LEI – ForeRunner (Prayer Partner)

Literacy & Evangelism International (LEI) believes in the power of prayer and is blessed to have a significant partnership in the foundational work of prayer. The covering of prayer is so evident it led Joan Lovekin to comment, “I could feel the covering of prayer when I walked through the door” of the LEI office. We at LEI are deeply appreciative of prayer support we receive and would like to offer an opportunity for our current prayer partners and others to consider taking prayer to a deeper level.

“And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.” (Some manuscripts add…and fasting) John 9: 28-29

The manuscripts that add “and fasting” to the text were all written by the early church fathers. I believe the later addition was based upon the early church experiencing the enhanced power that comes through the combination of prayer and fasting.

I believe that God may be calling some of you to become what I like to call…
LEI – ForeRunners, prayer partners that go ahead of LEI missionaries around the world by doing the following:

1. Praying daily using the LEI bimonthly prayer calendar

2. Joining LEI staff in prayer and fasting the 1st Friday of each month

3. Setting aside the savings from fasting to support LEI

I like the philosophy of “don’t ask don’t tell” when it comes to fasting. Even though we declare a day of fasting every month at LEI, there is no pressure or inventory taken during or after the event. It’s a discipline that allows one to offer a sacrifice solely in the presence of God. It allows one to be more sensitive to those who are hungry physically and spiritually. When I feel a pang of hunger during a fast, I’m reminded that there are those who hunger and thirst after God’s Word but can not read it for themselves.

If this opportunity resonates with you, let us know. We would love to hear from you. But whether you want to take the three steps of a LEI – ForeRunner or simply want to simply cover us with your prayers; we will be forever grateful for your faithfulness to the foundational work of prayer for LEI. The complexion of this world and the very face of heaven will be forever changed because you have decided to pray.

THANK YOU for going ahead of LEI missionaries around the world through your prayers.

On my knees with you in the house of prayer, Sid Rice

Following in LARGE Footsteps

I am humbled and honored to follow in the footsteps of such great Men of God as these who have gone before me in leadership at Literacy & Evangelism International (LEI). I will always count it a privilege to be referenced in the same breath with the men who have faithfully directed this ministry with such servant hearts. Following Bob Biederman, who served most recently as Interim Executive Director, gives me a great amount of joy. Bob served LEI with a pastor’s heart. His joy and calm demeanor through this significant time of change provided for a seamless transition. I’ll never forget our trip to West Africa last year when Bob and I worked with the Bible Society of Ghana on a primer/basic reader for two weeks. His patience and grace were always a source of encouragement to me. These godly characteristics have served the ministry well through this transitional time.

I am also grateful to John Taylor, who exhibited grace beyond measure as he took up the mantle of leadership following the founder of LEI. Such grace was truly amazing to me, far beyond what was humanly possible. His leadership has brought to the ministry a vision through the year 2020, navigating a path forward that targets the greatest opportunities to bring God’s Word to the world. With the insight of Moses, John restructured the ministry into regions around the globe. He delegated and empowered new Regional Directors to oversee the work. But the most remarkable thing to me, above all the accomplishments, is the amazing grace which John exhibited following my father as Executive Director.

Following my father in directing the LEI ministry is, without question, what humbles me most. This is undoubtedly because of the intimate relationship I enjoyed with him. He was my mentor, my guide, my brother in Christ, and my dad. He taught me how to pray, how to set an appointment with Jesus early in the morning before the distractions of each day. He taught me how to listen to those less fortunate and how to passionately follow Jesus whatever the cost.

Three years ago I did not anticipate my season of grief after his passing. My plans included more mission trips together, more counsel, and more laughter with my earthly father. But our heavenly Father had different plans, plans that would stretch and shape my destiny in ways I could not imagine. God’s destiny and purpose for my life would be for such a time as this. I will forever be grateful to those who have gone before in shaping Literacy & Evangelism International into the significant global ministry that it has become. I appreciate the Board of Trustees who confirmed my call, and family, friends, and missionaries around the world who have affirmed the same. May God grant me grace to honor God and those who have walked before me, carrying the mantle of service at LEI with humility, integrity, and divine purpose.