How Access to Safe Water Opens Doors for the Gospel in South America
In remote parts of South America, where access to clean drinking water is limited and entire communities suffer from contaminated sources, something beautiful is happening. God is using the simple act of providing clean water to transform lives, both physically and spiritually.
A team from Colombia recently undertook the work of equipping Indigenous leaders with tools and training to purify water using locally available materials. Their journey took them deep into the jungle near a national border, where geography, poverty, and environmental crises collide to create extreme health risks for tens of thousands of people. But even there, the love of Christ is flowing like a river.
A Journey Led by God
From the moment the team arrived, they sensed the Lord’s direction. After linking up with a local Indigenous leader, they gathered supplies—filters, food, and basic gear—and traveled further west by vehicle and ferry, eventually arriving at a rural farm under a canopy of stars. There, they were welcomed with warmth, hospitality, and home-cooked meals. Hammocks were hung, prayers were lifted, and a powerful week of ministry began.
Meeting a Crisis with Innovation
The team’s goal was to train fifty Indigenous leaders on how to build simple water purification systems. Two systems had already been installed—one recently and one that had been operational for nearly two years. But what happened next shocked everyone: within minutes of use, both filters clogged entirely with thick, red sludge. Initial tests showed no iron contamination. Instead, the problem was suspended clay particles, likely disturbed during recent well activity.
This unexpected hurdle confirmed the urgency of the mission. The team needed to act fast—not just to demonstrate, but to implement a sustainable solution on-site.
With resourcefulness and prayer, they crafted a pre-filter using a clean barrel, sand from a local quarry, and charcoal made in a hand-dug fire pit. After hours of washing and layering materials, the team turned on the valve. First, murky water. Then, clear, clean water flowed. It was a moment of awe and praise. Eight liters per minute, life-giving and clean.
See that process demonstrated in the video below.
Equipping the Next Generation
In the days that followed, Indigenous leaders began arriving—some journeying over twenty-four hours by canoe, bus, motorcycle, and on foot. These men and women were eager to learn and ready to serve their own communities. Under the instruction of a young leader trained in water quality, they received hands-on experience in building and maintaining these filters.
At the end of the course, each participant received a diploma, symbolizing more than knowledge—it marked the beginning of hope for their villages. They also received Galcom radios for ongoing support, and even a local forestry company joined the cause, donating barrels for future filtration projects.
The Water Crisis Is Real
The water crisis in this region is driven by more than just poor infrastructure. Mercury poisoning from illicit gold mining and toxic runoff from illegal labs have devastated local rivers and wells. Entire communities—especially children—are suffering from long-term exposure to these pollutants.
We’re responding by equipping those who are training Indigenous specialists who can not only test water sources but also build rudimentary yet effective filters using sand and activated charcoal. These low-cost systems offer life-saving benefits in areas where modern treatment equipment is not feasible.
Just constructing kilns for charcoal and assembling the proper tanks and plumbing is a feat in these regions. But the impact is undeniable. Health is restored. Hope is revived. And doors are opened to share the love of Jesus Christ.
Living Out the Gospel Through Clean Water
Providing clean water is more than a humanitarian act—it’s a Gospel mission. In every village where clean water flows, hearts are softened to the truth of Christ’s love. This work strengthens the local churches, supports persecuted believers, and reaches the unreached.
Jesus said, “Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is a disciple… he will certainly not lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42). Meeting physical needs builds bridges to spiritual transformation.
Join the Mission: Equip South America for Kingdom Impact
Right now, the SOM South America Director and the team there continue to expand this vital ministry alongside bringing Bibles and Christian radio broadcasts to more people. But they cannot do it alone. Your support makes it possible to train Indigenous leaders and bring both clean water and the Gospel to the most remote and overlooked communities.
