The Leprosy Mission
What did Jesus say about leprosy?
Jesus showed compassion to those with leprosy and commanded his disciples to ‘Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy’ Mathew 10:8 (NIV)
Sadly, 2000 years after Jesus healed many with leprosy, hundreds and thousands of people, living in some of the poorest parts of the world, still live desperate existences because they have been diagnosed with this now curable disease.
Established over 140 years ago, The Leprosy Mission was born and cradled in prayer by Christian missionaries Wellesley and Alice Bailey. The couple were moved to action after visiting India and saw the suffering of leprosy-affected people who were severely disabled, rejected and living without any support.
Bailey wrote: ‘ I felt that if there was ever a Christ-like work in the world it was to go amongst these poor sufferers and bring them the consolation of the gospel.’ Over the next four decades the Bailey’s raised awareness and funds, establishing a thriving Mission of 87 programmes in 12 countries.
Jesus at the centre
Prayer was and continues to be an essential part of how the Leprosy Mission operates, with all thirty-two countries of the International Global fellowship starting the day in prayer for our work and seeking God’s will and direction to see ‘leprosy defeated and lives transformed’.
Following Jesus’ example, we seek to demonstrate His message through the love and compassion we show to people affected by leprosy, empowering them to attain healing, dignity and life in all its fullness.
What is Leprosy?
This is a mildly -infectious, curable disease associated with poverty. Despite there being a cure, it remains one of the most stigmatising diseases, commonly resulting in individuals being robbed of their education, career and marriage prospects. Sadly, those affected by leprosy are often rejected by their family and friends and pushed to the fringes of society.
Our work
Leprosy is classed as a Neglected Tropical Disease, but it is also a human rights issue. Looking to 2030, we are committed, with other development charities, to playing a proactive role in ensuring that many of the Sustainable Development Goals are achieved and our work is closely linked to 16 out of the 17 goals.
Our range of holistic services for people suffering with leprosy is a loving and practical response to human need. People affected are provided with healthcare and rehabilitation as well as education, job training, small business opportunities, housing and sanitation. In all our work we seek to transform unjust structures of society, to challenge violence of every kind and to pursue peace and reconciliation.
Faithful supporters
Our work is supported by many faithful Christians, in consistent prayer and financial support. Many supporters became involved with the work of the Mission decades ago and partner with us to be today’s missionaries, demonstrating love for our ‘brothers and sisters’ as Jesus called us to.
Continuing our heritage of prayer, we are blessed by the ongoing support of prayer groups and individuals to whom we send out tens of thousands of annual prayer diaries and quarterly prayer bulletins, ensuring that our work continues to be covered in prayer and praise for all that is being achieved in the name of Jesus.
Please Join with us to see leprosy defeated and lives transformed
The Leprosy Mission welcomes more churches to get involved in supporting our work, either in prayer, financial support or other ways.
Visit their website for more information www.leprosymission.org.uk or contact Alisia O’Sullivan, Church Partnership Officer on 01733 516083 or at alisiao@TLMEW.org.uk