In 1986, a small group of Oromo believers arrived in Australia from Ethiopia, drawn by the hope of education, stability, and a brighter future. Coming from a land where their mother tongue, Afaan Oromo, was their heart language, they faced the challenges of adapting to a new culture and an English-speaking environment. Yet, amid the adjustments and occasional feelings of isolation, their love for Christ burned brightly.

In those early days, faith found its expression in the simplest and most intimate way. Only a couple of individuals began gathering regularly in a home to pray in Afaan Oromo. There were no fancy facilities or large crowds — just sincere hearts lifting praises and petitions to their Heavenly Father in the language that allowed them to pour out their souls completely. As more believers joined, homes became house churches. Families such as Darajjee Nagarii, Margee Dhufera, Obbo Raggaasaa and Adde Astedee and their children, the late Adde Nagaashee Lamuu, and Zakaariyas Bulii took turns opening their doors. These gatherings were filled with heartfelt prayers, Scripture reading, hymns, and fellowship that strengthened their bonds in Christ.

These home meetings were lifelines of spiritual sustenance. In a new country, where daily life brought its share of struggles, these believers found comfort, encouragement, and renewed strength in God's Word and in one another. Their resilience shone through their commitment: no matter how busy life became, they prioritised gathering in Jesus' name.

God honoured their faithfulness. Through the dedicated efforts of Zakaariyas Bulii, the group secured a special place of worship on March 26, 2001, at Perth City Church. Every Saturday morning at 9:00 o'clock, the believers gathered to worship, study the Bible in their own language, and encourage one another. The presence of the Lord was tangible as songs and prayers filled the room. The fellowship, at times known simply as the Oromo Church, continued to grow steadily as more Oromo Christians found this spiritual home.

As the community expanded, most members lived north of the river. Long travels became challenging, especially for families with children. With prayerful hearts and unified purpose, they began seeking a more suitable location closer to where they live. Their trust in God's guidance never wavered, even when obstacles appeared.

The path was not without difficulties. On two separate occasions, the congregation faced closures, and members were scattered. In those trying seasons, a faithful remnant refused to let the flame die. Believers like Adde Negashe, Adde Marge, and Adde Astedee stood outside the closed doors and continued to pray. Others connected through occasional meetings whenever possible, and even through phone calls when distance or circumstances prevented physical gatherings.

These moments tested their endurance, yet they deepened their reliance on God. Instead of discouragement prevailing, their perseverance became a powerful witness. They learned that the Church is not defined by a building but by people united in Christ. Through tears and prayers, they experienced God's sustaining grace. Even in separation, the Holy Spirit knit their hearts together, preparing them for greater things ahead.

God opened a new door through the humble initiative of Pastor Dalasa, who approached Victory Life Church with a heartfelt request to form a connect group where they could worship in Afaan Oromo. Victory Life Church, known for its warm and inclusive Christian spirit, embraced the believers with open arms. They recognised the beauty of allowing God's children to worship in their heart language while remaining part of the larger body of Christ.

The Oromo Connect Group began meeting regularly — sometimes fortnightly and on Sundays — finding fresh joy and spiritual nourishment. Hymns sung in Afaan Oromo touched hearts deeply. Bible teachings came alive in their native tongue. Fellowship times strengthened families and welcomed new arrivals. The group became a spiritual refuge where believers could express their faith authentically, share burdens, and celebrate God's goodness.

Even then, another season of disruption came, and the group temporarily could not continue. Yet God remained faithful. Through the determined efforts of the late Kumsa Burayuu, who once again reached out to Victory Life Centre, the believers reunited and restarted their worship as a connect group fortnightly. This cycle of challenge and restoration taught them profound lessons about God's timing, forgiveness, and the importance of unity in Christ. Their resilience, rooted in prayer and dependence on the Lord, brought them back stronger.

After years of faithful journeying as the Oromo Church or Oromo Connect Group, a significant milestone arrived. On January 3, 2021, with approximately 20 to 25 committed members, the fellowship was officially registered as an independent church — initially as Gospel Light Christian Church, later renamed Gospel Light Oromo Church. This was a joyous and solemn moment — a declaration that God had brought them from small home prayers to a recognised congregation in Australia.

They found a dedicated space in the boardroom of Grace Life Church for their Sunday afternoon gatherings every week. The room quickly filled with the beautiful sounds of Afaan Oromo worship. Prayers, powerful preaching, anointed singing, and warm fellowship created an atmosphere of God's presence. For many, attending church meant coming home — to a place where faith, language, and culture harmoniously served the Kingdom of God.

Gospel Light Oromo Church quickly became more than a Sunday gathering. It grew into a spiritual family where new believers were discipled, families were strengthened, youth found purpose in Christ, and the Gospel was lived out in practical love. Testimonies of God's healing, provision, and transformation multiplied. The church stood as a shining example of what God can do through surrendered hearts.

As the years progressed, the Lord continued to bless Gospel Light Oromo Church abundantly. New families joined. Children grew in the faith. The congregation's zeal for worship, prayer, and outreach increased. The boardroom at Grace Life Church, once perfectly sufficient, could no longer comfortably accommodate the growing number of believers and guests.

In God's perfect timing, the church moved to a bigger and more suitable venue in Hamersley. This transition marked another chapter of expansion and God's faithfulness. The larger space allows for greater freedom in worship, more room for children's ministry, fellowship events, and future growth. Every Sunday, the halls now echo with joyful praises, heartfelt sermons in Afaan Oromo, and the laughter and warmth of a thriving Christian community.