Join Mark Turman, Executive Director of Denison Forum, as he sits down with Jason Pieratt, President of Children's Relief International (CRI). In this episode, they discuss the mission and work of CRI, which focuses on meeting both physical and spiritual needs in some of the world's poorest regions. Learn about Jason's personal journey from reluctant teacher to dedicated missionary, and the incredible impact of CRI's programs in areas like child nutrition, education, shelter, and more. Discover how you can get involved, whether through prayer, sponsorship, or mission trips, and be inspired by stories of transformation and hope in communities across the globe.
Topics
- (00:43): Exploring biblical righteousness
- (02:22): Introducing Jason Pieratt
- (04:37): The founding of Children's Relief International
- (08:22): Jason's transformative experience
- (13:21): Core mission and distinctives of CRI
- (18:32): Living bridges: A unique approach
- (22:27): Addressing global poverty
- (25:39): The power of education
- (29:08): Integrating physical and spiritual needs
- (31:38): Raising local leaders
- (33:52): Sponsorship and personal connections
- (36:03): Encouragement for aspiring missionaries
- (39:24): Future vision for CRI
Resources
- Children's Relief International
- Instagram: CRI
- Facebook: CRI
- X: CRI
- How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
- Stand firm. Engage boldly. Transform deeply. Summer Campaign
- Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim Denison
About Dr. Jason Pieratt
Dr. Jason Pieratt grew up in Iowa and Brazil, the son of missionaries, and began his career as an elementary school teacher. In 2002, he took his first trip with Children’s Relief International (CRI)- an experience that stirred a deep sense of calling. After several years of discernment, Jason said yes to the missionary vocation and joined CRI full-time in 2010.
He holds a Master’s in Cross-Cultural Ministries from Dallas Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Intercultural Studies from Western Seminary. Since joining CRI, Jason has helped shape programs, mentor missionaries, and deepen global partnerships. In 2020, he was named CRI’s President.
Jason and his wife, Lindy, live in Rockwall, Texas, with their three children—Keller, Cannin, and Merit. He enjoys time with family, working in the yard, and cheering for the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Mark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.
Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received
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