Equipping Leaders International (ELI) is dedicated to training and equipping church leaders around the world, and nowhere is this impact more evident than in Liberia. Over the past year, ELI has seen incredible growth in its training programs, leading to transformation not just in churches but in entire communities. With hundreds of pastors trained, thousands of believers impacted, and new initiatives taking root, 2024 has been a remarkable year—and 2025 promises even more.
2024: A Year of Growth and Multiplication
This past year, ELI’s work in Liberia, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire focused on equipping pastors and church leaders—what we call “Timothys”—to strengthen the local church and spread the gospel. The numbers tell a compelling story:
- 647 church leaders, pastors, and church planters were trained through ELI’s programs.
- 44 of these trained leaders went on to train other pastors themselves, multiplying the impact.
- 440 pastor training events were held across these regions, primarily in rural villages.
The ripple effect of this training is extraordinary. The 2024 graduates are estimated to be impacting 25,000 believers—and that’s just from this year’s cohort. Another 25,000 believers are continuing to benefit from the training of the 2023 graduates. This means that over 50,000 people are being strengthened in their faith, equipped to lead, and mobilized to share the gospel more effectively.
Transforming Lives Beyond the Church
One of the most exciting developments from ELI’s work in Liberia is the holistic transformation happening in the communities where these leaders serve. Recognizing the need to equip pastors not only spiritually but also practically, ELI introduced agricultural training last year as a way to help pastors and their congregations become more self-sufficient.
The pastors who initially received agricultural training are completing their certification. In 2025, these certified trainers will pass on their knowledge to another 600+ church leaders, equipping them to use agricultural skills to sustain their ministries and support their communities.
This approach is more than just practical—it’s biblical. Just as Paul worked as a tentmaker to support his ministry, these pastors are learning ways to provide for themselves and their congregations while continuing to spread the gospel.
Looking Ahead: The Vision for 2025
As ELI progresses in 2025, the vision for Liberia continues to expand. With additional funding, we are excited to see even more multiplication take place, including:
- Training another 600+ church leaders in biblical teaching and agricultural sustainability.
- Mobilizing Certified Pastor Trainers to go out monthly, providing ongoing theological training and agricultural instruction.
- Decreasing financial dependence by expanding self-sufficiency initiatives, allowing the local church to thrive without long-term reliance on outside funding.
To make this possible, there is a financial need of $100,000 to support pastor training events in 2025. An additional $110,000 from the Annual Fund will be used to mobilize the Certified Pastor Trainers, ensuring they can continue their mission.
Why This Matters
Liberia has become a “test kitchen” for ELI—a model for how sustainable, long-term transformation can take root. By integrating theological education with practical training, we are not only strengthening the church but also helping communities thrive in ways that will last for generations.
With continued support, we can ensure that these leaders are equipped not just for ministry, but for life—serving their congregations, providing for their families, and spreading the gospel throughout West Africa.
As we look ahead to 2025, we invite you to partner with us in this incredible work. Your support helps train pastors, strengthen churches, and transform lives. Together, we can see the gospel flourish in Liberia and beyond.
