Faith meets storytelling; Uniting African voices to Impact lives for God

In small town of Bobonong, nestled between rolling hills and vibrant green fields, a diverse group of individuals came together, each carrying their own burdens, dreams, and talents. They were doctors, lawyers, police officers, teachers, students, artists, and laborers, but above all, they were united by a common purpose: to make a profound impact for God in their community.

The movement began on a rainy Sunday morning after a missionary who had come as a guest to Pastor Paul delivered an impassioned sermon about the power of unity in the Body of Christ. He spoke of how, together, they could reach those who felt lost or alone and how their collective efforts could transform lives. As the congregation listened, a spark ignited within their hearts when they heard of the missionary’s personal testimony, how he was moving from country to country with the support of those who have never set their foot in Africa but have a genuine burden and love for the continent.
The message they heard prompted them to make introspection and they realized that their individual strengths, when combined, could create a force of good that could ripple far beyond their town. They were so challenged that others have been coming from far to do something which they were capable of doing or better still had potential to do.

After the service, a small group gathered in the church hall, energized by the pastor’s words. They shared their visions: Sarah, the local teacher, spoke about creating a mentorship program for at-risk youth. David, a passionate artist, envisioned an art therapy initiative to help heal the emotional wounds of those in the community. Maria, a nurse, advocated for health clinics that would offer free services to those in need. Each idea was met with enthusiasm, and as they brainstormed, their ideas began to intertwine, forming a tapestry of hope.

With determination, they set out to form “Ray of hope,” a coalition designed to serve the community with love and compassion. They organized weekly meetings, inviting others to join, and soon, the initiative grew beyond their expectations. Friends, families, and even strangers came together, all eager to contribute their skills and time. Their unity in diversity made them such a marvel in the small town they hailed from.

As the weeks passed, the group organized various events. They hosted community clean-up days, where they not only beautified the town but also shared meals and laughter. They arranged art workshops for children, allowing David’s creativity to inspire the next generation. Maria led health seminars that educated families about nutrition and wellness, while Sarah’s mentorship program flourished, pairing students with caring adults who encouraged their academic pursuits.

One evening, as they gathered around a bonfire after a successful community festival, they reflected on the incredible journey they had embarked upon. They shared stories of lives transformed—children who had found their passion, families who had received much-needed help, and friendships that had blossomed in unexpected places. They realized that their unity had not only impacted their community but had also deepened their own faith and personal connections resulting in strong bonds that could not be easily broken.
The exploits of Ray of hope grew exponentially to the extent that their influence spread to the surrounding villages and also major towns with many souls and lives being transformed.
What started as a small spark became a movement that affected surrounding areas as spiritual, social, physical and economical needs were being met because of a small group from a small town that chose to put action to their faith just like the four men who brought a paralytic man to Jesus. They were so determined to travel carrying him and did not tire or leave him on the way but rather went all the way even risking their own lives just to ensure that lives were informed, inspired, ignited, illuminated, impeccable, imparted and impacted.
Gathered in this auditorium for this prestigious award ceremony is a group of diverse authors and would be authors from different backgrounds and nationalities who has the capacity to raise the African voices to impact the world with the gospel.

Topic: Faith Meets Storytelling

With every page, a journey starts,
A tale of hope to touch our hearts,
From ancient scrolls to printed word,
God’s voice through stories still is heard.

Through CLC, the mission’s clear,
To spread the Word, both far and near,
With Christian books, we plant the seed,
Of truth and love, for every need.

Each book, a beacon, shining bright,
A guide through darkness, into light,
As faith and story intertwine,
God’s purpose in each line we find.

From village huts to city street,
The Gospel flows in stories sweet,
Uniting voices, hearts, and hands,
Across the breadth of many lands.

For faith in words can set souls free,
Bring sight to blind, help hearts to see,
And with each story, lives are changed,
By Christ’s great love, so unrestrained.

So let us tell, let books take flight,
To spread His truth, to share His light,
For in each story, God is near,
Impacting lives year after year.