Global missions leader and humanitarian pioneer Leland Paris is being remembered across the Christian world as a “father in the faith” following his passing on May 15 at the age of 87.
Paris founded Global Bridges Relief, a Christian humanitarian organization serving vulnerable children and families in restricted and impoverished nations. The ministry described his life as one devoted to rescuing the vulnerable, raising up leaders and bringing the gospel into spiritually dark regions around the world.
In a tribute titled “A Father to the Fatherless,” Global Bridges highlighted Paris’ deep compassion for bringing the light of the Gospel to the places hardest to reach.
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Paris was also widely known for his leadership within Youth With A Mission (YWAM). He helped pioneer YWAM’s Discipleship Training School model in the 1970s and later founded YWAM Tyler, one of the organization’s most influential training centers.
The Instagram tribute that circulated widely following his death was posted by YWAM Tyler. In the post, the ministry honored him as:
“Missionary Statesman · Pioneer · Father in the Faith 1939–2026.”
The post also described Paris as a “hero of the faith” and a “faithful servant of God,” reflecting the deep affection many in the missions movement had for him.
He was 87 years old.
He and Frances were married for 65 years.
He spent the greater part of his life giving away everything he had to see the Great Commission fulfilled in his generation.
David Wilkinson saw Dr. Paris’ vision to train thousands.
So he offered Twin Oaks Ranch.
A place to equip leaders.
A place to send many into the harvest field.
The Discipleship Training School was his vision.
Global Bridges was his vision.
Hope for the Children was his vision.
His passion was simple:
To know God and make Him known.
Because Dr. Leland Paris said yes:
More than one million people have gone through a DTS.
More than 200 ministries have been planted in over 140 countries.
More than 118 million meals have been served to the hungry.
More than 700 orphans have been cared for in restricted nations.
Thousands of leaders have been trained.
We will not pretend this is a small loss.
It is not.
We are praying for Frances.
We are praying for the Paris children and grandchildren.
We are praying for the staff of this Ranch and every ministry he touched.
And we are deeply grateful — beyond what words can hold — that we had him for as long as we did.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
-The YWAM TYLER, Twin Oaks Ranch family
At a time when the world is desperate for hope, compassion and truth, Paris embodied the biblical call found in James 1:27 to care for widows and orphans in their distress. His life stands as a reminder that some of the greatest Kingdom impact happens far from the spotlight—in hidden places where faithfulness, sacrifice and obedience to Christ change lives forever.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
