FROM THE EDITOR
Water
The vision of Edge of Faith Magazine is to present global
arts, ideas, and social issues as understood through a
Christian perspective. In this issue, we will explore both
the literal and symbolic need for clean water.
Enjoy our gallery throughout this issue, which presents
representational interpretations of some of the many
(722!) references to water in Scripture as well as more
abstract portrayals of this most precious resource.
You will meet people such as Johann Vanderbijl, for whom
a large part of his missionary work in Gambela, Ethiopia
focused on nutrition, basic hygiene, and water purifica-
tion; and Justin Wren, who quite literally fights for access
to clean water for the Pygmies in the Democratic Republic
of Congo. You will learn about the intersection of theology,
ritual and symbolism in baptism as well as explore minis-
try of refreshing, engaging and inviting people to “living
water” through the music of “Stu G” (Garrard) and the
drama of Paul McCusker and Elizabeth Honaker.
Editor in Chief
Michael Porter
Creative Director
Matt Kime
Senior Editor
Karla Probert
Marketing Director
Anne Porter
Transcriptionist
Madison Williams
Covering about 70% of its surface, water is at once earth’s
most abundant natural resource and a basic necessity for
life. We know this experientially, scientifically, and scrip-
turally. Did you also know that upwards of
2.5 billion
people globally (yes, billion – more than 35% of the world’s population) lack sufficient access to clean
water and sanitation?
“Global access to safe water, adequate sanitation, and proper hygiene education can reduce illness and
death from disease, leading to improved health, poverty reduction, and socio-economic development.
However, many countries are challenged to provide these basic necessities to their populations, leaving
people at risk for water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH)-related diseases.” (Centers for Disease Control)
As we easily and conveniently partake of and utilize water for our many needs, may we be reminded of