Books, Hope, and Partnership: New Photos from Martin Luther School in Senegal

The Grand Canyon Synod recently received an encouraging update—and joyful new photos—from the Martin Luther School in Fatick, Senegal, where students are learning with books and school supplies made possible through the generosity of our synod’s congregations and supporters.

In a message shared with our Global Engagement Team, Pastor Latyr Diouf, President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Senegal (ELS), expressed gratitude for the Grand Canyon Synod’s continued partnership in supporting education at the school.

“You helped to buy books and school supplies for our school,” Pastor Diouf wrote. “This has been greatly appreciated. We always reaffirm this support for the fight against a world in ignorance.”

This school year, Martin Luther School served 144 students, with leaders anticipating continued growth next year as enrollment increases.

The update builds on a meaningful partnership our synod has nurtured with the Lutheran Church in Senegal. In 2025, congregations and supporters across the Grand Canyon Synod raised $6,000 to provide schoolbooks for students at Martin Luther School, with additional funds supporting teacher materials, classroom supplies, and needed repairs. Because families are often responsible for purchasing their own textbooks and workbooks, these gifts help ease financial burdens while opening doors to learning.

For Lutherans, education has always been deeply connected to faith. Martin Luther believed that learning equips people to engage scripture, serve neighbors, and participate fully in community life. Through this partnership, we witness what it means to accompany siblings in Christ across cultures and continents—walking together in hope, dignity, and opportunity.

The photos Pastor Diouf shared tell a powerful story: children proudly holding new books, classrooms filled with possibility, and a growing school rooted in both learning and faith.

As we continue this relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Senegal, we invite congregations and individuals to keep this ministry in prayer. May God continue to bless the students, teachers, families, and church leaders shaping the future through education.

To learn more about the Grand Canyon Synod’s Global Engagement Team and its partnership with Senegal, contact Cheryl Jones at 480-620-8126.