Meet Our Founders
Mike & Mary Bruce
From the heart of Alabama to the mountains of Guatemala, our journey began 37 years ago, guided by a divine call to serve. Embracing the spirit of 'to go' as directed by our faith, we found our mission amidst the coffee farms of the remote Quiche mountains, during the challenging times of Guatemala's Civil War. This journey of faith has not only sustained but also expanded our reach, allowing us to extend our helping hands to Haiti and Africa. Our work, inspired by the belief that "In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind" (John 1:4), continues to be a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness. Today, as founders of Light of the Nations, we remain committed to being a source of light and hope, illuminating paths and changing lives across continents.
The Inspiring Journey of Mike & Mary Bruce
In 1986, amidst the tumult of Guatemala's civil war, Mike and Mary Bruce embarked on a life-altering journey. Their story began in the mountains of Quiche, where they founded a refuge center on a coffee farm, offering sanctuary from the violence that enveloped the region. Amidst the chaos, they found purpose, not only in offering shelter but also in igniting hope.
Their mission evolved in Quetzaltenango, where they nurtured churches and mentored pastors, fostering a community bound by faith and resilience. As the area grew into a hub for missionaries, Mike and Mary sought to reach the unexplored corners of Guatemala. This quest led them to Peten, a lush yet isolated jungle region. For 25 years, they have called Peten home, immersing themselves in the community, pastoring, and continually seeking those in need.
Their impact transcended Guatemala's borders, stretching to Cap Haitian in Haiti, where, in collaboration with Pastor Jhimy Voltaire, they established the Light of Cap Haitian School. In Uganda, Africa, they joined forces with Pastor Johnbosco Sskewya, dedicating their efforts to feed, nurture, and educate abandoned and orphaned children through the Children’s Charity Project.
In Peten, a new calling emerged — to step out and search for the "one": the lost, broken, and hopeless. Mike and Mary's vision has always been to break through the darkness suffocating these lives, offering them a chance for transformation through spiritual and educational support. Their network of schools, including Toca, Luz de Esperanza, and Jeovah Jireh, along with their efforts in Haiti, embody this vision.
With a dedicated team of 30 staff members in Guatemala alone, comprising teachers, directors, cooks, and helpers, they ensure that the light of education and the warmth of meals reach many. The Bruces' story is more than just a tale of missionary work; it is a testament to the power of unwavering faith, relentless compassion, and the belief that every single life holds immeasurable value.
Robert & Angel Ford
Co-Leaders
Robert and Angel Ford are Pastors of Gracepoint Church of God in Jonesboro, GA and co-leaders of Light Of The Nations with Mike and Mary Bruce. Robert and Angel took their first missions trip together in the summer of 1992 to Mexico where the love for missions began but was put on hold after marriage and raising their family. In October of 2019, their passion was renewed when they were able to take a trip together with LOTN to Guatemala. They knew that God had called them to work under the leadership, mentoring, and guidance of Mike and Mary Bruce.
“As we continue to grow and reach more lives, our mission remains unchanged: to be a beacon of light and hope, empowering communities and transforming lives through compassionate action and spiritual support.”
Mike & Mary Bruce
