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Leadership Profile: Marli Spieker, Global Ministry Director/Founder, Project Hannah

Q. Tell us about your family.

A. My parents were missionaries with the Salvation Army in South Brazil. I like to think that I was raised by my own “George Muller” and “Mother Teresa.” Their lives were the embodiment of Isaiah 61.

At 17, I too started ministering in the slums of my country. Forty-four years ago, when my German husband, Edmund, proposed to me, I answered, “With you I’ll go to the moon!” Well, not quite yet; but, as TWR missionaries, we literally have gone to the ends of the world serving our King together. We have three children and eight wonderful grandchildren.

Q. Give us a brief overview of your work and ministry.

A. Project Hannah is the answer to God’s calling on my life when I saw the unspeakable plight of women and girls first in Asia, and then worldwide. Project Hannah is a ministry of TWR offering compassion and encouragement to suffering women through awareness, prayer, and radio programs in fifty-seven languages. Its main thrust is the Prayer Movement in over 105 countries.

According to Genesis 3:15, the root cause for the suffering a majority of women face is spiritual. Therefore, intercessors from all walks of life and different denominations stand in the gap for women trapped in cultural, emotional, physical, and spiritual bondage. It is a wave of prayer around the globe 24/7. Empowering women through prayer and radio programs is complemented by “on the ground” ministries in prisons, hospitals, and orphanages, to HIV/AIDS patients and their families, to prostitutes, and in literacy and micro industries. Calling the Church to action is also part of Project Hannah’s awareness programs.

Q. What is your favorite quote?

A. "Pray not for greater works. Prayer IS the greater work." - Oswald Chambers

Q. Who has been the most influential person in your life/ministry, and why?

A. My mother was a simple, self-taught woman with Abigail’s wisdom, Esther’s courage, Deborah’s determination, and Hannah’s faith. In a time and culture where most women were to be seen and not heard, she taught me by example what it takes to be a woman of dignity, faith, and destiny. My husband has also greatly influenced my Christian walk and service with his wisdom and unwavering faith. He has taught me by example what it takes to embody Galatians 2:20 at home and in ministry.