Our Origin
The story of Rural Evangelism Mission (R.E.M.) Liberia begins with the life of a young girl named Betty. Growing up in rural Liberia, Betty faced immense hardship—sold into marriage at a young age, denied an education, and left to raise three sons on her own without the support of a husband.
In the midst of this darkness, Betty encountered the light of the gospel. After becoming a follower of Jesus, she felt called by God to share His Word. Though she could not read, she urged one of her sons to learn so that he could read Scripture aloud to her. Through this, Betty discovered the treasures of God’s Word and became an itinerant preacher, carrying hope to others in circumstances like hers.
Betty’s resilience planted a vision in her son, Nicholas Sonpon, who later moved to the United States. Inspired by his mother’s faith and determination, Nicholas founded Rural Evangelism Mission, Liberia—with a heart to bring education, the gospel, and hope to vulnerable children and families in rural communities.
Our Mission
R.E.M. Liberia exists to proclaim the gospel and bring holistic support to rural communities where resources are scarce, churches are few, and harmful cultural practices often dominate. While Christian churches are present in cities, many villages remain unreached and instead fall prey to destructive cults. These practices often exploit young girls, forcing them into early marriage and trapping them in cycles of poverty and despair.
Into these forgotten places, R.E.M. sends local Christian workers who share the gospel, support families, and provide children with opportunities for education. For many, it is their very first exposure to the good news of Jesus Christ.