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Feet To The Fire in Nigeria

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:06:00 GMT

Feet to the Fire in Nigeria

Merry Hoffman, a short term missionary to Nigeria, shared with us this original blog post telling first-hand accounts of the persecution in Nigeria.

Walking for the first time through remote villages nestled in the grassy hills of Nigeria, I was greeted by groups of villagers with curiosity and interest. Some of the children backed away, probably because they had never seen a white woman before. But before long I was praying for some sick ladies who came to me and lifting up to God the prayer requests of three village chiefs.

All three requested prayer to have schools for their children and clean water to drink instead of the dirty river water they shared with animals. Just my being there seemed to strike a chord with them, as if to say they were not alone. It was my privilege to show them God had not forgotten them.

I was there on a personal mission trip to Nigeria not only to bless the people, but to walk where they walked and see the real Nigeria. I wanted to see the needs first hand and learn how to help.

It wasn't long before I began to find out. The villages appeared peaceful and serene, yet a shadow remained. One village was largely Christian, but a gaze up the hill showed the tents of their Muslim Fulani neighbors. The Fulani are a nomadic tribe of herdsmen who appear peaceful, but their presence next door was ominous because of reports those same neighbors had left their camp to participate in a jihadist attack miles away, killing Christians en mass in the name of Allah.

Because of this, the men of the village were taking turns guarding their homes all night. No attack had taken place there, yet. But the fact remains that 7,000 Nigerian Christians have been slaughtered for their faith in 2025 alone.

Such attacks have increased since they first began in the early 2000s, and since 2009 it's estimated 50,000 Christians have been killed, largely in northern Nigeria. Whole villages have been wiped out, taken over by Muslims and given new names. Many have been buried in mass graves. Survivors find themselves with no homes, no livelihoods, sometimes with no loved ones. They have no choice but to live in deplorable conditions with little food in a camp for displaced people, called IDP camps. Even there, the threat of further attacks remains.

Rachel's Story

Rachel is one young mother living in a camp since 2018. With no husband or provisions, she had to give up her children for others to raise and was left alone.

"They destroyed everything, but we leave everything in the hands of God almighty," Rachel said.

A Widow's Lament

An elderly mother at the camp told of the agony she faced.

"They burned down my home and killed all my children. They killed my husband too," she mourned. "Now at my old age, I do not have anyone."

The Cry of a Mother

When Islamic militants surrounded her villlage last June, another young mother fled to a nearby village with her children. She later returned to find her husband had been killed, leaving her to raise their six children alone.

"I struggle to feed the children. Everywhere I turn, doors appear to be closed," she said. "I have no one to lean on except God. But I forgive those who killed my husband and brought me so much pain and suffering."

Nigeria's Own Missionaries

Stories like these touched the heart of Nigerian missionary Samuel Afang, a former pastor who now serves in Youth With A Mission (YWAM). Last July he organized an outreach with medical volunteers to bring food, relief supplies, and health care to needy people who had just survived a vicious attack. The team's provisions, meant to help 50 people, were stretched to help the crowd of 1,000 who turned out. Most needed medical attention.

"We did our best to stretch our resources, but it was a privilege to serve," Samuel said.

Unlike in the U.S. or other first world nations, such attacks on the villagers are not followed by organizations rushing to bring humanitarian aid. Those suffering are left to pick up the pieces alone or with very little help.

Moved with compassion, Samuel has now dedicated his life to help the survivors. He relocated to Plateau state in the north, where many attacks have been occurring, and has a plan not only to provide relief and medical care, but to eventually disciple and treat the whole person, meeting spiritual, physical, and psychological needs.

"The aim is to provide mental health sessions, vocational training, and access to education for the children," Samuel explained. "We want to empower them to become self sufficient and break the cycle of dependency."

This is where we in the western world can help. Besides the need for prayer, finances are greatly needed to help the victims. The July outreach was completely funded by only three donors from the US. Churches in Nigeria either don't have a vision for missions or are already giving donations to friends or relatives who were attacked.

Samuel tried to organize two more outreaches that had to be delayed for lack of finances.

But that didn't stop him. With only half the amount raised as the July outreach, the team held an outreach on December 23 outside a Catholic church in the city center of Bokkos, Plateau state. In spite of warnings that a Christmas massacre was being planned there by Islamic militants, Samuel and his team faithfully went and gave their relief aid to a large crowd from the nearby displaced persons camp.

"I'm so grateful we were able to provide medical care, food, and little gifts for the kids for Christmas," Samuel said.

Besides praying with the people and sharing from the word of God, Samuel even dressed up like Santa to hand out gifts.

"To see the joy on the kids' faces was a treasurable moment," he said.

Although I wasn't present to see that joy, it was my privilege to meet Samuel in Nigeria and hear first hand what God is doing through him. He asked me to help get the word out about the great needs the victims face.

"Your support and encouragement mean a lot to me," he said. "I'd love for you to help share this opportunity."

Would you pray and ask God how you can be a part? At the very least, lift up a prayer for these devastated brothers and sisters in Christ who have lost everything for their faith. Missionaries receive no salary, and every donation given to Samuel's ministry will go toward food, water, relief supplies, medical care and staff to help them.

But perhaps praying and giving is just the beginning for you. Why not put your feet to the fire top and volunteer for Light A Candle's upcoming outreach in Nigeria in June? I can attest, you will never be the same!

"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
Matt. 25:40 KJV

Sponsorship: Stories of Gratitude

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 21:32:25 GMT

Sponsorship: Stories of Gratitude

Earlier this month, we reached out to our sponsors to ask them why they sponsor and what it means to them to know they are caring for a vulnerable child on the other side of the globe.

So many of our sponsors came through with stories that reminded us why we commit ourselves to this work.

With their permission, we share their stories with you now, hoping you are as encouraged and inspired by them as we were.

Meet Anne-Marie!

Meet Christine!

Meet Davida!

We are so thankful for our child sponsors.

Without them, we wouldn’t be a child sponsorship program at all, and we certainly wouldn’t be able to ensure nearly 1,200 kids in remote India receive regular meals, medical checkups, and an education!

Our child sponsors are the reason these children, once living in darkness, get to know the hope that only Jesus can give.

If you are not yet part of our sponsorship family, please consider sponsoring a child today!

We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers,

remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3

Stories of Faith: God Is Moving In Kurdistan

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:00:03 GMT

st ori es of faith: god is moving in kurdistan

Kurdistan is a place of deep resilience. Nestled in northern Iraq, its mountains and valleys carry both the scars of war and the beauty of endurance. For many who live here, families uprooted by conflict, children growing up in refugee camps, daily life is marked by hardship. Still, in the midst of it all, God is writing powerful stories of faith.

Faith in the Midst of Displacement

Thousands of families in Kurdistan have been uprooted by conflict, forced to leave behind their homes, jobs, and communities. Many live in refugee camps or temporary housing, unsure of what the future holds. And yet, we have seen faith rise in unexpected ways.

One woman who is part of our underground church in the region gave her life to Jesus and was baptized. For a year she prayed that her husband would come to find faith in Jesus as well. He attended the weekly meetings of the small house church but was still hesitant to take the step of faith. This family had been separated from their home, their family, and everything they once held dear. Her husband found it difficult to find hope and faith again after so much loss and despair.

Yet, after a year of his believing wife's intercession for him, this man came to accept Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior and took the bold step of baptism. They are now leading their two young children to pursue God and the wife is visiting other families to share the testimony of what God did in her life and her husband's life.

Quiet Conversations, Lasting Impact

In a culture where faith can feel personal and private, God is opening doors through simple acts of kindness. Sharing a meal, visiting a home, or offering prayer has sparked meaningful conversations. We’ve seen hearts soften as people experience the love of Jesus not through loud proclamations, but through consistent presence and care.

One family has been slowly changed to become receptive to the Good News through the faithful visits of our team in Iraq bringing bags of food and home staples and praying with them through their challenges. A life given over to Jesus isn't an easy decision -- it's a life of sacrifice and submission. This family has been counting the cost before deciding to take up their crosses. Through continual visits, faithful presence, and humble acts of kindness we see hearts turning to Jesus and soil softening! We continue to pray for the ground to become fertile for the seeds of the Gospel!

The Next Generation Rising

One of the most hopeful signs in Kurdistan is the hunger among young people. Many are eager to learn, to build a future different from the one they’ve inherited. Bible studies and discipleship opportunities are shaping a generation that longs for more. These young men and women are discovering that Jesus is not only the Savior of their souls but also the One who gives them vision and courage for tomorrow.

How You Can Join the Story

Pray for Open Doors
That the seeds being planted in Kurdistan will grow into strong communities of faith.

Pray for Refugees
That families who have lost everything will find hope and restoration in Christ.

Pray for Young Leaders
That God would raise up a new generation in Kurdistan who will carry His light into the future.

At Light A Candle, we believe that every story of faith is a testimony to God’s unshakable love. What He is doing in Kurdistan is only the beginning. Together, through prayer, presence, and partnership, we can continue to witness His light breaking through in one of the world’s hardest places.

What Sponsorship Means to a Child

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 14:00:15 GMT

What Sponsorship Means to a Child

Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?

Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them...?

Isaiah 58:6-7

1. Sponsorship Means Freedom

2. Sponsorship Means Full Bellies--Every Day

Sponsorship Means an Education and a Future Full of Possibility

Sponsorship Means the Love of Jesus on Full Display

Sponsorship Means a New Generation of Movers and Shakers

Praying for the Harvest in Hard Places

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 12:00:02 GMT

Praying for the Harvest in Hard Places

When Jesus looked out at the crowds in Matthew 9, He saw something deeper than the chaos of daily life. He saw people weary, burdened, searching for hope. His response was not only compassion but a clear call to action: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field.” This call still echoes today—especially in the hardest places.

Hard Ground, Hidden Seeds

In many parts of the world the Christian faith can’t be spoken of openly, where gathering as believers is risky, and where everyday survival leaves little room for spiritual pursuit. These are the “hard places” Jesus was talking about—not because His Spirit is absent, but because resistance is strong and the soil is hard as rock.

Yet even in rocky ground, the Lord is planting seeds. Refugees displaced by war, families facing deep loss, and communities forgotten by the world are encountering Jesus through relationships, acts of compassion, and the faithfulness of those who are willing to go.

Why Prayer Matters Most

In places where open evangelism is limited, prayer becomes the frontline. Every prayer for the unreached, every intercession for a weary missionary, every cry for revival in a persecuted nation tills the soil and waters the seed.

Prayer is not just preparation for the work—it is the work.

When we pray for the harvest in hard places, we join God’s heart for the nations. We believe what He sees: not just barrenness, but future fruit.

How to Pray for the Harvest

Pray for Workers

Ask the Lord to raise up more laborers who are willing to go into difficult places with courage and humility.

Pray for Open Hearts

That God would soften hearts hardened by war, trauma, or hopelessness, and prepare them to receive the Good News.

Pray for Protection & Endurance

Cover those serving on the frontlines with prayers for strength, safety, and perseverance.

Pray for Multiplication

That disciples would make disciples, and that local believers would be empowered to carry the gospel into their own communities.

Joining the Story

At Light A Candle, we believe prayer is what lights the way in the darkest corners of the earth. Every time you lift up a prayer for those in hard places, you are part of God’s mission—standing shoulder to shoulder with workers and with the very people He longs to bring home.

The harvest is plentiful. The ground may be hard, but the Lord of the harvest is faithful. Let us keep praying, believing, and working until His Light shines in every nation.

Rising Through Persecution: Hope for India's Next Generation

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 20:54:23 GMT

Rising Through Persecution:

Hope for India’s Next Generation

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 5:10

Worship No Matter the Cost

Hope in Hard Places

Saving Kids and Sparking Revival

If you want to be part of the work God is doing throughout the nation of India, consider rescuing a child through our sponsorship program today! When you sponsor through Light a Candle, you rescue a child living in a remote village from the threats of child labor and sex trafficking. The greatest impact of sponsorship is the hope they experience when they realize there is a God who truly loves them.

Despite heavy persecution, God is moving in the nations and calling them to Himself. Nothing the enemy does will stop that. Not even in the darkest, hardest-to-reach villages of India.

Israel 2026 with Sean Feucht

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 21:47:13 GMT

ISRAEL 2026 WITH SEAN FEUCHT: WORSHIPPING THROUGH THE HOLY LAND

Light a Candle, Burn 24/7, & Let Us Worship

Dates: Fall 2026

Cost: $4,990 | All ground expenses + flights included
$3,100 | You book your flights, All ground expenses included

$100 non refundable application fee is required upon submission (your application will only be considered after this is paid)

TRIP APPLICATION + FEE PAYMENT BELOW

Info:

A timely and prophetic journey through the ancient land of the Bible and our Messiah that will leave a last importation on your life.

This is an Israel experience unlike any other you may have heard of. We believe this is a “Once in a lifetime experience” that every follower of Jesus would dream of.

After 20 years of traveling to the Holy Land with epic God-encounters, relationships and partnering with local ministries — this will be the culmination of all the knowledge, connections, prophetic moments we’ve had along the way.

Sean Feucht will be leading the charge along with some of his incredible friends and a superstar team in the spring of 2026.

Many more details will be coming but we are only accepting 100 applicants for this trip! Once those spots are gone — they are gone!

Let Us Worship, Light A Candle, and Burn 24-7 will all be in partnership to make this trip happen and each ministry will play a vital role.

The door has opened wide again to the nation and it’s time for you to respond to the call.

Do not delay as these spots will be filled up quickly!!

Status:

10 places remaining

PAY APPLICATION FEE

Note: This is non-refundable and is required upon submission (your application will only be considered after this is paid)

Mozambique 2026

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 20:53:05 GMT

MOZAMBIQUE 2026

Dates: June 5-15, 2026

Cost: $4400 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

Mozambique is a nation bursting with beauty, resilience, and a deep longing for hope—and God is moving there in extraordinary ways.

By joining this short-term mission trip where we will partner with our friends at an Iris Global base, you’ll step into the heart of revival in southeast Africa.

You will spend time in the prayer house worshiping and interceding for the nation, encouraging the local church, serving in a jail ministry, and helping to teach at the children's ministry

As you give your yes to Jesus by loving on the people of Mozambique, you’ll find yourself overflowing with joy and faith. Come ready to pour out—and be filled beyond measure.

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

Nigeria 2026

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 20:25:31 GMT

NIGERIA 2026

Dates: July 3-12, 2026

Cost: $3200-$3500 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

Nigeria is alive with opportunity for the Gospel — a nation full of deep spiritual hunger. In the midst of both persecution and potential, God is moving powerfully, and He is inviting us to join Him.

This trip is more than a mission, it’s a divine appointment to step into the story God is writing in West Africa. You’ll serve alongside passionate believers at the YWAM Port Harcourt base to reach the local communities with hope.

We will serve the Women of Honor who have been left widowed and childless because of the persecution in Northern Nigeria. Medical personnel are welcome to apply and serve in the base clinic. Teachers, families, and those who love kids are welcome to apply to come and serve the local school by ministering to the children.

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

Brazil 2026

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 17:49:35 GMT

BRAZIL 2026

Dates: July 15-25, 2026

Cost: $3500-$3700 (prices vary due to flights)

REVIVAL IN THE SEX TRADE

Revival is happening in the sex trade industry and God is moving mightily in the hearts of trafficked girls in Brazil!

The heart of this trip is to pour out the love of the Father and to bring freedom, hope, and a future to these precious girls. We will reach these girls by going into bars and clubs in Brazil's "red light district."

We will connect with them and build relationship through a banquet, meal distributions, and Bible studies to love, serve, and honor these daughters of the Most High.

Are you burning to see heaven invade the sex trade industry, to bring Light into the darkest corners of Brazil? Come and join us to see God's love redeem these girls from ashes to beauty.

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

Uganda 2026

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 17:30:52 GMT

UGANDA 2026

Dates: August 1-9, 2026

Cost: $3500-$3700 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

In partnership with Hope Shine U ganda our team will be serving in the Kampala slums, sharing the Gospel, providing much-needed humanitarian aid, and partnering with women in crisis.

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

Morocco 2026

Sat, 04 Jan 2025 15:55:59 GMT

MOROCCO 2026

Dates: September 19-28, 2026

Cost: $3600 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

Morocco is a nation of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and deep spiritual hunger. From the bustling cities to the quiet desert towns, many people have never heard the true gospel—and yet God is at work, stirring hearts in unseen ways. This trip is an invitation to join Him by walking the streets, entering homes, and covering neighborhoods in focused, Spirit-led prayer.

Our time in Morocco will center around partnering with local believers who are faithfully sowing seeds of truth.

This trip is about learning to see with God's eyes. If you’re ready to step out in boldness, serve, and witness how prayer shapes lives and nations, join us in Morocco!

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

Philippines 2026

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 19:40:54 GMT

PHILIPPINES 2026

Trip Leader: Jochebed Van Meerendonk

Dates: October 3-11, 2026

Cost: $3600 (prices may change due to flights)

REVIVAL IN THE SEX TRADE

Revival is happening in the sex trade industry and God is moving mightily in the hearts of trafficked girls in the Philippines!

The heart of this trip is to pour out the love of the Father and to bring freedom, hope, and a future to these precious girls. We will reach these girls by going into bars and clubs in the most famous "red light district" in Angeles City. We will connect with them and build relationship through a banquet, meal distributions, and Bible studies to love, serve, and honor these daughters of the Most High.

Are you burning to see heaven invade the sex trade industry, to bring Light into the darkest corners of Manila? Come and join us to see God's love redeem these girls from ashes to beauty.

Status:

Accepting Applications

Apply Below | Email Trip Leader

Iraq Fall 2026

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 19:29:55 GMT

Iraq Fall 2026

Trip Leader: Kayla Coons

Dates: October 1-11, 2026

Cost: $3200-$3500 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

"The Lord of hosts has blessed, saying, “Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria (Iraq) the work of my hands, and Israel my inheritance.”

We have a vision of the Lord blessing the people of Iraq, the work of His hands. If God has put this region on your heart, this trip is for you. We will worship over the nation, work with refugees to meet physical needs, and will connect with locals to point them to Jesus and disciple them!

Status:

Accepting Applications

Email Trip Leader

Jordan 2026

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 17:43:40 GMT

JORDAN 2026

Dates: October 13-22, 2026

Cost: $3500-$3700 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

Our team will partner with a local ministry in Jordan to serve Syrian refugees through humanitarian aid, home visits, vocational training, mother-baby education, and encouraging the local community.

This team is perfect for singles, couples, and families with kids of all ages.

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

Bahrain + Saudi 2026

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 19:30:34 GMT

BAHRAIN & SAUDI ARABIA 2026

Dates: November 1-10, 2026

Cost: $3200 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

Though it’s often overlooked, Bahrain is a strategic place where God is quietly moving, and we have the incredible opportunity to come alongside a faithful local ministry already planting seeds of hope.

This trip is about presence, partnership, and prayer. We will be building authentic relationships with our local partners on the ground as well as those who are seeking.

We will serve behind the scenes in practical ways and see firsthand what gospel-centered ministry looks like in a highly diverse, majority-Muslim context. Every day offers a chance to live out the love of Christ with humility and boldness.

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

Healthy Kids Project

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:01:50 GMT

HEALTHY KIDS PROJECT

In Northern Iraq you will find many Syrian families who have fled their homeland as refugees seeking safety and security in their neighboring nation. While many of these refugees have found physical safety in Iraq they have also found that creating a prosperous life for their families is nearly impossible. These families find it difficult to find work, Syrian children have a hard time attending the public schools that teach in a language they cannot speak, and living conditions are poor as many landlords take advantage of the families living in the rented homes and apartments.

Support

Each week of this project costs just $20 for supplies and snacks for the 20-25 children who attend. You can consider supporting a month's worth of the Healthy Kids' Project for $80, two months for $160, six months for $520, or an entire year of the Healthy Kids' Project for $1040!

Your support makes an immediate and tangible impact on dozens of children in need in Iraqi-Kurdistan!

Choose "Iraq General Fund" from the dropdown menu!

In Everything... GIVE THANKS

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:56:03 GMT

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

GRATITUDE IS THE FAST-TRACK TO INTIMACY WITH GOD

Psalm 100 says that we "enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise". What a beautiful guide into the presence of God. In His presence there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16) and it is in His presence that we are transformed (2 Corinthians 3). Holy Spirit is the one who transforms us and our goal as followers of Jesus should be centered around becoming more like Jesus!

The Bible instructs us to "give thanks" 173 times between the Old and New Testaments with an additional 157 times speaking about gratitude. Jesus himself gave thanks many times and instructed his disciples to do the same. Jesus is THE model for how to live our lives and so when we see him live a lifestyle of obedience and thankfulness, we must adopt this into our lives as well.

Even modern psychology reveals the innumerable benefits to living a life of thankfulness showing that it can lead to improved physical health, increased happiness, enhanced empathy, better self-esteem, greater resilience, reduced materialism, stronger relationships, better sleep, less fatigue, lower levels of cellular inflammation, and overall greater resiliency.

GIVING THANKS WITH NOTHING:

The children in our Child Sponsorship Program display perhaps the most profound faith our team has witnessed, they are deeply grateful each and every month when the truck arrives bringing another month's worth of food.

Their gratefulness is leading to blessings that go far beyond earthly gains in each of their lives. You can see it for yourself over time with every new picture update. Eyes that were hard and hopeless shine with joy and life, promise and hope!

TO GET YOU STARTED...

Sometimes it can be hard to know where to begin, with so much going on in each of our lives it can be hard to 'zero in' on expressing our heart of gratitude to God. Follow along with the following as you move into a lifestyle of greater thankfulness.

1. Praise God for His Goodness

The Psalms are filled with expressions of gratitude and praise, reminding us to thank God for His character, provision, and faithfulness.

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” – Psalm 100:4
Gratitude is an act of worship, and acknowledging God’s goodness is at the heart of our thankfulness.

2. Be Grateful for God’s Provision

Scripture teaches us to recognize and give thanks for the many ways God provides for our needs.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” – James 1:17
Acknowledging God as the source of every good gift helps us cultivate a grateful mindset.

3. Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude

The Bible teaches that gratitude should be a continual, inward attitude that affects how we interact with others and with God.

“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:17
Gratitude should permeate every aspect of our lives—whether in work, relationships, or in worship.

4. Give Thanks for Salvation

One of the deepest sources of gratitude in the Bible is the salvation that God provides through Jesus Christ. Christians are encouraged to be thankful for the gift of eternal life and forgiveness.

“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” – 2 Corinthians 9:15
The gift of salvation is a reason for endless gratitude.

5. Be Humble in Gratitude

True gratitude involves humility, recognizing that all we have is a gift from God, not something we have earned.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
This verse encourages us to approach God with a thankful heart, trusting that He will meet our needs.

6. Gratitude as a Lifestyle

The Bible encourages a lifestyle of continual gratitude, not just in specific moments of worship, but as an ongoing expression of a heart aligned with God's will.

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15
Living in peace and unity with others, and being thankful for that, reflects a life lived with a grateful heart.

7. Sharing Gratitude with Others

Thankfulness is also something that should be shared with others, both as an expression of God’s goodness to us and as an encouragement to others.

“Let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” – Hebrews 13:15
Gratitude should flow from our hearts and be shared openly with others, giving glory to God.

8. Gratitude in Prayer

Gratitude should be a regular part of our prayer life, as we thank God for His blessings, guidance, and presence.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
Praying with thanksgiving helps to shift our focus from worries to God’s provision and faithfulness.

9. Your turn

By now you will have entered the Presence of God in a new way. Maybe you are feeling something physically, a sense of His presence with you, a peace that passes your understanding or maybe the Bible is coming alive to you in a new way... maybe you're on the floor right now stunned at His goodness! It might be something else too! Whatever the case I encourage you to praise Him for who he is, what He has done and thank Him for meeting with you.

What else are you thankful for? He will never grow tired of hearing you and spending time with you.

SPONSOR A WAITING CHILD

There are many children waiting right now for a sponsor! Many of them are already giving thanks ahead of time that God will send them a sponsor.

Will you be the answer to that prayer today?

Iraq Medical Trip 2027

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 19:28:17 GMT

Iraq Medical Trip 2027

Dates: March 12-23, 2027

Cost: $3800

Info: Half missions trip & half medical clinic!

We will be running a medical clinic for victims of war and communities that are desperately in need of medical care. This year we'll be balancing out clinic days with house and tent visits and helping on a very personal level! We are believing for amazing divine appointments.

The trips over the previous five years were absolutely life-changing and the best way to get a feel for the trip is to watch the documentary below!

So if you're a doctor, dentist or hygienist, PA, nurse, EMT, physio, etc. or just someone who really wants to help this trip is for you!

We are specifically looking for the below providers!

(MD/DO) (PA) (NP) (Resident Physicians) (PharmD + technicians)(PT/Athletic trainers) (RN)(LVNs) (DDM/DDS)(Paramedic/EMT)

Apply Below | Email Trip Leader

WATCH THE MINI-DOCUMENTARY

Iraq April 2027

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 19:39:18 GMT

IRAQ SPRING 2027

Trip Leader: Kayla Coons

Dates: April 16-25, 2027

Cost: $3200-$3500 (prices vary due to flights)

Info:

Join us in Iraqi-Kurdistan, serving families who have been displaced by war and persecution.

During this trip, you’ll have the opportunity to visit homes, pray with refugee families, and serve in nearby refugee camps to bring encouragement, practical support, and hope to people rebuilding their lives.

Our teams spend time listening to stories, sharing meals, worshiping together, and standing alongside local believers who are faithfully serving their communities.

More than just a trip, this is an invitation into relationship and compassion, where we remind people who have endured so much that they are seen, loved, and not forgotten.

Status:

Accepting Applications | Email Trip Leader

How To Pray for the Persecuted Church

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:00:05 GMT

This article was written for Light A Candle by the Burn USA Director, Michael C. Burn is a global movement of 24/7 prayer and worship. To learn more or find a Burn furnace near you, visit Burn24-7.com

HOW TO PRAY FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH

In the Bible, persecution is guaranteed for believers. In many parts of the world, the Church is being persecuted for their faith. They are imprisoned, beaten, and sometimes killed for their faith in Christ. For many in the western world, it is hard to comprehend the idea that this type of persecution happens. We are blessed to live in nations that allow us to exercise our faith freely.

“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Matthew 5:11-12

The Temptation to Ignore

When we hear about the persecution of believers it is easy to respond by burying our heads in the sand to the issue altogether. Our culture has become a “scrolling culture.” When an issue comes up we may respond for a short time but we quickly scroll to the next post . For the persecuted church, there is no scrolling, there is no ignoring the issue. For the persecuted church, this is their day to day life and their honor to bring the gospel to the darkest and hardest places.

How Can I Respond?

So what do we do? Some consider it a daunting task to even begin to pray for those who are being persecuted. We can respond by being paralyzed with shock, ignore and scroll past, or we can respond through prayer and action.

Teach Us To Pray, Lord

Prayer is more than saying pretty words that go up, hit the ceiling, and fall back down. Prayer has the power to change circumstances, and to bring the light to the darkness. It can be daunting to even begin to pray for our brothers and sisters who are being persecuted. So how do we respond in prayer?

Pray for protection for the underground church in countries where persecution happens. “Lord close the eyes of those who wish to harm your children. Send people of peace to them, who can offer protection from those who are persecuting your church."
Pray for wisdom, favor, and open doors. “Lord open doors that no one can close. Thank you, God, that if we lack wisdom we can ask for it and You give it to us. Provide the wisdom to move when you say move, to stay when you say stay, to speak when you say speak."
Pray for endurance. “Lord give your church clear vision and endurance to continue their call!”
Pray for boldness. "Thank you, Jesus. for the boldness it takes to bring your Gospel of peace to the world. We ask that you would give your church abroad and here at home the boldness to continue the Great Commission in the face of persecution."
Pray Scripture! There is nothing more powerful than praying the words of God Himself. Speak and declare the Living Word of God!

Is Prayer Effective?

Yes! We know our prayers create change. We know our prayers are to God in Heaven who knows our name (Ps 91:14). We know that Jesus intercedes for us (Romans 8:34). We know we are told to approach His throne with boldness (Hebrews 4:16) and that God hears our prayers (Ps 34:17). Prayer is not a ritual. Prayer is a weapon.

If you are like me, prayer is a HUGE part of your life. We love to sit at the feet of Jesus and worship. We love to minister to His heart. We love to behold the Father. And if you are like me, these types of prayers always create in me a call to action. We love to sit at the feet of Jesus, but we are called to BE the hands and feet of Jesus to the world. We love to behold Jesus, but we need to also become LIKE the One we behold. So this brings up a question of “how do we respond with action?”

PRAYER + ACTION

Support organizations like Light A Candle. You can support financially by donating or raising money for projects that are directly helping the Persecuted Church. You can support missionaries who are ministering to and are part of the persecuted Church.
You can go! Pray about where and how the Lord will send you to the nations.
Do not bury your head in the sand. Stay informed with the needs of our brothers and sisters. Spread the word. Share informational posts and blogs to make others aware of the plight our brothers and sisters face around the world.

Prayers can and will change situations, maybe the Lord is calling you to be the answer to your prayers. Let's stay in constant prayer for our brothers and sisters in the persecuted Church, be ready to act when needed, and bring the light of Jesus to the darkest places!

The Worth of Women

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 19:20:51 GMT

There have recently been more regulations and restrictions placed on women than ever before, even in biblical times. Shari'a law and "morality police" are imposing impossible demands on women not to allow any skin (even hands or eyes) to show, to refrain from even looking at a man who is not related to them, and to disallow them from speaking in public. Women in many nations are burdened with the weight of expectations that are meant to crush them. This was never God's intention for women.

There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:28

THE IMPACT OF A WOMAN

Women have been chosen to share about the Gospel of Jesus ever since Mary Magdalene was the first to share about His resurrection! God created women as the final act of creation and He has honored and called them to a special purpose since that moment.

Today, the underground church in Iran is the fastest growing church in the world and it is led primarily by women! These are women who live in a nation that is one of the most persecuted on earth and still they are preaching the Gospel with all boldness, without seminary degrees or ordinations. They are replicating the church of Acts in the modern world!

Not only are women leading churches in their own nation, but women outnumber men on the mission field 2:1. Perhaps it is because men are being called to be pastors in their local context, but we are seeing more women, including single women, on the field than ever before! Women are uniquely able to minister in stricter contexts that men cannot access due to the cultural barriers. While Muslim women (mothers) are called the Gatekeepers of Islam, we find that believing women are the keys for Christianity -- unlocking and opening doors to hearts that were once closed!

How can I make an impact as a woman?

Women can make an impact on the world whether in their home context or by following Jesus to the darkest areas of the globe.

If you don't even know how to begin making an impact here are some ways you can take the first steps to leading the charge in your sphere of influence!

GLOBALLY

You can have impact as a woman globally through going and giving! Sponsorship and giving to missionaries or missions projects are ways that you can use the resources that God has blessed you with to in turn pour out on the people around the world. You can sponsor a child in India to save them out of trafficking. You can provide monthly support to a missionary working in an unreached area. You can use your dollars to advance a project in some of the top most persecuted nations in the world!
You can GO ! Women are outnumbering the men on our short term teams every time! We take women of all ages, marital statuses, and parental statuses on our short term teams! We also have women on our long term teams in India and Iraq! Consider joining one of our short term teams to impact the unreached nations of the world for the Good News!

LOCALLY

The simplest way to make an impact is by serving in your local church community. Join a serve team and be joyfully involved and active! Pour out on those around you in a way that you enjoy! Serve in the food pantry, on the media team, in the kids' ministry, or on the worship team.
Get outside the building! If you are passionate about reaching refugees but can't take an overseas trip, look for ministries that serve refugees in your area! Many ministries help provide English classes, transportation, and house visits to those seeking asylum in the US. Volunteer with one of these ministries and involve your whole family -- it's a great way to introduce children to other cultures while also showing the love of Jesus.
Pray for missionaries, for unreached people groups, and for the underground churches around the world. Prayer is powerful and effective!

Ready to make an impact for the Gospel as a woman? Fill out our short missions form!

Does Sponsorship Really Make A Difference?

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 20:43:18 GMT

Have you ever wondered, "Does child sponsorship really make a difference?" The answer is a powerful YES! Sponsorship isn't just about financial support—it's about breaking the cycle of poverty and protecting children from trafficking by tackling the root causes of their vulnerability.

In India, human trafficking is the second-largest form of organized crime, with a staggering 38.3% increase over the past five years. Every year, around 135,000 children are trafficked, trapped in a nightmare of exploitation and abuse.

"The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners"

Isaiah 61:1

Amulya's Story

At just 14, Amulya lives with her mother and five siblings in a remote village in India. After her father died from exhaustion while trying to support them, her mother was left overwhelmed and desperate. Struggling to make ends meet, she sent Amulya to work as a maid with no other choice.

Each day, Amulya endured relentless physical, emotional, and mental abuse. Her abusers saw it fit to treat her in whatever way they wished, stripping away her dignity and hope.

When the Light a Candle team met Amulya’s family, we learned she had stopped attending school to earn money so her siblings could eat. We immediately told her to return to school the next day and got her sponsored.

Addressing the crisis:

Light a Candle operates in the states with the 2nd + 3rd highest child trafficking in all of India.

Leading causes of trafficking:

Caste (Untouchables)
Inherited debt
Extreme Poverty
No Education

The most prevalent forms of trafficking in the villages LAC operates in:

Forced Servitude:
In homes
Agricultural
Factories
Brick Kilns
Bonded Labor
Sex Slavery
Temple Prostitution
Forced Child Marriages
Organ Trafficking

One of our Indian team members put it starkly: "It’s an open secret—everyone knows it happens, but no one wants to talk about it." Many villages where we work have never received help, while others haven’t received it in decades. Without help, children are left exposed and helpless, unable to escape the problem.

The Impact of Sponsorship:

When a child is sponsored, the funds are allocated to meet their needs. Of the $49, $45 directly supports that child. This includes food, education, and medical care.

When a child becomes sponsored, their family’s worries about how to provide for them are no longer. This support lifts the heavy burden from their parents, freeing them from the heart-wrenching choice of having to sell their child just to secure enough food. Instead, they can embrace hope and envision a brighter future, knowing their child is cared for.

Best of all, they experience their Heavenly Father's unending love for them.

How you can make a difference today!

sponsor a child

We have more than 100 children waiting right now for a sponsor! For $49/mo you provide high quality food, an education, medical care and so much more for a specific child. Each one worthy of love and support! Learn more here or click the button to sponsor.

no child left behind FUND

The NCLBF provides food and medical care to children waiting to be sponsored. To date is has provided nearly 60,000 meals!

Select "No Child Left Behind Fund" from the dropdown

IndiaN Distribution Centre

This Indian Distribution Centre will be the hub for our entire sponsorship program! As a warehouse, we can buy supplies in bulk to fight inflation, increasing the privacy and security of all of our operations. It will also serve as a training facility to train pastors in the underground church and so much more!

Select "Indian Distribution Center" from the dropdown

I want to do Missions but...

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:28:49 GMT

Many believers feel the Lord stirring their hearts for the nations. They hear the call so clearly to go into full-time missions, whether for a season of a few years or indefinitely. Yet when these believers (maybe this is you!) step into the process they become overwhelmed by the seemingly insurmountable roadblocks before them! How can we count the cost, take up our cross, and overcome the roadblocks to going into full time missions?

"We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake."

1 Thessalonians 1:3-5

Obstacles vs. Overcoming

How will I raise the money?

One of the most immediate and substantial hurdles is securing adequate funding .

Overcome: We have seen God provide for both short and long term workers when He calls them to the nations. Tell everyone the God-story about what you will do in the nations and allow people to partner with you in prayer and financial support!

I don't speak the language!

Adapting to a new culture and learning a new language can be daunting. Effective missionary work hinges on the ability to communicate and connect with the local population.

Overcome : Spend the first year in the land learning the language while doing ministry at the same time! Don't put ministry on hold, immerse yourself in the language while doing ministry!

Admin doesn't feel like ministry.

Navigating the administrative aspects of long-term missionary work can be complex.

Overcome : Set aside at least one day a week specifically for administrative work. Often, admin work doesn't seem like it advances the ministry, but it's time to shift that perspective! Without organization and structure in place you won't be as effective in your ministry efforts!

I'm feeling disconnected...

Missionaries may experience isolation, homesickness, and burnout due to separation from family, friends, and familiar surroundings.

Overcome : Build a strong community in the nation you serve. Connect with other workers and expats as well as making friends with locals. Have a strong support team behind you in your home country and keep in touch with them over calls, video calls, emails, chat groups, and regular visits to share testimonies and updates!

N o Obstacle Too Big!

There is no roadblock too big for the Lord to overcome if He has called you into full-time ministry overseas!

Ready to overcome the roadblocks and join us long-term? Apply Below!

The Privilege of Persecution

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 14:00:02 GMT

If you are a follower of Jesus you must expect persecution. The disciples counted it as a privilege to be considered worthy of persecution so much so that they prayed for greater boldness!

"Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness." (Acts 4:29)

Only one chapter later, in Acts 5:41, the disciples gave thanks to God that they had been counted worthy to suffer for him after being flogged!

There is an extraordinary reward for those privileged enough to be persecuted for being a follower of Jesus. In Matthew 5, Jesus says these words: "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

The Bible is full of the rewards of persecution: 1 Peter 3:14, 1 Peter 4:12-14, Revelation 2:10, Matthew 10:22, Revelation 20:4, 2 Corinthians 12:10 and so on.

On June 29 we recognize the Day of the Christian Martyr so it bears looking at Stephen, the first follower of Jesus to be martyred for his faith. He received an extraordinary honor, just before he was stoned to death he had a powerful vision of heaven, saying, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:56). Jesus stood to receive Stephen into his eternal home.

Saul, who we know by the name Paul, was watching Stephen be stoned became one of the greatest evangelists of his time. Let us pray for more Sauls to become Pauls today! That those who are persecuting our brothers and sisters would encounter Jesus and believe in Him!

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 42:10

The reality of persecution today is staggering

In 2023, 295,120 Christians were forced to leave their homes, go into hiding in-country or leave the country.
80,000 North Korean Christians were kept alive with food aid through Chinese networks.
4,998 Christians were murdered for their faith last year in 2023.
14,766 churches and public Christian properties were attacked in 2023.

(Statistics courtesy of Open Doors)

Light a Candle intentionally works in some of the most persecuted nations on earth because there are 365 million Christians around the world suffering high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith. We want to come alongside those believers with hope and joy. We recognize their bravery, suffering, and persecution for the Gospel and we join with them in laboring for the harvest!

In India those who are at greatest risk for persecution are the Christians who have come out of Hinduism. India is the 11th most persecuted nation of the world, and while all eyes may be on the Middle East, Manipur has been burning for a year. Hindu extremists target Christians in Manipur and across India for renouncing Hinduism and pursuing Jesus. Our team on the ground in India and the short term teams that we send there must be as wise as serpents as they carry out ministry work so that they can promote the Gospel of Jesus without drawing unwanted attention from the wrong people. Pray for our team in India as they seek the Lord's wisdom in all that they do. Pray for protection and perseverance!

Iraq is a country we have a long history with, since the reign of terror in 2016 that ISIS inflicted on those living in the northern region. Iraq is #16 on the World Watch List because of the target that those who leave Islam for Christianity have on their backs. Iraqi Christians with a Muslim background face the reality of persecution through "honor" killings, torture, and threats. We partner with our friends on the ground in that nation to continue discipling believers who come from a Muslim background, to bring the hope of Jesus to those who do not yet believe, and to pray for the Islamic extremists who are still buying into the lie that the Islamic state promoted almost 10 years ago. The Lord has promises still in store for Assyria, so we continue to stand on that hope and future for our Iraqi brothers and sisters!

Join us in praying for the Persecuted Church...

If you don't know where to begin, start here:

Pray that the persecuted church would be strengthened in their faith and that they would not waiver in their commitment to Christ, even in the face of great adversity.
Pray that even in the midst of persecution, the church would have opportunities to share the gospel and that many would come to know Christ as a result.
Pray for all of our persecuted sisters and brothers around the world who share our faith but not our freedom to worship Jesus.
Pray with secret believers for resources and opportunities.

Download this prayer calendar from Open Doors

Our hope is in Jesus!

Before he ascended into heaven Jesus delivered this wonderful promise: "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

He is our reward! Join us in continuing to stand with the persecuted church.

More Information on the Persecuted Church

Churches Burned in India

Christian Persecution in India

What You Should Know About Persecution

How to Pray for the Persecuted Church

The Zion Centre

Mon, 13 May 2024 21:24:25 GMT

"The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the Rock."

Matthew 7:25

THE VISION

As persecution rises to an all time high in India the word of the Lord has been clearer than ever: "Buy land, take ownership in the natural and supernatural.... and build!"

The Zion Centre will not only house the growing Child Sponsorship program long into the future but will be a training center for the Underground Church!

With the results of the last elections there is a limited window of time to build before regulations change. God's favor is already on this project so strongly! This is more than a building, it is a center for revival!

PURPOSE OF THE ZION CENTRE

This is more than just a building, it is a place where the Spirit of God pours out over a region and a nation.

The Zion Centre enables us to:

Warehouse thousands of kilos of supplies that are given to your Sponsor Child every month, saving thousands of dollars each year
Have a secure base of operations for all Indian projects
Own land both in the natural and in the supernatural
Run training seminars for the Underground Church
Run VBS and other childrens' programs
Have a central office and housing for our team as they spend half their life sacrificially serving the 1,300+ children in the sponsorship program

As a warehouse the Zion Centre enables us to buy supplies in bulk to fight inflation as well as saving thousands per year, ensuring our 1,300+ Sponsor Children receive a months worth of food every month despite prices rising over 300% in the past few years alone!

The Zion Centre is not just a strategic move against persecution and governmental control; it is a step toward sustainability and empowerment. It is creating a safe and stable environment for both our workers and the communities we serve.

It is a place where hope is cultivated and futures are built!

Select "Zion Centre" from the drop-down

Sow Into The Zion Centre

We are so thankful for the donors who have already sown into this project in a massive way, bringing the construction part of the project to completion!

However, this is only the beginning! Ongoing support for the Zion Centre will allow us to finance this center with what it needs to be a resource to the persecuted church in India and to our sponsorship children and their families!

Support will allow us to cover monthly expenses such as electricity, security, maintenance, childrens' programs, and more.

How to give:

1 - Online

Tap the button below and find The Zion Centre give box. Choose your amount and frequency and then "Add to Cart" and "Proceed to Checkout"

2 - Check

Put "The Zion Centre" in the memo.

Mail all checks to: Light a Candle PO Box 850382, Richardson, TX 75085

If you would like to make a large gift towards this project please email hello@lightacandle.global or call us on (530) 235-6447

EXPLORE THE PROJECT

SITE MAP

In addition to our 3 story facility the property also allows for a multi-purpose area where summer programs can be held as well as if necessary, additional storage in the future.

EXPLORE EACH BUILD STAGE

THE JOURNEY SO FAR

At Peace On Earth event in May 2024, we brought the need for $60,000 to purchase the land needed for the Zion Center in Wisconsin. In just two hours we were fully funded for the cost of the land!

Together we took the opportunity that evening to lay hands on the blueprints and pray over the land and ask that God would bless it, that He would multiply His work and resources there, and that He would protect it from all who might come agains the work we will be doing there.

With the funds for the land acquired, we are ready to begin working on the Zion Centre itself! This will be a massive undertaking that we expect to take around a 2 years to build once funding is secure, so time is of the essence! We are grateful for radically generous supporters who are sowing into this project so that we can see it to completion!

HOW TO PRAY:

The singular most important thing you can do is pray for this project. Your prayers are powerful and affect this project in real time. Prayer points are updated regularly as our team in India communicates additional needs.

Join with us in praying for::

Protection for the local Indian team. That they would walk in wisdom and for angelic protection.
God's long-term protection over this land. That He would send angels to guard the four corners of the property and that God would blind the eyes of any who would seek to shut this facility down.
Continued progress and favorable weather to keep the project on schedule.

HOW TO GIVE:

1 - Online

Tap the button below and find "The Zion Centre" from the list of options. Put in your amount and frequency then "Add to Cart" and "Proceed to Checkout!"

2 - Check

Put "The Zion Centre" in the memo.

Mail all checks to: Light a Candle PO Box 850382, Richardson, TX 75085

If you would like to make a large gift towards this project please email hello@lightacandle.global or call us on (530) 235-6447

More than a building, a place where Heaven will come to earth!

House to House

Thu, 02 May 2024 00:20:26 GMT

HOUSE TO HOUSE PROJECT

In the Middle East, the culture is big on sipping tea on the floor cushions, meals in homes, and late nights. We devote our time to prayer, the breaking of bread, and building up homes in the Word of God. Through this project we provide Bibles, food bags, clothes, hygiene kits, and other necessities to the families with whom we are building community.

The investment for this project is $20,000 per year, or $1670 per month. This provides the food bags and hygiene kits for 50 families each month.

These 50 families are Syrian refugee families who fled the war in their own country only to find that they cannot get work in Iraq. Many Syrians are treated with disdain and are taken advantage of by employers and other employees alike. They find it very difficult to get work, and when they do they are often mistreated, unpaid, and work extremely long hours for minimal wages if they are lucky enough to be paid.

Through the House to House project, we are able to supplement with some necessary supplies to provide for these families, allowing them to put their hard earned money toward rent, medical bills, and utilities. Additionally, meeting the physical needs in this way allows us the opportunity to spend more time with these families, encouraging and discipling them.

Choose "Middle East" from the drop-down menu > Choose to give once or monthly > Memo "House to House Project"

No Child Left Behind Fund

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 05:54:29 GMT

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND

No child should ever be forgotten.

Our No Child Left Behind Fund ensures that even children who are still waiting for a sponsor receive nutritious meals, care, and hope. It’s our way of saying, “You are seen. You are loved. You matter.”

This fund also supports children who might otherwise fall through the cracks—those in remote villages, in crisis situations, or whose sponsorship has been delayed.

Our deepest desire is to reflect the heart of the Father: one of compassion, consistency, and care. When a child is welcomed into our sponsorship program, we make a promise—that they will never again go to bed hungry, fear being left out, or suffer without access to basic medical care.

Their journey is just beginning, and we’re committed to walking it with them, every step of the way.

As of June 2025, the NCLB Fund has provided nearly 180,000 meals! Watch the video below for more.

Choose "No Child Left Behind Fund" from the drop-down menu

Underground Church Discipleship

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 05:39:39 GMT

UNDERGROUND CHURCH DISCIPLESHIP PROJECT

Our team hosts Bible study and worship nights several times per week. They have a weekly morning prayer meeting, a Wednesday night Bible study and worship night for those looking to learn more about the Bible and be discipled, and another weeknight Bible study for a smaller, more intimate group of believers who are looking to go deeper into God’s Word and are being trained up to lead their own house churches.

Our team has hosted several small groups of volunteers who have come to pour into these Bible study nights through training on disciple-making, Biblical marriage, and how to understand the Bible more fully. These topics allow our new believer friends to put their faith into practice, going from belief to action!

The investment for this project is $5,000 per year or $417 per month. The funding for this project goes toward the costs of putting on these studies and worship nights – tea, light refreshments, translator salary, transportation for the families who live farther away, Bibles, and study materials.

Each study night, there are around 50 adults who are consistent and committed to regular attendance. All are welcome, no matter where in their faith they may be. We have welcomed young and old, those who aren't yet believers and those who are more mature in their faith. The smaller weeknight study serves the purpose of stewarding a more intimate group of those who are born again and are looking to dive much deeper in their faith. We take communion, eat a meal, and go deep in relationship and in the Lord.

We welcome all individuals and church partners who wish to contribute to this project of developing the underground church of Iraq!

Choose "Middle East" from the drop-down menu > Choose to give once or monthly > Memo "Underground Church"

Jocelyn B.

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 11:03:29 GMT

JOCELYN B.

Jocelyn has a deep desire for all to know the transformative love, joy, peace, and hope she has found in Jesus Christ.

As Psalm 40:9 says, “I can’t keep quiet!” Quite literally, Jocelyn cannot keep quiet, especially about the love of Jesus! Jocelyn has responded to the call to partner with the Lord in what He’s doing among the unreached in the Middle East and beyond.

As a nurse with a passion for education and preventative care, she plans to use her skills in various communities to equip, restore, and open meaningful conversation.

Jocelyn holds firmly to John 1:5, which declares that “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.” The Light of Jesus will never be extinguished in this place! The JOY of the Lord is our strength, and we set our mind on heavenly things as we press on in sharing the love, joy, peace, and hope of

Jesus Christ in every nation!

If Jocelyn is not socializing, you will likely find her by the lake, bird-watching and reading books. She also enjoys driving long distances while blasting music, going on long walks in the snow or in the sun, feeding chickens and ducks, and cuddling cats. You can take the girl off the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the girl!

Click on the link above and choose "Missionaries."

Select "JOCELYN B." from the Select A Missionary drop-down button.

Michael + Kayla C.

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 16:35:33 GMT

MICHAEL + KAYLA C.

Michael and Kayla, along with their two children, are answering a long-term call to serve in the Middle East.

Their heart is to serve the local church, strengthen leaders, and meet the needs of vulnerable families, widows, and refugees throughout Iraqi-Kurdistan and the Arab world. As a family, they feel a deep conviction to go where people are hurting to demonstrate how the love of Christ can transform lives.

In Northern Iraq, they lead discipleship gatherings and relief efforts for displaced families from within Iraq and neighboring nations. Their desire is not only to respond to immediate humanitarian needs, but to invest in long-term spiritual growth, leadership development, and community transformation.

They are currently building a team of monthly partners who will stand with them in prayer, encouragement, and financial support as they live a life poured out before the Lord. Their family carries a simple mission: to bring the hope of Jesus to some of the hardest places in the world—one family, one neighborhood, one nation at a time.

Click on the link above and choose "Missionaries" from the drop-down.

Select "Michael + Kayla C." from the Select A Missionary drop-down button.

Wade + Brittany D.

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 15:01:48 GMT

WADE + BRITTANY DELANEUVILLE

Wade and Brittany, together with their three children, are deeply committed to discipleship, cultivating strong families, and fostering unity within the body of Christ. In recent years, God has ignited a deep passion in their hearts for the nations — with a particular focus on the persecuted Church and the 10/40 Window. After much prayer, they believe the Lord is calling them to Northern Iraq, and they are responding with a wholehearted YES.

Wade brings experience in both business and pastoral ministry, while Brittany serves as a nurse. They are excited to use their unique gifts on the mission field as they step into this calling.

Click on the link above and choose "Missionaries" from the drop-down.

Select "Wade + Brittany Delaneuville" from the Select A Missionary drop-down button.

Holly G.

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 13:40:13 GMT

HOLLY G.

Holly has a deep desire to see people encounter the transformative love, hope, and healing found in Jesus Christ—especially those who have little or no access to the gospel.

Marked by her time in Kurdistan, she has responded to the call to serve among the unreached, trusting in the promise of Romans 10:13–15 and carrying a heart to go where others are not.

She is passionate about walking closely with others through discipleship and investing in young women, encouraging believers to step into their God-given purpose and identity.

As a nurse, she hopes to meet practical needs through care and education while trusting Jesus as the one who brings true healing and lasting hope.

Click on the link above and choose "Missionaries."

Select "HOLLY G." from the Select A Missionary drop-down button.

Sarah L.

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 11:35:58 GMT

SARAH L.

Sarah is the Child Sponsor ship Director for Light A Candle as well as a full-time missionary based in the US, but travelling across the world to share the love and hope of Jesus with the nations.

Sarah has served in the Middle East and now gives her love and devotion to the people of India.

When she goes on mission to India she takes not only her love, but the love of Jesus to the hurting, forgotten, overlooked, and desperate. She pours herself out for the children in remote villages, far off the beaten path.

Click on the link above and choose "Missionaries" from the drop-down.

Select "Sarah L." from the Select A Missionary drop-down button.

Called to Intercession

Hello@Maisey.Pro (Maisey Pro) — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 21:29:03 GMT

Called to Intercession

We ALL have a role in and a call to intercession, may it be your full time gifting or not!

“With all prayer and petition pray [with specific requests] at all times [on every occasion and in every season] in the Spirit, and with this in view, stay alert with all perseverance and petition [interceding in prayer] for all God’s people.” Ephesians 6:18 (Amplified)

Do we need to say more than this verse?! As a believer, you are called, qualified and equipped by the Spirit, to make intercession.

You might ask: What exactly is intercession? What sets this kind of prayer apart from others?

An intercessory prayer comes from a place of listening for the heart of God for an individual or a situation, and crying out on their behalf. This kind of prayer is exciting because through it we get to partner with the Lord’s plan over an individual’s life! We ALL want to be used by the Lord. A great place to start is praying for friends and family and asking the Lord how to pray for them. As believers, we have access to the thoughts of God through scripture and through the Holy Spirit who is dwelling in every born again believer, ( 1 Corinthians 2:10:-16) (James 1:5).

“1 Tim 2:1 First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made on behalf of all people…”

If you are new to the idea of intercession here are some practical steps you can take today to practice intercession:

-Get alone with the Lord and ask Him who He has in mind for you to pray for. Don’t think too long about this. Write down any person or situation that comes to mind.

-Next ask the Lord for a scripture to pray over the people/situation. Make note of the scripture that comes to mind.

-Lastly, pray for that person or situation by speaking out that scripture over them. Spend a few moments praying in the Spirit to increase your awareness of what the Lord is up to.

Remember to make a note of what you are praying for. Try praying for that person or situation several days in a row, until you feel released from praying for them.

Take note of what the Lord does!

Stay tuned to this blog! We will be going more in depth with intercession and how the Lord is using intercessors all over the world to proclaim His will!

Missions & Covid | Masks, Mandates, Fear, & Honor

Hello@Maisey.Pro (Maisey Pro) — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 17:22:35 GMT

Missions & Covid | Masks, Mandates, Fear, & Honor

Do you remember when there was a time that people would ask, “What is COVID-19?”

The memory is slowly fading.

With everything going on in the world it would be really easy for someone to feel that missions trips are not possible. For many, there are tons of questions that come with doing a mission trip in the middle of these turbulent times.

“How do you get into countries?”

“Do you wear your mask the whole time?”

“Do I have to be vaccinated?”

“How do you keep from getting Covid?”

“What happens if I get Covid during outreach?”

These are all VALID & honestly COMMON questions - but I think the answers are more simple than you might think.

Even though sickness and darkness may exist on this Earth, the Gospel must go forth. T here is still an entire world longing for an encounter with Jesus.

In Romans 1:20, you see that everyone in the world is seeing things that reveal Jesus as Lord and YHWH. But, as you read through the rest of the New Testament, you’ll see WE as the Body of Christ are still commanded to share this Good News!

In the first chapter of 1 Corinthians Paul essentially says that this truth is EVERYTHING and that the message of the Gospel is what is going to change people’s lives. The Gospel message IS the one thing that brings real transformation.

So, just because there’s a virus, doesn’t mean the spreading of the Gospel can stop... and it won't!

In the book of Acts when the Apostles were told by the religious leaders that they couldn’t talk about Jesus, their response should send chills down our spines. Their reaction in Acts 4:20 summed up is this: No matter what may come, we won't stop telling people about Jesus!

So what we’re saying is, yes, we understand there’s a sickness and disease happening all around the world. We understand that these are incredibly hard times for everyone. But we’re here to say that we MUST tell the world about JESUS. ��

What people really need right now is an encounter with Jesus. With all of the craziness happening in the world, suicide and addiction rates sky rocketing, families separated from each other, and people in isolation… people need to encounter the One who can change everything in one moment!

The mission statement of our Light a Candle trips these past months has been to “go low and slow" - bringing peace, honor, and dignity into every situation. Yet at the same time, just like the early church of Acts, our mandate is to walk in BOLD FAITH as a people UNASHAMED of the Gospel!

This means that we’re willing to push past the inconveniences, jump through the logistical travel hoops, and forsake our own comforts, if it means that someone will have an encounter that will CHANGE THEIR ETERNITY. It's worth it.

In conclusion…

We’re not going to stop sharing the Gospel in the nations. From the Genesis to Revelation, the subject hasn't changed. And nothing will stop us!

"Christ is our message! We preach to awaken hearts and bring every person into the full understanding of truth." - Colossians 1:28-29 TPT

Our hope is that as you read this you will be encouraged to share the love of Jesus with everyone, everywhere! To go out and BOLDLY share the Gospel in a time where people are crying out for hope and freedom.

Lastly, our prayer is that sharing Jesus will once again become a priority in the body of Christ. Even if it means taking chances, experiencing discomfort, and stepping out in faith.

EVERY SINGLE ONE IS WORTH IT ❤️

Can You Even Do Missions In 2022?

Hello@Maisey.Pro (Maisey Pro) — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 21:38:37 GMT

Can you even do missions in 2022?

At the very beginning of the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, I remember someone telling me, “We can’t stop the Great Commission, but we can press pause on it.” I remember thinking at that moment how wrong that felt. Out of all of the times in history when tragedy struck, weren’t those the times that the gospel was needed more than ever? Wasn’t that when people were more desperate than ever for hope?

The idea of “pressing pause” on the Great Commission is sadly one that is believed by many, even almost two years after the start of the pandemic. If you’re one of many asking, “Can you even do missions in 2022?” I’m here to tell you… the answer is YES.

There is always going to be “some reason” why a trip “just isn’t going to work right now” but I want to encourage you to press in because the most incredible breakthrough, miracles and salvations are on the other side of inconvenience!

Two great examples of this are from trips I lead in 2021 to Alabama and Egypt. Many of you will remember “snowmageddon” that hit Texas with a wave of blackouts and ice. Two of our team members had their flights cancelled and there was no way to get them there and many other team members' flights were (pardon the pun) up in the air. We had to make a decision; would we give up because it looked difficult or would we press in again? After much prayer we felt the trip was supposed to happen so I booked flights for the following morning, flew out and drove the stranded team members all the way from Austin! That trip wound up with a 3 day outpouring of God’s Spirit in Mobile Alabama!

Our Egypt trip kept flip flopping with COVID restrictions and our contacts in-country were unsure if they would even be able to host us so I started thinking about delaying the trip a month, or even two! God spoke to me and said, “There will always be a reason to move the trip another month. Will you just come and be with whoever I lead you to?” I booked my whole team’s flights that same day.

That trip was FULL of miracles and wonders (gas multiplied, asthma and other breathing problems healed instantly and so much more). Word was spreading that there was a team ministering in power and we had more invitations than we could keep, even on top of all our original ministry plans.

What does this mean for YOU?

God WILL make a way when you step out in faith in the assignment He has given you. If you’re experiencing resistance, get on your face before Him and LISTEN. He wants His dreams for you more than you ever could and the safest place you can be is the center of His will.

Our mandate as Light a Candle has always been to go to the hardest and darkest places on earth, even during the hardest and darkest times. We have set a standard of radical persistence since the beginning of the lockdowns. We go in wisdom and love, but ultimately believe that the flexibility required to do missions in 2022 is well worth it, because we see more people than ever saying “yes” to Jesus.

Trust us - it’s MORE than worth it.

Jesus is raising up a new breed of missionaries. This wave of passionate believers are relentless in the pursuit of ALL nations coming to know King Jesus. They will stop at nothing, remain unafraid to lay down their rights, and be the voices who will say, “Jesus is worth it. The gospel is worth it.”

Will you be one of them?

Events Coming Soon

Tue, 12 May 2020 03:03:18 GMT

EVENTS COMING SOON!

We are gearing up for an exciting year of seeing God move in the nations in 2026!

We will announce our 2026 calendar of events here and on social media, so be sure to follow us!

Breaking Through the Noise

Hello@Maisey.Pro (Maisey Pro) — Tue, 12 May 2020 02:29:32 GMT

Staying Engaged With The Father’s Heart for the Nations During a Time of Global Crisis

Our world has been shaken in this last months like never before. As followers of Jesus, we are required a response during times like this. So what is our response? It can seem pretty easy to shut off emotionally, join with the panic, or be jaded to the surroundings and focus on here and now. Survival mode. But is that our option? Will that be our choice?

We are in the middle of a great invitation to know the nature and character of our Heavenly Father. He is inviting us to hear his voice in the midst of the chaos. We get to hear his voice and stand out in the midst of times like this. We are not called to retreat and disengage, but to charge forth with the peace of heaven backing us, speaking life everywhere we go-- even if that’s from the bedroom to the kitchen.

1,891,580,000 is the number of people on the earth that have never heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That is 1.8 billion reasons to wake up, stand up, and go.

I urge you, that NOW will not be a time of disengaging in the world around us, but that we would see the opportunity before us. The reality is, our world has been shaken. People across the nations, now more than ever are questioning the things around them -- safety, family, jobs, what is it that we are all living for? When this virus runs its course, there is a window into the nations like never before, people are looking for answers, they are looking for hope.

“All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord,

and all the families of the nations shall worship before you.”

- Psalm 22:7

As followers of Jesus, let us rise up and respond in these ways:

We must respond in HOPE! Hope is rooted in the promises of God. We will know His promises by reading them in His word. Let’s take this time to comb through the scriptures and be reminded of who God is and what He says He has for us.

“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” - Isaiah 40:31
We must Choose our words carefully. Proverbs 18:21 says that “life and death are in the power of the tongue…”

With so much uncertainty and fear in the world, and the media doing everything they can to promote that, let’s be intentional to partner our words with LIFE. Take this time to call friends and relatives and encourage them, give them words of hope, prophesy over them. The smallest words spoken, when they are partnered with the Holy Spirit, literally breathe life to those around us!
We Must ask God what He is doing and what He is saying -- Let’s intercede for our brothers and sisters around the world. We must stand together in unity and remember our brothers and sisters around the world. Now is the time to pray for the nations, as there is a great shaking around us like never before. People are hungry for hope, truth, and peace. Ask God where He is highlighting to you.

Where are you called to GO? It may seem counterintuitive to dream about going into the nations in a time like this, but this is truly an amazing opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the midst of a global crisis. Ask God if you are meant to go on a short-term trip once borders open up again in the nations. Now is a great time to prepare to go!

Remember that a city set on a hill cannot be hidden. We are the salt of the earth and light shining to mankind. Seek the Lord and His truth in this time, choose your words carefully, and let’s intercede for that Nations together!

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