Pastor Ronnie Barnard, after serving for eight years as the leader of the AFM East Rand (Ekurhuleni) geographical region and the Word and Life local church (AFM of SA), felt led by the Holy Spirit to establish a non-geographical network in 2003. This network was envisioned to carry the mission of Matthew 5:14: “The Lord will make us like a city on a mountain that cannot be hidden,” extending the church’s vision beyond geographical, national, and international boundaries. This step was fully endorsed by the AFM Leadership in 2003.

From its inception, the network functioned as a brotherhood transcending denominational, cultural, and generational barriers. The Word and Life local church (AFM of SA), located at the corner of Trichardt Road and Kingfisher Avenue in Sunward Park, Boksburg, serves as its anchor church, making the network an integral part of its ministry.

The network began with just 15 churches and has since expanded to include thousands of churches. Regional leaders oversee operations throughout South Africa and other parts of Africa. While each assembly maintains administrative autonomy, they are held accountable through their regional leaders, fostering both independence and unity.

A significant milestone came in 2017 when the Word and Life Network merged with the Judea Harvest Assemblies, an organization with a network of over 10,000 pastors. Together, they engage in impactful ministry programs, including the deployment of 3,000 tents, the Snap Church building initiative, Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers, and leadership training programs.

Tragically, Pastor Ronnie Barnard passed away in December 2022. His son, Pastor Renaldo Barnard, has now stepped into the role of leading the Word and Life Network, continuing its mission to reach across borders and transform lives.