Living Water

On Friday, September 25th, Living Water International hosted its Annual Houston Gala. More than 700 people attended the event, each one a part of The Story of the Thirsty.

In the grand foyer outside of InterContinental Hotel’s Legends Ballroom, guests mingled among tables draped in black set with tall cylinders full of dirty water. Posters of beautiful models holding glasses of murky water lined the perimeter of the room. Inside the ballroom the pure white tablecloths, crystal vases, sparkling candlelight, and images of happy children drinking clean water provided a wonderful contrast to the ambiance of the foyer.

Following an exciting opening performance of traditional African tribal music and dance by the Kuumba House Dance Theatre, KSBJ’s Liz Jordan welcomed everyone and introduced the program for the evening. LWI Chairman Gary Loveless provided an overview of financials for the year as well as a look into LWI’s future. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal as individuals shared stories from the floor of how their own lives were affected by the ministry of LWI. A dramatic presentation and an amazing new video from the field wove together true stories of lives and communities transformed by the gift of clean water.

LWI’s Stan Patyrak and Ali Eastburn from With This Ring spoke about the impact of LWI’s partnerships with advocacy organizations, corporations, and churches. Gala Chair David Weekley shared remarks about his own part in The Story of the Thirsty and the journey that brought him to this point. LWI’s Paul Darilek brought the evening to a close with a beautiful and poetic appeal that challenged the audience to continue to be a part of the story by providing desperate communities with a cup of water in Jesus’ name.

Early estimates indicate that the event raised approximately 1.7 million dollars, enabling LWI to continue to expand its ministry to the world’s thirsty.

The evening was dedicated to the life of Tommy Head, Director of LWI-Peru, who passed away this year.