GFA World ‘Epicenter’ for Faith-Based Healthcare in Africa

Last updated on: March 17, 2026 at 5:24 pm By GFA Staff Writer

WILLS POINT, TX — A vision to launch “Christ-centered healthcare” and help bring transformation to communities across Africa is underway with the construction of a new state-of-the-art hospital, medical university and research center in Rwanda.

GFA World’s latest undertaking aims to equip African doctors, nurses, and researchers to lead a faith-centered healthcare movement in their own communities — a critical need in a continent where millions lack access to both medical care and the Gospel.

Epicenter for Healthcare Training Center in Africa Transforms Care — **NEXT GENERATION OF AFRICA HEALTHCARE:** GFA World (www.gfa.org) is helping to lay the foundation for a new state-of-the-art hospital, medical university and research center in Rwanda — with its sights set on establishing “Christ-centered healthcare and transforming communities” across the African continent. The hospital is projected to open its doors in June.

June will mark the launch of a landmark medical initiative in East Africa: a 300-bed specialist hospital and medical university designed to serve as a training hub for the entire continent. Watch here.

The aim of the project is to expand beyond Rwanda in the next decade, launching “community transformation projects across the African continent,” an area three times the size of the U.S.

“We’re already seeing community transformation in Rwanda, through the brothers and sisters ministering there now,” said GFA World president Bishop Daniel. “This hospital will be a catalyst for impact, bringing both much-needed medical care as well as the love of Christ to people in need of both.”

A Vision for Continental Transformation

The project includes building a network of local and international partnerships, training thousands of new African medical professionals and missionaries, with African nationals central to the future.

In the next decade, the organization aims to help train 10,000 local African missionaries, help serve 100,000 African communities with programs such as medical camps and clinics in remote areas, and help provide clean drinking water for millions of Africans through its “Jesus Wells” and other innovative water projects.

The organization’s vision began to take shape in 2019 when Rwandan church leaders extended an invitation to begin working in Rwanda, including establishing a hospital to serve the nation. GFA World founder K.P. Yohannan met the challenge, following God’s leading to serve communities across Africa through “Christ-centered healthcare”.

Launchpad for Medical Missions

The new medical hub in Rwanda will be the launchpad for community projects across Africa — creating a sustainable model for faith-based healthcare.

The facility will provide extensive specialist services including cardiology, neurology, and intensive care, and is projected to treat more than 500,000 patients with “world-class medical care” in the first two years.

In the future, the project will also include the construction of a medical university and campus on-site, along with an advanced medical research center that will focus on oncology, transplants, and other specialized sectors.

The hospital is modeled after an established hospital and training center in Asia that has been operating for more than a decade and helps about 2,000 outpatients every day.

“Together, we can lay the foundation for transformational, Christ-centered change across the continent,” Bishop Daniel said.

About GFA World

GFA World (www.gfa.org) is a leading faith-based global mission agency, helping thousands of national missionaries bring vital assistance and spiritual hope to millions across the world, especially in Africa and Asia, and sharing the love of God. In a typical year, this includes thousands of community development projects that benefit downtrodden families and their children, free medical camps conducted in hundreds of villages and remote communities, and more than 150,000 families provided with the means to break the cycle of poverty through income-generating gifts. More than 40,000 fresh water wells have been drilled since 2007, hundreds of thousands of women are now empowered through literacy training, and Christ-motivated ministry takes place every day throughout 18 nations. GFA World has launched programs in Africa, starting with compassion projects in Rwanda. For all the latest news, visit the Press Room at https://gfanews.org/news.

MEDIA: To arrange an interview, please contact Palmer Holt at 704-662-2569 or [email protected].

Notable News about GFA World: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, GFA World Launches ‘Epicenter’ for Faith-Based Healthcare in Africa

GFA World Extends Missionary Movement to Liberia, Africa

Last updated on: November 11, 2025 at 7:23 pm By GFA Staff Writer

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WILLS POINT, TX — After 45 years of groundbreaking ministry in Asia that includes sending out thousands of national missionaries, a U.S.-based mission organization is expanding in Africa. Texas-based GFA World (www.gfa.org) — formerly known as Gospel for Asia — is moving into a new frontier, with the launch of a new missions base in Liberia in addition to projects already underway in Rwanda.

“Africa is bursting with possibilities,” said Bishop Daniel Timotheos Yohannan, the organization’s new president. “Roughly 40 percent of the population of Liberia, for example, is under the age of 15.”

GFA World Extends Missionary Movement to Liberia, West Africa — **NEW WAVE OF HOPE ACROSS AFRICA:** Texas-based GFA World (www.gfa.org) has launched a new mission base in Liberia, in addition to the construction of a large-scale multi-specialty hospital and training complex in Kigali, Rwanda — a “springboard” for ministry across Africa.

Across Africa, it is estimated at least 32 million children of primary age, mostly girls, do not attend school because their families cannot afford the fees. GFA World’s child sponsorship program seeks to change that, and actively partners with communities.

The organization is also launching projects and missionary training in Liberia.

Training and equipping nationals — or locals — to do missionary work is nothing new to GFA World. In the 1980s, its founder, K.P. Yohannan, launched what was described as a “revolution in world missions,” sending thousands of trained national missionaries on foot and bicycles to “share the love of God” in communities across Asia, bringing hope and healing to places where there was no previous exposure to the Gospel.

‘Never Met a Christian’

Many people in isolated villages have never heard the Gospel message — or even met a Christian — while millions live and die without ever hearing the name of Jesus Christ, the missions organization says.

“National missionaries know the local customs, languages, and beliefs, and don’t face travel or visa restrictions that cross-cultural workers have,” said Timotheos Yohannan, adding that local missionaries “can easily connect with their own people.”

Meanwhile, the organization’s ministry base in Kigali, Rwanda, continues to expand. With one of the highest-density populations in Africa, there is only one doctor for every 8,300 people. The organization is constructing a large-scale multi-specialty hospital and medical training complex that is modelled on its state-of-the-art facility in Asia that helps nearly 2,000 patients every day and trains hundreds of medical students.

The Rwanda-based hospital complex will train medical professionals from across Africa, as well as help set up a network of permanent health clinics.

Plans are underway for new projects in Liberia, mirroring the work in Rwanda — including educational opportunities for children, clean water projects known as “Jesus Wells,” and medical camps where the most at risk families can get free healthcare.

“One-third of the world’s communities are still waiting to experience Christ’s love for the first time,” said Timotheos Yohannan. “No one should die without knowing the love of Christ.”

About GFA World (formerly Gospel for Asia)

GFA World is a leading faith-based global mission agency, helping thousands of national missionaries bring vital assistance and spiritual hope to millions across the world, especially in Africa and Asia, and sharing the love of God. In a typical year, this includes thousands of community development projects that benefit downtrodden families and their children, free medical camps conducted in hundreds of villages and remote communities, and helping more than 150,000 families break the cycle of poverty through income-generating gifts. More than 40,000 freshwater wells have been drilled since 2007, hundreds of thousands of women are now empowered through literacy training, and Christ-motivated ministry takes place every day throughout 18 nations. GFA World has launched programs in Africa, starting with compassion projects in Rwanda. For all the latest news, visit the Press Room at https://gfanews.org/news.

For more details and to arrange an interview, contact: Gregg Wooding @ 972-567-7660 or [email protected]

Notable News about Gospel for Asia: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, GFA World Extends Missionary Movement to Liberia, West Africa

GFA World Launches Multi-Specialty Hospital in East Africa

Last updated on: June 23, 2025 at 9:45 pm By GFA Staff Writer

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WILLS POINT, TX — GFA World (www.gfa.org) — one of the largest faith-based mission agencies — is launching a new 450-bed hospital, medical school, and training complex in East Africa.

The state-of-the-art medical facility and training center — being constructed in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali — will serve the poorest of the poor, and train new African doctors and nurses, the organization said.

Global Organization launches Multi-Specialty Hospital in East Africa — **GFA WORLD LAUNCHES MAJOR MEDICAL PROJECT IN EAST AFRICA:** Scheduled to be up and running by the end of 2025, a new 450-bed hospital, medical school, and training complex in Kigali, Rwanda, will act as a hub to launch medical missions across Africa, Texas-based GFA World (www.gfa.org) says.

GFA World aims to have the multi-specialty facility up and running by the end of next year. It will be one of the largest and best-equipped hospitals on the continent, according to the organization.

“The need for affordable and accessible healthcare and medicine in Africa is overwhelming,” said GFA World founder K.P. Yohannan (Metropolitan Yohan), who launched the organization — previously known as Gospel for Asia — in 1979. “I’ve never before seen suffering on this scale.”

The new 17-acre campus will launch medical missions across sub-Saharan Africa and into North Africa, “where millions have yet to hear about God’s love for them,” Yohannan said.

Telemedicine is a ‘Game-Changer’

A major thrust will be the expansion of telemedicine, enabling people in isolated villages without any healthcare facilities at all to get medical care remotely online.

“Telemedicine is a game-changer that will save thousands upon thousands of lives, enabling people to have health conditions diagnosed and get professional help quickly,” said Yohannan. “With so much suffering in the world, now is the time to demonstrate God’s love.”

Medical teams will focus on preventing and treating diseases like malaria which claims more than 400,000 lives every year, equivalent to the entire population of Tampa, Florida.

While medical infrastructure in the region is perilously overloaded, Rwanda is considered one of the most stable nations in Africa.

African healthcare workers trained in Rwanda will lay the foundation for long-term community transformation, Yohannan said.

“The reason we’re here is because of the love of Christ,” he said. “There’s no more powerful example than going to the poorest and neediest right where they are and being as Jesus to them.”

About GFA World (formerly Gospel for Asia)

GFA World is a leading faith-based global mission agency, helping national workers bring vital assistance and spiritual hope to millions across the world, especially in Africa and Asia, and sharing the love of God. In a typical year, this includes thousands of community development projects that benefit downtrodden families and their children, free medical camps conducted in more than 880 villages and remote communities, over 4,800 clean water wells drilled, over 12,000 water filters installed, income-generating Christmas gifts for more than 163,000 needy families, and teaching to provide hope and encouragement in 110 languages in 14 nations through broadcast ministry. GFA World has launched programs in Africa, starting with compassion projects in Rwanda. For all the latest news, visit the Press Room at https://gfanews.org/news.

For more details and to arrange an interview, contact: Gregg Wooding @ 972-567-7660 or [email protected]

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, ‘Never Seen Suffering on This Scale:’ Global Organization Launches Multi-Specialty Hospital in East Africa

Read more on Africa and Medical Missions on Patheos from Gospel for Asia.

Notable News about Gospel for Asia: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Gospel for Asia Launches First-Ever Mission into Africa

Last updated on: November 11, 2025 at 8:34 pm By GFA Staff Writer

WILLS POINT, TX – GFA World founded by K.P. Yohannan, whose heart to love and help the poor has inspired numerous charities like GFA World Canada, to serve the deprived and downcast worldwide, one of the largest mission agencies in the world, is launching compassion projects in Africa (http://www.gfa.org/press/intoAfrica) for the first time — a huge boost for humanitarian efforts in the world’s poorest continent.

GFA World, formerly known as Gospel for Asia, expects to begin work in multiple African nations this year.

GFA World is launching compassion projects in Africa for the 1st time, a huge boost for humanitarian efforts in the world's poorest continent — **GOSPEL FOR ASIA LAUNCHES IN AFRICA:** GFA World, formerly known as Gospel for Asia, is launching compassion projects in Africa (http://www.gfa.org/press/intoAfrica) for the first time — a huge boost for humanitarian efforts in the world’s poorest continent. (Jeremy Bishop/Unsplash)

“Africa is where the tears never dry,” said Gospel for Asia (GFA World) founder K.P. Yohannan, announcing the launch of compassion projects in Rwanda, a mountainous nation in east-central Africa still recovering from the war and genocide that left 800,000 dead and ripped the country apart in the 1990s.

“Everything we do focuses on bringing real hope and the love of God to those who’ve lost all hope,” said Yohannan, author of the best-selling book Revolution in World Missions, with more than four million copies in print.

To begin with, GFA World’s efforts — supported by the Rwandan Government, church leaders and their congregations — will help children living in slum neighborhoods in the nation’s capital, Kigali, where most people survive on less than two dollars a day.

“We appreciate the open door we’ve been given to start saving lives and serving the poor in Rwanda,” said Yohannan.

Africa ‘Compassion Surge’

The organization plans a surge of compassion and healthcare projects across Africa, including deploying Sisters of Compassion workers — trained women missionaries who serve widows, orphans and those living in leprosy colonies.

“We’re looking at the whole continent, and one of our goals is to help tens of thousands of children (in Africa),” said Yohannan, whose organization already provides educational opportunities for thousands of children through its child sponsorship programs across Asia.

“About half of Africa’s population is under the age of 15, and the average life expectancy is 50,” he said. “This fact makes the desperate urgency to preach the gospel to millions while we have time still to do it. They are waiting — they are dying.”

As Gospel for Asia (GFA World) expands in Africa, the mission agency also plans to introduce its trademark “Jesus Wells” — bringing clean water to villages and undeveloped communities where children and families drink contaminated water straight from filthy ponds.

Caring For Millions In Need

Started by missions pioneer Yohannan in 1979, Gospel for Asia (GFA World) quickly grew into one of the biggest faith-based humanitarian organizations in the world, helping millions of the world’s extreme poor by equipping local churches to care for those in desperate need.

In Africa, Gospel for Asia (GFA World) plans to train indigenous workers in Rwanda and other countries to serve their own people, following its highly effective Asia model.

With their grasp of the local culture and languages, the organization’s national workers have helped transform life for those in more than 12,000 parishes and communities across Asia in nations, such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and India.

While slums are often associated with Asia’s megacities — featured in movies such as Slumdog Millionaire — it’s African countries that have the highest percentage of slum dwellers. More than nine out of every 10 people in South Sudan, Central African Republic and Sudan live in slums.

“We aim to be servants to everyone, showing them Christ through our lifestyle,” said Yohannan. “Jesus told his disciples to change the world — and as we expand into Africa, that’s our calling too. We want to bring hope and healing as His hands and feet to the whole world.”

“After all is said and done, the only real answer to the chaos in this world is Jesus Christ. Our focus remains even sharper today — to preach the gospel by all means and establish the church, which is the agent of change for time and eternity.”

About GFA World

GFA World (formerly known as Gospel for Asia) is a leading faith-based global mission agency, helping national workers bring vital assistance and spiritual hope to millions across the world, especially in Asia and Africa, and sharing the love of God. In GFA World’s latest yearly report, this included thousands of community development projects that benefit downtrodden families and their children, free medical camps conducted in more than 1,200 villages and remote communities, over 4,800 clean water wells drilled, over 12,000 water filters installed, income-generating Christmas gifts for more than 260,000 needy families, and teaching providing hope and encouragement available in 110 languages in 14 nations through radio ministry. In the years ahead, GFA World expects to launch programs in numerous African nations, starting with compassion projects in Rwanda. For all the latest news, visit our Press Room at https://press.gfa.org/news.

Media interested in interviews with GFA World should contact Gregg Wooding at InChrist Communications @ 972-567-7660 or [email protected]

Notable News about Gospel for Asia: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Press Room, Gospel for Asia — Now GFA World — Launches its First-Ever Mission in Africa

South Africa Day Zero Water Crisis – An Interview

Last updated on: January 6, 2023 at 6:10 am By GFA Staff Writer

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa – The world has been watching as Cape Town and other cities in South Africa have been preparing for Day Zero, the day when their public supply of potable water will no longer be available. Amid the preparations, residents are taking mandated precautions to avoid the impending disaster. Many are praying for divine intervention as South Africa endures the longest drought in its history.

Circle of Water’s latest update says, “Farmers in South Africa’s Western Cape province have had to trim water use by 60%, and as a result, agricultural production is expected to be down 20% this year. Wheat production has been the hardest hit – it may be half of last year’s harvest, forcing wheat imports to double. The drought will reduce exports of apples, pears and grapes, and the lack of rain will continue to put stress on the Western Cape’s renowned wine industry. Officials in South Africa are hoping to make their water last until the rainy season, while fine-tuning conservation to better manage water for the future.”

We reached out to Andre Barnard, the Gospel for Asia (SA) representative in Port Elizabeth, for a first-hand look at the situation. Following are excerpts from our conversation:

GFA: Given the size of Cape Town it seems to be getting the most publicity about Day Zero. How is the crisis affecting the Eastern Cape and Port Elizabeth?

André: Port Elizabeth’s 1.3 million people are served by 4 reservoirs, and the lack of rainfall has caused them to be at only 25.62 percent of total capacity.

Recently an Eastern Cape farmer said to me: “I have been farming for 50 years and have never seen a sheep’s lips bleeding because of trying to get to grass between rocks.”

An article from the Port Elizabeth Herald, a local newspaper, said the following about farmers in the Eastern Cape: “They have already reduced their livestock numbers drastically – even slaughtering their breeding flocks and herds.” Several smaller towns have no water at all.

GFA: What restrictions are in place on water usage?

André: Water restrictions and increased fees for excess water usage are in force to reduce usage. Port Elizabeth residents are asked to use only 60 liters (15.8 gallons) of water per person per day. (The average shower uses 22 liters of water per minute.) We currently are allowed 60 liters per person per day. Any usage above this is charged at much higher rates.

GFA: How are citizens taking the shortage?

André: The majority are very good and are doing their best to save as much water as possible. Many people have installed water reservoirs/tanks to collect rain water from their roofs.

GFA: How do they feel about the restrictions?

André: People do not like restrictions, but it’s something we just have to accept.

GFA: Do the local Christians have a different perspective than others on the situation?

André: Yes, Christians do have a completely different perspective. We know and acknowledge that God is in control, that He is the maker and giver of rain. I believe only God can create life and only God can create life-saving water.

GFA: Are you aware of any people for whom the shortage is currently a hardship?

André: The irrigation farms in Hankey, Patensie, and the Gamtoos Valley are facing huge problems because of the low water level in the Kouga Dam which is a major source of water for irrigation

GFA: Is there a sense of panic?

André: Oh yes, I have seen photos of people stock piling drinking water.

Cape Town / South Africa – January 25, 2018: Lines of people waiting to collect natural spring water for drinking in Newlands in the drought in Cape Town South Africa

GFA: Other than a dwindling supply of water, how else is the drought affecting daily life?

André: I think it has forced people to become more aware of their natural environment and the importance of conserving and protecting the water resources given to them by God. More people are acknowledging God as the only hope we have for rain.

GFA: How do you believe that God will glorify Himself both in the current situation and in the coming months?

André: I believe that all Christians will praise the name of God and give Him all the glory even if we have to wait a few more months for rain. We praise Him for every drop. Matthew 5:45 says, “For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” (ESV)

GFA: How much rain would it take to bring water sources back to normal levels?

André: This is a very difficult question. We would need heavy snow fall in winter and heavy rainfall over several months in the catchment areas.

GFA: What do you anticipate people will do if water is no longer available through taps?

André: That will be a very testing time for government and people alike. To stand in a queue for water will be something new for all of us, and there will be lots of angry and short-tempered people. This will be a very good time for Christians to witness with their patience and love.

GFA: How would you ask believers to pray?

André: People should pray and acknowledge our dependence on God and Him alone, acknowledge our total inability to create rain and give God the glory as the maker of rain, confess to God that we as humans are responsible for harming His creation, confess that we have not been good stewards of the resources He has freely given us, ask Him to forgive us and beg Him for mercy. We should also ask Him to work in the hearts of people to turn to Him for all their needs.

GFA: Thank you, André. We will be praying earnestly and expecting God to do great and marvelous things.

Sources:

Circle of Blue, What’s Up with Water – March 5,2018
Missions Box News, Cape Town Water Crisis Declared National Disaster as ‘Day Zero’ Approaches
Missions Box News, [Update] Cape Town Water Crisis ‘Day Zero’ Moved Back 5 Weeks to July 9th

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Clean Drinking Water from 125 New Jesus Wells Helps 37,000

Last updated on: April 21, 2026 at 5:02 pm By GFA Staff Writer

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WILLS POINT, TX — GFA World has exceeded its March campaign goal to fund 125 life-saving “Jesus Wells,” expanding access to clean drinking water for communities facing dangerous and contaminated sources. These wells are expected to serve approximately 37,500 people every day in communities across Asia and Africa.

Globally, an estimated 2.2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, contributing to nearly 829,000 preventable deaths each year. In response, GFA World helps drill “Jesus Wells” to reach reliable underground water sources—even in drought conditions. Each well can provide daily clean water for about 300 people and typically continues serving communities for 20 years.

“Exceeding this goal represents so much more than a successful initiative,” said Bishop Daniel Timotheos Yohannan, President of GFA World. “This campaign is going to help save lives. We are deeply grateful to every donor who said “Yes” to making access to clean water a priority in the communities we serve. All those who come to drink at these wells will also be given the opportunity to experience the lifesaving hope and love of Christ. I am praying we can drill thousands more wells in the coming year and offer a cup of water to the least of these in Christ’s Name.”

Each well costs approximately $1,600 to construct and is typically drilled as deep as 650 feet. Local churches help maintain the wells, which are inscribed with Jesus’ invitation from the Gospel of John to drink the water He gives and “never thirst again.”

Since 2007, GFA World has helped install more than 40,000 freshwater wells, and has provided safe drinking water to more than 39 million people.

To learn more or support the initiative, visit www.JesusWells.org.

About GFA World

GFA World (www.gfa.org) is a leading faith-based global mission agency, helping thousands of national missionaries bring vital assistance and spiritual hope to millions across the world, especially in Africa and Asia, and sharing the love of God. In a typical year, this includes thousands of community development projects that benefit downtrodden families and their children, free medical camps conducted in hundreds of villages and remote communities, and helping more than 150,000 families break the cycle of poverty through income-generating gifts. More than 40,000 fresh water wells have been drilled since 2007, hundreds of thousands of women are now empowered through literacy training, and Christ-motivated ministry takes place every day throughout 18 nations. GFA World has launched programs in Africa, starting with compassion projects in Rwanda. For all the latest news, visit the Press Room at https://gfanews.org/news.

MEDIA: To arrange a video or audio interview, contact: Clem Boyd at (724) 930-4003 or [email protected].

Notable News about GFA World: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, GFA World Jesus Wells Clean Drinking Water to Help 37,500 People

Water Well Campaign Helps Families Leave Unsafe Water

Last updated on: March 17, 2026 at 5:24 pm By GFA Staff Writer

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WILLS POINT, TX — A chronic shortage of safe drinking water is fueling a deadly global health emergency — but a new grassroots initiative could help save thousands of lives.

Faith-based nonprofit agency GFA World (www.gfa.org) — a leader in implementing community water projects in Asia and Africa — has launched a month-long campaign to provide 125 new “Jesus Wells” in some of the world’s thirstiest places.

Water Well Campaign Helps Families Leave Unsafe Water — **HOPE FLOWS FROM ‘JESUS WELLS’:** To mark World Water Day, March 22, GFA World (www.gfa.org) — a leader in implementing water projects in Asia and Africa — has launched a month-long campaign to provide 125 new “Jesus Wells” in some of the world’s thirstiest communities.

It coincides with World Water Day on March 22, an annual awareness event.

The new wells, costing around $1,600 each, could help transform the lives of more than 37,000 people facing a desperate day-to-day struggle to find clean drinking water, the Texas-based organization says.

Since 2007, the organization and its supporters have helped install more than 40,000 fresh water wells — often in remote, parched areas — and provided clean water to nearly 40 million people.

Click here to watch how one U.S. couple helped supply a well in a community in Asia.

Worldwide, more than 800,000 people annually — equal to the population of San Francisco — die after drinking contaminated water from murky ponds and streams, breeding grounds for waterborne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, and diarrhea. Globally, diarrhea is one of the leading causes of death in children under five.

Battling Worms, Leeches, Feces

In a village in Asia, Dafne and her friends used to walk uphill to a shallow, muddy watering hole several times a day to collect drinking water in their pots — water that often made them sick. They had to strain out worms, insects, leeches, and even frog feces. The provision of a “Jesus Well” completely changed their lives — removing a crushing burden and allowing them to focus on raising healthy children.

Dafne’s desperate search for drinking water — even filthy water — is shockingly familiar.

Every day, more than two billion people — one-in-four people on the planet — face “the cruel reality that the only drinking water they have access to may cause them to get sick and die,” said GFA World president Bishop Daniel Timotheos Yohannan. “Yet most deaths and illnesses could be prevented if only communities had access to safe water sources,” he added.

Often drilled as deep as 650-feet, “Jesus Wells” — so-called because they are inscribed with Jesus’ invitation in the Gospel of John to drink of the water he gives and “never thirst again” — are maintained by local churches and last up to 20 years. They provide a reliable supply of safe drinking water that is freely available for anyone in need, and act as a community hub where people gather.

The wells also bring hope — a “tangible sign that life can flourish, and a reminder that Jesus’ love never runs dry,” Bishop Daniel said.

About GFA World

GFA World (www.gfa.org) is a leading faith-based global missions agency, helping thousands of national missionaries bring vital assistance and spiritual hope to millions across the world, especially in Africa and Asia, and sharing the love of God. In a typical year, this includes thousands of community development projects that benefit downtrodden families and their children, free medical camps conducted in hundreds of villages and remote communities, and more than 150,000 families provided with the means to break the cycle of poverty through income-generating gifts. More than 40,000 fresh water wells have been drilled since 2007, hundreds of thousands of women are now empowered through literacy training, and Christ-motivated ministry takes place every day throughout 18 nations. GFA World has launched programs in Africa, starting with compassion projects in Rwanda. For all the latest news, visit the Press Room at https://gfanews.org/news.

MEDIA: To arrange an interview, please contact Palmer Holt at 704-662-2569 or [email protected].

Read more on Water Well Campaign on Patheos from GFA World.

Notable News about GFA World: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, ‘Jesus Wells’ Campaign Focuses on ‘World’s Thirstiest Communities’

Couple Spreads Hope and Joy: Give Farm Animals for Christmas

Last updated on: March 17, 2026 at 5:25 pm By GFA Staff Writer

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WILLS POINT, TX — Doug and Deanna have a Christmas gift tradition with a difference — they help transform lives on the other side of the world. Every Christmas for the past decade, they have given the gift of farm animals for impoverished families in Asia and Africa through GFA World’s annual Christmas Critter Campaign — personally helping empower hundreds of families to escape generational poverty. The couple say “animal gifting” for Christmas has brought a whole new level of purpose and joy to their lives.

give farm animals for Christmas — **‘ANIMAL GIFTING’ AT CHRISTMAS:** GFA World’s annual Christmas Critter Campaign empowers hundreds of families in Africa and Asia to escape generational poverty.

According to GFA World, they are part of a growing movement that “seeks to follow Christ’s example of sacrificial giving” by helping families in Africa and Asia. The couple are giving “the gift that keeps on giving,” said father-of-two Doug.

“In a lot of places, the people just don’t have a way to even begin to have hope that they’ll ever get out of poverty,” said Deanna, a part-time counselor and therapist. “To give them a cow, a pair of goats, or some chickens can be life-changing for their whole family.”

Owning even one or two farm animals — beyond the means of many families — gives them the opportunity to make a sustainable living, selling milk, cheese, butter, or eggs, and gradually increasing their herd or flock.

More Than Just Animals

For Doug and Deanna, it’s about more than just the animals. It’s about showing people “that God loves them and cares deeply about their lives.”

“It brings a lot of self-respect and the desire to get better and all those things,” said Doug, who is originally from Brazil. “You’re empowering them to get better, to grow, to have hope, to make a better life. I think that’s what the message of Jesus really is… that ‘I’m here with you in the lowest of times, and I’ll never leave you’.”

The Heart of Christmas

This year, Texas-based GFA World aims to help thousands of families through the Christmas Critter campaign.

“It’s also a way to reconnect with the very heart of Christmas — the Son of God, born among animals in a stable, reminding us of humility, hope, and sacrificial care for one another,” said Bishop Daniel Timotheos Yohannan, the organization’s president.

Those wanting to find out more can go to www.gfa.org/giving/christmas.

About GFA World

MEDIA: To schedule an interview with a GFA spokesperson, contact: DeWayne Hamby at (423) 505-0041 or [email protected]

Notable News about GFA World: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, Couple Make Christmas About Giving Hope, Transforming Lives

Christian Generosity: An Antidote to Selfishness

Last updated on: December 20, 2025 at 3:53 am By GFA Staff Writer

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WILLS POINT, TX — As parents across the U.S. send their children back to school this fall, many carry an underlying sense of fear. While stocking up on supplies, moving kids into dorms, or planning school schedules, there is a lingering unease about the unknowns ahead. While there is excitement for the new chapters to come, many parents feel concerned about what their children may be exposed to at school.

If we are not careful, our desire to control their environment can overshadow what matters most: trusting God no matter the circumstances.

Whether a child is starting kindergarten or stepping into college, the greatest responsibility of a parent is not to shield them from every challenge, but to fill them with truth and send them out with faith. My father often used to say a parent’s job is to be the daily example to their child of what it means to truly live a life of prayer, fasting and walking by faith.

In the midst of back-to-school anxieties, we must remember that for millions of children around the world, education is not just a seasonal milestone. It is a rare and life-changing opportunity, often earned through great sacrifice and sustained only through faith.

Here in America, we wrestle with questions about how our children should be educated. Should they attend public school, private school, or be taught at home? We worry about what our children might encounter, what they might miss out on, or what values might be challenged or compromised.

While these are well-founded concerns, many of our decisions are often driven out of fear rather than faith. In many parts of the world — whether in China, Cuba, or rural villages in South Asia — education is not a guarantee. It is a gift.

These parents often do not have the luxury of choice when it comes to education. They send their children to whatever school is available, if one exists at all. These parents pray, trust, and believe that God is at work in their children’s lives even when the circumstances are far from ideal. And in doing so, they entrust them to the care of God, leaning fully on Him, something every parent is called to do daily.

We must not forget the true foundation of education begins in the home, not in the classroom. It is at home where faith is modeled, where prayer is cultivated, and where children learn not only how to think, but who they are in Christ.

In Western culture, education is often seen as a means to a career. But for children in impoverished communities, education is the beginning of a new life. When they walk into a classroom, it is not a duty, it is a dream fulfilled. And for countless families, it is the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty.

We often say that two things transform a child’s life: access to medical care and access to education. Of the two, education is what initiates lasting, generational change.

GFA World’s Child Sponsorship Program (CSP) is helping to enable that transformation. In a quiet village in Rwanda, young Benitha’s parents prayed for the chance to send their daughter to school, despite the daily struggle to afford even basic necessities. Through the CSP initiative, Benitha is one of many students to receive school fees, essential learning materials, and health insurance. The impact of this support was evidence to Benitha’s family that God is always answering prayers.

It is a beautiful reminder of God’s promise in Philippians 4:19: “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

While parents in the West may not be praying for access to education, we should be praying just as fervently for our children’s safety, their character, the quality of their education, and the shaping of their hearts. No matter where we live, trusting God in all circumstances and cultivating a culture of prayer in our homes is one of the most powerful gifts we can give our children.

So as we settle into our familiar routines of backpacks and buses, let us do more than prepare for a new school year. Let us remember those for whom education is a miracle. Let us raise children who understand the privilege of learning. And let us ask God to deepen our faith, so that whether we are sending our children to a university campus or a co-op classroom, we are doing so not in fear but with full confidence that He goes with them.

Parents around the world have one thing in common: they pray. They pray for their children’s safety, their futures, and their walk with God. May we be counted among them.

About Bishop Daniel

Bishop Daniel Timotheos Yohannan is the President of GFA World and is a consecrated bishop of Believers Eastern Church. In his role as president of GFA World, Bishop Daniel serves as a primary link between thousands of Christian workers and missionaries serving throughout Asia and Africa and the rest of the Church worldwide.

About GFA World

MEDIA: To arrange an interview with GFA World, contact: DeWayne Hamby, 423-505-0041, [email protected]

Notable News about GFA World: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, Giving Tuesday Christian Generosity: Antidote to Selfishness

Animal Gifting for Christmas: Americans Give Families Hope

Last updated on: December 6, 2025 at 10:11 am By GFA Staff Writer

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WILLS POINT, TX — The humble animals of the traditional Christmas manger scene are inspiring more Americans to embrace “animal gifting” this year — and rediscover the true meaning of the season.

A growing number of people are turning away from disposable holiday gifts toward animal gifting, a movement that helps struggling families around the globe lift themselves out of poverty by raising farm animals.

Animal Gifting for Christmas: Americans Giving Hope to Families — **EMBRACING ‘ANIMAL GIFTING’:** Gifting farm animals is a proven method to help the world’s poorest people escape generational poverty, says Texas-based GFA World as it launches its annual Christmas Critter Campaign.

Texas-based GFA World (www.gfa.org) is one of several organizations leading this compassionate trend through its annual Christmas Critter Campaign, which allows people to gift goats, chickens and more to impoverished families in Africa and Asia.

“Participating in the Critter campaign is so much more than just giving another present,” said Bishop Daniel Timotheos Yohannan, president of GFA World. “It’s a gift that transforms lives — providing a pathway out of poverty and giving real hope as people experience Christ’s love, many for the very first time.”

The Heart of Christmas

Bishop Daniel added: “It’s also a way to reconnect with the very heart of Christmas — the Son of God, born among animals in a stable, reminding us of humility, hope, and sacrificial care for one another.”

Animal gifts are practical and powerful: two chickens can supply eggs to eat and sell or hatch more chicks, while a pair of pigs or goats can provide meat, milk, or offspring to trade — helping families build a steady livelihood and escape generational poverty.

This year, GFA World aims to help thousands of families through its Christmas Critter campaign.

“It’s a global connection that changes lives locally — and reminds people everywhere that they’re seen and loved by God,” Bishop Daniel said.

No More Sorrows

GFA World supporters in the U.S., for example, helped provide a cow for Taden. Its milk produced butter for sale, and the profits paid school fees for Taden’s children.

Their joy— and potential income — doubled when their cow gave birth to a calf.

“We came to know the true love of Jesus in our lives,” Taden said. “He has removed all our burdens and sorrows.”

The organization continues to transform lives across Africa and Asia. One family in Rwanda said: “We have truly seen the hand of God at work in our lives. Our faith has deepened and our family has grown closer. We are able to dream again for our children.”

Those wanting to find out more can go to www.crittercampaign.org.

About GFA World

MEDIA: To arrange an interview with GFA World, contact: DeWayne Hamby, 423-505-0041, [email protected]

Notable News about GFA World: FoxNews, ChristianPost, NYPost, MissionsBox

Source: GFA World Digital Media Room, More Americans Embrace ‘Animal Gifting’ This Christmas

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