Lead Church Planter
Port Oregon
Portland Kale Heywet Church
April 14
As a 501(c)(3) organization, the North American Mission Board respects the intent of givers while retaining discretion over the use of all gifts. Any gifts received above the specific need will be applied where the need is greatest.
About My Family
I am from Ethiopia and grew up in a Christian family. I have five sisters and two brothers, and all of them serve in ministry with their spouses. My father was a missionary for about 80 years. He passed away three years ago at the age of 120, and my mother passed away the year before him.
I now live in Portland and serve the Lord with my wife, Almaz Botto, and our four children: Mercy (19), Misha (13), Bemnet (11), and Gideon (9). We are all joyful and committed to serving God in every area of our lives. Our family loves sharing the gospel, helping others grow in faith, and being part of God’s work in the community. Serving together brings us great joy and purpose each day.
I now live in Portland and serve the Lord with my wife, Almaz Botto, and our four children: Mercy (19), Misha (13), Bemnet (11), and Gideon (9). We are all joyful and committed to serving God in every area of our lives. Our family loves sharing the gospel, helping others grow in faith, and being part of God’s work in the community. Serving together brings us great joy and purpose each day.
About My Church Plant
I served God in Ethiopia as a full-time evangelist and helped plant about eight churches. I preached, led worship, and played guitar and keyboard. I also trained leaders, taught the Bible, and gave counseling to individuals and families. I came to the United States for my studies and attended Point University in Georgia. I earned my Master of Divinity in New Orleans and completed my Doctor of Ministry at George Fox University in Oregon.
I first lived in Colorado for two years, where I planted a church. Then I moved to Georgia and lived there for more than 13 years, planting two churches. I also helped plant churches in New Orleans and Charlotte. I believe God has called me to plant churches and serve His people. I am thankful for my wife, who has a heart for mission and always supports and encourages me.
I first lived in Colorado for two years, where I planted a church. Then I moved to Georgia and lived there for more than 13 years, planting two churches. I also helped plant churches in New Orleans and Charlotte. I believe God has called me to plant churches and serve His people. I am thankful for my wife, who has a heart for mission and always supports and encourages me.
NAMB Church Planting
Demonstrated Christian character is essential for missionaries and chaplains to gain credibility and build community. A missionary is a person who, in response to God's call and gifting, leaves his or her comfort zone and crosses cultural, geographic or other barriers to proclaim the gospel and live out a Christian witness in obedience to the Great Commission. The North American Mission Board supports missionaries serving across the United States, Canada and their territories. Churches are the missionary incubators and sending centers for missionaries through the Southern Baptist Convention. Missionaries serve in a variety of settings and face tremendous challenges. But the rewards are tremendous and life-changing. Missionaries have the privilege to represent their church and their Father in sharing the gospel as the primary focus of their activity. If you are interested in pursuing next steps as a potential missionary or chaplain from your church, explore the possibilities at namb.net/send-me.
