Phil and Carolyn are running their first marathon in Manchester on 27 April 2025, running for Hope for the Sahel.

They have been involved in the Sahel region of West Africa since 2013, working with SIM. This region has suffered increasing terrorist violence in recent years, as well as being among the least developed areas in the world. Many people have died, and survivors of the violence have been forced to flee their homes. In a region once known for its optimism, there is now a lack of hope. While we have been involved in helping people with their practical needs where we can, the need for hope has always been on our hearts.

We believe that the Bible, as God’s word, has the power to transform lives and communities. When faced with grief or discouragement, many in this country find hope and comfort in words found in the Bible.

Phil works with a team of local translators and pastors to make these words of hope available in the language of a people who have suffered greatly. This project seems very much like a marathon. However, after many years of hard work, we’re into the later stages, and we’re starting to visualise the finishing line: the completion of the full Bible in the next few years. By giving to this SIM project on JustGiving, you can help us complete this marathon, bringing words of hope to people in the Sahel.