“PEARL doesn’t have a dramatic or sensational beginning, just a simple call to action in 2013 to share Jesus’ love with prostituted women. But my response was likely typical of most – shock, skepticism, palpable fear and overwhelm, coupled with distaste. Quite honestly, I didn’t want to do it. But what I started to hear, see and read about the ugly reality of sexual exploitation and trafficking, both globally and locally, and the all too typical pain and abuse that precedes it, filled me with compassion and wouldn’t leave me alone. Three years later, I tentatively stepped out, through doors that keep opening, seeking to empower girls and women to embrace hope and renewal through support, education, and Jesus’ love.

Jesus asks us to love others like he loves us – agape – a radical kind of love. It’s a love that isn’t afraid to go into dark places. It’s a love that seeks justice and other’s good. It’s a love that’s accepting, kind, patient, and persistent. A love that empowers, is redemptive and offers hope and renewal. It’s what God can do for others, because He’s also done it, or can do the same for us.”

~ Joan Goosen, Founder & Program Director
PEARL Life Renewal