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A Journey of Faith
Few stories are as compelling as that of Amos Makulu, a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo whose spiritual journey led him to walk 728 miles for baptism. Makulu’s story is a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of the Book of Mormon, as reported here by Church News.
From Refugee to Seeker
Makulu’s odyssey began in 2006 when he fled his home country, finding refuge in a camp in Lugufu, Tanzania. It was there that he encountered Mchumbe, a fellow refugee who had brought with him a copy of the Book of Mormon from Nairobi, Kenya. This chance meeting would alter the course of Makulu’s life.
Having previously been a preacher for Jehovah’s Witnesses, Makulu was no stranger to religious texts. However, the Book of Mormon struck a chord deep within him. “I knew it was true the moment I first read it,” Makulu recounted. Together with his friend Denis Akulu, they delved into the scriptures, finding joy and enlightenment in its pages.
Spreading the Word
Makulu’s enthusiasm for his newfound faith was infectious. Like the prophet Lehi in the Book of Mormon’s vision of the tree of life, Makulu felt compelled to share this source of happiness with others. He began to gather a “family” of interested learners within the refugee camp, eventually growing to a group of 11 people.
However, their thirst for knowledge outpaced the resources available in the camp. Determined to learn more, Makulu established contact with the Kenya Nairobi Mission through letters. Over the next six years, this correspondence became a lifeline of spiritual nourishment for Makulu and his group.
The Long Walk to Baptism
As their understanding of the gospel deepened, Makulu and his group felt a growing desire to be baptized and officially join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There was just one significant obstacle: the nearest congregation was in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, a staggering 1,171 kilometers (728 miles) away.
Undaunted by the distance and unable to secure plane tickets, Makulu made an extraordinary decision. Along with two members of his “family,” he set out on foot, embarking on a journey that would test their physical endurance and spiritual resolve.
The trek across Tanzania was grueling, but Makulu’s determination never wavered. His faith sustained him through the long days of walking, the nights spent under unfamiliar skies, and the challenges that arose along the way. Finally, in 2014, Makulu and his companions reached their destination and were baptized.
A New Chapter in Buffalo
Makulu’s journey didn’t end with his baptism. Shortly after this life-changing event, he immigrated to the United States, settling in Buffalo, New York. Here, he found himself in a unique position as one of the first Swahili-speaking members of the Church in the area.
Recognizing the opportunity to continue his mission of sharing the gospel, Makulu began working closely with local missionaries, including Elder David Olson and Elder Abocha Ebakyelo. His efforts have been instrumental in establishing a Swahili-speaking group within the local congregation.
“From what I see in Amos, he just has such a passion,” Elder Olson observed. “We’ve been working with him towards creating a branch with our Swahili group.”
The impact of Makulu’s dedication is evident in the numbers. Currently, there are 46 Swahili-speaking members who meet together, with an additional 43 people expressing interest in attending. Makulu’s influence extends beyond mere numbers; he regularly attends missionary lessons, often surprising the missionaries with his depth of knowledge and unwavering testimony.
A Continuing Legacy
Makulu’s influence isn’t confined to Buffalo. He has maintained contact with his friends in Africa, who have spread across Tanzania, Kenya, and the DRC. Through his continued outreach, “more than 30 families” living in Africa have been baptized and joined the Church.
“After knowing the truth of the restored gospel, I have changed, and my testimony has changed,” Makulu reflected. His commitment to learning remains strong, as he plans to study “until I know this gospel fully.” He encourages everyone to seek out the truth for themselves.
Makulu’s extraordinary journey from a refugee camp in Tanzania to becoming a pillar of the Swahili-speaking Latter-day Saint community in Buffalo is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith. His story continues to inspire both those who hear it and those whose lives he touches directly through his ongoing missionary work.
“Our faith is good, and we have love for you and everyone,” Makulu said, encapsulating the spirit of love and devotion that has defined his remarkable spiritual odyssey.
