Meet Our Founders

Mike & Mary Bruce

From the heart of Alabama to the mountains of Guatemala, our journey began 37 years ago, guided by a divine call to serve. Embracing the spirit of 'to go' as directed by our faith, we found our mission amidst the coffee farms of the remote Quiche mountains, during the challenging times of Guatemala's Civil War. This journey of faith has not only sustained but also expanded our reach, allowing us to extend our helping hands to Haiti. Our work, inspired by the belief that "In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind" (John 1:4), continues to be a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness. Today, as founders of Light of the Nations, we remain committed to being a source of light and hope, illuminating paths and changing lives across continents.

The Inspiring Journey of Mike & Mary Bruce

In 1986, amidst the tumult of Guatemala's civil war, Mike and Mary Bruce embarked on a life-changing journey. Their story began in the mountains of Quiché, where they founded a refuge center on a coffee farm, offering sanctuary to those affected by the violence that enveloped the region. Amidst the uncertainty, they found purpose—not only in providing shelter, but in sharing hope.


Their mission evolved in Quetzaltenango, where they planted churches and mentored pastors, helping build communities rooted in faith and resilience. As the area became a hub for missionary activity, Mike and Mary felt called to reach beyond the familiar and into the more remote regions of Guatemala. That calling led them to Petén, a lush yet isolated jungle region that they have called home for more than 25 years. There they immersed themselves in the community, serving as pastors, leaders, and advocates for those in need.


Their impact also extended beyond Guatemala to Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, where, in partnership with Pastor Jhimy Voltaire, they helped establish the Light of Cap-Haïtien School, providing educational opportunities and hope for local children and families.


In Petén, a new calling emerged—to seek out the "one": the lost, the broken, and the overlooked. Mike and Mary's vision has always been to bring light into difficult circumstances, offering opportunities for transformation through spiritual guidance, education, and practical support. Their network of schools, including TOCA, Luz de Esperanza, and Jehová Jireh, along with their ministry efforts in Haiti, reflects that commitment.


Today, a dedicated team of teachers, directors, cooks, and support staff serves alongside them in Guatemala, ensuring that children receive not only an education, but also encouragement, care, and daily nourishment. The Bruces' story is more than a story of missions—it is a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and the belief that every life matters and every person is worthy of hope.


Robert & Angel Ford

Co-Leaders

Robert and Angel Ford are Pastors of Gracepoint Church of God in Jonesboro, GA and co-leaders of Light Of The Nations with Mike and Mary Bruce. Robert and Angel took their first missions trip together in the summer of 1992 to Mexico where the love for missions began but was put on hold after marriage and raising their family. In October of 2019, their passion was renewed when they were able to take a trip together with LOTN to Guatemala. They knew that God had called them to work under the leadership, mentoring, and guidance of Mike and Mary Bruce. 

“As we continue to grow and reach more lives, our mission remains unchanged: to be a beacon of light and hope, empowering communities and transforming lives through compassionate action and spiritual support.”

Mike & Mary Bruce