In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, we consider how the first step toward sharing the Gospel can begin with something as simple as a glass of clean water. Host Dennis Wiens talks with Michael Ryer of Amigos Internacionales about how practical compassion can open doors to relationships, trust, and lasting spiritual transformation across East Africa.
In communities in northern Uganda, Tanzania, and beyond, the needs are immediate – clean water, education, medical care, economic opportunity, and hope. But Michael explains why simply meeting an urgent need and moving on isn't enough. Through the MissionPoint model, Amigos Internacionales takes a long-term approach that brings together clean water, schools, healthcare, local churches, skills training, agriculture, and community leadership. The goal isn't dependency; it's helping families and communities move toward dignity, sustainability, and flourishing.
You'll hear how water wells can improve children's health, safety, and school attendance; how sewing, soap-making, gardening, livestock, and other skills create pathways toward self-support; and how years of building trusted relationships have opened unexpected opportunities for ministry and community transformation.
Drawing from his own years of ministry and sustainable community development in Africa, Dennis explores an important question for every church and ministry leader: What happens when we stop looking for quick ministry results and commit to staying long enough to build trust?
If you care about global missions, church partnerships, community development, child sponsorship, or integrating practical compassion with Gospel ministry, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.
The unconventional ministry lesson for all of us: Don't just ask, “What can I give someone?” Ask, “How can I build the kind of relationship that creates lasting change?”
