Today the story of a Missionary who died thinking he was a failure. He was wrong — 84 years later thriving churches that he planted are found hidden in the jungle
In 1912, medical missionary Dr. William Leslie went to live and minister to tribal people in a remote corner of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. After 17 years he returned to the U.S. a discouraged man – believing he failed to make an impact for Christ. He died nine years after his return.
But in 2010, a team led by Eric Ramsey with Tom Cox World Ministries made a shocking and sensational discovery. They found a network of reproducing churches hidden like glittering diamonds in the dense jungle, where Dr. Leslie was stationed.
With the help of a Mission Aviation Fellowship pilot, Ramsey, and his team flew into the area and then used canoes and their feet to make their way into the remote village of the Yansi people.
Based on his previous research, Ramsey thought the Yansi might have some exposure to the name of Jesus, but no real understanding of who He is. They were unprepared for their remarkable find.
Ramsey told God Reports, “When we got in there, we found a network of reproducing churches throughout the jungle. Each village had its own gospel choir. They wrote their own songs and would have sing-offs from village to village.”
Ramsey said Dr. Leslie’s goal “was to spread Christianity. He felt he never really made a big impact, but the legacy he left is huge.”