For years, the people of Lake Bangweulu have faced a difficult reality. The vast lake, stretching across Zambia, is their highway, their lifeline. Yet, crossing its waters comes with great risk. Families depend on boats to reach markets, hospitals, and towns. But without a safe and reliable craft, every journey is a leap of faith.

A mission boat could change everything. But this vision was born from heartbreak.

A tragic event has shaken the community of Lake Bangweulu. A group of Seventh-day Adventists set out on a trip across the lake, eager to share their faith and support neighboring islands. But their journey ended in disaster. A sudden wave overturned their boat, plunging them into the water. While some were rescued, 14 lives were lost, including a child. Families were left devastated, mourning their loved ones.

“The three communities actually depend on the lake. This lake has posed quite a bit of challenges. We've experienced quite a bit of tragedies, accidents, and we've lost a lot of church members. We are appealing for assistance for a boat, so we can have an able mode of transportation on the lake.”

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On this day, Adventist church members gather to mourn. To grieve the loss of their family members to the lake their village sits along. One man, deeply affected by the tragedy, lost four children that day.

As they march to the gravesite of their family members, their voices rise in solemn hymns. The pain is still raw, each step a reminder of their loss. Yet, through their sorrow, they cling to their hope in Jesus’ return—the promise that one day, they will be reunited with their loved ones.

The accident shocked the nation. It also raised an urgent question: How can we make travel on this lake safer?

The Adventist Church has committed to providing a safer, more reliable boat—one that will carry up to 60 passengers. But its mission will be more than just transportation.

“The boat will allow for church growth to happen on these islands by allowing for many churches to be planted or reached by church leaders and other church members.”

With your help through the 13th Sabbath Offering, this dream can become a reality.

“We want to thank everyone. The global community who are contributing to this project. We really feel helped from the global community.”

“The gift we expect to receive, it will help us in mission and help us reach unentered areas.”

By giving, you’re not just providing a safer way to travel. You’re saving lives. You’re spreading hope. You’re helping the people of Lake Bangweulu turn tragedy into a blessing.

Thank you for your support.