Claude Sossa, leader of Christian Aid-supported Christ’s Power Ministries, has an excellent reputation in Benin, in part because of his work among orphans and widows. Nationally recognized in the field of education, Sossa established five Christian schools where children attend free.

CPM’s six schools of missions trained 600+ native missionaries who planted more than 150 churches throughout Benin.

With support from Christian Aid, Sossa started Community Transformation Project, providing medical assistance to AIDS victims, caring for AIDS orphans and providing income-producing projects.

Educational programs are fundamental to the project. Although some view teachings on sexual purity as an attack on their culture, AIDS victims are extremely open to the gospel message, as their own mortality is forefront in their minds. CPM uses the topic of AIDS to enter schools with the gospel. Within the first five months, 100 families expressed an interest for follow-up.

An alarming number of tribals believe that AIDS is airborne, easily infecting others. Consequently, many AIDS victims are homeless, cast out by their families. CPM missionaries educate these families, encouraging them to welcome the exiled member home.

CPM enables AIDS victims to become self-sufficient by raising livestock and crops. Among the Toli tribe, husbands expect wives to be the breadwinners. Unable to find work, many resort to prostitution to feed their families, resulting in a high incidence of AIDS. CPM has stopped this cycle by teaching them to cultivate cassava to sell. Many families have become Christians because of this kindness. Sossa is currently praying for a new grain grinder.