Tibet (MNN) — In 1950, Chinese Communists moved into Tibet, beginning a long
occupation. There are more than seven million Tibetans still under Communist
rule.
The oppression drove Tibet's spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, to India in
1959, and more than 100,000 Tibetans joined him in exile. Many thousands remain in exile in India,
Nepal, Bhutan and elsewhere.
Tensions have not lessened over time. Ethnic Chinese outnumber Tibetans 3 to 1 within Tibet itself. Recent protests in Lhasa reflect years of
pent-up frustration and hopelessness under Chinese rule.
Getting the message of hope to this region remains a challenge with the resistance of
the Chinese government and the suspicion of the Tibetans. However, because radio is the primary source
of information and entertainment for people there, it can carry a message where
no person could go.
For over two decades, Words of Hope has broadcast a message of hope to the
Tibetan people. Nightly programs produced in conjunction with indigenous
partner Gaweylon (Good News) avoid political issues, focusing instead on a
variety of helpful topics which touch Tibetan hearts.
Each 30-minute program features multiple segments including Biblical
teaching. The broadcasts generate more than 10,000 responses each
year–many from Buddhist monasteries where thousands of monks hunger for a
better understanding about God.
The Gaweylon team is gearing up for a major literature distribution
starting Saturday. March 5 marks the
start of the Tibetan New Year, where celebrations by thousands of Buddhists
will continue for the next two weeks.
Gaweylon Director
Anil Alfred says during that time, "We plan to distribute a lot of literature
and visit many people. Thank God for the
many who are distributing our literature and CDs with us."
The doors are opening.
Alfred goes on to say that "during the past four months, the team has
visited many places, meeting people, distributing literature and CDs, and
sharing about the radio program. Over 300 letters have been written to
listeners all over, and more than 3500 letters were distributed by hand to
Tibetans in South India. In response to these efforts, many are writing back,
calling us on the phone, and asking for literature and CDs. We rejoice each
time our phone line which is dedicated for listeners rings."
The impact? One
listener writes, "I listen to your program regularly and like it very much.
Your program benefits the whole community. You share the teachings of Jesus, and
you do so much for the Tibetan people."
