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"The tensions between the Catholics and that Protestant church disappeared," Larson said.

Healing Waters was born after regional church leaders asked if Larson could install systems in additional churches. The systems use chlorine, carbon, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet light to purify the water. Each system costs about $15,000, and is paid for mostly by U.S. donors.

All of the churches with these systems have seen their images enhanced in their communities. The San Cristobal congregation has grown because of its new service, members say.

"The role of the church is to improve the community," said Hector Tejada, a member of a church that has a purification site in Sabana Perdida. "People understand that it is because of Christ that they can receive the benefit of this water, since it is because of Christ that people provide it."

Pastor Rosa Hermina Feliz said that many people in her community of Hererra did not know where her church was. Now they do, because they come for the water.

"It is much easier for us to go into the community and invite people to church," she said, "because people say, 'Oh yes—you're the church with the water.' They're much more open to us."

The symbolism of water and the church is not lost on Larson.

"I think a lot about what Jesus had to say about water," he said. "Life in the Dominican Republic is so hard. People struggle to live day to day. I like to think that people can come to the church to get a drink of cool water. They can come to the church and be refreshed."

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The official website of Healing Waters International provides more information on current projects, history, and its solutions to the world's water problems. The organization also has a PDF with compiled information on the ministry.

For more articles, see our Missions and Ministry archive.

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September 2003, Vol. 47, No. 9