What Are Bridge Builders, Meaning Those People Who Look Beyond Their Needs and To the Needs of Others?
There is a tremendous need for bridge builders, meaning we need people who are bearers of peace and solutions. These peacemakers seek to build trust between opposing parties or meet the greatest needs of the culture. At GFA World, we are committed to equipping nationals to be missionaries who care for people who find themselves in difficult situations.
Saadet[1] a widow from Asia, felt hopeless and alone. As a widow, she was an outcast in her community, reliant on weekly rice rations from a welfare agency for subsistence. Widows such as Saadet commonly face economic hardship. They may be stripped of their land, denied access to their inheritance or refused employment.
But God saw her! He sent a team of His people from GFA’s Sisters of the Cross (women missionaries who’ve received special training to minister among those marginalized by society like widows and those with leprosy). The sisters cleaned her home, washed her clothes, visited frequently and helped however they could. They showed God’s love to Saadet. Through the love of these bridge builders, Saadet learned the Good News of Jesus!
“Jesus Christ is with me,” Saadet said. “I thank Him for the life of the Sisters of the Cross … who are still taking care of me by cleaning my house, cooking food, applying oil and combing my hair. I am extremely happy for this, and I thank God and the leadership of [the church].”
The Sister of the Cross are great examples of those who look beyond their own needs to the needs of others. These sacrificial women are making life-changing impact across Africa and Asia through GFA World.
GFA Sisters of the Cross regularly minister to widows and in leprosy colonies. They demonstrate Christ’s love by ministering to them in practical ways—helping with everyday chores, praying for them, providing basic health care, listening to their struggles, reading the Bible with them and providing them with food.
Will you join us in supporting what God is doing through GFA World in parts of Africa and Asia? For just $19 per month, you can partner with us as a Bridge Builder. Our programs help alleviate the pain of poverty and bring hope to some of the poorest communities in the world. When people find hope to replace their pain, the cycle of poverty can be broken. The women who serve with Sisters of the Cross are thankful for your generosity and support.
Learn more about GFA’s Bridge Builder program[1] “Wrapping Love Around a Lonely Widow.” GFA World. January 2023. https://www.gfa.org/news/articles/wrapping-love-around-a-lonely-widow-wfr23-01.