As Christmas approaches, many of us begin preparing in familiar ways — decorating trees, baking cookies, gathering gifts for family, and planning festive meals. There is a sense of anticipation in the air, a joy that comes from celebrating God’s goodness and reflecting on the blessings He has poured into our lives. But in Liberia, Christmas looks very different.
And yet, in many ways, it is far more meaningful.Across the rural communities we serve, the season is marked not by material abundance, but by moments of gratitude, unity, and deep faith. It is a Christmas that reminds us of the very heart of the Gospel: hope arriving in humility.
Christmas in Liberia: Joy Without Excess
In the rural communities we serve, there are no Christmas trees glowing in living rooms, no long lines at shopping centers, and no piles of gifts waiting to be opened. Instead, Christmas in Liberia is beautifully simple. The children gather together. They share a meal—often one of the few special meals they’ll enjoy all year. And they give thanks to God for His provision. Even with so little, their gratitude fills the room. Their joy is pure, unclouded by material expectations. Their laughter and songs echo a deeper truth: Christmas is about hope.
Pastor Paasewe: A Servant Leader Bringing Christmas to Hundreds
At the heart of one of these joyful celebrations stands Pastor Boakai Blessing Paasewe, the founder and director of Living Word Mission in Cape Mount, Liberia.Pastor Paasewe’s life is an extraordinary example of humble sacrifice.
He does not live in comfort. His home is a small room behind the church, where he sleeps on the floor. His days are long and demanding as he provides care, structure, and stability for hundreds of children — many of whom rely completely on the mission for food, shelter, education, and emotional support.Yet every Christmas, Pastor Paasewe becomes a symbol of joy.
He dresses as Santa Claus — not with a store-bought costume or elaborate decorations, but with overflowing love and creativity. His “Santa suit” is pieced together by hand, and his laughter is genuine. When he enters the room, the children erupt with excitement. They dance. They cheer. They clap. For a moment, the weight of poverty lifts, and pure joy fills the space.
For children who have lost parents…
For children who rarely have a day of celebration…
For children who have faced hardships far beyond their years…This moment is a treasure. For many, this simple Christmas program is the highlight of the entire year — a reminder that they are seen, valued, and loved.
A School Transformed—And a Community With It
Earlier this year, ICF visited the Living Word Mission school—a facility founded 20 years ago and run by volunteer teachers. While the school was in great need of repairs, the Minister of Education proudly shared that it provides the best education in the area. Because of your generosity, we were able to:
- Renovate the school building
- Install new bathrooms
- Drill a water well that now supplies water throughout the mission
During our visit, the students performed a Christmas-style program that brought tears to our eyes. These children, who once had no access to education, can now read, write, and dream—not just about tomorrow, but about a future filled with hope.
Event Hall Update: Almost Complete!
We are thrilled to share that the new Event Hall at My Brother’s Keeper Mission is nearly finished. This hall will serve as a community gathering place, a safe environment for meetings and outreach, and a space for future Christmas programs, school events, and discipleship gatherings. The progress has been remarkable, and the anticipation within the community is growing.
This hall will soon be a center of life, learning, and celebration.
Pharmaceutical Support Reaching Liberia, Uganda and Togo
This season, we are also celebrating major improvements in our pharmaceutical distribution. ICF has expanded its efforts to ensure that essential medicines reach clinics and communities in Liberia, Uganda and Togo.These supplies are life-changing—and often life-saving.
From antibiotics to basic wound care materials, these medicines directly impact the health of children and families who have limited or no access to medical treatment. This Christmas, health and healing are being delivered right where they are needed most.
A Christmas Rooted in Hope
As we reflect on the work happening at our missions, one thing becomes clear: Christmas is not defined by what we have. It’s defined by the hope we share. Pastor Paasewe, the children of Sanjanama and Cape Mount, our mission partners, and families across Africa remind us that the greatest gift we can give is love—expressed through compassion, generosity, and faith. Your support has made this Christmas brighter for countless children.
Your prayers, your gifts, and your kindness are helping transform communities that once had no access to education, clean water, medicine, or hope. From all of us at ICF: Thank you.
May your Christmas be blessed, and may the joy you’ve given be returned to you abundantly.