In today’s world, where hardship seems to be a constant companion for many, it’s clear that a full stomach is indeed the best sermon.
When people’s bellies are empty, their hearts are deaf to even the most eloquent of words. This is precisely the philosophy behind Christ Compassion to the Rural World (CCRW), founded by Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, which recently held a massive humanitarian and evangelistic crusade in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The event, themed “Port Harcourt, This is Selfless Love,” combined free surgeries, medical intervention, food distribution, and large-scale evangelism, and it’s being hailed as one of the biggest and most impactful outreach programs in the region.
The statistics are staggering: 1,130 surgical cases conducted, 70,000 people benefiting from medical services, and over 150,000 bags of rice, beans, and other essential food items distributed each day after the crusade, with relief Items including 170,000 clothing items, 25,000 buckets, and 1,000 mattresses were given to those in need.
All these services and support were provided without asking the thousands of attendees to contribute offerings or sow seeds. Of course, it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the impact on people’s lives.
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As Pastor Ashimolowo noted, “You can’t pour spiritual wine into leaky jars of hunger.” The CCRW crusade addressed both the physical and spiritual needs of the community, providing a holistic approach to evangelism.
The event’s success is a testament to the power of selfless love and compassion. The six-day event, which took place from November 24-29, 2025, at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, has also boosted the local economy, with six hotels booked for visitors and thousands of volunteers supporting the event.
The CCRW crusade also highlights the importance of collaboration and unity among churches and organizations. The ministers’ conference, featuring speakers from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and the United States, aimed to foster unity and strengthen pastoral leadership across the region.
As we reflect on the CCRW crusade, it’s clear that this is a model for effective evangelism and community outreach. By addressing the physical needs of the community, we can create a fertile ground for spiritual growth and transformation. As the saying goes, “A full stomach is the best sermon” – and CCRW is putting this into practice, one community at a time.
