About Us

Bishop Eliudi Issangya, the founder and president of the International Evangelism Center in Tanzania, has been honored by the Tanzanian government for his lifelong service. He has dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel and improving the lives of people across East Africa, striving to create a Christ-centered home for many in need.

At just 22 years old, Eliudi attended the San Diego School of Ministry, where he earned a pastoral degree in 1979. Inspired by a vision from God to bring Bible training to his own country, he returned home and established the IEC Bible School in his village of Sakila in 1983. This school became the foundation for numerous ministries that have since blessed the region, including a medical clinic and a K–12 Christian education institution.

In 2007, a special burden was placed on Eliudi’s heart for orphans, leading him to open Christ Hope Orphanage that same year. This Tanzania orphanage was created to support vulnerable children by providing them with a safe home, education, and the love of Christ.

Eliudi and his late wife, Hellen, raised six children and were blessed with seven grandchildren. Following Hellen’s passing in 2010, Eliudi married his wife Lucy in 2011. Together, they continue to serve faithfully and inspire others to follow God’s call.

In 2012, Bishop Eliudi Issangya’s youngest son, Steven Issangya, a native of Tanzania, stepped into the role of Director of Christ Hope Orphanage. Having grown up surrounded by his father’s ministry and the children of the orphanage, Steven developed a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by vulnerable children in his country. His leadership has continued the legacy of compassion and faith his parents began, while also guiding the orphanage into a new season of growth and sustainability, creating a Christ-centered home for the children.

Steven and his wife, Kierstin, now lead the orphanage together. Before joining the ministry full time, Kierstin served as a children’s director and pastor in the United States, equipping her with the experience and heart to nurture both the physical and spiritual development of the children through Christian education. Together, they share a calling to provide a safe environment where every child can grow in love, faith, and purpose.

As Christ Hope Orphanage and Home for Boys and Girls continues to expand, the vision has grown beyond orphan care alone. Many children in Tanzania are being raised by single parents, grandparents, or relatives who cannot meet their basic needs. The orphanage now opens its doors to these children as well, offering temporary care, education, and support to help vulnerable children while working toward family reunification whenever possible.

Under Steven and Kierstin’s leadership, the ministry continues to focus on long-term sustainability through local agriculture, livestock, staff development, and educational programs. Each step forward is taken with the same commitment that began this mission to share the love of Jesus Christ and build a foundation of hope, faith, and opportunity for every child.