From Outlaw Biker To Rescuer Of Thousands

Sam Childers, an American preacher and international speaker from Pennsylvania, is coming to Burdekin Community Church to share his extraordinary journey of redemption and hope. His story is one of transformation, showing how God reached an outlaw biker, a drug dealer, and a man who once destroyed lives—and completely turned his life around.

This is more than just a story—it’s a message of inspiration and the power of redemption. Sam’s remarkable transformation from a troubled past to a life of purpose is a powerful reminder that change is possible for anyone.

In 1992, Sam's life was forever changed when, with the help of his first wife, he attended a revival meeting at an Assembly of God Church. That night, he gave his life to Christ, and during the service, his pastor prophesied that Sam would one day go to Africa—a prophecy that would lead to an incredible mission.

Sam’s first trip to Central-Eastern Africa in 1997 marked the beginning of a life spent rescuing thousands of children from unimaginable horrors. These children were torn from their families, forced into slavery, and subjected to unimaginable abuse by warlords like Joseph Kony. Over the course of nearly 30 years, Sam has been on the front lines of saving children in South Sudan and Northern Uganda, giving them a chance at life and freedom.

One moment stands out among many: In 1998, Sam witnessed the body of a child torn apart by a landmine in Sudan. Standing over that child, he made a vow: “God, I’ll do anything within my power to help these people.” That vow set him on a path to rescue thousands of children, creating a lasting impact on the lives of so many.

Sam's dedication and selfless work have earned him global recognition. In 2013, he became the first and only American to receive the prestigious Mother Teresa Memorial International Award for Social Justice in Mumbai, India. This honour recognises his tireless efforts in rescuing children from the Lord’s Resistance Army, placing him alongside humanitarian figures like the Dalai Lama and Malala Yousafzai.

When he’s not in Africa, Sam speaks around the world, inspiring audiences at churches, schools, businesses, and even prisons. He’s shared his story with organisations such as Daimler Benz, Warner Bros, Mitsubishi-Fuso, Harley Davidson, and Village Roadshow. Sam also runs schools, orphanages, trade-training centres, and farms across Africa, all focused on helping the children in need.

His life story was the inspiration behind the 2011 film Machine Gun Preacher, starring Gerard Butler, which portrays his journey from a drug-dealing biker to a man on a mission to rescue children from some of Africa’s most dangerous regions.

Sam believes that his story can inspire hope in anyone’s life: “If they just take a little bit of that story in… Just look deep into my story. If God can change me and use me… imagine what He can do for you.”

To quote the late actor Peter Fonda:

"One man can make a huge difference. Sam Childers certainly does."

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to hear Sam’s inspiring story firsthand. The evening will start with a meet and greet BBQ at 6pm, followed by Sam’s engaging talk at 7pm where you’ll hear all about his extraordinary life.

What: Sam Childers
Where: Burdekin Community Church
When: Friday 11th April 2025, 6pm start

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