The At Risk Radio Podcast

From Fear to Faith: Naghmeh’s Courageous Stand in Iran’s Underground Church

Naghmeh Abedini Panahi - Part 2

In this powerful episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt continue their conversation with Naghmeh Aberdini Panahi, a courageous Christian leader from Iran. Naghmeh shares her transformative journey of faith, marked by divine visions, evangelism, and the explosive growth of the Underground Church in Iran. Despite facing arrest, interrogation, and persecution, her unwavering belief enabled her to impact countless lives, including through advocacy at the United Nations. Her story highlights themes of perseverance, faith under persecution, and the dynamic power of the Gospel. Tune in to discover how Naghmeh’s inspiring testimony and faith have reached nearly a billion people, spreading hope to those persecuted for their beliefs.

Learn more about Naghmeh and her book, I Didn't Survive.

From Islam to Jesus: Naghmeh Abedini’s Journey of Faith Amid Iranian Persecution

Naghmeh Abedini Panahi - Part 1

Today, hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt welcome special guest Naghmeh Abedini Panahi, a passionate advocate for the Persecuted Church in Iran and the Middle East. You’ll hear Naghmeh’s captivating story of faith and resilience as she shares her journey of finding Jesus amid the chaos of the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War. Raised in a devout Muslim household, Naghmeh’s life took a transformative turn when she encountered Jesus Christ, leading to a lifelong mission to support the Underground Church. Gain insight into her mission work, her first experiences with the Amish Mennonites, and the inspiring power of faith and perseverance. Don’t miss this compelling episode highlighting leadership and resilience in the Christian community at risk. Learn more about Naghmeh Abedini Panahi and her book, I Didn't Survive.

Empowering Indigenous Missionaries: A CPA’s Perspective on Global Missions and Generosity

Join hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt as they chat with Mary Brezeale, a dedicated CPA and passionate supporter of the SOM International mission. Mary shares her transformative journey of faith, from growing up in a nominal Christian family to embracing a leadership role in supporting the Global Persecuted Church. She discusses the crucial impact of giving, practical tips for maximizing charitable contributions, and the vital work of Indigenous missionaries within the 10/40 Window—the region between 10 and 40 degrees north of the equator. Learn about Mary’s heart for the unreached and why she believes supporting organizations like SOM International is a strategic way to further the Gospel’s reach to those who risk much for Jesus. Discover how you can make a difference in the Global Church by aligning your financial stewardship with eternal impact. Learn More.

Bridging Cultures and Persevering in Faith: Embracing the Call to Missions

Travis and Abigail Part 3

In this continued conversation with missionaries Travis and Abigail, discover their remarkable journey of navigating their calling from France to a remote and challenging region in North Africa. The couple shares the inspiring impact they’ve seen, especially among women and children entrapped in the fundamentalist stronghold. Hosts Mark Stafford and SOM CEO David Witt discuss cultural adaptation with the couple, including how Travis and Abigail’s children were reluctant about going at first and their surprising encounter with African horse clubs. Learn how they're fueling a movement with over 10,000 believers and 400 churches, training new leaders, and providing sustainable solutions through micro-businesses. This episode provides an inspiring glimpse into the transformative power of missions, bringing an engaging dialogue on leadership, faith, and making a lasting difference in the Persecuted Church.

To give toward Travis and Abigail’s work, you can add a memo in your gift to SOM with “Travis and Abigail, North Africa.” Give here [www.spiritofmartyrdom.com/donate]

How God Equipped, Grew Faith, and Overcame Fear: A Path to Missions Work

Travis and Abigail Part 2

This week, Abigail shares her incredible journey of overcoming paralyzing anxiety and fear through faith, detailing how God brought light to unreached communities in North Africa and France. Hosts Mark Stafford and SOM CEO David Witt sit down with Abigail and her husband, Travis, who serve in French-speaking North Africa. Through Abigail’s story, we learn about the immense cultural challenges and divine interventions in their mission work, from parenting in a new language to gaining unique influence within local schools. Discover how their children, through simple acts of faith and kindness, influenced their teachers and peers. Plus, you'll learn how their work in France prepared them for the mission field in North Africa. Tune in for this uplifting story of faith, resilience, and the incredible power of trusting God fully and how God is using this dynamic duo to impact lives and spread the Gospel.

To give toward Travis and Abigail’s work, you can add a memo in your gift to SOM with “Travis and Abigail, North Africa.” Give here [www.spiritofmartyrdom.com/donate ]

From Iraq to France and Beyond: An Unexpected Mission Field

Travis and Abigail Part 1

 

Discover how Travis and his wife Abigail navigated challenges, overcame isolation, and ultimately found their calling to minister in difficult fields serving the Global Church. This week, Travis chats with hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt to discuss his incredible journey from military service to mission work in French-speaking North Africa. Travis shares candidly about his initial reluctance to serve in France, his struggles with identity and spiritual growth, and how the Lord transformed his heart toward the Persecuted Church. Through a mix of dedication, divine intervention, and incredible personal revelation, Travis walks us through the highs and lows of his spiritual and mission-driven path, providing invaluable insights into serving the Global and Persecuted Church. Be sure to come back for the next episode, where Abigail shares her story.

Equipping Muslim-Background Believers and Leaders in North Africa

Leon and Brenda Part 2

Today on At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt continue their discussion with Global Ambassadors Leon and Brenda and the transformative work they do with the persecuted Christians. They share their decade-long journey in North Africa, highlighting the crucial role of local leadership in spreading the Christian faith among Muslim-background believers. Discover the inspiring shift toward empowering African women through innovative sewing centers that foster discipleship and micro-businesses, offering them newfound hope and identity in Christ. Tune in to explore the profound impact of indigenous evangelism and the vital support from SOM International's leadership and discipleship programs. This compelling episode underscores the power of community-driven change in missions.

Answering the Call in Northwest Africa

Leon and Brenda Part 1

Join hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt to discover how an unexpected encounter led to a transformative mission in Northwest Africa. Hear how Global Ambassadors Leon and Brenda joined SOM International to empower Muslim-background believers to share the Gospel. They share inspiring stories of faith, leadership, and community development as they discuss the unique challenges and incredible rewards of ministry in Islamic contexts.

Learn how a chance meeting on a dusty road in North Africa led Leon and Brenda to partner with the SOM International Director for the region. Discover the couple’s shift in ministry focus from direct evangelism to empowering local Muslim-background believers to lead and disciple within their own communities. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone passionate about church leadership, global missions, and spreading the love of Christ across cultures. Tune in now to hear how God is working in North Africa through dedicated leaders and the power of unity in Christ.

Multiplying Leadership and Discipleship for Impact in Northwest Africa

Multiplying Leadership and Discipleship for Impact in Northwest Africa

Despite challenges, SOM Northwest Africa Director Malik remains committed to bringing about positive change in his community and working toward a more peaceful and united country. In this episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt continue their conversation with Malik, bringing crucial updates on impactful events occurring in Northwest Africa, specifically related to the Church at risk. Malik also discusses the impact of the Discussion Discipleship Method (DDM) in empowering local church leaders and spreading the Gospel in the face of challenges. His firsthand account of the spiritual climate in the region and the vision to reach all of North Africa and beyond sheds light on the resilience and dedication of leaders who serve the Persecuted Church. Join us as we explore the power of prayer and the opportunities for partnership in supporting these impactful initiatives. For more on DDM and inspiring stories of faith, visit spiritofmartyrdom.com.

Frontline Report: Resilient Faith amid Persecution for the Gospel

Interview with Malik, Part 1

In this episode of At Risk Radio, Malik, the director of SOM in Northwest Africa, shares a gripping firsthand account of the challenges faced by the Persecuted Church. Despite harrowing obstacles, including travel delays and threats from local extremists, Malik and his team display unwavering faith and commitment to providing crucial leadership training for pastors and church leaders. Join hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt as they discuss Malik’s powerful stories of courage, sacrifice, and spiritual resilience in the face of adversity. Listen now to gain insight into the vital work being done in Northwest Africa and discover how you can support these efforts and pray specifically for believers risking it all for the Gospel.