the living water. They are to point their fellow men to Him who gives the invitation, ‘If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.’ John 7:37.” Education p. 116

Vision

“To see genuine revival and reformation in Chad.”

The goals outlined have developed gradually and strengthened since Jonathan first moved to Chad in April 2009. Our vision comes from our understanding of the enormous need in Chad. Although the SDA church has been present in Chad since 1967, the membership on the books hovers around 3000 with about 11 pastors in a country with a population around 16,000,000. That’s less than one member for every 5000 people in the country! Many people are left without a pastor or without anybody to nurture and help them spiritually. Most of the population is illiterate and rely on what they are told to know what is truth. The people need to know Jesus, to know what He has done and is doing for them, and to learn to trust Him.

Mission Statement

“ To prepare people in Chad and the surrounding countries in Africa physically, mentally, and spiritually for life in heaven by pointing them to Jesus through the printed page, Biblical teaching, and our example.”

Ministry Objectives

• Our print shop, Imprimerie Desert Tree Ministry (IDTM), facilitates production, writing, translation, and printing (or importing) of Gospel literature in French and local languages as an unchanging witness to the truth and to encourage personal growth and Bible study. We wish to establish at least one print shop in each of the following countries: Chad, Gabon, Central African Republic, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon.
• The Bible Learning Center (BLC) trains and equips Adventist lay members to experience revival and reformation and then to work in cooperation with the Adventist church to spread the gospel to areas that do not yet understand the Three Angels’ Messages.
• We desire to produce audio and video material to reach a culture who learn largely through oral transmission and the majority of whom are illiterate. Ultimately, we hope to establish a radio station.