“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” Mt. 28.19
This year Lutherans all over the world celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. Our congregation of the Savior in Baku also wanted to take part, and our contribution was the first ever translation and publication of Martin Luther's Small Catechism in Azerbaijani. Work on the translatio and preparation of the book began two years ago with the support of our American and Finnish friends. The State Committee for work with religious organizations approved its publication, and 250 copies were printed. Now brothers and sisters are able to get acquainted with basic Christian teachings in a short and clear form in their native Azeri language.
The translation of the Bible into German played an enormous role in the development of Christian life in that country, and we pray to God that it would play a similar role in ours. In the Church of the Savior in Baku we are thankful that we can now read the Bible, sing hymns and read the Small Catechism in our native language. After all only one's native language gives the person an opportunity to understand for oneself the richness of the Holy Scriptures, to believe in the one who is the Savior of the world. We need good Lutheran books in our native language so that pastors and congregations can freely teach, study, and understand.
I would like to express great thanks to our sponsors who continue the educational work of Martin Luther, especially the Lutheran Heritage Foundation (LHF) which has already published the Catechesis in more than 80 languages; a large part of the publication expenses was taken on by Concordia Publishing House. Thank you all very much, dear friends!
Pastor Menzer Ismailova
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