A Deeper Fire In My Own Heart

Hope Worldwide • November 15, 2016

Katelynn Grim has just returned from serving on the South Africa HOPE worldwide Singles Corps and shares how the experience helped her connect to the compassionate heart of Jesus in a new way.

Throughout the New Testament, there is story after story of how Jesus took the time to see the “unnoticeables”. This trip repeatedly reminded me of how Jesus took people in their brokenness, like Mary and Martha after the death of their brother (John 11), or in their worst and most humiliating states, like the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11), or the woman at the well (John 4), and He gave his full self by being present. The safest place the woman caught in adultery felt, was not in running and hiding after being shamed, but was actually to stand next to Jesus (John 8: 9). His compassion drew people close to Him. He was the safest place to go. His interaction and response to seeing them, gave these people the courage to leave the presence of Jesus forever changed. This trip couldn’t have come at a more prominent time in my life to reinforce this truth. I believe this is also the heart of what HOPE worldwide reflects.

These women have come from some of the most broken places; being raped, abused, kicked out of school and unable to finish their high school education. The feeling of being invisible and unseen is all too familiar for each of them. After sharing these stories, they continued to share how they have changed. They shared their stories of how they were taught to love. I sat there, holding back tears, as I expressed to them the incredible impact they are making on their families. These women have the amazing courage to be cycle breakers. I love seeing how people can become empowered and compelled through love, to break chains that have been passed down through generations.

These women’s children and future families will forever be changed simply because they were taught how to love. “We love because He first loved us” 1 John 4:19. This reflects the heart of HOPE and the motivation behind programs like this parent support group. I have the privilege of working in an Early Childhood Program here in the States, and the biggest impact that will be an indicator of true growth for any child we work with, is if the parent is involved and willing to reinforce the strategies we teach.

Through this program, HOPE worldwide is generating lasting change from the inside out. When people are given the opportunity to share their story, to be seen, it empowers them and in turn causes them to gain a belief that they can change and be different. I believe through this program, HOPE is continuing to empower these mothers in the community to change. Upon graduating the program, many have become advocates and teachers to other women in their community. Some mothers have even started working with HOPE worldwide to lead these programs. The impact and transformation of this community has come down to giving each individual woman the opportunity to be really seen.

There are still many things I want to see happen in South Africa, and I have a firm belief I will be back again next year. However, to see the way HOPE worldwide is a shining light of the compassionate heart of Jesus, has ignited a deeper fire in my own heart. I am reminded of how Jesus has noticed me and I am inspired to look for ways I can take the time to really see and listen to the stories of those around me; because love is truly one of the most powerful things we can offer others.

October 13, 2026
Providing School Supplies for Students in Need
October 12, 2026
A Young Lebanese Story of Hope
October 1, 2026
I recently traveled to the United Nations in New York to represent HOPE worldwide at the United Nations. Seeing all of the flags at the UN captured something meaningful for me: nearly 193 nations represented in one place, each with its own history, challenges, and hopes for the future. It was a powerful reminder that the needs confronting our world are global—and that addressing them requires partnership across nations, organizations, businesses, faith communities, and local leaders. HOPE worldwide holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council ( ECOSOC ). This designation recognizes our organization's expertise and enables us to contribute to UN discussions and initiatives related to our mission and areas of impact. This status gives HOPE worldwide an opportunity to contribute to global conversations concerning poverty, health, education, clean water, food security, economic opportunity, disaster response, and sustainable development. These priorities closely align with both the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the focused areas of impact of HOPE worldwide 's program globally. The visit was important because HOPE worldwide already serves vulnerable communities across nearly 60 countries. Our presence at the United Nations allows us to bring the experience, perspective, and needs of those communities into a broader global conversation. It also creates opportunities to learn from other organizations, form strategic partnerships, and identify resources that can strengthen our work. One of my greatest takeaways was that no single organization—or nation—can solve these challenges alone. I was surrounded by representatives from approximately 90 nations, all discussing issues that cross geographic and political boundaries. The experience reinforced our belief in pursuing partnerships. We must be willing to learn from others, share what we have learned, and work together wherever our missions align. I was also reminded that global goals must ultimately become local action. The Sustainable Development Goals provide a helpful framework, but their true value is realized when a child receives an education, a family gains access to clean water, a community becomes better prepared for disaster, or someone acquires the skills necessary to support a family. That is where HOPE worldwide can make a distinctive contribution: connecting global priorities with trusted relationships and practical service in local communities. Going forward, this experience will help us more intentionally align and communicate our work within a globally recognized framework. It can also strengthen our credibility with governments, foundations, corporations, and nonprofit partners seeking experienced organizations capable of translating resources into measurable community impact. The visit was not simply about the United Nations. It was about HOPE worldwide taking its appropriate place in a global community committed to improving lives. Our status opens a door. Our responsibility is to walk through it with humility, clarity, and a commitment to meaningful partnership. Thank you, Dr. Ben Barnett HOPE worldwide CEO & President 
September 17, 2026
A Partnership with Food for the Hungry Haiti and Wine to Water
September 11, 2026
And a Community Service Brigade to El Salvador
September 3, 2026
Partnering with the Church of Christ in Caracas
September 1, 2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and brother, Dave Tomlinson. Dave was a beloved part of the HOPE worldwide family who served in many capacities throughout his time with us, most recently as Chief Operating Officer before his retirement. He also played an important role in our Global Disaster Response and Community Service Brigades teams, serving alongside his wife, Angela. More than the roles he held, Dave was a cherished friend whose warmth, kindness, and genuine spirit touched so many people. His care for others was evident in the way he served, led, and built relationships with people around the world. Dave had a remarkable ability to encourage, uplift, and connect with people, reflecting God's love in both his leadership and his friendships. We will miss Dave deeply and are grateful for the many ways he gave of himself to HOPE worldwide and to the amazing people we get to serve. We’re holding Angela and their family close in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Dave’s presence will be deeply missed, but his faith, love, and example will remain in our hearts forever and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
August 25, 2026
HOPE worldwide’s SPARK Academy brings healing after floods 
August 25, 2026
A Hurricane Melissa Relief Update
August 24, 2026
Offering healing through art, theater and sports
Show More