Invited In: Recent Episodes
Samaritan's Purse
Over the past twenty years, member care chaplain John Freyler has walked with supported countless people through hardship and trauma. In today's message, John encourages Samaritan's Purse staff to cling to And after experiencing his own "storms of life," John encourages Samaritan's Purse staff members with 4 truths from a well-known Bible story.
Haley Stewart, a nurse at Annoor Sanatorium in Jordan, sits down with Melissa Strickland to share how God called her to the Middle East. They discuss surrendered obedience and the faithfulness of God.
Ron Wilcox, Chief Operating Officer, and his wife Susan join Kristy Graham for a conversation about living intentionally. They share wisdom from their 48 years of marriage and the importance of cultivating a life of prayer.
Mark Lang, Director of Operations and Facilities at Samaritan Lodge Alaska, sits down with Kristy Graham to share more about how God uniquely called him to serve with Samaritan's Purse. This encouraging conversation serves as a reminder that God prepares you for what He has called you to do.
Kaye Martin, a Samaritan’s Purse member care manager, shares how her team’s role is to serve and support fellow staff members as they work in difficult places around the world. Be encouraged as Kristy Graham and Kaye talk about serving in Jesus' Name and focusing on God instead of the circumstances.
When Samaritan’s Purse staff were asked to help in unexpected ways as a result of the pandemic, worker shortages, and supply chain issues, they rose to the challenge and served selflessly. Kristy Graham sits down with Jim Harrelson, vice president of Operation Christmas Child, to reflect on God’s faithfulness, and she also hears from staff across the ministry who had the opportunity to serve for several weeks in a new department.
“Samaritan’s Purse has built a bridge for the church to reconnect with families that we didn’t have before,” said Pastor Brad Morris of First Assembly Mayfield. In Pastor Brad’s conversation with Kendra Bandy, one of our podcast team members, he shares how his hometown is turning to God in the months after the tornadoes last December. As he and his church congregation look to Easter, they’re seeing hope in the midst of heartache and God’s love in the middle of their sorrow.
After recently returning from Ukraine, senior director of communications Melissa Strickland gave a powerful message in Samaritan’s Purse staff devotions. She shares stories of God’s faithfulness that she witnessed on the ground through the Disaster Assistance Response Team and families they helped in the war-torn area and surrounding countries.
Many of you know Dr. Steve Hagen, who is one of our primary care doctors at the on-site Wake Forest Baptist Health clinic at the Samaritan’s Purse headquarters in Boone. Dr. Hagen is providing care and comfort to patients in Lviv, Ukraine, with our Disaster Assistance Response Team. He shares how God called him to serve during conflict, what he’s witnessing on the ground, and ways to pray for the Ukrainian people and Samaritan’s Purse teams.
“When we go into this warzone, God is with us. Even more than that, God is in us. The resurrection power of Jesus Christ is in us,” shares John Freyler, a regional member care manager. Kristy had the opportunity to sit down with him just hours before he boarded the DC-8 flight with the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in response to the Ukraine crisis. John and Kristy talk about how the Samaritan’s Purse member care team seeks to provide emotional and spiritual help to the DART as they serve in Jesus’ Name.
Just after attending the annual March for Life, Todd and Kim Chasteen sit down with Kristy Graham to talk about the Samaritan’s Purse involvement with pro-life advocacy. The Chasteens share about their personal experience at the March, impact of the Roe v. Wade decision, and God’s design for human life. This episode will bring you on the ground to hear the joyful sounds of the March as we continue to pray for the protection of unborn children.
- Listen to how the Christmas Eve meal in Kentucky all came together with the help of our food services team!
- Read harrowing stories from homeowners who lost everything in the deadly tornadoes.
In the final episode of our adoption series, Kristy speaks with Chris Johnston, the assistant director for Donor Ministries. Chris and his wife, Julianna, have been married for 14 years. They have five biological children and four adopted children. Chris reveals how the Lord placed adoption on his heart and how his faith has grown. “This is what God has called us to do,” Chris shares. “He’s going to equip us to do it day after day, and still have the strength to do it with patience—even if my heart isn’t where it needs to be.”
“I just love sitting back and watching God move,” shares Michelle Waters, who serves as a brand and production manager for Operation Christmas Child. “It has been an incredible joy to see Him work through me and my community.” In the third part of our adoption series, Michelle shares what led her to be a foster parent as a single woman, how God has shifted her heart, and her gratitude towards others in the process.
“I think it was a really deepening experience as we started walking through the process just to say, ‘We don’t have what we need right now. But God, we trust that you’re going to show up and help us through this next step,’” shared Lynn Windmeyer. Lynn’s husband, Tim, has been with the ministry for 19 years and currently serves as an International Senior Advisor at Samaritan’s Purse. In this episode of our adoption series, Tim and Lynn share what prompted them to adopt and how they relied on the Lord throughout the process.
“I think the hardest part is saying yes and starting the process,” Kristy Graham shares to kick off our series during Orphan Awareness Month. “Once you start it, God starts softening your heart.” In this first special of our adoption series, Kristy and Edward Graham share their adoptive story: balancing the challenges that came in the process while leaning on God’s grace and compassion. The Grahams were thrilled to adopt their son from China after waiting patiently for the Lord’s perfect timing.
If you’d like to dig deeper into your Christian faith, please visit the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association‘s website to learn more about God’s love for you.
Kristy has the rare opportunity to sit down with Dr. Stephen Foster, a third-generation missionary serving in Angola, Africa. As one of the only medical care providers in the region, Dr. Foster shares powerful stories of how the Lord has used his time in the field to provide hope and healing.
Show Notes
If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Stephen Foster and the remarkable work God is doing through him, you can read “Benefits of Steel,” which was written by his nephew, Michael Hoskin. You can also hear more about the life-changing work of his father, Dr. Robert Foster, in the book “Sword and Scalpel,” by Lorry Lutz.
“I think it’s incredible and encouraging that the God who is taking care of our staff in the field is the same God who is taking care of our families back home,” shares Bryan Siceloff. Bryan is a producer in the broadcast department, who experiences both the challenges and rewards that come with frequent travel for work. In this episode, Bryan shares with Kristy how he involves his wife and children in his missions, navigates family-life away from home, and deals with the hardships that come while on the ground.
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Watch Billy Graham’s 9/11 Message at the National Cathedral only days following the attacks.
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Call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) 24-hour Prayer Line at 888-388-2683, if you’d like prayer and support during this somber 9/11 anniversary.
Show Notes
September 11, 2001, marks the solemn day when the United States experienced the worst terrorist attack on our own soil. On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse is pausing to reflect, honor, and remember those who were lost on 9/11, as well as those that served and gave their lives while protecting our nation’s freedom in the wars that followed.
Kristy Graham opens the episode with her thoughts and condolences regarding the 20-year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. She tells listeners that her hope and prayer through this remembrance is that the United States can once again be united. Kristy then shares her grandfather-in-law Billy Graham’s address to the country at the National Cathedral.
On September 14, 2001, just three days after the terrorist attacks, he preached a powerful message to a hurting nation—reminding us all that there’s hope for the future because of God’s promises.
“My prayer today is that we will feel the loving arms of God wrapped around us, and that as we trust in Him we will know in our hearts that He will never forsake us.” – Billy Graham, 9/11 Message
Kristy Graham sits down with Cindy Rutz, the Vice President of Human Resources, to hear about the God-centered heart behind Samaritan’s Purse: its employees. Cindy shares how God faithfully drew her to the ministry—sharing key differences and similarities between working in a Christian and secular workplace.
In the winter of 2019, Samaritan’s Purse invited Christian apologist and homicide detective J. Warner Wallace to speak at devotions. His message is still relevant and applicable today as he shares his testimony—bolstering listeners to share, demonstrate, and defend their faith.
1 Peter 3:15 says, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
Please visit J. Warner Wallace’s website to learn more about his ministry and testimony. The books below are authored by J. Warner Wallace if you’d like a closer look:
- “Cold Case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospels”
- “Forensic Faith: A Homicide Detective Makes the Case for a More Reasonable, Evidential Christian Faith”
- “God’s Crime Scene: A Cold-Case Detective Examines the Evidence for a Divinely Created Universe”
What does obedient faith look like in your life? For Justin and Cassandra Daggett, serving in the Post-Residency Program with Samaritan’s Purse World Medical Mission, it looked like doing medical missions overseas in Kenya—just two years after accepting Christ. In an encouraging conversation from Kijabe, Kenya, the Daggetts speak by Zoom with Kristy Graham. They discuss their testimony, God’s prompting to apply to the program, and their family life in Kijabe.
"The Lord's got our back. Being in Colombia was a specific call and desire of our heart, so then it was like an adventure. You get excited to wake up every day and say, 'Lord, I need you,'" said Eric Huxley, the country director for our international field office in Colombia. He and his wife, Dejah, recently sat down with Kristy Graham while visiting the Samaritan's Purse International Headquarters in Boone, North Carolina. The Huxleys shared about their experience navigating the throes of COVID-19 while leaning on a steadfast God. With honesty and perspective, they recall being strengthened by the Lord as their family served Venezuelan refugees in the midst of a difficult year.
“The same God who changed their lives in Alaska is the same God that’s going to help them through whatever mountains they're climbing at home,” shares Greg Duvall, the chaplain manager for Operation Heal Our Patriots (OHOP). Greg and his wife Shawna sit down with Kristy after their recent trip to Port Alsworth, Alaska, where they shared God’s love with wounded veterans and their spouses. The Duvalls dive deeper into how God has blessed 10 years of the OHOP ministry, ways they’ve grown in relationship with the alumni, and how they continually pray for His guidance.
“We think of the millions, but in the Lord’s eyes, it’s one heart, one soul, and one child,” says Jim Harrelson, the Vice President of Operation Christmas Child. He and Kristy Graham talk about how God has raised His people to come together and serve in His Name through the ministry. After nearly 28 years of seeing God’s heart through delivering gift-filled shoeboxes, they discuss how Operation Christmas Child has grown while maintaining the same mission of sharing God’s love with children in need.
For over 40 years, Dr. Richard Bransford and his wife Millie have served faithfully in the mission field. As long-time partners with Samaritan’s Purse, they’ve been involved for decades with World Medical Mission at Kijabe hospital and helped support the very first Disaster Assistance Response Teams. Their conversation with Kristy covers stories from the field, lessons through years of marriage, and wisdom to trust God where He leads.
This Memorial Day, we’re honoring the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom by sharing a few names that represent many. Kristy shares hope-filled scripture and encourages listeners to pray for each Gold Star family by name. Join Melissa Strickland, a member of the podcast team and Senior Director of Communications, in prayer for families and friends who have lost a loved one in combat.
“For mothers everywhere, I pray that they would know that God is with them, God is good, His plans for them are good, and He is with them,” Bethany Gilley shared with Kristy in this special Mother’s Day episode. Bethany lives in Honduras with her husband Nathan, who is serving with Samaritan’s Purse in the World Medical Mission Post-Residency Program. She and Kristy discuss how she’s learning to engage with the Lord, support her working husband, and cultivate a Godly environment for her four children.
In the coming months, Daniel and Jessica Ruiz are moving their family to Liberia to continue to serve with Samaritan’s Purse. Kristy has the opportunity to hear their story as they share how God has equipped and prepared them for this new role. Listen as the Ruizes recount God’s goodness after serving in multiple capacities over seven years in ministry.
“His heart was for us before there was ever a human being on the planet,” said Greg Duvall. Greg serves as the educational and discipleship manager for Operational Heal Our Patriots. He shares a thoughtful message in staff devotions about Paul’s letter to the Ephesians—reminding us that we should embrace the spiritual blessings we have in Christ.
“Even when things around seem so broken and feel so hopeless, there is a hope we can cling on to, and Easter is the reminder of that hope,” shares Mark Bennett, the country director in South Sudan. This Good Friday, we are reminded of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. Join Kristy as she talks with the Samaritan’s Purse team in South Sudan about how they traditionally celebrate the coming of Easter.
“Despite all the difficulties, the challenges, and the terrorism that's very real all around us, it's a season we're reminded to pick our eyes up and look to Jesus,” says Matthew Nowery, the country director in Iraq. In this special Easter episode, Kristy calls the Samaritan’s Purse team in Iraq to hear about how they focus on the cross amidst the turmoil in their country. Their conversation dives deeper into the ways they celebrate Easter through days of shared worship, feasts, prayer, and parades.
“I’ve seen people’s lives changed because of clean water,” Ken Issacs, the vice president for programs and government relations, told Kristy in today’s episode. World Water Day, recognized on March 22, sheds light on the nearly 2.2 billion people without access to safe water. In this engaging episode surrounding water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), Ken shares about the devastating impact that lack of clean water has on a community, his background in well-drilling, and initiatives Samaritan’s Purse is implementing to provide clean water around the world.
It’s the final episode of our Valentine’s Day series! Kristy sits down with newlyweds Dave and Erin Holzhauer as they talk about balancing marriage and work. Dave is the Director of International Response while Erin serves as a Clinical Operations Specialist. Their conversation covers seeking God in singleness, laying down expectations, and advice for traveling spouses.
For the second episode of our Valentine’s Day series, Kristy invites David and Beth Thompson to talk about working in the ministry while being married and raising three kids. David serves as the Senior Director for Operation Christmas Child International, while Beth serves as the Medical Program Specialist for cleft lip and palate programming. Their conversation is filled with honesty, humor, and insight for all stages of life.
In honor of Valentine’s Day, Kristy sits down with couples across the ministry to hear how God is continually directing their marriages. First up in our series is Luther and Michelle Harrison, who have been married for over 20 years. Luther is the Vice President for North American Ministries and Michelle serves as the Administrative & Special Projects Manager for Communications. We know you’ll enjoy their wisdom, stories, and laughter as they reminisce on their commitment to God and one another.
Steve Nickel, the Vice President for Donor Ministries, began serving at Samaritan’s Purse only four months before the September 11 attacks. Since then, he has witnessed God’s overflowing abundance through the ministry’s faithful donors. Kristy and Steve’s conversation is full of Scripture, encouragement, and wisdom to lean on Christ through difficult seasons.
See scripture references below:
- Psalm 39:4-7
- Psalm 144:1-4
- Ecclesiastes 6:12
- Jude 1:20-21
- Psalm 61:1-4
As we step into the new year, Kristy sits down with Erin Gallagher to talk about what it’s like to lean on God after being stripped of earthly possessions. In November 2018, she and her family lost everything in the Camp Fire—California’s most destructive wildfire. Tune in to hear how God renewed her faith, how the community is being restored, and how their church is giving back.
Are you struggling to find hope this Christmas season? Jodie Tosh, who has worked in seven global offices with Samaritan’s Purse, talks with Kristy about putting her trust in God through difficult seasons, including COVID-19. She shares Biblical wisdom in how to keep Jesus as our focus and gives practical advice on creating joy through Christmas traditions.
Kristy shares one of her family’s Thanksgiving traditions—using Scrabble pieces to encourage you to think of what you are grateful for. Enjoy hearing what the staff of Samaritan’s Purse is thankful for this year. Happy Thanksgiving!
At our Samaritan’s Purse Blowing Rock Training Center, Kristy Graham sits down with Luis Anda, a regional chaplain with Operation Heal Our Patriots. She and Lou talk about what he learned after serving in two different military branches, how he overcomes challenges with God’s help, and Biblical truths to lean on in times of adversity.
Our Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) helps make Samaritan’s Purse medical ministries possible. Kristy Graham speaks with Kelly Sites, a nurse on our DART, to hear how she has deployed to over 17 disaster zones in a decade of serving with Samaritan’s Purse. She shares with Kristy how she became involved with the ministry, how her faith has been challenged, and how she continues to pour into her family while being able to deploy for weeks at a time.
The Samaritan’s Purse family lost a dear sister in Christ and friend in Lina Freyler. In remembrance, Kristy replays thoughts from Susan Wilcox from a previous Invited In episode and shares a past devotion from John Freyler about abiding in Christ by running the race set before us.
Kristy calls Tom O’Brien, a regional program manager for U.S. Disaster Relief, while he’s at an active worksite in Santa Cruz, CA. Tom spent most of his career serving with the California fire department. Now he is working on the other side of the wildfires, leading volunteer teams to serve homeowners who lost everything in the flames. Tom tells the stories of how God is working daily through volunteers while giving his perspective into the major wildfires blazing the west coast.
In the midst of responding to Hurricane Laura, Chandler Saylors, an assistant program manager for U.S. Disaster Relief, talks with Kristy over the phone. Kristy asks Chandler about God’s calling on her life, then dives deeper into how Samaritan’s Purse is responding in Louisiana.
“Though there are so many unknowns, we have hope in an all-powerful, all-knowing, ever-present God who will ground us,” said Cathy Njoya. Cathy serves as the director of strategic partnerships with donor ministries. She shares a powerful message in staff devotions about Elisha’s faith in 2 Kings 6—reminding us that if we put our hope in God, He will sustain us.
Are you in search of God’s Truth through current tensions brought by COVID-19? Kristy Graham sits down with Rachael Mills, the director of brand development for Operation Christmas Child, to talk about God’s provision for parents during this season. Their Scripture-filled conversation dives deep into finding peace amidst turmoil, seeking Holy wisdom, and recognizing our need for the Father in every moment.
Have you ever wondered what it takes for Samaritan’s Purse to launch a new affiliate office? Hear from Chris Weeks, Samaritan’s Purse employee of over 20 years, who is now the Executive Director for Samaritan’s Purse South Korea. Kristy Graham asks him about the logistics of launching the new location, moving forward in the midst of the coronavirus, and God’s faithfulness to open doors for the team.
What’s it like to grow up as a “ministry kid”? Tune in to this week’s episode featuring Elliott Willis, an assistant program manager for US disaster relief and son of Bryan Willis. Kristy and Elliott dive deeper into God’s calling on his life, service in US disaster relief, and growing up in the ministry.
Kristy Graham sits down with Bryan Willis, the Vice President of Special Events to hear his insight after serving nearly 38 years. They talk about the early days at Samaritan’s Purse, how the ministry has grown, and God’s hand of blessing over each department.
“Ron shares how God called him out of a long career of corporate work to do kingdom work here at Samaritan’s Purse,” Kristy says in this uplifting episode. After a few months of COVID-19 related podcasts, Kristy is getting back to the heart of Invited In: sharing God’s faithfulness through the testimonies of staff at Samaritan’s Purse. Listen as Ron Wilcox, chief operating officer, recounts the lessons he has learned after serving nearly 17 years in the ministry.
Only a few months ago, doctors and nurses treated the sickest coronavirus patients in our Emergency Field Hospitals in Cremona, Italy, and New York City. While they were serving on the ground, hundreds of staff at Samaritan’s Purse mobilized to make the simultaneous responses possible. Tune in as Kristy Graham hears from Cindy Albertson representing the IMT Call Center, David Khoury representing International Apprentices, Debra Owens representing IMT Staffing, and Rachel Ransom representing Food Services. Nearly every employee in the ministry had a hand in supporting the response—they are the unsung heroes of COVID-19.
Impact doesn’t equal recognition. “Whether you are going or sending, you are doing kingdom work and our Father sees you,” Kristy Graham encourages listeners in this hope-filled episode. During Samaritan’s Purse staff devotions, church relations coordinator Jeremy Zerkle gives a powerful message from Acts 11—referring to God as El Roi, “the God who sees me.”
“It’s so important to hear their story, speak their name, and honor their legacy,” Kristy Graham reminds listeners in this special Memorial Day episode. Tune in to hear her conversation with Melissa Strickland, the senior director of communications, who walks through the loss of her 22-year-old nephew, Corporal Dillion C. Baldridge. Dillion was killed June 10, 2017, while serving in Afghanistan on his first deployment. Listen as Melissa and Kristy talk about his continued legacy, the importance of spiritual community, and prayers for Gold Star families.
Happy Mother’s Day, Invited In family. Today, Kristy Graham introduces you to a dynamic mother-daughter team: Sara and Heidi Shannon. Sara Shannon is working as a chaplain in member care at our Emergency Field Hospital in Cremona, Italy. Simultaneously, her daughter Heidi Shannon is serving as a nurse at our Emergency Field Hospital in New York City. In this empowering episode, you’ll hear updates from the Samaritan’s Purse field hospitals, advice for raising children, and stories of God’s goodness through family.
What’s it like to leave a disaster to go to a disaster? Listen as Kristy Graham talks with Alyssa Benson, a Samaritan’s Purse media relations coordinator, about her three week deployment to Cremona, Italy, during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this insightful episode, Kristy asks Alyssa about her role at the Emergency Field Hospital, new challenges of quarantine, and ways to pray for staff on the ground in Italy.
Learn more about how Samaritan’s Purse is responding to the coronavirus pandemic in this special episode of Invited In. Kristy Graham talks with Stephen Rhoads, director of campus relations, while he’s on the ground in New York City. Stephen is serving on the front lines of the coronavirus outbreak at the Samaritan’s Purse Emergency Field Hospital in Central Park. Their phone call reveals insight, encouragement, and tangible ways to pray for all impacted by COVID-19.
Kristy Graham introduces you to Robinson Strickland, the audio engineer for the Invited In and On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse podcasts. Robinson, who has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, offers truth and hope in the midst of uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. Listen as Kristy and Robinson dive deeper into what scripture says about overcoming hardships, seeing God in suffering, and relying on His faithfulness through grief.
With so much uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, Kristy Graham is taking you back to 2014 when Kent Brantly spoke to Samaritan’s Purse staff during morning devotions. After being healed from Ebola, Kent reminds the ministry to remember God’s goodness and sovereignty. Kent gives insight and scripture about choosing faith, and how we can pray for our disaster relief teams. Tune in to hear updates about how Samaritan’s Purse is continuing to respond to coronavirus.
Tune in to this bonus feature as Kristy Graham talks with John Freyler, a regional care member manager for Latin America and the Middle East. Information about COVID-19 is changing daily, but what doesn’t change is God’s word. Listen as they discuss what God says about fear, how to help others who are anxious, and spiritual truths surrounding the epidemic.
Scripture references in the episode are Psalm 56:3, 2 Corinthians 7:5, Psalm 121, Judges 6-8, 2 Chronicles 20, Philippians 4:6-8, Acts 14:20, Psalm 91, Psalm 118:19, 2 Corinthians 1:8-11, Psalm 46, Acts 2.
Join us as Samaritan’s Purse continues to celebrate 50 years of helping in Jesus’ Name. Tune in to this special staff devotion as Franklin Graham gives glory to God for all He has done through the ministry. Franklin honors those who have served alongside the ministry from the start, all while sharing stories of God’s faithfulness. You’ll also hear from Dennis Agajanian as he leads in a time of worship.
Paula Woodring, the Vice President for Quality Assurance and Social Media, began serving with Samaritan’s Purse when she was just 19 years old. She remembers that the foundation of the ministry has always stood on prayer – even when it was only her and a handful of other staff members. This month, Samaritan’s Purse is celebrating 50 years of God’s faithfulness through the ministry. Kristy sits down to hear Paula’s perspective as she describes God’s call on her life, the earliest days of the organization, and God’s provision through the work of Samaritan’s Purse.
Take a listen to hear Kristy’s packed conversation with Karen Daniels at Prescription for Renewal. She serves as the Cleft and Cataract Teams Program Manager for Samaritan’s Purse and is responsible for sending out surgical teams around the world. Those who know her well speak of her heart for these programs, and her passion to serve those marginalized in society. Tune in to this episode to hear Karen’s zeal for sharing the Gospel through medicine.
Some people’s history with Samaritan’s Purse began much earlier than their employment. Today, you'll have the chance to hear from three "ministry kids" who grew up with Samaritan's Purse. Listen as Katrina Hicks, Dustin Kerley, and Jake Chasteen share their experiences, trials, and memories of having a parent work for the ministry. This story-filled episode features Godly insight for all listeners, and encouragement for those in the ministry who are raising children.
After serving in Liberia for 14 years, Bev Kauffledt is back to serve at the Samaritan’s Purse International Headquarters in Boone, North Carolina. In this episode, Bev talks with Kristy about her childhood roots in the Yukon, her thoughts during the Ebola outbreak, and raising her children in Liberia. Tune in to hear how Bev leaned on God to help her make decisions in the midst of tough circumstances.
Merry Christmas, Invited In listeners. In this bonus episode, enjoy hearing Kristy Graham’s children share the Christmas story.
We welcome back Aileen Coleman, the Australian nurse and medical missionary to the Bedouin people. Many of us have heard her astounding testimony, but in this episode, you’ll hear never-before-told stories of her experiences in the desert of Jordan. She reminisces on God’s faithfulness throughout her life, and gives wisdom to those who want to take the next step in ministry.
One year ago this month, the deadly Camp Fire devastated the town of Paradise, California – blazing through more than 150,000 acres and taking the lives of 86 people. In response, Samaritan’s Purse helped hundreds of homeowners and partnered with Pastor Josh Gallagher of Paradise Alliance Church. In this episode, hear Pastor Josh’s story as he encourages the staff of Samaritan’s Purse during devotions by recalling God’s goodness even through the hardest seasons of life.
As we transition into winter, we’ll hear from Mary Dailey, and how she faced numerous transitions of her own, yet still stood in obedience to God. Kristy talks with Mary about her experiences as a Samaritan’s Purse staff member, missionary in South Sudan, spouse, and mother. Mary expresses what it’s like to abide in the Lord and surrender to Him daily. Check out her new book on Amazon: “One Day One Village: A Tale From South Sudan.”
This week, we are inviting you in to hear a special update on our work to help displaced Syrian families. Ken Isaacs, vice president of programs and government relations, shares more about our work in northern Iraq and how we are supporting partners in Syria. Ken sheds light on the complicated situation and shares how listeners can specifically pray for this unique response.
Dr. Felix Martin Del Campo, long-time Samaritan’s Purse board member and friend of Franklin Graham, joins Kristy Graham to share God’s faithfulness through his work. Listen to Felix’s powerful story as he travelled around the world as a dentist for World Medical Mission. By meeting the dental needs of people from northern Iraq and Moldova to his practice in California, he shares the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a tangible way.
We were pleased to welcome Pastor Skip Heitzig, Samaritan's Purse Board member and friend of the Graham family, to lead devotions this month at the International Headquarters in Boone, North Carolina. Covering material from his book, "You Can Understand the Book of Revelation," Heitzig spoke truth on God's goodness, omniscience, and second coming.
We all know the story of Dr. Kent Brantly, the Samaritan's Purse doctor who contracted the deadly ebola virus and miraculously survived. Now is your chance to hear from his parents and sister on what it was like for them to experience what many would consider their worst nightmare. Kent's parents also share some timeless wisdom on how to raise children with the faith to step out into the world for the sake of the Gospel.
Kristy is on the ground at the 30th Annual Prescription for Renewal Medical Missions Conference, where she set up a recording studio to interview some of the amazing people that help make our medical ministries possible. In this episode, Kristy sits down with Samaritan's Purse nurse Kelly Sites. For nearly a decade, Kelly has deployed to disaster zones and conflict areas to bring healing and hope in Jesus' Name. She shares with Kristy how she became involved with Samaritan's Purse, how her faith has been challenged and grown in her work, and how she balances being a wife and mother of twins with deploying at a moment's notice for weeks at a time.
Special Episode! Have you ever wished you could attend staff devotions at Samaritan's Purse? Well, this is your chance! We were recently blessed with a special message from Ken Bevel of Sherwood Baptist Church. Ken spent two decades in the Marine Corps--including duty in both Iraq and Afghanistan--before retiring from the military serve in ministry. You may also recognize Ken's name from his roles in the hit movies "Fireproof" and "Courageous." This is a great opportunity to listen in on this special Samaritan's Purse devotions time.
For the first time ever, Kristy hosts Invited In from the field! In this episode, she is joined by J. Warner Wallace, author of "Cold Case Christianity." Wallace and his wife spent time volunteering with Operation Heal Our Patriots this summer and has a unique perspective on the ministry as well as some great devotional thoughts.
For the first time Kristy sits down with a married couple to talk about life on the mission field, raising their children while traveling extensively, and the importance of following God's call on your life— trusting Him no matter what. Edward Densham, the international director of projects, and his wife Bethany, the cleft and cataract surgery team program manager, have a history with Samaritan's Purse going back decades. They've seen it all as the organization has grown over the years, and on this episode they share more about their heart for the work.
In Eric Kohout’s role as Director of Logistics for International Projects, no two days are the same. When a disaster strikes, Eric is ready to respond and send critical supplies to the areas in need. In this episode, Eric shares how he relies on the Lord in the midst of disaster situations and gets the right resources into the hands of people who are suffering.
Kaitlyn Lahm, the media relations manager for Communications, is often first on the ground after a disaster with our response teams and travels to share the story of Samaritan’s Purse in the U.S. and around the world. While she usually works behind-the-scenes on this podcast, in this episode she’s in front of the microphone. Kaitlyn chats with Kristy about trusting God, putting people over product, and what it means to share the story of Samaritan's Purse in the middle of crisis situations.
After a long career in mortuary science, Pat and his wife felt God calling them to ministry. Pat is now committed to supporting military couples 24/7, for life through his job as the aftercare manager for Operation Heal Our Patriots. Hear how his life experiences have prepared him to radically love military couples long after their week in Alaska.
Chris Johnston shares a message from Luke 24 about Jesus’ encounter with two of His followers after the resurrection. Chris encourages us to walk with Jesus and re-ignite our passion for serving Him by seeing Jesus for who He truly is—our Messiah.
From being held at gunpoint to being captured, Lebanese pastor, Sami Dagher, has found himself in many dangerous situations, yet he has never backed down from sharing the Gospel. In this special episode, Kristy talks to Pastor Sami about his path to ministry, finding true happiness, and what it means to be fearless in your faith. Though Pastor Sami refers to himself as a “dirty Gentile dog,” we call him a giant in the faith. His testimony is an encouragement and challenge to Christians around the world.
Kristy chats with Brock Kreitzburg about how the one-time Olympic athlete and Hollywood stuntman came to the world of disaster response, how he met his wife on the field with Samaritan's Purse, and what the Lord has taught him has he leads the Disaster Response Unit in providing physical relief and sharing the hope of the Gospel with people who have lost nearly everything because of natural and manmade disasters.
When Franklin Graham and Dr. Richard Furman visited a remote mission hospital in Kenya, they saw three patients sharing one hospital bed. This moment changed the course of World Medical Mission. In this episode Dr. Furman, the co-founder of this special medical ministry, shares powerful stories where bold prayers of faith were answered, and he knew God’s hand was on the work being done to heal the sick and share the Gospel.
When Joni was a little girl, she used to spend hours pretending she was a missionary in Africa looking for people to tell about Jesus. Now Joni has lived and worked in Liberia for more than ten years, fulfilling a childhood dream, but more importantly answering God’s call on her life. In this episode, Joni shares powerful, personal stories with Kristy from her time in Liberia including how the Ebola outbreak changed her life.
Growing up in Southeast Asia, Paul remembers praying weekly for the country of Myanmar. Now he serves as the country director there, working alongside his wife Alison who has spearheaded the Samaritan’s Purse anti-trafficking projects in Myanmar. Paul shares how they have learned to trust God to direct their steps and rely on Him regardless of their circumstances.
As our special series continues with country directors from around the world, we hear from Melody Moshkowski. Melody serves as the director of the newest Samaritan’s Purse country office in Ethiopia. Listen as Melody shares more about the new projects in Ethiopia, her family’s legacy of service, and how she has seen God draw people to the truth of the Gospel.
In September 2017, Hurricane Maria brought a catastrophic blow to the island of Dominica. A year and half later, Samaritan's Purse continues to help families and churches recover. In the second episode of this special series, we hear from Ryan Lane. Ryan shares about the scars of Hurricane Maria that forever changed Dominica while also strengthening the church and opening doors to share the love of Christ with the local community.
This is the first episode of a special series of interviews Kristy captured with some of our country directors around the world. Matt Nowery has been based in Iraq with Samaritan's Purse since 2010. He lives there with his wife, Sarah, and their three small children. Sarah also serves with Samaritan's Purse as the information officer for Iraq. In this episode, Matt shares about the work to help people terrorized by ISIS and what it's like to raise a family in Iraq.
Many of you have had the privilege of hearing missionary Aileen Coleman tell stories of how God has worked among the Bedouin people who live in the desert of Jordan. BUT did you know that before she found earthly purpose and eternal redemption through Jesus she was called "the happy drunk"? In this episode, Kristy chats with Aileen about her wild youthful days, how she came to accept her life as a single woman, and how she has survived the many challenges of missionary life. She also offers some wise counsel to parents who may be struggling with children who aren't yet walking with the Lord. Don't miss this inside look at a remarkable woman of the faith!
In previous episodes, you heard from staff in International Projects, U.S. Disaster Relief, World Medical Mission, and Operation Christmas Child. These are some of the first departments that come to mind when you think of Samaritan's Purse. But have you ever thought about how integral Donor Ministries is to the support that allows their work to happen? Chris Johnston shares with Kristy how this important team fits into the bigger picture of the ministry. He also gives us a glimpse into his very special family and how he and his wife juggle a full, busy life together.
Todd Taylor of North American Ministries shares his story as well as what it's like to respond to a disaster right here in the U.S!
Sam McGinn shares an encouraging message from Paul's second letter to Timothy. Sam highlights how the Apostle Paul cared about people and took time to guide and encourage the young Timothy.
Kristy is joined by Samaritan's Purse President Franklin Graham who gives an inside look at how he came to be the head of the ministry after the passing of Dr. Bob Pierce. Franklin talks about those early days and the faith it took for him to take on such a big responsibility at such a young age. He also shares how the Lord brought him to his knees in a hotel room in Jerusalem and led him to a lifelong passion for sharing the Gospel with as many people as possible. You don't want to miss this one-of-a-kind interview!
Think you already know everything about Operation Christmas Child? Think again! David Thompson, senior director for Operation Christmas Child--international joins Kristy to talk about his time as a missionary in Russia, where he distributed shoebox gifts and to give us all a deeper look at this project to bring great joy and the Good News of Jesus Christ to children in over 100 countries.
Ever wonder what World Medical Mission does? Kristy interviews the director of World Medical Mission, Dr. Lance Plyler. This is a great overview of this medical ministry of Samaritan's Purse--from the history to the vision for the future. Lance also shares how God called him to the ministry and what the transition was like for him and his family.
Ken Isaacs joins Kristy to discuss the latest international disaster response in Mozambique and how he has seen the ministry's capacity grow through the years. He also shares his personal experience seeing the Lord work through the work of Samaritan's Purse through the years. A great inside look at what's going on today with some organizational history mixed in!
In this episode, Kristy Graham interviews one of the founders of the SP Family Support Ministry, Susan Wilcox. Susan shares her personal experience and challenges as the spouse of a Samaritan's Purse staff member and how she and others were inspired to begin this ministry to reach out to families.
Welcome to Invited In—a new podcast focused on connecting the global family of Samaritan’s Purse! In this first episode, you’ll meet the host of the podcast, Kristy Graham, who will share her own story of transitioning to the familiar, unfamiliar world of Samaritan’s Purse. She’ll also talk about the vision for this new podcast and how God has given her a heart to connect families to the work of the ministry and to each other.