Beyond Ourselves: Partnering with Children of Promise to Share Hope
Pastor Kerry, Lead Pastor
One of the things I love most about East Side is our partnerships with ministries—both around the world and right here in Madison County. The opportunities God provides for us to impact people with the hope of Jesus never cease to amaze me. Whether it’s serving food at local elementary schools to combat food insecurity or partnering with national leaders in Bangladesh, Ukraine, or West Africa to provide food, education, and safe shelter for those displaced by war, I’m grateful to be part of a community of faith that looks beyond itself and responds with hearts of service.
We recently received news that our first staff missionary, Dr. Sidney Johnson, has joined his late wife, Jean, in heaven. Even well into their 90s, Sid and Jean were passionate followers of Jesus who dedicated their lives to expanding God’s Kingdom. Their love for the children they met around the world as missionaries led them to found the child sponsorship ministry Children of Promise.
Today, Children of Promise sponsors more than 4,650 children in 43 programs across 35 countries. East Side members Mike and Heather Webb have served as the organization’s Executive Directors since 2019. Their experience in international ministry and their deep love for people continue to guide Children of Promise as it fulfills its vision: to help children meet their basic needs and reach their full potential. The ultimate goal is for each child to know Jesus and find hope to pursue their God-given dreams.
This November, Children of Promise is our Monthly Missional Partner. Throughout the month, we invite you to pray for Mike and Heather Webb and their team of international leaders as they serve children around the world. On November 16 and 23, representatives from Children of Promise will join us at East Side to share opportunities for child sponsorship.
Becky and I are grateful to sponsor a young lady in the Ivory Coast, and we invite you to prayerfully consider joining us in supporting a child through Children of Promise. Together, we can continue to carry forward the legacy of Sid and Jean Johnson—sharing the hope of Jesus with children and families across the globe.
