2024 Impact Report

At the heart of Le Pont International's mission is a story of transformation. John Laba’s mother grew up in the Loso speaking region of Togo marked by idol worship and pervasive poverty. His mother, deeply entrenched in this darkness, raised him speaking Loso. John’s life took a dramatic turn in 1980 when he encountered Christ at the church Sherry and I had planted, where I was serving as the pastor.

John’s profound transformation ignited a passion within him to share the gospel with his family and community. John’s journey took him from college to seminary, from studying Hebrew in Israel to earning a Doctorate at Samford University. After 13 years with Compassion International, he became director of Le Pont International in January 2022, focusing on unreached people groups in Togo and addressing critical needs like clean water access and education for children.

In collaboration with the Minister of Water and Village Hydraulics, LPI pinpointed 50 villages most desperate for clean water. Remarkably, at the very top of the list was Adewicope—the village where John’s mother grew up, making the mission deeply personal and meaningful.

Adewicope was a village without a church, divided between idol worship and Islam—until the gospel was preached under a tree. That day, 40 villagers accepted Christ, were baptized, and planted the seed of a new church.

Transformation followed. A Living Water Well provided clean water, allowing girls to attend school instead of trekking miles to fetch water. Soon after, 60 more villagers accepted Christ, growing the church’s impact.

Momentum built quickly. School supplies were given to 85 children, a proper school building was constructed, and church attendance surged to 200—nearly half the village. Ten women received small business loans, and plans are underway to boost agriculture with help from U.S. farmers. What began under a tree has sparked lasting change in Adewicope.

Today, Adewicope and 17 other villages across Togo are experiencing life-changing transformation through LPI’s Living Water Well Community Transformation projects—bringing the gospel, clean water, opportunity and hope to thousands.

Who are the true heroes of this transformation story? Is it John Laba and his tireless African team? The faithful pastor and his devoted community of Christ-followers? Or is it you—the generous donors and steadfast friends of Le Pont International? The answer is clear: Yes, yes, and yes! Together, we are united in this extraordinary journey of transformation.