The global pandemic has people searching for answers, and many of them are looking to God, according to a leading online ministry.
“Fear is a natural response to a situation like this that none of us has encountered before,” said Matt Wilson, founder and chairman of Global Media Outreach. “What we’re seeing is millions of people open to talking about faith in the face of fear, and we’re ramping up to be available for them. According to Google, searches about fears around the virus, uncertain finances and employment are growing rapidly.”
READ: Faith a much needed partner, says government
Global Media Outreach reaches individuals around the world on the internet, mobile devices and a proprietary, secure messaging system. As individuals respond to a message of hope online, they receive support to grow in their faith and are connected to a Christian community.
The organization has reached close to two billion people and seen more than 223 million respond positively to a message of faith and hope in Jesus. The internet ministry pioneer has touched lives in every country, offering spiritual guidance, encouragement and peace. Now even that number is growing, and Global Media Outreach is issuing a call to meet the demand.
READ: Pandemic documentary is fascinating look at 1918 flu crisis
“We have grown strategically and intentionally so that through our staff and volunteers we can scale up to meet the higher and higher levels of need we’re seeing now,” President Jeff Gowler said. “With uncertainty about COVID-19, our personal touches have gone from 350,000 people per day reaching now upwards to 500,000. The only limit we face is the financial cost of telling people we’re available through online and social media ads. People dealing with fear and anxiety need comfort and support, and we’re here to help.”
Global Media Outreach has 3,500 online volunteers, speaking 50 different languages, who answer questions all over the globe and pray for and guide new believers on their spiritual journey through a safe and anonymous system.
“During the present pandemic, Gospel Media Outreach helps those that are hurting and afraid,” Gowler said. “We provide a highly personal interaction without physical contact, so those quarantined can still have a deeply personal connection with online volunteers who will encourage and pray for them.”
–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice