What Role Do Christian Female Missionaries Play in Global Missions?
Christian female missionaries have long played a powerful role in transforming the lives of women in some of the most desperate circumstances. At GFA World, our mission reflects this same spirit of compassion and sacrifice as our women missionaries courageously share the love of Jesus Christ in regions where many others cannot go. Through their work, women trapped in oppression, fear and hopelessness are finding dignity, hope, and new life in Christ.[1]
The story of missionary Amy Carmichael (1867–1951) highlights the kind of commitment that is required to bring the Good News to vulnerable communities. Carmichael’s life was marked by sacrifice and resolve. She understood what every missionary—and every Christian—needs to grasp: True ministry involves laying down one’s life in service to Christ. She adopted the local dress and dedicated herself to rescuing children from temple slavery. Her work through the Dohnavur Fellowship provided a refuge for hundreds of abandoned and unwanted children.[2] In her life, we see the same values GFA World upholds today—serving the least and sharing Christ’s hope.
In many parts of Africa and Asia, women face unimaginable struggles. Widows are often blamed for their husband’s deaths and shunned by their families.[3] Young girls are kidnapped and forced into lives of slavery, while others suffer abuse and degradation throughout their lives. Millions of women live in daily misery, with little hope of escape. Yet, through the work of GFA women missionaries, trained in our Bible colleges and equipped for ministry, these suffering women are hearing about their worth in the eyes of God. Our female missionaries are able to freely interact with women in ways that men cannot due to cultural barriers.[4]
One such example is the story of Pima, a woman mistreated and abandoned by her family. With no support, she struggled to care for herself and her daughter. Her life changed when a GFA missionary named Salana entered her home, offering love, comfort and hope in Christ. The church community rallied around her, rebuilding her dilapidated home and reminding her of God’s unconditional love. Through their compassion and care, Pima found peace and hope in Christ.[5]
These stories demonstrate that when women experience Christ’s transforming love, entire families and communities can be changed. GFA World supports women missionaries, who are uniquely positioned to share the Good News with other women in their homes, villages and slums. They understand the cultural norms, speak the local language and live as part of the community. By building friendships, offering counsel and showing Christ’s love, they break down barriers of oppression and despair.
The need remains great, but the hope is real. Through the heroic work of women missionaries, thousands of lives are being transformed. With continued support, GFA World can equip even more women to share Christ’s love and bring hope to those still waiting for freedom and healing. For just $30 a month, you can sponsor a woman missionary and help bring the love of Jesus to women in desperate circumstances. Your support will empower these dedicated missionaries to uplift lives, transform communities and share the hope found in Christ.
Learn more about the faithful Christian missionaries who serve at GFA World[1] “Women Missionaries: A Gift to the Hurting.” GFA World. Accessed January 2025. https://gospelforasia.com/women-missionaries/.
[2] Hamilton, Ian. “Amy Carmichael (1867-1951): Missionary to India—Part I.” Radius International Blog. November 18, 2020. https://radiusinternational.org/amy-carmichael-1867-1951-scottish-missionary-to-india/.
[3] “The Desperate Plight of Women in Asia and Africa.” GFA World. Accessed June 2024. https://gfa.org/women/.
[4] “Women Missionaries: Bringing Hope to Women.” GFA World. Accessed June 2024. https://gfa.org/women/overview/.
[5] “Finding Hope: Widows and Abandoned Women.” GFA World. YouTube video. July 25, 2024. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYVgm0T9iM4.