Dr. Michael J. Mantel has dedicated much of his life to mobilizing churches to bring water to the world’s thirsty while sharing the love of Jesus Christ. As the president and CEO of Living Water International, a faith-based global humanitarian organization, Mike is a firm believer in the miracle of safe water, and in the biblical vision of the unity of the Body of Christ. 

Since 2008, Mike has led Living Water International through years of unprecedented growth by helping church communities around the world become more effective agents of gospel-driven change. Thirsting for Living Water is a response to the desire of many American churches to help their people find adventure and purpose in God’s redemption story. Mike’s 30 years of experience working with churches in the US and around the world offers a unique perspective on the global Church, as does his passion for helping church communities come alive through world-changing action. 

After earning a business degree from Calvin College in 1983 and a decade in business, Mike witnessed firsthand the impact of water when he visited impoverished rural communities in Senegal, West Africa, where his then-employer was sponsoring the drilling of wells. It was during this trip where Mike felt a divine invitation to help thirsty people access clean water—a catalyst for physical and spiritual change.  

Prior to joining Living Water International, Mike led various teams at World Vision, earned a PhD in Organizational Development from Benedictine University, enjoyed many years in business, and received the Distinguished Alumni Award from his alma mater Calvin College.  

Recently honored by the Houston Business Journal as a Most Admired CEO, Mike has authored, contributed to, or been featured in, articles in the Houston Business Journal, Houston Chronicle, USA Today, Chicago Tribune, Christianity Today, as well as other publications and a number of books. 

Mike serves as an elder at Grace Presbyterian Church. He, his wife Natalie, and their four daughters have traveled the world in service with others, and he cherishes the opportunity to invite others to make a difference at home, among near neighbors, and even to the ends of the earth. 

Read more of Mike’s story in this article from his alma mater, Calvin University.

Stay connected with Mike and his work to tell stories of God’s faithfulness: follow him on Facebook.