In a Gospel-Centered Theology of Life
Why We Exist
We exist to glorify God by equipping Christian leaders with a gospel-centered understanding of the sanctity of human life. Through biblical teaching, trusted relationships, and practical resources, we disciple leaders who multiply this truth—saving lives, transforming hearts, and cultivating cultures that honor life. Every LIFE initiative is rooted in intentional, ongoing prayer across our global network of leaders.
Our History
LIFE International began as a global outreach of the Pregnancy Resource Center (PRC) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Recognizing the rich heritage of the pro-life movement in the United States—and the opportunity to share biblical truth and compassionate care more broadly—the PRC began establishing and partnering with life-affirming ministries in other nations, including Trinidad, Guyana, Russia, the Netherlands, and beyond.
By the late 1990s, as the scope of the global need became increasingly clear, the decision was made to establish LIFE International as a separate organization. This allowed LIFE to focus fully on addressing global challenges related to the sanctity of human life, while enabling the Pregnancy Resource Center to continue its mission of providing compassionate care to women and families in the local community.
In 2001, Kurt Dillinger, then Executive Director of the Pregnancy Resource Center, stepped down from his role and stepped out in faith to become the founder and president of the newly formed Life Initiatives For Eternity—LIFE International. Responding to God’s calling, the ministry was dedicated to making known the Father’s heart for life by equipping the Church to affirm and protect the dignity of every human life in all nations.
Read the Founder’s Story
LIFE International’s founder, Kurt Dillinger, shares the personal journey of God’s calling and obedience that led to the creation of LIFE International in his book The God Who Breathes.
Meet the LIFE Team
Dr. Kurt Dillinger
Founder and President, MSW, DSL
Debi Velker
Director of Executive Office and Partner Relations
Bill Velker
Senior Vice President of Mission Advancement and Prayer Mobilization
Steve Biondo
Chief Advancement Officer
Chris Rookus
Vice President of Operations and Equipping
Zac Kadau
Director of International Ministries
John Wolters
Director of Finance
Alissa Hollander
Director of Communications
Kim VanSolkema
International Hub Manager
Jaci Dreyer
Executive Office and Partner Relations Assistant
April Schmidt
Life-Giving Ministries Manager
Charlene Werdon
International Project Manager
Luke Salik
Pastor of Partner Care
Stefanie Benson
Accounts Manager
Keziah Alatis
Communications Project Manager
Tassa Patrick
Training Development Coordinator
Mark Decker
Donor Relations Office
Stephanie VanKoevering
Operations and Facilities Assistant
Dave Gage
Special Assistant to the President
Our Theological Foundation
LIFE International is grounded in historic Christian orthodoxy and the authority of Scripture. We believe every human being is created in the image of God and possesses inherent dignity and worth from conception. Our mission flows from the gospel of Jesus Christ, forming leaders in a biblical theology of life that integrates faith, truth, and compassionate practice.
The Bible
The Bible, being fully inspired by God in its entirety, is His perfect Word and is the only authority for all faith and life.
2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Peter 1:19-21, Deuteronomy 4:2, Psalm 119:89, Romans 15:4
God
There is one God, eternally existent in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Deuteronomy 6:4, Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14, Ephesians 2:18, Revelation 1:4-6, John 1:1-3, Colossians 1:15-16, Revelation 1:4-6
Jesus Christ
Jesus is true God and true man, was born of the virgin Mary, lived a sinless life, died in our place on the cross, and rose bodily from the grave. He ascended into heaven and sat down at the right hand of the Father, where He, the only mediator between God and man, continually makes intercession for His own.
John 1:4, Matthew 1:18-24, 2 Corinthians 5:21, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, Hebrews 10:12, 1 Timothy 2:5, Romans 8:34, Hebrews 9:24
Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is a person of the Godhead who convicts people of sin, regenerates, indwells, and empowers the believer, dispensing spiritual gifts and developing holiness.
John 16:8-11, John 3:5-6, 1 Corinthians 6:19, John 14:16-17, Ephesians 1:13-14, Acts 1:8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Romans 15:16
Humanity
All men are sinful and lost and can be saved only by grace through faith in the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Genesis 2:17, Romans 3:9-10, Romans 3:19-23, Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:1-3, Ephesians 2:8, Ephesians 2:13, Romans 3:24-26
Human Destiny
The resurrection of the dead includes all men: the believer to life everlasting and the unbeliever to eternal condemnation.
John 5:28-29, Matthew 25:31-34, 41, Romans 6:4-5, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18, 1 Peter 1:3–5, 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10, Revelation 20:15
Salvation
Salvation comes to us only by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from any human merit.
John 1:12, John 5:24, Romans 3:20, 27-28, Romans 5:1-2, Ephesians 2:8-10, Colossians 1:13-14, 2 Timothy 1:9, Titus 3:4-5
The Church
The Church, who is the body of Jesus Christ for whom He will bodily return, is comprised of all who have accepted the redemption provided by Him. The presence of Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit in the believer will result in a life of personal holiness and a walk of obedience to the will of God.
Ephesians 1:22-23, Colossians 1:17-18, Acts 1:10-11, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Acts 20:28, Ephesians 1:7,13, 1 Corinthians 1:30, Ezekiel 36:26-27, Romans 8:5-11, Galatians 5:16-25
Get Involved
Whether you are a pastor, ministry leader, donor, or advocate, there is a place for you in this mission. Join us in equipping Christian leaders worldwide with a clear, biblical understanding of human dignity.
