A Teenage Calling
At the young age of 16, Heidi Baker experienced a profound encounter with God at a small Pentecostal church in Mississippi. She heard a clear call to become a missionary in Africa, Asia, and England. This calling led her to a life dedicated to serving others, alongside her husband, Rolland Baker, with whom she founded Iris Global in 1980. Their journey took them across Asia and eventually to Mozambique in 1995, one of the world's poorest nations at the time.
Transformed Lives in Mozambique
In Mozambique, Heidi and Rolland took over a neglected government-run children's center in dire conditions. Despite immense challenges, including government restrictions and spiritual opposition, they relied on prayer and witnessed God's miraculous provision. Soon, the children experienced transformation, finding hope and spiritual awakening.
Lightning From Heaven
Heidi faced a moment of intense desperation when she fell ill with tuberculosis and pneumonia. On the brink of exhaustion, she attended a healing meeting in Toronto. There, she encountered God in a life-altering way. She vividly recalled the moment, 'The power of God hit me like lightning.' This encounter not only healed her but also reignited her passion for her mission in Mozambique.
Mama Heidi
Following this experience, Iris Global expanded significantly, caring for over 10,000 orphaned and vulnerable children and planting thousands of churches. Stories of miracles, such as the blind seeing and the deaf hearing, became associated with their ministry. Despite facing natural disasters and violence, Heidi and Iris Global continued to serve with unwavering faith.
Heidi Baker's journey from a young girl with a vision to 'Mama Heidi' to thousands is a testament to her profound commitment to loving and serving others. Her story demonstrates how Jesus provided for and empowered her to transform lives in Mozambique and beyond.
