International (MNN) — Millions worldwide lack clean water to drink. That’s why Wycliffe Associates helps construct clean water systems.
Bart Maley says they serve communities in Asia, Africa, South America, and the Pacific islands. “Water is a key factor in all of our lives. It not only helps us to survive because we need water, but all of the things that we eat and survive on are based on a water supply to help them to grow, whether it’s vegetables, animals, or whatever type of things that people eat.”
Asia and Africa
These projects look different by region. In Asia, Wycliffe Associates usually helps capture spring water from the side of mountains. They pipe it down to the villages where people can use it for washing or drinking. Often this will include building a latrine, which many villages have never had.
In Africa, the ministry has to take a different strategy. Maley says, “A lot of that is well drilling or borehole construction. Many areas lack elevation change and the availability of springs in the mountains. Drilling water wells is a better solution.”
Wycliffe Associates often works with contractors to dig wells in the most remote and hard-to-reach villages. They also provide training for basic repairs on the water pumps. Maley says, “The key factor in that is community ownership. And that’s why we don’t just go in and do things for people. Community is part of all this. When the pump breaks down, they’ll feel it’s their pump.”
Living Water
As people get water, pastors often read portions of the Bible newly translated into the local language. People can drink clean water and hear about Jesus, who called Himself the Living Water.
Want to get involved? You can support both clean water and Bible translation here.
Header photo courtesy of Wycliffe Associates.
