World-renowned missionary George Verwer has been honoured posthumously in the annual Lambeth Awards.

The evangelist died last month following a long illness, surrounded by his loved ones.

He began his missionary journey at the age of 19, when he headed to Mexico with two friends and burning desire to tell people about Jesus.

Almost 65 years later, his ministry – Operation Mobilisation (OM) – is one of the leading missionary organisations in the world, based in 100 different countries.

He was instrumental in launching OM’s ship ministry, that deploys missionaries on five ships across the globe to spead the gospel in hard-to-reach locations.

He authored several books, and sold millions of copies across the globe, including Drops From a Leaking Tap.

He’s been given the Alphege Award for Evangelism and Witness, for “outstanding services to Christian ministry.”

Other awardees include Canon Peter Williams, for leading anti-extremism work in Luton. He has been given the Hubert Walter Award for Reconciliation and Interfaith Cooperation.

The Reverend Doctor Malcolm Guite has been awarded the Lanfranc Award for Education and Scholarship, for his work promoting the gospel through creative outlets, like poetry and public speaking.

Ms Clair Malik, Mother of Deaf in Egypt has received the Lanfranc Award for Education and Scholarship, for her tireless, continued work with special needs children, especially the hearing impaired.

The 33 recipients include dedicated Christians, from a range of faith traditions, based across the globe, including Australia, Russia and the Solomon Islands.

Archbishop Justin Welby said: “We live in a troubled world, where all around us we see conflict, war, discrimination, division, poverty and deep inequality, but our faith in Jesus gives us hope. We see that hope exemplified in the wonderful service of the people we have recognised today.” 

“Many of the people who have received awards today have worked unseen and unsung, striving for justice, peace, reconciliation, advances in education, worship and prayer. 

“Not all are followers of Jesus Christ, but, through their endeavours, they have made significant contributions to the mutual respect and maintenance of human dignity, which is so vital to spiritual and social health and the flourishing of mankind.

“The Lambeth Awards shine a light on their outstanding efforts and dedication.”