All Posts By

Nikole Hahn

Don’t Buy the American Dream (or the French One!) Features

Don’t Buy the American Dream (or the French One!)

By Kylee Slebodnik  Every culture offers its own vision of the good life. Jesus offers something better: a life surrendered. Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. These lines have been the screensaver on my phone since 2024. They come from a poem by C. T. Studd, an English cricketer who left his athletic career to serve as a missionary. Long before we moved to France as missionaries, they confronted us with a simple question: What are we doing with our one life? The words are still there—and so is the question. A…
September 8, 2026
WorldVenture::In Review: Adam and Sabrina Pietrantonio (Japan) Features

WorldVenture::In Review: Adam and Sabrina Pietrantonio (Japan)

If you missed yesterday's episode of WorldVenture::In Review, you can view the recording here. https://youtube.com/live/aKmZdC67PhA?feature=share Links:  If you live in Canada, make a gift here.  If you live in the United States, make a gift here.  If you would like to leave a comment, you can comment on YouTube or Instagram. This episode is now available on your favorite podcasting stations such as Amazon Music, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Apple, etc. You can also watch on Podbean. 
September 5, 2026
Epistles: Foundations for Missions Joshua Project

Epistles: Foundations for Missions

Randy was out teaching in Africa today. Marty Shaw joined us instead to co-host this episode with Keith Carey from Joshua Project. Instead of the people group of the day, Keith felt the Yagnob people needed prayer today. Marty and Keith explore Epistles: Foundations for Missions (Romans through Jude). https://youtube.com/live/AuHkmhQXvoE?feature=share   Links: Learn about Keith Carey from Joshua Project Learn about Joshua Project  Considering serving cross-culturally? Complete our GO form to talk to someone.  Leave a comment on YouTube or Instagram. We are also on your favorite podcasting channels, including Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Spotify.
September 1, 2026
Ministry: From West Africa to San Jose, California Features

Ministry: From West Africa to San Jose, California

Brenda Allen joined us in this episode of WorldVenture::In Review to talk about ministry from San Jose, California to West Africa. If you missed today's livestream, you can catch the recording on YouTube or on your favorite podcasting channel. https://youtube.com/live/sV3YX2Fozc4   Links: Learn about Brenda Allen here. Learna bout the Compassion fund here. Contact info: b.allen@worldventure.com If you would like to leave a comment, please do so on YouTube or Instagram. We are also on your favorite podcasting channels, such as Amazon Music, Apple, Spotify, and others.
August 21, 2026
Barnabas: He Gave Because That’s Who He Was Features

Barnabas: He Gave Because That’s Who He Was

By Tim Johnson, CFRE, CFRM I sat there in a little Cessna 172, ready to solo. With the Top Gun theme running through my head, I pushed the throttle in, looked over at the empty right seat, and mumbled, “Talk to me, Goose.” Then I flew three takeoffs and landings, alone. I didn’t get a callsign waiting on the ramp. I got the back of my shirt cut off instead. Nobody picks their own callsign. Somebody else has to watch you fly first, then decide what to call you. That’s stuck with me longer than the flight itself has. A…
August 19, 2026
Church Planting in Ireland: The Kerstetters Features

Church Planting in Ireland: The Kerstetters

Watch another episode of WorldVenture::In Review with host, Nikole Hahn. In this episode, we speak to Russ and Denise Kerstetter about church planting, discipleship, and missions. If you missed our livestream today, you can watch the recording here or listen on your favorite podcasting station. https://www.youtube.com/live/iE1naabz1nI?si=VyEZYDLo_IVG42JI Links: If you would like to talk to someone about serving in Ireland, complete this form to talk to someone.  Learn about Russ and Denise here.  Learn about Pathfinders.  If you would like to leave a comment, go to our YouTube or Instagram.
August 14, 2026
Beyond Capacity: A Biblical Approach to Donor Relationships Features

Beyond Capacity: A Biblical Approach to Donor Relationships

By Tim Johnson, CFRE, CFRM I came into my office on Monday, sat down at my desk, and started working through emails. It was August, and the end-of-year push was already looming large. Quick panic set in. How do I raise the money? Who do I call? I pulled up my donor list and started sorting by capacity, recency, and ask amount. And then a thunderbolt of realization hit me. These are not my donors. They are God's people. He is the one transforming them. He has a purpose for their generosity. I sat there a minute, cursor blinking on…
August 8, 2026
Acts: Foundations on Missions Joshua Project

Acts: Foundations on Missions

In today's episode of Joshua Project and WorldVenture prayer time for the unreached, Randy and Keith talk about the Book of Acts and its foundations of missions. We prayed for the Natioro in Mali and Burkina Faso. Audio versions of today's podcast are available on your favorite podcasting station. https://youtube.com/live/3DsI4yYi9Qw?feature=share   Links From Today's Podcast: Read about the Natioro People.  Learn about Randy Hacker.  Learn about Keith Carey (Joshua Project). Learn about Perspectives and Kairos.  Feel free to leave comments on YouTube and Instagram. 
August 4, 2026
Trusting God One Step at a Time Features

Trusting God One Step at a Time

The Inspiring Faith Journey of Missionary Dr. Beth Ferrell By Debbie Bannon One of the first passages of Scripture I learned after becoming a follower of Jesus was Proverbs 3:5–6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." (NLT) As I read Beth Ferrell's story, these verses immediately came to mind. What stood out wasn't simply a single decision to trust Christ, but a lifetime of continuing to trust Him and seek His direction. Her story reminds…
July 29, 2026
Planting Churches, Reaching the Unreached, and Serving Communities Church Relations

Planting Churches, Reaching the Unreached, and Serving Communities

Rich Peterson interviewed Dr. Reynaldo Avante from the Conservative Baptist Association of the Philippines on yesterday's episode of Mission of the Church. If you missed yesterday's episode, you can view the recording here. https://youtube.com/live/5CQZ-7fyWvo?feature=share   Links: Learn about CBAP Learn about Church Relations Take a Church Assessment  Interested in giving to earthquake relief? Give here.  Or read this pdf from CBAP on earthquake relief.  Please leave comments on YouTube or Instagram
July 15, 2026
A New Fitness Ministry Takes Shape in Thailand Features

A New Fitness Ministry Takes Shape in Thailand

Today, we had a conversation with Nick and Vicki Sullivan from Thailand about faith, missions, and fitness. If you missed today's episode of WorldVenture::In Review, you can see the recording here. We also have audio recordings available on your favorite podcasting app such as Spotify, Apple, and Amazon Music. https://youtube.com/live/pusxVvz6blQ?feature=share   Links: Learn about FIT12:2 here. Learn about the Sullivans here. Learn about Perspectives here. Considering serving in Thailand? Complete this form to talk to someone. Please leave comments on YouTube or Instagram. 
July 15, 2026
Ask A Missionary: Why WorldVenture AskAMissionary

Ask A Missionary: Why WorldVenture

Corban submitted two questions to our Ask a Missionary site. Nicolette Hutcherson from Lebanon answered the first question. If you would like to submit a question, go to this link to complete a form. https://youtube.com/shorts/gHmgl6XxISE?feature=share Links: Thinking of becoming a Global Worker with us? Complete this GO form to talk to someone.  See other answers to questions here.
July 9, 2026
4 Ways to Pray For The Unreached Today Joshua Project

4 Ways to Pray For The Unreached Today

If you missed yesterday's episode of prayer, you can view the recording here. We have also included some extra links and four ways to continue yesterday's prayer for the Midobi people group in Sudan. An audio version of yesterday's episode is also available at your favorite podcasting channel. Randy Hacker (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project) also shared from God's Word on "Gospel Foundations for Missions." https://youtube.com/live/XdAg8RnYbQg?feature=share 4 Ways to Pray for The Midobi People Group (from Joshua Project): Pray for Midobi family leaders to have dreams of the loving and powerful Christ, opening them to his ways. Ask the…
July 8, 2026
WorldVenture::In Review Featuring Dr. Brian and Megan Meyers Features

WorldVenture::In Review Featuring Dr. Brian and Megan Meyers

On today's episode of WorldVenture::In Review, we featured Dr. Brian and Megan Meyers from Mozambique. We shared stories as we talked about missions and life, and shared about their latest project, RAPHA! If you missed today's livestream, you can view the recording in both audio and video format. https://youtube.com/live/uEBIGNkgRAA?feature=share Links: Learn about the Meyers Learn about Rapha READ: The Music Midwife Follow RAPHA on their Facebook group Follow RAPHA on their Facebook page  Audio version of this interview also available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and others. Please leave comments on YouTube or Instagram.
June 12, 2026
A New Movement in Ecuador Features

A New Movement in Ecuador

If you missed today's episode of WorldVenture::In Review, you can view the video or audio recording here. Today, we featured Keith and Joelle Hocutt from Ecuador who have started an amazing project. Hold on to the end as they will share continuing needs and prayer requests. https://www.youtube.com/live/MbVe-jkYoqE?si=vOV5haQ1ULh2PlsV Links: Learn about the La Mesa project. Learn about Keith and Joelle Hocutt. Follow La Mesa on Facebook! Audio versions of today's interview are available on Amazon Music, Apple, Spotify, and others. Feel free to leave comments on YouTube or Instagram.
June 5, 2026
What Does Psalm 51 Teach About Repentance and Missions? Features

What Does Psalm 51 Teach About Repentance and Missions?

The connection between confession, restoration, and sharing your faith  by Clifford J. Luebben  Psalm 51 draws a lot of attention for being the song David wrote after the prophet Nathan confronted him about Bathsheba. As such, it has become for many the “go to” passage for reflecting on confession and repentance.   The Psalm even inspired one of the most well-known worship songs by the early CCM legend, Keith Green. The lyrics are taken straight from the KJV of verses 10-12a. When I read them, I can’t help but sing them (perhaps some of you will start singing as you read them now):    “Create in me a clean heart, O God; And renew a right…
June 4, 2026
Prayer Time: Old Testament Foundations For Missions Joshua Project

Prayer Time: Old Testament Foundations For Missions

In this episode of Joshua Project and WorldVenture prayer time, Randy and Keith go over Old Testament Foundations for Missions and ease into praying for the Younuo people group. If you missed yesterday's livestream, you can watch the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/WHu9d-NA8Tk?feature=share Links: Learn about Perspectives Learn about Kairos Learn about Finishing the Task Learn about Upstream Collective Learn about Movments.net Thank our hosts for their time by making a one-time gift (Keith or Randy) Learn about the Younuo Feel free to leave comments on YouTube and Instagram If you prefer an audio podcast, the recording is up on PodBean: Text…
June 3, 2026
WorldVenture::In Review – Passionate About Students! Features

WorldVenture::In Review – Passionate About Students!

If you missed yesterday's livestream, you can catch the recording here and audio versions on PodBean and Apple podcasts. https://youtube.com/live/ENI6Jm7ciSc?feature=share Links: Learn about Smiddy Africa  WorldVenture::In Review offers audio versions on Apple, iHeart Radio, Spotify, PodBean, Podchaser, Boomplay, and Player FM If you would like to leave comments or questions, please leave them on YouTube and Instagram.
May 23, 2026
Was Paul Really a Tentmaker? Features

Was Paul Really a Tentmaker?

A Biblical Look at Missionary Support By Clifford J. Luebben One of the most famous aspects of Paul’s ministry is that he supported himself by tentmaking, refusing the financial support of the people he served. He explains this in 1 Corinthians 9:1-18, in which he summarizes, “What then is my reward? To preach the gospel and offer it free of charge and not make full use of my rights in the gospel.” This leads many Christians to wonder why so many pastors and missionaries today draw their salary from tithes and donations. Is fundraising for missions biblical? Should pastors and…
May 20, 2026
Mission of The Church: Toccoa, GA FeaturesChurch Relations

Mission of The Church: Toccoa, GA

Hear the stories of God moving through a church in Toccoa, Georgia! If you missed today's live podcast, you can see the recording below. Mission of the Church featured Nikole Hahn interviewing Pastor James Brown of The Outpour at Loving Live in Toccoa, Georgia. https://youtube.com/live/4qLj7X76Y54?feature=share Links: Learn about the Outpour at Loving Life  Learn about Church Relations  Take a church assessment  See past episodes Please leave any comments at one of the following:  YouTube (WorldVenture)  Instagram (WorldVenture)  Facebook (The Outpour at Loving Life)   
May 12, 2026
North Brazil 2025
Stories of 80 Years in Brazil Features

Stories of 80 Years in Brazil

If you missed our livestream, you can still view the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/UDWNk8uFY2M Links: Learn about the project mentioned in this interview from Bruce Tissell. Click here. Learn about Bruce Tissell.  Learn about the Thorps. Complete this form to talk to someone about your interest in missions.   Please leave any comments on Instagram or YouTube.    Another video from Brazil: https://youtu.be/ok0WDlItk0Q
May 8, 2026
Praying For Mali Joshua Project

Praying For Mali

Randy Hacker (WorldVenture) co-hosts this podcast with Keith Carey (Joshua Project) on the first Tuesday of each month. If you missed today's podcast, you can view it here. We've also included some extra links. https://youtube.com/live/0yfcMd8Hdgg?feature=share Links: Learn about Perspectives here.  Learn about Keith Carey of Joshua Project here.  Learn about Randy Hacker of WorldVenture here.  Learn about the Unreached of The Day (and get the app!)   See our upcoming online events.  Check out the next date of prayer.  While the blog isn't open to comments, you may leave a comment on YouTube or Instagram. 
May 5, 2026
The World is Coming to Germany Features

The World is Coming to Germany

This episode of WorldVenture::In Review features Scott and Fiona Custer (Germany). If you missed yesterday's podcast, you can watch the recording below: https://www.youtube.com/live/wJtLV6-AKvM?si=8ByyZIroLzdAFtA7   Links: Learn more about Scott and Fiona Custer or make a gift  See our online events  Learn about our dedication to prayer 
April 24, 2026
Persistent Prayer FeaturesJoshua Project

Persistent Prayer

If you missed our monthly prayer time, you can view the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/EYwTynIBGzM?feature=share Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) co-hosted with Keith Carey (Joshua Project) with a great message about prayer. In May, Randy Hacker will join this podcast wtih Keith Carey to continue praying for the unreached peoples of the world. Links: See the next prayer times here.  Learn about Keith Carey.  Learn about Randy Hacker.  Check out the unreached peoples of the day.  Comments can be left on YouTube and Instagram. 
April 1, 2026
Discipling Students in Japan Features

Discipling Students in Japan

On this episode of WorldVenture::In Review, Nikole interviews Lauren Graham - A new Global Worker who is headed to Japan. You'll learn how Lauren became a believer, overcome some things in her life, and about her compassion for the Japanese people. https://youtube.com/live/rfK4ih4hZc0?feature=share Links to know: Learn about Lauren Graham here.  Connect with Lauren on Substack.  Contact: l.graham@worldventure.com If you would like to leave a comment, please head over to YouTube or Instagram. 
March 31, 2026
On Prayer, Mobilization, and Missions Features

On Prayer, Mobilization, and Missions

WorldVenture::In Review featured Gordon and Rita Ellison in this episode. They shared their heart on prayer, mobilization, and missions. If you missed today's livestream, you can watch the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/cVTlmIhaIEo?feature=share Links: Learn more about Gordon and Rita here. Considering serving on mission? Start the process in talking to a mobilizer here.  Learn about Pathfinders here.  Learn about our upcoming events.  Learn about our prayer times.  Please leave any comments on YouTube or Instagram. 
March 11, 2026
Church Growth, Missions, and Baptisms FeaturesChurch RelationsThe Church on Mission

Church Growth, Missions, and Baptisms

Mission of the Church featured Pastor Wayne Ballard from Grace Church in Chino Valley, Arizona. If you missed the livestream yesterday, Rich and Wayne had a great conversation about missions, outreach, the church, and baptisms. Watch and be inspired! https://youtube.com/live/zc9XLr7mTFk?feature=share Links: Learn about Grace Church in Chino Valley, AZ here.  Learn about Rich Peterson and Church Relations. Take a church assessment.  See previous episodes.  Please leave comments on Instagram or YouTube.    About Pastor Wayne:  Wayne Ballard grew up in the Front Range of Colorado. He attended Colorado Christian University and graduated with a degree in Communications in 1988. Following…
March 10, 2026
Photo by Aaron Burden on StockSnap
Bruce Koch From Perspective Joins Us to Pray FeaturesJoshua Project

Bruce Koch From Perspective Joins Us to Pray

Keith Carey (Joshua Project) and Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) came together to pray for Deha of India. Bruce Koch from Perspectives was our guest. If you missed today's livestream, you can watch the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/jZShSWJ-nj0?feature=share   Links: Learn about Bruce Koch from Perspectives. Learn about Perspectives.  Learn about Keith Carey.   Learn about Gordon Ellison.  Learn about the Unreached of the Day  If you would like to leave a comment, please do so on YouTube or Instagram. Thank you. 
March 3, 2026
Our Weakness Becomes Our Witness Features

Our Weakness Becomes Our Witness

How God's Power is Made Perfect in Weakness by Kylee Slebodnik “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”— 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV What would a non-Christian say the gospel is based on what they see in your life? Would they assume Christianity is about: Being busy for God? Becoming a good person? Managing life well? During pre-field training, this question reminded us that how we live shapes the gospel we proclaim.  What Does Your Life Say About the Gospel? This matters deeply. For many who don't know Jesus, our lives may be the only Bible…
February 23, 2026
Roberta King: Equipping and Discipling Persecuted Believers Features

Roberta King: Equipping and Discipling Persecuted Believers

On this episode of WorldVenture::In Review, we interviewed Roberta King who is returning to Kenya. You'll learn about her past and present work while understanding what ethnomusicology is and how she is equipping and discipling Muslim-background believers from the persecuted church. If you missed yesterday's livestream, watch the recording: https://youtu.be/qysvqdO_AoE Links: Global Arts and Christian Witness (book) (un)Common Sounds (book) The Arts as Witness in Multifaith Contexts (Missiological Engagements) (book) Music in the Life of the African Church (book) A Time to Sing (book) Learn about Roberta King or make a gift here Daystar University Leave any comments on YouTube…
February 21, 2026
Pastor Jamie Engram: Growing a Missional Church FeaturesChurch Relations

Pastor Jamie Engram: Growing a Missional Church

On this episode of Mission of the Church, Rich talks to Jamie Engram, Worship and Missions Pastor at Desert Springs Community Church. If you missed it, you can view the recording here. We've also included links to the podcasts. https://youtube.com/live/tv-MvoMqgxE?feature=share Links: Learn about Desert Springs Community Church here.  Sign up for their podcasts here.  Take a church assessment quiz here.  Learn about Church Relations here.  Please leave your comments on YouTube.    About Jamie:  As a pastor’s kid, Jamie Engram loved growing up around church ministry and knew early on that he was called to work in the church. Since…
February 18, 2026
A New Season of Ministry Features

A New Season of Ministry

In this episode of WorldVenture::In Review, Bruce and Linda Thomas share about their new season of ministry. They reflect on what has passed and what is coming. https://youtube.com/live/Emv6yyViwEk?feature=share Links: Learn about or make a gift to Bruce and Linda Thomas here.  Learn more about the land that was returned to them from World War Two You may leave comments on Instagram or YouTube.  
February 10, 2026
WorldVenture::In Review: Dignity is Changing Community Features

WorldVenture::In Review: Dignity is Changing Community

Angelika joined us with two nationals from Cote d'Ivoire this morning to talk about the impact of Dignity For West African Girls. Dignity is changing how Africans see themselves. You'll learn from these first-hand accounts how Dignity is helping Africans see their value and purpose. https://youtube.com/live/vHqB1ymip28?feature=share   Links: Learn more or give to Dignity Project Learn more about Rod and Angelika Ragsdale Read the article on Dignity about the March event WorldVenture::In Review - The Ragsdale's Interview 
February 6, 2026
How to Become a Great Commission Church FeaturesChurch Relations

How to Become a Great Commission Church

By Rich Peterson Last year, I invested time and effort in taking the Kairos Course through Simply Mobilizing. Every church should know about it! KAIROS is a foundational missions course (nine weeks in length). “It brings out God’s heart for all the nations of the world and His desire to use His people to be a blessing to them. KAIROS is designed to educate, inspire, and challenge Christians to meaningful participation in God’s heart for all the nations. It is a tool God is using to help transform the worldview of believers, so they see themselves as having been blessed…
February 4, 2026
Joshua Project: Israel FeaturesJoshua Project

Joshua Project: Israel

Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project) came together to pray for the Jewish, Judeo-Berber Israel. Gordon shared a great message on what a calling is, while Keith shared about this people group. If you missed the livestream, you can watch the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/ULPbQ3XaDjg?feature=share   Links: See the unreached people group of the day.  Learn about our co-host, Keith Carey (Joshua Project).  Learn about our co-host, Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture).   See upcoming dates of next prayer times.  Please leave your comments on YouTube or Instagram. 
February 3, 2026
Mike Sprenger Talks Missions and Church FeaturesChurch Relations

Mike Sprenger Talks Missions and Church

As part of our series, Mission of The Church, Rich Peterson talks to Mike Sprenger about his passion for missions and the church.  Mike serves with Southwest Community Church in Littleton, Colorado, and serves in missions and care.  Remember to subscribe to our YouTube or follow us on Facebook to get notified of any of our current livestream series. https://www.youtube.com/live/77er3Md4nlk?si=AycoqskueP3iduHo Links: Learn about Mike Sprenger. Take the Church Assessment.   Learn about Church Relations. Learn about Southwest Community Church. 
January 29, 2026
WorldVenture::In Review – Bailey Siewert Features

WorldVenture::In Review – Bailey Siewert

WorldVenture::In Review is an unscripted conversation on missions featuring different guests. Yesterday's first episode of 2026 featured Bailey Siewert - a brand-new Global Worker headed to Japan. Watch the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/-Tn3eSAaP1s?feature=share Learn more: Learn about Bailey Siewert here (or make a gift).  Learn about the host here.  Please leave comments on YouTube. 
January 22, 2026
Pathfinders: Reflections Features

Pathfinders: Reflections

On this episode of Pathfinders: Reflections, Brian and Melanie Stark interview two Pathfinders who share their experiences from cultural differences to how God was at work in SE Asia and Japan. Learn about the program and about Sabrina and Elizabeth. https://www.youtube.com/live/ubYKRZjhBM4?si=cjhojgqMa7puUFxQ Links: Sabrina Vaughan "Resurrection" album  Learn about the Pathfinders Program here.  Learn about Brian and Melanie Stark here. We encourage you to leave comments on our YouTube after watching this. 
January 16, 2026
New Prayer Resolutions? Joshua Project

New Prayer Resolutions?

People say it takes 59 - 66 days to make a new habit. Gordon outlines how to make prayer a resolution you keep throughout the year. Watch the recording below: https://www.youtube.com/live/dlSQobABdKo?si=TYk3IAegOwQNBG9n Links: See our next livestream dates here.  Learn about Gordon Ellison here. Learn about Keith Carey here. Learn about Nikole Hahn here. For the document on prayer, you can download the pdf here. Your Next Steps: Sign up to get the unreached people group of the day to your phone. Include prayer in your quiet Bible reading time: Start with gratitude.  Meditation on Scripture.  Listen.  Praises.  Prayer requests. Add…
January 6, 2026
WorldVenture::In Review Featuring Information About Anti-Trafficking Efforts Features

WorldVenture::In Review Featuring Information About Anti-Trafficking Efforts

WorldVenture::In Review featured Adrienne Livingston. Learn from this recording how she is trying to help prevent trafficking. https://www.youtube.com/live/DJh6FADkM40?si=G7lxUMTdIH6aVWDr Links Mentioned: Learn or give to Adrienne Livingston here. You can contact Adrienne at a.livingston@worldventure.com Equality Model US Covenant Eyes  Big Brothers, Big Sisters Good Pictures, Bad Pictures  Please leave comments on YouTube. 
December 10, 2025
Session Six: Panel Discussion on Missions Features

Session Six: Panel Discussion on Missions

If you missed the livestream, you can view the recording here. https://youtube.com/live/wFp9piV2Svc   (We had trouble livestreaming on YouTube, so two of the introductions were not streamed, except on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Twitch. You have everything, but some of the introductions here.) Links: Learn about Joshua Project Learn about JD Payne  Learn about John White Learn about Ralph Thompson Learn about our host, Marty Shaw. Learn about Keith Carey.  Apostolic Imagination by J.D. Payne  To see other livestreams from this series, click here.  Leave any comments on YouTube. 
December 2, 2025
Session Two: Starting Movements Features

Session Two: Starting Movements

If you missed Session Two, you can view the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/NwSmrP0vAhs?si=Md2fpwTZhOxKV9_t Links: FBC Salem, click here.  Make a gift to the Global Mission Fund at WorldVenture  To see the rest of the sessions for this online conference, click here.  Share your comments on YouTube. 
December 2, 2025
Session One: Deaf Ministry Movements in Hearing Churches Features

Session One: Deaf Ministry Movements in Hearing Churches

If you missed Session One of today's all day livestreaming conference, you can view the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Pz2Qi4JPKvY?si=wWhtLrLL_lMN5L-2 Links from today's stream: FBC Safford: https://fbcsafford.org/ Grace Church: http://www.cvgrace.com  Sabrina: aslinterpreter@fbcsafford.org Sue: interpreter@cvgrace.com Deaf Chat Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1389315241518992 To see the rest of the sessions for this online conference, click here.  Please leave comments on YouTube.   
December 2, 2025
Philippines Typhoon and Earthquake Update – Relief Efforts Features

Philippines Typhoon and Earthquake Update – Relief Efforts

Today, we streamed Allison Niles from the Philippines as she shared an update from the WorldVenture team on relief efforts. If you missed it, here is the recording. https://youtube.com/live/VM1jma-UuJ0 Links: Learn about the Riggins here.  Learn about the Ralstons here.  Learn about Allison Niles here. Thinking about serving in the Philippines, check out our short-term options or complete this form to talk to someone about long-term options.  Make a gift to the relief fund to help those impacted by the earthquake and typhoon.  Please leave your comments on YouTube. 
November 10, 2025
Prayer For the Unreached: Moors of Sri Lanka Joshua Project

Prayer For the Unreached: Moors of Sri Lanka

Did you miss today's livestream? This is the last episode until January 6, 2026. In today's livestream, we had Rich Peterson as a guest with Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project). https://youtube.com/live/_hofrHslLLQ Links: Rich Peterson serves in Church Relations. Click here to read more.  Take a church assessment here.  Your hosts: Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project) Do you feel a call to Sri Lanka or elsewhere? Complete this form to talk to someone.  Read about the Moors.  Please leave any comments on YouTube.
November 4, 2025
Stories of Gospel Impact Through Global Prayer Features

Stories of Gospel Impact Through Global Prayer

By Nikole Hahn "I often forget the impact prayer has." Bruce Tissell said in a recent video. At WorldVenture, we often ask you to pray for people groups, our organization, or the ministries we work with. Sometimes, God gives us a glimpse of His answers, reminding us that prayers truly matter. James 5:16b says, "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." This verse and others within this same chapter talk about fervent prayer. Fervent prayer that doesn't let go; the kind that kneels at God's feet and waits. Prayer is the first step. We're admitting our need…
October 23, 2025
WorldVenture::In Review – John White (Ukraine) Features

WorldVenture::In Review – John White (Ukraine)

If you missed yesterday's livestream, you can view the recording here. John and Stella White serve students in Ukraine. Dig into a little bit of mission's history, information about Ukraine, and how God is at work. https://www.youtube.com/live/DOwJm8RCVEQ?si=pEoQFMIX9ay6FLje Links: Praying with The KGB by Philip Yancy Learn about John and Stella White here.  See our other online events.  Please leave your comments on our YouTube 
October 19, 2025
After Senegal: The Joy Weaver Community Features

After Senegal: The Joy Weaver Community

Yesterday, we streamed Nancy McComb to talk about her new ministry, The Joy Weaver Community. In this episode, you'll learn about prayer, Senegal, and "Soul Healing." https://youtube.com/live/SS0qIHQ2vzU?feature=share   Links: Read the blogs: The Joy Weaver Community  Writers inquire at: TheJoyWeaverCommunity@gmail.com (or for questions) Substack: TheJoyfulJourneytjwc.substack.com You can leave comments on YouTube.
October 18, 2025
Praying For the Dhund of Pakistan Joshua Project

Praying For the Dhund of Pakistan

Nikole Hahn joined Gordon Ellison and Joshua Project's, Keith Carey, for another conversation on spiritual warfare and barriers to missions and Jesus before moving into a time of reflection and deep prayer for the Dhund of Pakistan. If you missed today's livestream, we have the recording for you! https://youtube.com/live/V0tTeipFL9k?feature=share Related Links: Learn about this people group from Joshua Project.  Information about our hosts: Gordon Ellison Keith Carey Information about our guest, Nikole Hahn, click here.  To leave a comment, please click here to leave it on our YouTube video. 
October 7, 2025
Prayer Time: Terai Brahmin in Nepal Joshua Project

Prayer Time: Terai Brahmin in Nepal

On the first Tuesday of each month, we gather in a livestream to pray for the unreached people group of the day (Joshua Project). Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project) come together to host this event. If you missed today's livestream, you can watch the recording. https://www.youtube.com/live/524_FaI26iE?si=g0HHXwBS_q74DulO Relevant Links: To talk to someone about going to this area, complete this form first.  Learn about Keith Carey (Joshua Project) here.  Learn about Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) here.  Read about today's people group here.  See our Joshua Project prayer page here.  Please leave comments on our YouTube. 
September 2, 2025
WorldVenture::In Review Featuring The Slaters From Uganda Features

WorldVenture::In Review Featuring The Slaters From Uganda

Kirk Slater serves in discipleship and Spiritual Formation and Laura in both education and special education. Learn how God is working through them to help equip pastors and change how education is done in Uganda. We've also included the links to the books mentioned in today's recording. https://youtube.com/live/mbgD4On7St8?feature=share Related Links: Learn about the Slaters or make a gift here.  Want to serve in Uganda? Complete this form to talk to someone.  Invitation to a Journey by Mulholland Critical Journey by Hagberg Truefaced by Thrall It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian by Tod Bolsinger Bill Hull resources  Inside Out…
August 29, 2025
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Decades of Faith: Gene and Linda Fisher Features

Decades of Faith: Gene and Linda Fisher

In this episode of Decades of Faith, Gene and Linda share about their 47 years in Pakistan and Thailand. Through war and loss, watch this one-hour episode and learn how God worked through it. https://www.youtube.com/live/yH4FnOIMhQY?feature=shared If you are considering serving in Pakistan or Thailand, consider talking to one of our mobilizers. Complete this form to talk to someone.  Please leave comments on YouTube. Other Blogs: Dust and Devotional: The Memoir of a Missionary Doctor in Pakistan  Ordinary People, Extraordinary God Are All Christians Missionaries?  Toolbox for Missions
August 22, 2025
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Dust and Devotion: The Memoir of a Missionary Doctor in Pakistan Features

Dust and Devotion: The Memoir of a Missionary Doctor in Pakistan

Dr. Mary Wilder joined us to talk about her book, Dust and Devotion: The Memoir of a Missionary Doctor in Pakistan. If you missed it, here's the recording: https://www.youtube.com/live/CyX7iDbN9I4?feature=shared Links Mentioned: Kindle Book on Amazon here.  Entrust Publisher: Find the hard copy here.  Learn about Shikarpur Christian Hospital. Please leave comments on YouTube.  If you want to serve in medical missions, complete this form to talk to someone. 
August 13, 2025
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Held by God: Judy’s Story Features

Held by God: Judy’s Story

Judy joined us from Ghana with her brother and Evans and Jeanette Walton. If you missed the livestream, catch it here. https://youtube.com/live/1WDtSaaLjg4?feature=share Other Links: Learn about Evans and Jeanette Walton here.  Finding Faith by Fighting Dragons Grieving Parents Find Faith and Purpose  Circle of Light (Video)  Toolbox For Missions Please leave your comments on YouTube
August 8, 2025
Prayer and Care (Video) Joshua Project

Prayer and Care (Video)

If you missed yesterday's prayer time with Joshua Project, watch the recording below: https://youtube.com/live/-2K3sHjUiU4?feature=share Related Links: See future dates of other prayer times here.  Learn about the Kyrgyz in Kyrgyzstan here.  Learn about Gordon Ellison.  Learn about Keith Carey.  Learn about Brian Larson.  Learn about Tony and Ming Perrello.  Please leave your comments on YouTube.  Related Blog Posts: Support the overall mission as they support and send missionaries to the unreached!  Learn about Church Relations. Considering going to serve cross-culturally?  When The Gospel Costs Everything 
August 6, 2025
Conversational Evangelism: Dr. David Geisler Features

Conversational Evangelism: Dr. David Geisler

If you missed yesterday's livestream, you can still watch the recording here. https://youtube.com/live/Roe-W5Cszss?feature=share   Links Mentioned: ConversationalEvangelism.com Norm Geisler, The Movie  NGIM website ConversationalAnswers.com NEW (August, 2026) Resource released! Click here.  Other Resources Mentioned: "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Athiest" (Book) "Living Proof" by Jim Peterson (Book) "Love Your God With All Your Mind" JP Moreland (Book) "Postmodern Times" by Gene Veith (Book) Dr. David Geisler Videos: Bear Foot Baptist Church  Conversational Evangelism Training Video Walk and Witness Dr. David Geisler is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary (M.A.B.S and Th.M) and Southern Evangelical Seminary (Doc. of Ministries in Apologetics) and has…
August 5, 2025
The Biblical Perspective of Risk with Dr. Rick Griffith Features

The Biblical Perspective of Risk with Dr. Rick Griffith

Dr. Rick Griffith (Jordan) joined us today to talk about faith and risk. If you missed it, see the recording here:   Links Mentioned: Bible Study Downloads: Click here.  How to Use Bible Study Downloads Learn more about Rick and Susan Griffith here.  How God Sent Us to Jordan Disciple: A Handbook For New Believers  Talk to someone about serving cross-culturally here.  Contact Dr. Rick Griffith to get his newsletters or to ask questions: drrickgriffith@gmail.com. After watching this recording, please leave comments on our YouTube. 
July 16, 2025
The Church Sending Ordinary People Church Relations

The Church Sending Ordinary People

Our "Ordinary People, Extraordinary Places" started with Rich Peterson, Church Relations. Links mentioned: Search WorldVenture Workers here.  Access Church Assessment tool here. Get contact info on Rich Peterson and information about Church Relations here.  Kairos missions course. Click here. Perspective missions course. Click here.  Church Toolbox here.  You can contact Rich Peterson directly for questions, or you can leave comments on YouTube. 
July 14, 2025
Are All Christians Missionaries? FeaturesChurch Relations

Are All Christians Missionaries?

By Kylee Slebodnik  Why That Phrase Needs a Closer Look You’ve probably heard some version of it before: “Every Christian is a missionary.” It’s a well-meaning phrase intended to remind us that being a Christian isn’t about sitting on the sidelines—it’s about living with purpose, sharing the gospel, and representing Jesus wherever we go. That message is absolutely true. However, while the heart behind the statement is good, the wording can be misleading. It can unintentionally create confusion about the global mission of God—and the role each of us plays in it. What People Mean When They Say It When…
July 13, 2025
Perseverance, Faith, and Marriage on the Mission Field Features

Perseverance, Faith, and Marriage on the Mission Field

Decades of Faith: Stories From The Field features Russ and Ramona Simons who has served with WorldVenture in various roles in the Philippines for 47 years. Learn about their perseverance, faith, and experiences in the mission field. Watch the recording here. https://www.youtube.com/live/ndeauHff_yc?feature=shared Links: 180 Degrees Music Ministry: Click here.  Go Team Philippines: Click here.  Gideon-Style Missions: Read more.  Want to serve in the Philippines? Complete this form to talk to someone. 
July 11, 2025
Prayer For India (With Guests) Joshua Project

Prayer For India (With Guests)

Rodger and Lynne Schmidt joined Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project) for a time of prayer for the Dhingar Gadaria in India. If you missed today's livestream, see recording below. https://www.youtube.com/live/9p-MefjKAYM?feature=shared Links Mentioned: Want to go to India? Talk to someone about the God-sized vision in your heart.  Learn more about our co-host, Keith Carey (Joshua Project) here.  See our next broadcast here.  Learn about the Dhingar Gadaria in India here.  Learn more about our co-host, Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) here.  Learn about Rodger and Lynne Schmidt here. 
July 1, 2025
Toolbox For Missions Church Relations

Toolbox For Missions

Provided For You by Church Relations  - Mobilization Resources for Churches Simply Mobilizing "The Simply Mobilizing (SM) Movement is a ‘movement’ dedicated to the mobilization of all God’s people into meaningful involvement in the world Christian movement, through the formation of a biblical worldview that sees ‘mission’ as the ‘call’ upon every believer’s life and the primary purpose of the existence of the Church – both universal and local." The Mission Course  "The Missions Course is a six-lesson course designed by ReachGlobal to help introduce your church to the Great Commission. It was created in the local church for the…
June 28, 2025
Jedi-ism, Share Educational Services, and the Czech Republic Features

Jedi-ism, Share Educational Services, and the Czech Republic

We interviewed Terry and Robin Chumbley for this episode of WorldVenture::In Review. If you missed it live, you can still watch the recording and learn about their ministry and the spiritual landscape of the Czech Republic. https://www.youtube.com/live/IEI4EsvhEGs?feature=shared   Links: SHARE Education Services  Complete this form to talk to someone about serving in the Czech Republic Learn about Terry and Robin Chumbley here.  You can contact Terry and Robin at: czech.chumbley@gmail.com If you would like to leave a comment, leave it on YouTube. 
June 20, 2025
Heartbreaking News About Rob Karch Press Releases

Heartbreaking News About Rob Karch

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR ROBERT "ROB" KARCH: Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025 Time: 2pm-5pm (Eastern / GMT-4) Ceremony Starts: 3pm Location: Eglise Ecclésia 327 Rue Saint Georges Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Z 5A2 Quebec, Canada Live Stream Link: www.youtube.com/@egliseecclesia Go to "Live" on Eglise Ecclésia's YouTube Channel Click here to view the memorial service invitation.   June 8, 2025 - Initial Announcement: 💔WorldVenture is heartbroken to share the recent passing of our colleague, Rob Karch. Rob’s heart and vision for reaching the French-speaking world with the gospel was inspiring. More information will be forthcoming. 🙏 For now, please pray for his family in…
June 8, 2025
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Rope-Holders, Church Planters, and Paraclete Features

Rope-Holders, Church Planters, and Paraclete

Tony and Ming Perrello joined us today in a conversation about church planters, Rope Holders, and Paraclete. You'll hear about their church planting efforts in Macau, too. Catch up by watching the recording now: https://youtube.com/live/J0x7tnpEPJM?feature=share Links and Resources Mentioned: The Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene H Peterson Learn more about Tony and Ming here.  Interested in serving overseas? Complete this form to talk to someone.  Please leave your comments on YouTube. 
June 6, 2025
Praying For Sudan Joshua Project

Praying For Sudan

Marty Shaw, Vice-President of Global Initiatives joins Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project) for another session on prayer. We start with a good message and then go into praying for the Rizeigat in Sudan. If you missed the livestream, you can catch the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/aT7ozDemhLE?feature=shared Links: Interested in talking with someone to serve in Sudan? Complete the form here.  Learn about Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) here.  Learn about Keith Carey (Joshua Project) here.  Check out past and upcoming livestreams here. 
June 3, 2025
Church Planters in the Philippines Features

Church Planters in the Philippines

If you missed yesterday's video, you can see the recording here. Brent and Christine Ralston joined us from the Philippines yesterday and shared about what God is doing over there. Watch now. https://www.youtube.com/live/63NveBFTXMs?feature=shared Links: Learn about the Ralstons here.  Interested in serving in the Philippines? Complete this form.  Leave any questions or comments here on YouTube. If you would like your contact information forwarded to the Ralstons, private message or direct message us via Facebook or Instagram.
May 23, 2025
An Interview With an Artist Features

An Interview With an Artist

An Interview with an Artist features Jonathan Chong, author of Immanuel, An Illustrated Story of the Life of Jesus, and Ruth Harrison, WorldVenture Global Worker. Watch the recording now and learn how an artist traveled from Hong Kong and how God provided the way and means for him to serve the Lord using art. https://www.youtube.com/live/ADtKVT3FcX8?feature=shared Links: To learn more or give, go here.  To talk to someone about serving in creative fields, click here.  Connect with the work of the artist here. Email Jon or Ruth at ImmanuelCartoon@gmail.com for information. Prisoners for Christ Outreach near Seattle, WA shared (May 14,…
May 14, 2025
Healthy Habits From Jesus: Leadership Edition Features

Healthy Habits From Jesus: Leadership Edition

If you missed the livestream today, here is the recording, plus extra links mentioned in the livestream. https://www.youtube.com/live/1f1YWm8O3k0?feature=shared Links:  View the book on Amazon here.  See Joe's website here.  Comment on YouTube here.  View a short video about the book here.  If you have questions on how to start your own online or in person group, contact Joe (joewright208@gmail.com) and Calla Jean Wright (CallaJean@gmail.com) at their email addresses.
May 7, 2025
Joshua Project: Evangelism and the Unreached Joshua Project

Joshua Project: Evangelism and the Unreached

If you missed today's livestream, you can still view the recording below. We've also added a few more links, too, mentioned in the broadcast. https://youtube.com/live/N1Kvgb_Vsr4 Links: Order the book here.  Learn about our co-host, Keith Carey here. Learn about our co-host, Gordon Ellison here. Learn about the unreached people group in Indonesia here.  If you would like to leave comments, please go to our YouTube. 
May 6, 2025
Helping Disabled Children and Their Families Features

Helping Disabled Children and Their Families

Did you miss our livestream featuring Lisa Yunker from Cambodia? View the recording here. We've included the links mentioned in the livestream. https://youtube.com/live/5IGn-telSt0?feature=share Links Mentioned: Learn about Children in Families here.  Learn about Lisa Yunker here.  Learn about ABLE project here.  Talk to someone about serving in Cambodia here.  Please leave your comments on YouTube. 
April 18, 2025
From Sacrifice to Harvest: God’s Work in Nyarafolo, Côte d’Ivoire Features

From Sacrifice to Harvest: God’s Work in Nyarafolo, Côte d’Ivoire

WorldVenture::In Review Special Edition featuring Linnea and Glenn Boese and the Gould family (Hannah Gould, Greg Gould, and Lori Gould McKee) livestreamed on Friday, April 4, 2025. If you missed it, you can watch it here: https://youtube.com/live/N7WL-86EAe4 Links Mentioned: Read Jim Gould's story and background of Linnea Boese here.  Learn about the Boese's here.  Leave any comments on YouTube.  *Header photo by Lori Gould Mckee of persecuted church and new church as talked about in the stream. 
April 4, 2025
Myanmar: Earthquake Update Features

Myanmar: Earthquake Update

Jonathan and Issakar, from Nepal and Myanmar, joined us for this earthquake update. Relief efforts are underway. Learn about this incredible ministry and the plight of the Myanmar people. https://www.youtube.com/live/DTH5qGxEF70?feature=shared Please consider making a generous gift to this fund to help their team meet the needs on the ground. Click here.  Links Mentioned: Myanmar Good Sam Relief Fund How Long? (Jonathan Stone video) Finding Peace in the Storm When Everything Falls Apart (Jonathan Stone video)   Other Articles: Bringing Light to Myanmar Forgiveness When The Gospel Costs Everything Hardships in the Mission Field
April 3, 2025
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When The Gospel Costs Everything Features

When The Gospel Costs Everything

By Nikole Hahn “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” – Romans 12:1-2 Decision Magazine published a story in April 2021 about a pastor in Laos imprisoned for a year because he refused to stop worship services and would not abandon his faith…
April 1, 2025
Joshua Project Prayer: Africa and Myanmar Joshua Project

Joshua Project Prayer: Africa and Myanmar

If you missed today's livestream, you can view the recording here. We pray for the Begirmi Fulani in Central Africa and have a special prayer for our team in Myanmar. https://www.youtube.com/live/iO9c_QcNBdU?feature=shared Note: The pre-recorded interview in this livestream had trouble playing so will be played in May.  Links: The Wheel of Time Download  Learn about Keith Carey here.  Learn about Gordon Ellison here. Learn about Nikole Hahn here.  Give to Myanmar relief efforts here.  Read Psalm 65 Learn about how to pray for the Begirmi Fulani in Central African Republic here.  Joshua Project has a new interface! Take a look. …
April 1, 2025
Ask A Missionary: Bible Translation Preferences AskAMissionary

Ask A Missionary: Bible Translation Preferences

Ben asked us through Ask a Missionary, "What different bible translations does your organization and missionaries deem acceptable? I know that many churches have now switched to the ASV, the NIV, the RSV, and some insist on the old King James Version. Does your organization have a preference or standard?" While we don't have a standard, we have asked a few of our missionaries your question, and this is their answer. https://youtu.be/f-Vlh5omE7U To leave comments, go to our YouTube video.  Submit a question to our missionaries here.
March 29, 2025
Reaching The Unreached in Africa Features

Reaching The Unreached in Africa

Lloyd and Jan Chinn oversee 67 Global Workers in 12 different countries as Global Directors. Learn their story on another episode of WorldVenture::In Review!   https://www.youtube.com/live/KomfUV89eLo?feature=shared   Links Mentioned: Leadership Empowerment Center (Project) - It still needs around $200K to finish the building. See livestream for more details. Click here to read about the project.  Read Ephesians 2.  Learn about the Chinns here. They are at about 78% supported. Read John 3:16. Are you exploring options to serve in Africa? Click here to talk to someone.  If you would like to comment, please leave them on our YouTube. 
March 21, 2025
Gospel and Cultural Barriers: Hope For Japan’s Future Features

Gospel and Cultural Barriers: Hope For Japan’s Future

By Gary Chang  In this new year, our church begins a sermon series on the book of Ephesians. The core focus of this letter is 'the mystery of God - building and becoming a new community in Christ, which is the church.' This is why the early apostles spread the gospel outwards, not only to the Jews but also to different ethnicities. This wasn't easy to accept and understand at that time. Through the book of Acts and most of Paul's letters, we gradually understand what the mystery of God is in these end times. This mystery is to allow…
March 8, 2025
Brazil Needs Missionaries and Short-Term Teams Features

Brazil Needs Missionaries and Short-Term Teams

WorldVenture::In Review featured Bruce Tissell in Brazil. WorldVenture has enjoyed almost 80 years of ministry in Brazil. Watch this recording and learn more! https://youtube.com/live/HK17pHTNoaw?feature=share Links: Learn more about Bruce Tissell here.  In this video, we talked of the need of repairs to one of the seminary buildings. Click here to give.  Complete this form to talk to someone about serving in Brazil. Feel free to leave comments on YouTube. 
March 7, 2025
Beyond The Noise: How the Church Can Change the Conversation Features

Beyond The Noise: How the Church Can Change the Conversation

By Nikole Hahn "The hard part isn't finding proof before you begin. The hard part is beginning, knowing you might not succeed." – Seth Godin Post Covid, social media and websites are part of normal operations for most of the world. In January, I attended a webinar about AI with other techies. The question was, "How are churches using AI?" When used ethically, AI will save churches and missionaries a lot of time. Recently, I introduced Opus to a pastor. When you are leading a church and running your own social media, a tool like Opus can help you craft…
March 6, 2025
Praying For the Hindu Kalal in Bangladesh Joshua Project

Praying For the Hindu Kalal in Bangladesh

If you missed today's livestream, watch the recording below: https://www.youtube.com/live/bZZKqqcU7XQ?feature=shared   Links: Moving Works ("The Key") video used with permission. Watch the video featured here.  One Woman Makes All the Difference  Learn about Keith Carey here.  Learn about today's WorldVenture co-host, Nikole, here.  Download the Joshua Project App here.  See our next Joshua Project livestream here.  All comments can be left on our YouTube or LinkedIn posts. 
March 4, 2025
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Circle of Light: The Story of Adama Diouf Features

Circle of Light: The Story of Adama Diouf

Alice Statler served in Senegal with her husband, Ed. She is a WorldVenture Alumnus and living in Sierra Vista, Arizona. She shares the incredible testimony of Adama Diouf. https://youtu.be/A9BcPPcpY3M?si=NxU3gIqnLInc0sXj Related Links: Building a Church Legacy in Senegal  A Pentacostal Celebration in Senegal  Sierra Vista Baptist Church: A Family Legacy  Foundations: A Church Building  A Beacon of Hope: The Inspiring History of a Beach Camp in Senegal  Senegal Global Workers  Transcription: I'd like to tell you about a good friend of ours, Adama Diouf. He was born into a Muslim family and among the Serer tribe, and in the Serer tribe…
February 7, 2025
Does the Holy Spirit of Christ Reside in This Church? Church Relations

Does the Holy Spirit of Christ Reside in This Church?

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations As we continue to answer the question, “Does the Holy Spirit of Christ reside in this church?” we remind ourselves of the three distinct characteristics which display the Holy Spirit’s presence in a church from our previous blog, and add three more characteristics in our current blog. From Acts 2:42-47:  From part 1: When the Holy Spirit shows up in a church, there is Biblical Instruction (Acts 2:42). “They devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching.” When the Holy Spirit shows up at church, there is a loving community (Acts 2:42, 44-45). "They devoted themselves to…
January 31, 2025
A Japanese Christian Shares His Perspective Features

A Japanese Christian Shares His Perspective

WorldVenture::In Review (Special Edition) featured Greg and Asa Swenson from Japan with guest, Kosuke Yoshimura. Kosuke is a Japanese believer who grew up in a Christian home and is House of Grace's main worship leader. https://youtube.com/live/ukjZKj-xDug?feature=share Related Links:  Learn about Greg and Asa Swenson here.  Follow House of Grace on Facebook. As you watch this, feel free on Facebook or YouTube to leave comments or ask questions.
January 24, 2025
When The Holy Spirit Shows Up at Church Features

When The Holy Spirit Shows Up at Church

Part One by Rich Peterson, Church Relations  Verse Reference: Acts 2:42-47 The term “church shopping” is a familiar one in today's American culture. To church shop means to go look for a church like you might look for a turkey to purchase from the grocery store. Usually, it means searching several different places for a particular church that will meet your particular needs. When going church shopping, people look for things like... The style of music in the worship service. The kind of children’s programming. Does this church have a growing and active middle/high school ministry? Is there a Groups’…
January 15, 2025
WorldVenture and Joshua Project: Praying For The Unreached in India Joshua Project

WorldVenture and Joshua Project: Praying For The Unreached in India

If you missed yesterday's livestream, you can view the recording here. We featured Alex Ott of Leaders in Missions. Watch and pray with us for the unreached in India. https://youtube.com/live/r32b_MjN5t0 Links Mentioned in the Livestream: Leaders in Missions  Pray for the unreached in India  Books Mentioned: People Vision by Leonard Bartlotti Spiritual Leadership by Henry and Richard Blackaby  Spiritual Leadership by Oswald Sanders 
January 8, 2025
Hardships in The Mission Field AskAMissionary

Hardships in The Mission Field

Noami is a student at a university, and she asked, "What are some of the hardships with going into the mission field?" Our Global Worker who is active in Asia and Europe answered her question: https://youtu.be/J4U310bGsGw If you would like to submit your own question, click here.    Other Articles: Cross-Cultural Missionaries For Christ  Using Modern Tools to Share The Gospel  Pawl's Story From Poland  Stay Focused! 
November 19, 2024
Praying For the IIavan in Sri Lanka Joshua Project

Praying For the IIavan in Sri Lanka

Joshua Project's, Keith Carey and WorldVenture's, Gordon Ellison come together to pray for the unreached in Sri Lanka. In this episode, we featured Bryan Padgett, Director of Mobilization and Mentorship. You'll also learn about living a missional lifestyle and about our Director of Mobilization and Mentorship. https://youtube.com/live/11yrNlN_mvU?feature=share Links Mentioned: Learn about Perspectives. Find a class near you or take a class online.  Learn about the people group we are praying for in this recording.  To talk to someone about serving overseas, click here to complete a form first.  Church Relations: Why It Matters (Featuring Quincy Thompson), watch recording.  3 Ways…
November 6, 2024
Cross-Cultural Missionaries For Christ Church Relations

Cross-Cultural Missionaries For Christ

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become…
October 30, 2024
Meet a Mozambican Artist! Features

Meet a Mozambican Artist!

Opal: The Outrageous Ostrich is a children's book written by Lynne Schmidt and illustrated by Mozambican artist, Abdullah Abdurremane. In this special edition of WorldVenture::In Review, you get to meet Abdullah and Lynne with Rodger interpreting. This book is ideal for schools, homeschoolers, and children's ministries. Opal: The Outrageous Ostrich shares about real people and an imaginary Ostrich seeking to find belonging, community, and to be more colorful. While reading the book, the children get a glimpse into Mozambican culture and learn some new words in a different language. Lynne provides a glossary in the back so you can teach…
October 25, 2024
Using Modern Tools to Share the Gospel Features

Using Modern Tools to Share the Gospel

By Nikole Hahn “Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.” – 1 Timothy 3:14-15 NIV Three years ago, *Steve joined a Sunday morning Life Group led by 1Bo. Steve was going through the aftermath of a vicious divorce and shared his story with the group. Bo got Steve’s cell number and email address and began sending him weekly Bible studies.…
October 16, 2024
WorldVenture::In Review – Hungary Features

WorldVenture::In Review – Hungary

Yesterday, we livestreamed Jenn Kelley (Hungary). Learn about what the Kelleys do, about Hungary, and how you can pray for them. https://youtube.com/live/HlEmrzo8hHE?feature=share Links Mentioned: Read more about Jenn and Dave Kelley here. Visit their website here.  "Go, Dog, Go" by PD Eastman  Quotes From the Livestream: To get to know the area you live and work in, take Jenn's advice! "Dave and I like to check out the different coffee shops around Budapest. There's some really great ones and we are working our way through a list of the top 25 that we found on a tourist website. So, we…
October 12, 2024
Learn How We Fight Trafficking Features

Learn How We Fight Trafficking

WorldVenture::In Review featured Brian and Melissa Leak who serve in Anti-Trafficking. Watch this recorded version of our livestream to see what the church can do to get involved. https://youtube.com/live/dUZyJs4ERgc?feature=share Links Mentioned: Learn more about Melissa and Brian here.  Check out their web page and get some resources!  Ask to get their newsletter:  Brianmelissa.leak@gmail.com The Freedom Fight. Click here.  Pure Desire Ministries. Click here.  European Freedom Network. Click here. Quotes From the Livestream: Brian: "I grew up going to church in the South. I grew up in Alabama Bible Belt, and it was quite a cultural thing for me. It wasn't…
October 5, 2024
Teen Marriages and Teen Pregnancies Features

Teen Marriages and Teen Pregnancies

By 4000-008 I had always heard that daughters of teen pregnancies are at a greater risk for having teen pregnancies themselves, and that this can perpetuate for generations. This statistic has come to life for me in our time here and seeing the society and the inequalities, intergenerational poverty, rate of divorce, and domestic/familial abuse. My friend *Zahara has painted quite the picture for me and has given voice to her life of tragedy, pressure, and burden. Her mom was 12 when she married and 14 when she had her, sadly she passed away a year later. Zahara gained a…
October 3, 2024
Prayer Gathering: Praying For the Yazidi in Germany Joshua Project

Prayer Gathering: Praying For the Yazidi in Germany

If you missed our prayer time yesterday, you can view the recording here. https://youtube.com/live/m6BTPTCcG9Y?feature=share Links mentioned: Unreached of the Day Learn more about Keith Carey here.  Learn more about Gordon Ellison here.  In the comment section of this blog, after watching this episode, write out your thoughts and a prayer for this people group.   
October 2, 2024
Special Edition: Pawel’s Story From Poland Features

Special Edition: Pawel’s Story From Poland

WorldVenture::In Review is an unscripted conversation on missions. This week's livestream was a special edition, featuring Pawel from Lubin, Poland. He's a teen leader at his church. Bruce and Linda Thomas share about their ministries. https://www.youtube.com/live/51zPOgNMl2s?feature=shared Links Mentioned: Lubin Church in Poland Learn about Bruce and Linda Thomas here. 
September 27, 2024
Praying Through Conflict Features

Praying Through Conflict

By Nikole Hahn  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. - Philippians 4:6 NIV Disunity is challenging in ministry, especially cross-culturally. Tension can come from different ways of doing things, working in a different culture, pressure, stress, personalities, or lack of sleep. In the anxiety of dealing with an unpleasant situation, it’s easy to pick up the phone and talk about it with a close friend. Even more so, have it weigh heavily on your mind for days, irritated that it happened or trying to figure…
September 26, 2024
WorldVenture::In Review – The Posts in Ireland Features

WorldVenture::In Review – The Posts in Ireland

If you missed today's livestream, you can still view the recording! https://www.youtube.com/live/hjQ4wAMepVQ?feature=shared Links Mentioned: Galway City Baptist Church Project (click here) Thrive Devotional. (Click here)  Learn about the Posts. (Click here) Quotes from the livestream: Jason: "I took a missions course with Mark Young, who's President Denver Seminary now, and he kind of became a mentor, but he really started to kind of open up our thinking and about the need outside of the U.S. for churches." Jason: "We were trying to meet people. We're trying to share the gospel as often as we could in order to get a…
September 20, 2024
The Gospel Need in Europe Features

The Gospel Need in Europe

By Kirk and Sandlin Poth (Ireland)  The command to be salt and light is the basis for the key idea of High Potency + Close Proximity + Clear Communication = Maximum Impact. To have maximum impact in the lives of those around us, we need to excel in these three areas. We must have high potency. If our lives don’t reflect Christ, we won’t have an impact. We must also have close proximity to non-Christians. After all, what good is salt if it never leaves the saltshaker? The key component to being the light of the world is clear communication.…
September 16, 2024
Sierra Vista Baptist Church: A Family Legacy in Ministry Features

Sierra Vista Baptist Church: A Family Legacy in Ministry

If you missed yesterday's livestream featuring WorldVenture Alumni, Alice Statler and Pastor of Sierra Vista Baptist Church, Matt Statler (her son) on their family legacy in ministry, here is the recording and related links. https://www.youtube.com/live/JVMK8LXHruA?si=DMZP7p8EJXJ5WRV7   Links mentioned in this livestream: https://sierravista.church/ https://svbctc.org/ https://sierravista.church/pastors-po... Quotes from the livestream: Alice: "And we would get the packets of missionary letters. And I would find my mother almost every morning reading those missionary letters. And then she started sharing them with me. And it usually was our family that had the missionaries come to eat dinner with us after they spoke. So, it…
September 12, 2024
10 Biblical Truths About Spiritual Gifts Church Relations

10 Biblical Truths About Spiritual Gifts

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  Biblical Passages: 1 Corinthians 12; 1 Peter 4:10-11; Ephesians 4:11-12; Romans 12:6-8 Definition: A Spiritual gift is ANY ability that is GIVEN and EMPOWERED by the Holy Spirit and used in ANY ministry (service) of the church (Wayne Grudem). 10 Truths: Spiritual gifts are not for the elite – they are for everybody in the church Spiritual gifts are not ego-driven – they are God-given Spiritual gifts are not self-propelled – they are Holy Spirit empowered Spiritual gifts are not for selfish consumption – they are for mutual edification. Spiritual gifts are not limited to…
September 12, 2024
Challenged by Wildflowers Features

Challenged by Wildflowers

By Grace Sandeno I passed a field of wildflowers on my morning walk and was captivated by how they seemed to eagerly wait for the new day. They aligned facing east and looked like they were straining to catch that first glimpse of the sun’s light.  They knew what was coming was good, yet they waited patiently, far more patiently than the photographer (me). I was challenged by their enthusiasm, their expectation that what would come would bring promise and growth. I also realized that the first hard frost would kill their growth, for this year at least. As I…
September 10, 2024
The Gospel Need in Japan Features

The Gospel Need in Japan

By Gary Chang  Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (Heb 11:1) Our church pulpit ministry has followed Abraham's life in the last several months. Indeed, most Christians know about his story; we all know he is our father of faith. Nevertheless, as we slowly go through every instance of his life, the ups and downs, successes and failures, we learn that God's grace and faithfulness toward him ultimately kept him on the right path. We can all quickly judge the weaknesses and lies he made so that he can preserve his…
September 7, 2024
Stay Focused! Features

Stay Focused!

By Tim and Stephanie Shewey  The Great Commission (Matt. 28:16-20) are one of my life verses.  It’s what spurred me to want to become a missionary. God commanded us to make disciples.  I said, “Yes, Lord,” then devoted the rest of my life to fulfill this mission.  At Launch (a training and time of refreshment at WorldVenture), we learned about so many important things to help us plan and prepare for a life of ministry.  But what has been resonating the most in my mind lately from that training is, “Make disciples…stay focused on making disciples.” In one of our lessons, we learned…
September 5, 2024
Prayer Gathering: Khalka Mongol in Mongolia Joshua Project

Prayer Gathering: Khalka Mongol in Mongolia

If you missed our livestream today with Joshua Project, you missed a treat! Duane from Joshua Project has just returned from Mongolia. We featured him in this episode. https://youtube.com/live/DqGC58-P02E Links: Learn more about these episodes here.  Learn about Keith Carey.  Learn about Gordon Ellison.  Read more about today's people group here.  Follow Joshua Project on Facebook, Instagram, or X.  
September 3, 2024
New Resource From Church Relations Church Relations

New Resource From Church Relations

Rich Peterson offers up a downloadable Church Leadership Covenant.  After more than our fair share of issues pertaining to poor leadership in one church I pastored, we created a Church Leadership Covenant that the Pastors, Elders, and Church Staff members were asked to sign on an annual basis. Perhaps your leadership team could benefit from the following? Download printable PDF Document or copy and paste words below.  ________________________ Before the Lord and together with my fellow (name of church) Leaders, and with the intent to strengthen our church, I sincerely enter the following covenant: A COVENANT OF TEAM UNITY I now…
August 29, 2024
One Woman Makes All The Difference! Features

One Woman Makes All The Difference!

By Nikole Hahn A remote village in Rwanda chose to go without beans—their only source of protein—to stockpile enough cash to send a family to an unreached Muslim people group in North Africa. This love for people they don't know began with just one woman. Nick Pirolo taught a missiology class at the Christian Leadership Institute in Rwanda five years ago. It wasn't enough to give the students knowledge. Nick desired the students to experience a different culture, but was that possible in their own country? A chance for mission exposure came in the form of another organization. This organization…
August 24, 2024
Two Additional Qualities of Trustworthy Leadership Church Relations

Two Additional Qualities of Trustworthy Leadership

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations/Western Region    Trustworthy Leaders are hard on themselves and gracious to others. The trustworthy leader is going to be a self-disciplined, hard-working person. Leaders who set the bar extremely high for themselves, do not run aimlessly, do not box as one beating the air. Trustworthy leaders discipline themselves, keeping their bodies and hearts fit and under control, lest after preaching to others they themselves should be disqualified. Trustworthy leaders are hard on themselves yet gracious to others. Lots of people these days reverse this order, and they are gracious to themselves and hard on everyone…
August 11, 2024
WorldVenture::In Review – Michael and Rebekah Banks Features

WorldVenture::In Review – Michael and Rebekah Banks

Did you miss our livestream with the Banks? Watch it here: https://youtube.com/live/FhMueDPws8w?feature=share Links For Topics Mentioned: Read Romans 12 Read Matthew 28 Learn about the Banks   Quotes From the Broadcast: "MPD is ministry partner development. As Rebecca and I gear up for the field and for serving as global workers with WorldVenture, we go through this process of building ministry partners. There's a lot of different ways that people partner with us in our ministry. I really kind of sum it up in three different categories. First and foremost, we need prayer, just prayer that we would be obedient…
August 10, 2024
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Interruption as an Invitation to Prayer Features

Interruption as an Invitation to Prayer

By Brianna Brown In the beautiful country of Taiwan, the garbage trucks play music. When we lived in Taiwan, everyday experiences often became new and interesting learning opportunities—one example is the trash pickup. In America, we have our small trash cans that hold our waste. We haul that waste to larger cans often outside our homes, and we put the larger trash cans by the road once a week. City trucks (or smaller businesses as is my case in the country) rhythmically drive around and collect our trash week after week. We don’t normally give much thought to our trash…
August 9, 2024
Praying For South Korea Joshua Project

Praying For South Korea

If you missed our livestream, you can see the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/jp9otY0yneY?feature=share   Links: https://unreachedoftheday.org/prayer/en/08-06 Talk to someone about going by completing this form.  Learn about Gordon Ellison by clicking here.  Learn about Keith Carey by clicking here.  See our prayer schedule here.    Hospitality by Kendall Beck   There’s an old adage that says, “When you have more than you need, build a longer table, not a higher fence.”   Maybe hospitality is not just simmering pots and the ring of the doorbell but “I heard you needed a place to live for a little while, I’m preparing our…
August 7, 2024
WorldVenture::In Review Eric and Kari Koerlin Features

WorldVenture::In Review Eric and Kari Koerlin

If you missed yesterday's livestream, you can still watch the recording here: https://youtube.com/live/sQ1BK6JNJ_Y?feature=share Links For Further Information: Learn about the Korelin's here.  Talk to someone about going to Japan here.  Sign up to receive the Korelin's newsletter here.  Quotable Quotes: Kari: "I was plugged into a church as well that did a really great job and a disciplined us from a young age. So, I came to know the Lord when I was six and just kind of continue to grow into my relationship. From that point. I think I probably grew the most that I can think of in…
August 1, 2024
3 Qualities of a Trustworthy Leader Church Relations

3 Qualities of a Trustworthy Leader

By Rich Peterson  Trust impacts us 24/7, 365 days a year. It undergirds and affects the quality of every relationship, every communication, every work project, every business venture, every effort in which we are engaged. Contrary to what most people believe, trust is not some soft, illusive quality that you either have or you don’t; rather, trust is a pragmatic, tangible, actionable asset that you can create – much faster than you think possible. I am also convinced in every situation nothing is as fast as the speed of trust. And, contrary to popular belief, trust is something you can…
July 26, 2024
Travel The World: Rwanda Travel The World

Travel The World: Rwanda

If you missed today's livestream, you can view the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6q2LtUgodo Links Mentioned: To talk to someone about going to Rwanda, click on WorldVenture.com/Go. Learn about the Pirolos here. Learn about New Creation Ministries here.  Find resources to help you live a missional lifestyle here.  Register for our workshop on July 26, 2024 here.       
July 18, 2024
Travel The World: Poland Travel The World

Travel The World: Poland

Join us as we get different perspectives around the world. If you missed the Whites, you can view the recording here. https://www.youtube.com/live/IE5tBgq-n_U?feature=shared Links Mentioned: WorldVenture.com/CAWhite https://worldventure.com/pproject/6434-907-blue-house-niebieski-dom/ https://www.facebook.com/WhitesInPoland WorldVenture.com/Travel
July 15, 2024
Kingdom Leadership Church Relations

Kingdom Leadership

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  General Eisenhower used to demonstrate the art of leadership with a simple piece of string. He’d put it on a table and say: “Pull it and it will follow you wherever you wish. Push it and it will go nowhere at all.” When the Bible speaks of leadership it rarely mentions what a leader DOES, it speaks instead of what a leader IS. What you are is as important as what you do. It was said of David that he “led the people with integrity of heart and guided them with skillful hands “(Ps. 78:72).…
July 14, 2024
The Three Vs Features

The Three Vs

By Jonathan Stone  When exploring missions, it will serve you well to consider the three Vs in order. VISION What are your core values? These are the things that make you who you are. They don’t change with a change of employment or through different seasons of life. These are the passions that motivate you to do the things you love doing. How has God SHAPEd you? What are your Spiritual Gifts? What is your Heart’s desire? What are your Abilities? What is your Personality? What Experiences has God given you? What has God called you to do? Take note…
July 13, 2024
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A Taxing Thought Features

A Taxing Thought

By Matt Shiner, A Mentor  Hello, readers! Ten-forty is an interesting number. We recognize it more readily in its numeric form, 1040. For many of us, that makes us remember that April 15 is the day our taxes are due, and tax returns need to be filed. Ah, but today, that number represents the exact number of days that Imama has been hunted by the Taliban. Think about 2 years, 10 months, and 4 days of complete uncertainty and fear. Today, the fear has subsided, but the uncertainty is ongoing. While there is light at the end of the tunnel,…
July 4, 2024
Joshua Project: Kahar People Joshua Project

Joshua Project: Kahar People

Did you miss the livestream? Here's the recording! https://youtube.com/live/3vaRKBnfH9Y?feature=share Links Mentioned: Video featured with permission from DesiringGod.org  Learn about the Kahar people here. Learn about Gordon Ellison here. Learn about Keith Carey here. Learn about the Cables here. Lausanne.org
July 3, 2024
What is Servant Leadership? Church Relations

What is Servant Leadership?

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  You and I do what we do as pastors, missionaries, and church leaders because we have a passion for making a difference in our world. Some of us are even passionate about making the world a different place. We see what the world should be and could be and by the grace of God would be – because we are called to be leaders in the kingdom of God. But we are increasingly ineffective in our work and call if we seek to lead according to the standards of the world and not according to the mandates…
June 26, 2024
Forgiveness: Jonathan Stone and Ken McMillan Features

Forgiveness: Jonathan Stone and Ken McMillan

Did you miss this livestream? Enjoy the recording. Do share your response to this video in the comments. https://www.youtube.com/live/GVs957wGklk?feature=shared   Links: Learn about Jonathan Stone here.  Video: After the Simbas: A New Song in Congo Reflection Song For Your Prayer Time Video: Why We Do It Quotes: Jonathan "People have connected with this message and found places in their life where they are needing to deal with this issue of forgiveness, whether they're the recipient or the one that needs to give it. This is something that the Bible is clear about that we need to do, but in practice…
June 13, 2024
Never Too Old for Mission Church Relations

Never Too Old for Mission

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  In a recent online event entitled, “The Changing Landscape of Mission.” Ted Esler, President of Missio Nexus suggested that the global population is growing older. While our focus on mobilizing young people to engage in cross-cultural mission remains a priority, perhaps local churches and mission organizations (like WorldVenture) need to acknowledge the importance of unleashing older people on mission. “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” (Acts 13:2-3) That’s pretty vague, don’t you think? I mean, if the work of international missions was so important, we…
June 10, 2024
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A Pentecost Celebration in Senegal Features

A Pentecost Celebration in Senegal

By Nathan Kendall Did you celebrate Pentecost? It was a holiday in Senegal. The 4% minority of Catholics influence the country due to a first president who was Catholic, with ties to France, and an acceptance of other religions. Many Muslims also took the day off, and the Baptist churches that WorldVenture works with also benefit from the day. This denomination has a history of getting together on Pentecost Monday and having a big party together. People from the various churches came by car, motorcycle, and horse cart to join together at a village church.Temperatures on Pentecost Monday were around…
June 7, 2024
Ecuador
Healing Wounds in Ecuador Features

Healing Wounds in Ecuador

By Sam and Emma Knutson Last year, at our overnight teen leadership camp, we saw so clearly how each of the kids going through our workshops are carrying a heavy load. Though the topic was meant to be leadership and human rights, the kids began to share small pieces of their stories and to cry as they shared the tragic realities of their circumstances. Since then, we've had many similar glimpses into the fear and pain experienced by the teen leaders we're pouring into. So, when we heard from our teammate about the program "Healing the Wounds of Teenage Hearts" we jumped on it…
June 6, 2024
The Changing Landscape of Missions with Ted Esler Features

The Changing Landscape of Missions with Ted Esler

Did you miss yesterday's livestream with Ted Esler of Missio Nexus? https://youtube.com/live/Oi5oWOurLvo?feature=share Links: Missio Nexus: Resources, webinars, etc, Click here.  The Innovation Crisis, Click here.  Quotes From the Broadcast: "Obviously, there's a mass demobilization that happened during COVID, and I think some of that demobilization became permanent. And we're continuing to live in the fallout, fallout of that demobilization." "I'd say another effect of COVID in a positive way would be COVID caused many mission agencies, as well as globally focused churches, to ask very basic questions about: 'What are we doing here? How are we delivering on that; and…
June 5, 2024
It is Finished! Church Relations

It is Finished!

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  Because of a good friend at WorldVenture, I now wear a new piece of jewelry with the word TETELESTAI engraved on a leather bracelet. TETELESTAI is the Greek word translated, “It is finished,” and is of course the last word Jesus cried from His cross. I love this word because it reminds me of the following: It is finished - We are free! The power of sin in our lives – finished! The power of immorality in our lives – finished! The power of addiction to drugs, alcohol, lust, greed, any vice, or godless behavior…
May 26, 2024
3 Habits of a Godly Mother Church Relations

3 Habits of a Godly Mother

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  Read 1 Samuel 1 and 2.  A Godly Mother Prays Fervently Hannah was in deep anguish, crying bitterly as she prayed to the Lord. 11 And she made this vow: “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, if you will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will give him back to you. He will be yours for his entire lifetime, and as a sign that he has been dedicated to the Lord, his hair will never be cut. “Oh no, sir!” she replied. “I haven’t been drinking wine or anything stronger. But I am…
May 12, 2024
Czech Jewish in Czechia: Video Joshua Project

Czech Jewish in Czechia: Video

Did you miss May's livestream? Click here to watch: https://youtube.com/live/5GPPvZmSUjk?feature=share   Links: The Czech Jewish in Czechia (more info) Learn about Gordon Ellison (more info)  Learn about Keith Carey (more info) See our Joshua Project page (more info) Take our survey after watching this episode (more info) Highlights of The Conversation: Keith: "Every day we prayed for an average people group, and they started doing that in 1982."  Keith: "Muslim and Jewish peoples to remain in the unreached category. So, what we have is even if you're in a place like Paraguay and Latin America or Bolivia, you're still going…
May 8, 2024
3 Priorities of Christian Leadership Church Relations

3 Priorities of Christian Leadership

by Rich Peterson, Church Relations  HEART A life in harmony with God. What is important to God is important to you. What breaks God’s heart, breaks your heart. When God says go there, you go there. When God says stop that in your life, you stop that in your life. When God says, this is wrong and I want you to change, you change what is wrong because you have a heart for God. You have a heart that is sensitive to the things of God. “For the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that…
May 5, 2024
#AskAMissionary Nicolette Hutcherson (Lebanon) AskAMissionary

#AskAMissionary Nicolette Hutcherson (Lebanon)

Another question submitted to WorldVenture.com/AskMissionary was answered! Keep those questions coming! "What are some significant barriers that you have seen, and how have you seen God overcome them?" - Neil https://youtu.be/GM8JlntjSpA?feature=shared Links: Learn more about Nicolette Hutcherson here.  Submit your question here or see past videos. Transcription: "As we were discerning where God would have us serve, we felt a strong pull to one location. But I really struggled with the idea of living in such an unstable place. I don't consider myself brave. I'm not a risk taker. I'm kind of a scaredy cat. As my husband and I…
May 3, 2024
#AskAMissionary: Remember! AskAMissionary

#AskAMissionary: Remember!

We answered another question from you! Watch the 59 second video below: https://youtube.com/shorts/1DsYIaQHjvY?feature=share   Thank you, Neil, for sending us this question! It's a great question! Submit a question here: WorldVenture.com/AskMissionary Jonathan (WorldVenture.com/Jonathan) answers this one. He also provides some extra tips here: Practical to Remember: ❤️Meditate on the Scripture you have memorized. ❤️Worship God for His attributes with others in the community. ❤️Marvel at His creation physically, putting yourself in a space with reminders everywhere about How Great our God is! ❤️And repeat! For this video, read Psalm 105:4-5
April 27, 2024
How To Get Your Congregation Excited About Missions Church Relations

How To Get Your Congregation Excited About Missions

On April 24, 2024, Rich Peterson (Church Relations) and Nikole Hahn (Digital Engagement and Disciple-Making Coordinator) gathered with people from different churches and mission teams to talk about how to better engage your congregation in missions. The time was rich with fellowship and sharing, but we have edited out the sharing and interactions to maintain confidentiality. https://youtu.be/9fbx0ACez1M Helpful Links: Learn about Church Relations here.  Download the Mission Guide: WorldVenture.com/MissionsWorkshop  Interested in serving overseas? Complete this form to talk to someone.  Learn more about Nikole Hahn. Learn about Lausanne here. Bookmark our events page for future online events: WorldVenture.com/Events Articles: How…
April 25, 2024
Philippines: The Sheweys Features

Philippines: The Sheweys

Did you miss our live stream last week? Here is a recording, some links, and highlights from the stream! The first five minutes is a pre-stream of announcements and videos. https://youtube.com/live/URcDRCpY8jg?feature=share Links Mentioned: Visit the Shewey's Ministry Page View this link for their story. Highlights From WorldVenture::In Review: Copy and paste your favorite quote with a link to the Sheweys and share to your social media.  Tim: "So I don't have a particular Bible study that I'm doing. I'm going through a Bible reading plan. But I guess what I'm learning is that it's in God's control, not in my…
April 23, 2024
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Grape Leaves and Frozen Kibbe Features

Grape Leaves and Frozen Kibbe

By Nicolette Hutcherson "Nicolette's poor children...they love Lebanese food, but she really can't make it for them." This was the explanation I was given as I was handed several large bags of frozen kibbe and grape leaves from Im Ibrahim. Part of me felt really guilty accepting them. As Syrian Palestinian refugees, I know this family struggles to put food on the table. But I also know that this is a clear case of "not returning a plate empty." When you visit someone here in Lebanon, you usually take a gift, most often some kind of sweet. It may or…
April 16, 2024
Total Dependence Church Relations

Total Dependence

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations Total dependence happens to everyone who earnestly strives to live for Christ. It happens especially to those who are striving to live for Christ. It happened to me the first time when, on a typical Wednesday evening before a prayer meeting in February 1990, the Chairman of Deacons announced that he had placed the church properties "for sale" on the open Real Estate market that morning. Over the following 18 months, I would personally experience this thing called dependence upon God. It happened a second time on September 28, 1997, after having preached a sermon on the…
April 14, 2024
5 Ways to Reach Refugees in Your Community Features

5 Ways to Reach Refugees in Your Community

By ADP Revelation paints a vivid picture of Heaven's diversity, emphasizing that people from all nations and backgrounds will be present (Revelation 7:9). As followers of Christ, we are called to share His message with people from every corner of the world. Today, with increasing globalization, refugee communities often find themselves in our very neighborhoods. Immigrant communities, just like most people, tend to stick with people of their own backgrounds, so engaging with these communities requires intentionality. Here are five ways to engage, drawing from personal experiences. Learn Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of refugee stories and backgrounds. Reading…
April 12, 2024
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Colombia: John and Laurie Lopez Features

Colombia: John and Laurie Lopez

If you missed our livestream of John and Laurie Lopez (Colombia) on WorldVenture::In Review, here is the recording. The first five minutes is our pre-stream which includes a video and announcements. https://youtube.com/live/Oy5yCdyeoek?feature=share Links Of Interest: Learn more about John and Laurie (click here)  Learn about the Sheweys (click here) Register for an upcoming workshop or see what livestreams are upcoming (click here)  Want to talk to someone about going to Colombia? Click here and complete the form. The form is not a commitment to go. Quotable Quotes: Some highlighted quotes from this interview. Feel free to share the link to…
April 9, 2024
Time To Pray: High and Lifted Up Church Relations

Time To Pray: High and Lifted Up

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  Read Isaiah 6: 1-8, then pray: God we are so thankful that you are high and lifted up. We join the angels in their praise of you as “Holy, holy, holy.” Almighty God, the earth is full of your glory, and we bow before you as Sovereign Lord of All. As we bow in worship, we acknowledge that we are people full of sin and that we come from a race of sinners. We are unworthy of you, your grace, and your presence in our lives. We are ruined – take the burning coal from…
April 6, 2024
Reflecting on Exodus Features

Reflecting on Exodus

By ADP Lately, the story of the Exodus has been weighing on my heart, which is odd because I've never been particularly fond of Moses. He always struck me as a bit whiny. Remember when the Lord turned his staff into a snake, performing a miracle, and Moses bolted? It's a bit embarrassing. If I were God - and thank the heavens I'm not - my response might be, "Alright, Moses, never mind. Where's Aaron when you need him? I mean, come on, Moses, will you faint when the Nile turns to blood or darkness blankets the land?" It's almost…
April 3, 2024
On Fasting and Ramadan Features

On Fasting and Ramadan

By The Benaissa Family  As you may know, millions worldwide, including my family of origin, are fasting this month. It has been many years since I participated in this fast with my family. We thought you might be interested in hearing about some of my memories. My experience may generate ideas on how to pray for those observing this fast, or it could spark a conversation with someone who is observing this fast. Growing up, fasting was like a competition among children in the neighborhood. The first child in any age group to fast was seen as a child of…
March 28, 2024
On Faith and Prayer: An Interview with Wycliffe/SIL Nigeria Features

On Faith and Prayer: An Interview with Wycliffe/SIL Nigeria

Janet Abai (Wycliffe/SIL Nigeria) talks about faith, prayer, her journey as a believer, and growing up in Nigeria. Plus, an exciting announcement at the end of our session! https://youtube.com/live/YhKeL2iUrx0?feature=share Links: Learn more about Janet Abai.  Learn about upcoming events.  Book by David Platt "Something Needs to Change" Recommended: Pray Big by Allistair Begg  Quotables to Share: Janet Abai: "So yeah, for those who do not know me, my name is Janet Abi. I am originally from West Africa. Nigeria was born and brought up in the central part of Nigeria in a small city called Joss." Janet Abai: "But my…
March 27, 2024
The Role of Artists in Missions Features

The Role of Artists in Missions

Did you miss our livestream? Here is the recording! https://www.youtube.com/live/R04TlP_kSMc?feature=shared Links: https://www.actinternational.org/welcome/ Byron on LinkedIn See more upcoming events!  Quotable Quotes: (feel free to copy and share) What is the definition of artist? "Well, in modern parlance, you know, it deals with, you know, musical arts, theater, arts, dance arts, visual arts, craft arts, textile arts, culinary arts, film, arts. We include technology, arts and these kinds of things. And then, you know, you can put that out. I think I have on one list of artistic endeavor some 70 different kinds of endeavors in the Scripture. There are 19…
March 23, 2024
Spiritual Preparations for Holy Week Church Relations

Spiritual Preparations for Holy Week

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  The Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday before Easter As a “recovering Baptist,” I came late to the party regarding some of the more liturgical approaches to worship. About three decades ago, I began using the Christian Calendar in my devotional/private worship times as a way of moving through the various seasons of the year. What this means is that I am now more likely to concern myself with things like Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost than I am to concern myself with National Bird Day (Jan. 5), Houseplant Appreciation Day (Jan. 10),…
March 21, 2024
#AskAMissionary – The Role of Technology in Missions AskAMissionary

#AskAMissionary – The Role of Technology in Missions

#AskAMissionary: Where you can submit a question for consideration of a video reply. Click here to send us your question.  https://youtube.com/shorts/U6p5J-aagho?feature=shared Links: Mary Esther Penner How The Japanese Deaf Are Sharing The Gospel The Unspoken Word of God JSL Bible Transcription: In 1993, when the Japanese Sign Language Bible Translation Project started, there was an analog studio: VHS cassettes. And you had to be at home and play that cassette in your player, or you didn't know what the Bible said, and you had to fast forward rewind to try to find the verse you wanted. Then we went up…
March 16, 2024
Falling In Love, Going On Mission Features

Falling In Love, Going On Mission

WorldVenture::In Review featured Matt and Elizabeth Van Wart from Uganda  This was a live stream from February 29, 2024. Click here to watch: (Approximately One hour) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA0R0lNIa2k Links: Learn About the Van Warts Read the story referenced in the video. Be sure to bookmark this story. We will try to post updates when possible. Upcoming Events Feel free to share your favorite quotes to your social media with the link to this blog.  Transcript Highlights: The transcript is not a complete transcript. To see and hear the stories, press play.    What was the most challenging recipe you ever had…
February 29, 2024
A Church Plant in Ireland Features

A Church Plant in Ireland

By Mandy Post "It's almost like a fresh start." I was having coffee recently with a new friend, and we were chatting about the history of Galway City Baptist Church (GCBC) and what it looks like today after sending a core group to start another church. That's when she made this comment. And I quite liked the sound of it! In the beginning, GCBC was very much a missionary led church. We WorldVenture workers began the work, created the programs, led the worship services, and made up the elder board. Over the years, that has begun to shift, and we…
February 29, 2024
Almost Killed Over Sunglasses Features

Almost Killed Over Sunglasses

In Uganda, if you steal something, you risk getting beaten, even killed. While the Van Warts entertained guests and visited the market, Matthew Van Wart and his friends left the women to continue shopping. When Matthew approached his car, he noticed the car door open. A man hopped out, closed the door, and started to walk away. “I realized we were being robbed, and I started to chase the guy. We took off running—or I should say he took off running, and I lumbered briskly after him. We rushed around a corner, and he found himself cornered with a fence…
February 28, 2024
YWAM Tragedy: Our Hope is in The Lord Church Relations

YWAM Tragedy: Our Hope is in The Lord

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  In a tragic accident in Tanzania this past weekend, eleven members of Youth With A Mission (YWAM) lost their lives when a large truck experiencing brake failure collided with and overwhelmed one of the organization’s minibuses. It is the largest loss of life in the history of YWAM. As fellow workers in the mission's enterprise, WorldVenture grieves for the families, friends, co-workers, and YWAM supporters touched by this heartbreaking calamity. The WorldVenture family also prays for God’s healing to those who continue to struggle for life, comfort to those who are experiencing pain and loss…
February 28, 2024
Single For The Savior Church Relations

Single For The Savior

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations Did the Apostle Paul really have it right when he wrote: “It is good for a person not to marry?"  On the surface that sounds a bit like some of these unflattering quotations about marriage: I love being married. It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life. – Rita Rudner All marriages are happy. It’s the living together afterward that causes all the trouble.– Raymond Hill I never knew what real happiness was until I got married. And by then it was too late.…
February 20, 2024
Ministry Leaders: Building Your Self-Care Toolbox Features

Ministry Leaders: Building Your Self-Care Toolbox

By Brian Larson, MDiv, MA, LPC “Mary has chosen what is better…”  - Luke 10:42 In Luke 10, we see Jesus arriving in a village where Martha opened her home to him. Martha also had a sister named Mary, and we are told that she sat at the feet of the Lord, listening to what he said. Where was Martha? She was super busy, all spun up, and highly anxious about the preparations. Jesus said, “Martha, Martha you are worried and upset about many things.” (v. 41) Our worry and anxiety distract us from what is important and what we value.…
February 17, 2024
To Continue With A Knife In Your Heart Church Relations

To Continue With A Knife In Your Heart

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  We need the goodness of God the most when we’re wounded, when we’re hurting, when things are falling apart, and we’re broken. As I read through Hebrews 11 recently, I came across a list of unnamed heroes of faith. They lived in caves, were poorly clothed, thirsty and hungry, persecuted, and sawn in two. All they ever accomplished was to suffer and die. In our culture, the hero is the person who is a winner; the one who gets measurable results. But as followers of Jesus, we need to focus our faith not on results,…
February 10, 2024
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Dr. Paul Geary: Medical Missions, Indonesia, And Bethesda Hospital Features

Dr. Paul Geary: Medical Missions, Indonesia, And Bethesda Hospital

If you missed the livestream, watch it here!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDIa2oahyOE   Sharable Quotes: (copy and paste your favorite to social media) "And then and then that this thought began to grow as especially as I went through my career, my education, medical education. And then eventually I got internal medicine and began to see more and more what this could do and how it how it impacts people, health and illness and so on, and begin to experience it myself. How it's a powerful tool, really, to be present with people in a time of great suffering, in a time of…
February 10, 2024
A Prayer For Peace Church Relations

A Prayer For Peace

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations  There is a lot of thought about war these days. War in Ukraine, war in Gaza, and potential wars in so many other places are at the forefront of many around the world. Domestic violence continues to be an international concern. Gang wars, drive-by shootings, increased crime rates, and the inability to work through interpersonal issues – all these things (and many more) point to a lack of peace. I was surprised to read that in 3,550 years of recorded civilization, only 286 of those years have been without war. During that same period, eight…
February 3, 2024
Unloading More Than Furniture Features

Unloading More Than Furniture

By Drew Brown  When Javier stopped by to deliver the shelves he made, I thought it would be a simple transaction - 5-15 minutes tops. God had other plans for our afternoon and evening. After he brought in the two bookshelves, I settled the bill. Michele saw that his wife was traveling with him, so we offered them coffee. We discovered they lived on the Caribbean side of the country. “You drove 5 hours just to deliver this one job?” I asked, curious what would motivate someone to accept the work, given the distance. “Yes. I am actually a pastor,…
January 29, 2024
Good News or Bad News? Church Relations

Good News or Bad News?

By Rich Peterson, Church Relations My youngest daughter’s ninth birthday is a day that will live in infamy around the Peterson household. On that day (January 4, 2013) we were just coming away from a church member’s cabin in the Rocky Mountains on our way to be with our older children, their friends, and our friends from Australia at a nearby ski resort, when instead of taking the necessary sharp right turn in the road I accidently drove straight off the side of the mountain before us! So, do you want the good news or the bad news first? The…
January 27, 2024
How To Use Your Church Live Stream FeaturesThe Church on Mission

How To Use Your Church Live Stream

By Nikole Hahn You wouldn't invite people to an empty church. Likewise, you don't invite someone new to the church to an empty chat. Risking All as a Christian means seeing technology as an opportunity to make Gospel Impact in your community and beyond. While chat options are available on most social networks during a live stream and even on website streams, we will focus on Facebook for today's topic. A live stream isn't a podcast or like watching Netflix on your device, where you turn it on and focus on other things. The live stream is a two-way conversation…
January 26, 2024
A New View For The New Year! Church Relations

A New View For The New Year!

By Rich Peterson  Has the news of late got you down? Has life become so overwhelming that you have forgotten Him who is your life? Has life become so frustrating with the endless demands of family and job that you rarely experience the freedom of grace? Has life become so boring, so mundane, so routine, and so bothersome that you have lost all hope of ever accomplishing anything amazing for your God? Has life become so hard that you have lost the joy of your salvation? Has life become so predictable that you have lost all hope? Has life become…
January 12, 2024
How To Do Ministry With Your Family Features

How To Do Ministry With Your Family

From our workshop on January 10, 2024. Click here:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TIiJBk75JI This is an edited version of the live workshop. While the richness of the interactions online is edited out, you can still get a wealth of useful and practical insight to help your family get more involved in God's plan for the church. To view future online workshops and live streams, go to worldventure.com/events. Links: See her new book! BethMeverden.com Growingkidsforthekingdom.com biblicalparenting.org The Five-Day Devotional  
January 11, 2024
Imperfect (And Yet… ) Church Relations

Imperfect (And Yet… )

By Rich Peterson  I attended a memorial service recently for a former Worship Pastor who was engaged in active ministry in the Denver area for over 40+ years. His younger brother (a retired Senior Pastor) presented the “raw truth” about the deceased, highlighting the great impact of his ministry while never sidestepping the fact that his brother wrestled with many personal demons even into the last few weeks of his life. The comments reminded me of some things I came across while doing research about the rather obscure Old Testament character with the unusual name, Jephthah. I’m not certain who…
January 7, 2024
Joshua Project: Wolane in Ethiopia FeaturesJoshua Project

Joshua Project: Wolane in Ethiopia

We had some technical difficulties with the live stream and only streamed via Facebook. However, we have prepared the recording here: https://youtu.be/WCc7wf8lTw0?feature=shared   Featuring: - Allan Starling, Global Recordings Network - Keith Carey, Joshua Project - Gordon Ellison, WorldVenture https://worldventure.com/JoshuaProject Links mentioned: https://globalrecordings.net/en/program/64912 https://grnmapapp.org https://globalrecordings.net/using-5fish
January 3, 2024
Discipleship is Devotion to Jesus Church Relations

Discipleship is Devotion to Jesus

By Rich Peterson  Devotion is an amazing quality. It enables men to lay down their lives for their country. It empowers spouses to see in their mates what no other person is able to see. Devotion is that which pushes a person to become what they would never be without it. In Acts 2:42, the Bible tells us that the new believers in Christ “devoted themselves to the apostles teaching.” The teachings of the apostles were the narratives and instructions of the Lord Jesus Christ himself, as His words and deeds were passed on to those trusted few. Through the…
December 8, 2023
Joshua Project: Prayer For The Talieng In Laos FeaturesJoshua Project

Joshua Project: Prayer For The Talieng In Laos

Click here to view video: https://youtube.com/live/Babcm7fVmnc?feature=share Links: People group to pray: https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/15216/LA Joshua Project page: worldventure.com/JoshuaProject Keith Carey (Learn more) Gordon Ellison (Learn more) Dave Childers (Learn more) Note: We originally showed praying for the Pashtuns of the United Kingdom. We apologize for the wrong people group. Joshua Project has the Talieng for today.   
December 6, 2023
Big Ears, A Smile, And A Happy Heart! Church Relations

Big Ears, A Smile, And A Happy Heart!

By Rich Peterson When I was a little boy, I had very large ears. So large in fact that my parents took me to a plastic surgeon to see if there was anything to be done about them. He simply shared with us that my ears were “large” but that my head would eventually grow into them and all would be well. I will let you be the judge of whether or not the doctor was right – but ever since then I have been aware of the fact that I have been given two big ears – the better…
December 1, 2023
How to Walk Your Dog Church Relations

How to Walk Your Dog

By Rich Peterson As Christians, our lives have been transformed by the love of Jesus Christ. Our life is no longer our own, for we have been bought at the considerable price of Christ’s sacrificial death. We are transformed because of His love; our lives ought to bear that out daily. The Apostle Paul once wrote, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). From another translation, we read, “Walk worthy of the calling with which you have been called.” What does a “life worthy of…
November 18, 2023
Venture Church Network: A Journey Into Disciple-Making Features

Venture Church Network: A Journey Into Disciple-Making

This is the recording from our livestream on Tuesday, October 10. Dr. David Whitaker joined us for a conversation on disciple-making! Click here to see recording: https://www.youtube.com/live/va20mPqr-Cw?feature=shared Learn more: https://venturechurches.org Other Posts: Joshua Project and WorldVenture: Bengali-Speaking South Asians in Finland Missions In the City: Pastor Mark Hanke How We Mobilize Prayer Focus: Khalaj in Iran How To Be Creative With Missions When You Are Not Creative  
October 11, 2023
The Most Positive People In The World Church Relations

The Most Positive People In The World

By Rich Peterson True or False? Most people would rather be happy than sad. Most people choose gladness over sadness. Most people choose celebration over mourning. Most people prefer attending a wedding over attending a funeral. Most people prefer joy to sadness. And most people prefer to be around those who are joyful rather than hang around people who are depressed. That said, there is nothing more ridiculous than pretend joy. Nothing more preposterous than a plastic, put on, pump-yourself-up, artificial hope. Nothing worse than the TV commercial mom who becomes overwhelmingly euphoric when her liquid detergent does a number…
October 8, 2023
Joshua Project: Bengali-Speaking South Asian in Finland FeaturesJoshua Project

Joshua Project: Bengali-Speaking South Asian in Finland

Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) and Keith Carey (Joshua Project) came together to pray with others on the Bengali-Speaking South Asian in Finland. Related Links:  Bengali-Speaking South Asian in Finland (Joshua Project) Joshua Project Unreach Page (WorldVenture) Our Online Events (WorldVenture) For Students! (WorldVenture)   If you missed the recording, click the link here to watch: https://www.youtube.com/live/RmmEYq4oMdQ?feature=shared We had a sound tech glitch, but you can click here to watch/listen to the music at the end and use that for your own personal prayer time.
October 4, 2023
Until Jesus Shows Up Church Relations

Until Jesus Shows Up

By Rich Peterson In a very real way, life is both meaningless and hopeless UNTIL JESUS SHOWS UP. Life, for a great many people, feels like a condemnation to live in a sunrise/sunset reality for ever and ever without purpose or end. Enslaved to get up, go to work, go to sleep, go to the grave, life is hopelessness and despair. Life, as the existential philosophers claim, is meaningless and nothing. Not only nothing, but nothing without end – no conclusion, no full stop. On and on the cycles of world history spin – no one can do a thing…
September 17, 2023
Missions in The City: Pastor Mark Hanke FeaturesThe Church on Mission

Missions in The City: Pastor Mark Hanke

How one WorldVenture partner church is changing things up in Salem, Oregon and the world! Click this link:  https://www.youtube.com/live/g-Eb2KB5UR8?feature=shared   Salem First Baptist: https://www.fbcsalem.org/ Video: 45 minutes  God can use you to change the world, too. If you liked what Pastor Mark said, write down a couple of quotes and share them to your social media platforms. If this video inspired you to think differently, please let us know in the comments. Other Special Broadcasts: Justin Long: Equipping Leaders For The Great Commission  An Interview With Dan Scribner of Joshua Project Visit Our Unreached People Group Page Are you a…
September 15, 2023
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I Need More APPs! Features

I Need More APPs!

By Grace Sandeno No, not that kind! I have too many of that kind on my phone already. What I need more of is Audacious Powerful Prayers! I recently completed a Bible study called, “Psalms: Real Help for Real Life” by Ray Ortlund. It was just what I needed since, in many ways, I’ve had a little more “real life” than I bargained for over the past few years. Out of all that poetic goodness (for those of you who don’t know this, the Psalms are Hebrew poetry), one idea kind of grabbed me by the throat and shouted at…
September 14, 2023
Prayer Focus: Khalaj in Iran FeaturesJoshua Project

Prayer Focus: Khalaj in Iran

On September 6, 2023, Keith Carey (Joshua Project) and Gordon Ellison (WorldVenture) joined together to pray for the Unreached People Group of The Day.  People Group Focus: Khalaj in Iran  https://www.youtube.com/live/IHcbfTzqIZg?feature=shared Challenges:  Reaching an Unreached People Group with the gospel can be a challenging task due to various reasons. Here are some of the challenges associated with reaching an unreached people group with the gospel: Cultural and Linguistic Barriers: Unreached People Groups are often characterized by cultural and linguistic barriers, making it challenging for traditional missionary methods to reach them effectively. Religious Challenges: Animosity toward Christianity is one of the…
September 6, 2023
How To Achieve Individual and Corporate Transformation Church Relations

How To Achieve Individual and Corporate Transformation

By Rich Peterson I am finding it more difficult these days to locate Christ-followers who are maintaining the “balance” between our Christian call of individual righteousness and corporate transformation. For followers of Jesus, this dual calling can never become as one-sided as it appears to have become over the last number of years for a great many Christians (perhaps especially in the United States). The Bible tells us that God “rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity” (Ps. 9:8). The Scriptures also tell us that “righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne” (Ps. 89:14).…
September 5, 2023
Celebrate Our Great God Church Relations

Celebrate Our Great God

By Rich Peterson We went with the trumpet-playing priests – and the singers…They played and sang loudly under the direction of Jezrahiah the choir director. Many sacrifices were offered that joyous day, for God had given the people cause for great joy. The women and children also participated in the celebration, and the joy of the people of Jerusalem could be heard far away (Nehemiah 12: 41-43, NLT). One of the near misses as a couple came on an evening my wife and I participated in a very charismatic worship/concert experience. I don’t even remember the artist, but I do…
August 13, 2023
Moldova: The Importance of Mentoring Features

Moldova: The Importance of Mentoring

Our WorldVenture Global Worker, Gerry Schroeder (Slavic Worship) shares this amazing update about a mentee named Pavel. This mentoring relationship began over twenty years ago. Funds were sent to manufacture a stove in Ukraine last winter.   Pavel writes about his life and ministry in Moldova:  We have now been living in Moldova for nine months. During this time, the war has greatly changed many people's values, and Christians are no exception. But we are alive, we are together, and we are safe, which is a source of great happiness.  Here, every day we meet people who have lost their homes,…
August 12, 2023
Authenticity in “Barbie Land” Church Relations

Authenticity in “Barbie Land”

By Rich Peterson There’s a line from the song entitled Stained Glass Masquerade by Casting Crowns that asks a very good question regarding the need for Christian authenticity: Are we happy plastic people Under shiny plastic steeples? The brokenhearted, the hurt, the outcast, the beggar, the world at large living in ugly pain and despair wants to know – Are we happy plastic people Under shiny plastic steeples? People today, like people of all time and people everywhere, want to know that God is real, and that this real God can make a real difference in real life. What seems…
August 5, 2023
A Refugee Story: Jackline and Fouad Features

A Refugee Story: Jackline and Fouad

By Jennifer Coon "Thank you for saving her from death for us."  That was the first sentence 17-year-old Fouad prayed, in the first time he ever prayed out loud. Fouad's 15-year-old sister, Jackline attempted to commit suicide a few months ago by jumping off a bridge a stone's throw away from my former apartment.  The setting and the story are all too familiar. Refugee family. Abusive father. Children struggling in school. Mom struggling to make ends meet. Jackline left school to provide for her family at age 14 but she found it harder and harder to hold onto hope until…
August 3, 2023
Hit The Pause Button and Celebrate! Church Relations

Hit The Pause Button and Celebrate!

By Rich Peterson (Church Relations Officer)  Read Nehemiah 12 27-43 and consider the following: The people of God in Nehemiah’s day gathered to celebrate God’s provision of the Wall and they did so through an elaborate worship service where they joined together to worship God more fully. Each week Christians celebrate God’s amazing grace offered through Jesus Christ; we don’t come together to dedicate a wall – we dedicate ourselves and we do so in worship! The first feature of effective corporate worship is the need to PAUSE. We come together for fellowship and worship because there is a need…
July 29, 2023
Loving The Creator God – Our Life’s Focus Features

Loving The Creator God – Our Life’s Focus

By Gerry Schroeder  (Originally published in Russian for Slavic Worship's Russian-speaking audience)  Take a moment and picture with me… The expanse and power of an ocean as its waves pound against the shore. Mountains majestically rising up in the distance as they disappear into the clouds. An evening sky that is slowly revealing the stars of an infinite universe. The intricate beauty of flowers moving in a gentle breeze.  When we pause to reflect on things like these, we are reminded that nature itself points us to the Great Creator God. What God has made helps us to see and…
July 13, 2023
God’s Timeline To Freedom Features

God’s Timeline To Freedom

By Matt Shiner, a mentor  It’s hard to believe that it’s been over six months since the last chapter we penned in Imama’s life. At that time, we asked the LORD to evacuate them within two weeks.  According to Evangelist Luis Palau, there are five ways that God answers prayer: Yes, I thought you’d never ask! No, I love you too much. Yes, and here is even more! Yes, but not yet. Yes, but differently from what you thought. Since the beginning of the year, Imama and her family have experienced large doses of #4 and #5. I can share…
July 5, 2023
Meet The Joshua Project Founder Features

Meet The Joshua Project Founder

Join us for an interactive time to talk about missions with Joshua Project founder, Dan Scribner. Wednesday, July 26 at 2 pm CDT Live streaming on Facebook, Youtube, Twitch, and Twitter. This is an interactive time. Bring your questions. We would love to chat with you. Visit the website: https://joshuaproject.net/   Dan serves as the team leader of Joshua Project. Dan grew up in Connecticut and came to faith in Christ in his early teen years. He has served in Guam, Japan and Thailand with Cru. Dan and his wife Mary joined the staff of the U.S. Center for World Mission,…
June 7, 2023
How To Be Creative With Missions (When You Are Not Creative) FeaturesThe Church on Mission

How To Be Creative With Missions (When You Are Not Creative)

by Nikole Hahn “… I want to hear a song so good that it makes people want to do something about the subject.” – Bono, lead singer of U2 As leaders in the body of Christ, among our goals are evangelism, discipleship, spiritual growth, and  inspiring people to action. Usually that action can be categorized in one of four action words: give, serve, pray, or go. But inspiring people often takes inspiring content. And if you’re not one of the more creative people you know, that can be a daunting challenge. And yet there is a solution to that and…
April 15, 2023
The Chair Thief Features

The Chair Thief

By Jeanette (and Evans) Walton "Why should I turn my cheek, for someone to slap the other one?" I remember asking my Children's Sunday School teacher this very question. We were learning about the Sermon on the Mount and Matthew 5:38-42 was our focus: “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’  But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.  And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.  And if anyone forces…
March 11, 2023
Upcoming Online Workshops, Courses, and Live Streams! FeaturesWorldVenture In Review

Upcoming Online Workshops, Courses, and Live Streams!

From February to April, we have different workshops, courses, and online events to help expand your knowledge, vision, and help your organizations.  WorldVenture: In Review Featuring Tim and Sara Downs (Africa)  February 17, 2023 at 8 a.m. CST Watch it now!  An unscripted conversation on missions with new Global Workers, Tim and Sarah Downs. Bring your questions. We will be watching the chat. Streaming on Facebook, Twitch, Twitter, and Youtube Can You Improve As A Bible Study Teacher? Workshop Leader: Dr. Rick Griffith This aired on Thursday, February 23, 2023 See the 45-minute video here.  Download the handout and PowerPoint…
February 16, 2023
February Workshops: Bible Study How-Tos Features

February Workshops: Bible Study How-Tos

Can You Improve As A Bible Teacher? Thursday, February 23, 2023 (8 a.m. to 9 a.m. MST AZ)  Can you improve as a Bible teacher? Of course—if you only had more time. The problem is that we are all busier than ever (=less time), but our audience expects visuals to be better than ever (=more quality). So, how can we design more interesting presentations with less time? The Instructor: Dr. Rick Griffith believes that we need to work hard on fewer presentations and then share these with others, so he developed BibleStudyDownloads.org as a common place to download biblical resources by many Bible…
January 11, 2023
How To Use Netflix and Amazon For Missions FeaturesThe Church on Mission

How To Use Netflix and Amazon For Missions

By Nikole Hahn What do your streaming habits look like? Many good documentaries are on streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon, or Disney +. Still, do you ever think about the perspective of the missionaries that live in the areas filmed? Let us help you use your streaming habits to educate your family, friends, or church members on the realities the people groups highlighted face. What’s On Netflix Right Now?  Magical Andes is a series on Netflix from 2019. The filmmaker takes us on a journey from Argentina to Columbia along the Andes Mountains with breathtaking cinematography and compelling storylines. I…
October 19, 2022
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A New Ministry Is Helping Churches Fight Sexual Abuse! Features

A New Ministry Is Helping Churches Fight Sexual Abuse!

An Interview With Karen Shogren This originally aired live on Tuesday, August 30, 2022 on our Facebook page. Download your quick resource here.  Learn more about Karen Shogren by clicking here. Follow Levanta La Voz on Instagram English Spanish Follow Levanta La Voz on Facebook English Spanish Feel free to download the videos to share at your church or small group by clicking here. To register for her child safety courses, please email Karen at KSHOGRENLLV@GMAIL.COM. A website is coming soon for Levanta La Voz. Meanwhile, you can watch the hour long broadcast above, or choose to watch the shorter videos…
September 14, 2022
Serving On Social Media: Finding The Right People! FeaturesThe Church on Mission

Serving On Social Media: Finding The Right People!

By Nikole Hahn A great need exists for volunteers to serve on social media with our local churches and mission organizations. Many non-profits and churches can't afford a full-time social media strategist. Churches should consider volunteers willing to commit to serving online and leadership to support that work because social media presence has become culturally-central to that organization's brand or reputation. However, as with other influential roles, who you choose to invite into your digital team makes a difference. Recently, circumstances caused me to think about the make-up of a social media volunteer. James 3:1 NIV says, "Not many of you should…
August 9, 2022
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From Indifference To Community: Building A Hybrid Church FeaturesThe Church on Mission

From Indifference To Community: Building A Hybrid Church

A Book Commentary By Nikole Hahn Few books lay the theological groundwork and ask the reader to examine their attitude about social media, such as MetaChurch by Dave Adamson. Like me, he was one of many who sought to help the Church build a digital platform when the world shut down in 2020 and left many pastors scrambling to get something up online. It's more than a how-to book on building a digital ministry to reach people and make disciples; it's helping people recognize that the internet and social media are no longer a broadcasting model but a narrow-cast model because of the one-on-one…
July 20, 2022
Finding Faith By Fighting Dragons Features

Finding Faith By Fighting Dragons

By Nikole Hahn  "Fairy tales do not tell children the dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist. Fairy tales tell children the dragons can be killed." – G.K. Chesterton A group of teenagers in Ireland began meeting at the home of WorldVenture global workers, Chris and Joi Copeland, for a role-playing game (RPG). Led by their sons, Gavin and Gage, the Copeland brothers wanted to leverage the power of story central to RPG’s to introduce biblical themes such as a Messiah-figure, redemption, and a narrative crafted in to present spiritual choices in an allegorical way. Leveraging the world-famous, sometimes controversial,…
July 10, 2022
Viewing World Events Through Three Lenses Features

Viewing World Events Through Three Lenses

Faithful men and women in history demonstrated trust that God was still at work among and through us, no matter what was happening in the world. How we choose to view what is happening in our world will frame our attitude and either energize or discourage us. A church splits, and new churches form. A war erupts, and waves of refugees cross oceans and borders, looking for a new home. Coups and ongoing conflicts become a catalyst for change. Ministries pivot in the wake of world events, and believers are scattered, like in Acts 8:1. " On that day a…
June 24, 2022
The Sweetness of the Gospel Features

The Sweetness of the Gospel

Sandlin Poth is a WorldVenture global worker living in Western Ireland, where the rain constantly falls, and the sky is gray. Sunshine is a celebrated event. Sandlin, an Arizona native, does what she can to capture the essence of summer – in the form of Elderflower Syrup – to enjoy later, especially during those dark, cloudy days of winter. Kirk and Sandlin Poth serve people in Ireland through church planting, discipleship, and leadership training. They are surrounded by rolling green hills, shepherds, sheep, and the region’s famous Elderberry trees. The present darkness of post-modernism hangs like the gray clouds of winter…
June 16, 2022
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Exciting and New Project Developments at Russia Worship Features

Exciting and New Project Developments at Russia Worship

With all the news about Ukraine and Russia, here’s something positive you won’t hear about on the major networks. WorldVenture’s worship ministry providing praise and worship songs to the Russian-speaking world, known as RussiaWorship, has an inspiring update. Gerry and four of his RW staff held some songwriting sessions via Zoom. And the creative effort is bearing fruit. “The purpose of these sessions was to write a song that will connect with people's current emotions and point them to God's love, hope and peace,” shares Gerry. An exciting development for English-speaking fans of worship music is some creative input from…
June 3, 2022
WorldVenture Day of Prayer Today Features

WorldVenture Day of Prayer Today

In 1943, the world was deep into World War II. Millions had died. The world economy was disrupted. Families were impacted. Bad news seemed to come day after day. Concentration camps were scattered across Europe and even the US government interned people of Japanese descent, including US citizens, in camps. The world was in upheaval almost everywhere. It was hard to see God at work. And though humanitarian work was popular, the Gospel wasn’t, not even among some ‘missionaries.’ Many were questioning the divinity of Jesus and the authority of the Bible. It was a dark time. And yet, in…
May 24, 2022
Jacob’s Struggles Features

Jacob’s Struggles

A suicide bomber took out 13 Marines just half an hour before Jacob arrived at the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan. By then, hundreds of Afghans waited by the airport, desperate to catch flights out of the country in fear of the Taliban. Jacob, a new believer (read his original story here), waited with his teenage sons and caught the second to the last flight out of Kabul last August. “It could have been years to get them out of Afghanistan,” wrote our Global Worker. “God was watching out for us,” said Jacob. He is thankful his sons are with him now. His…
May 20, 2022
How to Practically Help Refugees FeaturesM Outreach

How to Practically Help Refugees

Practical Help With Resources! This originally aired live on Thursday, May 5, 2022, on our Facebook page. Ministry Among Immigrants and Resources (downloadable PDF) Learn more about Bobby and Brianna Brown by clicking here Learn more about Larry Stucky by clicking here Learn more about Mark Harris by clicking here  Recommended reading: When Helping Hurts  Feel free to download the videos to share at your church or small group by clicking here. 
May 12, 2022
Escape From Ukraine FeaturesUkraine

Escape From Ukraine

By Nikole Hahn The Journey of Valentina and Chili "They're not going to mess with an old lady," declared Valentina. "I've been running for eight years since my evacuation from the east , and I don't want to continue to run."  Like many Ukrainians, Valentina refused to leave her home, even with the threat of an invasion from Russia. Her story, a refugee’s journey through Ukraine and across Europe, is an inspiring tail, I mean, tale of faith and the comfort of a family dog named ‘Chili.’ Eight years ago, Valentina's refugee journey left her stranded in Luhansk, Ukraine, while her…
April 19, 2022
When Missions and Marriage Come Together FeaturesBBrowns

When Missions and Marriage Come Together

From biblical accounts to modern-day missionaries, many marriages have been profoundly impacted by the unique calling of God that leads people into missions. The richness of the developing relationship, with all its risks and the struggle of grappling with the questions as a team, builds layers in the marriage. For some, missions conversations began before the vows; for others, they happened at mid-point in marriage. You've followed Bobby and Brianna Brown through the last two online events (How to Walk Faithfully Forward and Difficult Transitions). They met at fifteen and sixteen years old while on a three-month international mission trip.…
April 2, 2022
Cyclone Gombe Features

Cyclone Gombe

On Thursday, March 17, 2022, Facebook went live to share the damage from Cyclone Gombe. Below is the edited version with additional content. Prayer requests are towards the end.We woke up on March 11 to news of Cyclone Gombe hitting the Mozambican coast. The people of Mozambique, including Rickshaws, experienced torrential wind and rain with wind up to 165 km per hour. Mozambique experienced great damage and flooding. At least six WorldVenture properties were destroyed, and many families are in need of assistance. This short-term special project seeks to repair the extensive damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Gombe. This will…
March 16, 2022
The Last Forty-Eight Hours FeaturesUkraine

The Last Forty-Eight Hours

Donna and Mark McDonnel are WorldVenture global workers to Ukraine temporarily evacuated to Poland. And they just spent 48-hours straight helping Ukrainian refugees. Because sometimes, that’s what it means to serve. Living with our Poland team, the McDonnels are sheltering in Wroclaw, Poland. Our WorldVenture Poland Team member, Joel Burnell, intended to whisk them away for a day to get some fresh air and a break from the war news. “You never know what the cost of helping those in need might be,” said Joel. Donna received a call from her friend and Arabic-language teacher, a Jordanian man teaching in…
March 5, 2022
4 Ways to Process Emotions Online According to 2 Kings FeaturesThe Church on Mission

4 Ways to Process Emotions Online According to 2 Kings

“Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.” – Proverbs 2:11 Read 2 Kings 18 by clicking here When we read the Bible, we can apply it to all aspects of life. That includes our online lives, especially how and when we process emotions or post reactions online. Whether the cause of those emotions are political, mental health, geopolitical events, loss of people we love, or difficult relationships, we can find ways to change how those emotions are expressed online with other people. And King Hezekiah’s difficult interaction with the Assyrian field commander, the Rabshakeh, in 2 Kings 18…
March 4, 2022
PRAY FOR UKRAINE FeaturesUkraine

PRAY FOR UKRAINE

Please join us as we pray over the conflict in Ukraine. WorldVenture has an ongoing disciple-making presence in Ukraine and had a past presence in Russia for many years. We love both of these countries and their great peoples. Our hearts broke as we previously evacuated our US colleagues in Ukraine and our hearts are broken again with the attacks by the Russian military. But like so many followers of Jesus in the region, we trust in the Lord. We’re inspired by the beacon of hope that Ukrainian churches and church leaders are providing. We join them in their public…
February 24, 2022
A Women’s Rights Activist Endangered and Left Behind Features

A Women’s Rights Activist Endangered and Left Behind

By Matt Shiner, a mentor Imama was born under a Taliban government that denied Afghani females an education after the elementary grades.  During the years she was a schoolgirl, American soldiers arrived, and the new government provided her a path of continuing education to become all God has planned.  While achieving a law degree, she became an avid women’s rights activist, specifically for the fundamental rights that were denied to the women of Afghan culture. She worked in the US Embassy and helped embellish the legal community. I met Imama five years ago when she attended Leadership Development training.  She…
February 12, 2022
Video & Prayer Guide: Generations South America Features

Video & Prayer Guide: Generations South America

Generations: South America Video Length: 60 minutes (the additional 21 minutes were questions from the Q and A) Download the prayer guide (opportunities listed) by clicking here... https://youtu.be/QSN2nnaep8E   Panelists (click on the names to learn more): Brianna Wheeler Bruce Tissell Ken and Luci Davis Curt Kregness Richard and Mirian Sturz Jim and Corinne Thorp                
February 5, 2022
Generations: South America Upcoming Features

Generations: South America Upcoming

If you liked Generations: Japan, you’ll love Generations: South America. We are featuring the countries of Bolivia and Brazil. Join us online on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. MST for an hour of down-to-earth conversations about how God grows people through the different seasons of missionary life. From a Global Apprentice to the career missionary on the field, you’ll learn first-hand about the people, the culture, and the way God works through joys and heartaches to engage the world for gospel impact. Q&A to follow. Featured Panelists: Global Apprentice Brianna Wheeler (Bolivia) Career Missionaries Bruce…
January 22, 2022
Video and Handout: How the Japanese Deaf are Sharing the Gospel Features

Video and Handout: How the Japanese Deaf are Sharing the Gospel

On Friday, January 14, 2022, Peter Persson prayed for and interviewed Mark Penner (United Bible Societies), Mary Esther Penner (WorldVenture), and Pastor Matsumoto of Yamagata Christian Deaf Church in Japan on Facebook Live on How the Japanese Deaf are Sharing the Gospel. We also featured JSL translator from Canada, Justina. Video Length: 60 minutes.  https://youtu.be/x_XjOc_OoxI Download the Prayer Guide by Clicking Here Explore the JSL website Follow the JSL Facebook Page Pictured above: This is a screenshot of a JSL Jesus Film. In the video and prayer guide, this image will help you understand JSL translation. Most Deaf interpreters (certified,…
January 21, 2022
How Cinnamon Bread Became a Tradition in Pakistan Features

How Cinnamon Bread Became a Tradition in Pakistan

By Nikole Hahn Global Workers in South Asia share a Christmas recipe with you. I've tested this recipe and added a few notes. Please watch the video to hear the story of how Cinnamon Bread became a tradition in Pakistan. May it bless your kitchen this season! Video Length: 1 minute https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojR5KHdfL-w   Cinnamon Bread If you live at high altitude, you can click here to make adjustments. Baking time, temperatures, and ingredients might need to be adjusted if you live above 3,000-foot elevation. Ingredients:  1 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups flour 3 teaspoons cinnamon (I like to dump my…
December 19, 2021
The Journey of Over 2K Bibles to Mexico Features

The Journey of Over 2K Bibles to Mexico

By Nikole Hahn And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel to the whole creation." – Mark 16:15 In a world filled with bad news, here’s a story of faith, dedication, prayer, courage, hope... and over 2,000 Spanish Bibles! And a special partnership between the pastor of a small rural church and a WorldVenture partner church making a gospel impact in Mexico. The journey of the Bibles to Mexico and the partnership between the two churches began with Pastor Jason Hamilton at Skull Valley Bible Church. Creating a Network Jason Hamilton began pastoring at Skull…
December 6, 2021
Befriending Refugees in The City FeaturesM Outreach

Befriending Refugees in The City

By Nikole Hahn Newly appointed Global Workers, like Lan, serve in various places through local organizations or churches while building a financial team. Lan is heading to Asia to care for orphans, and while she waits on the Lord’s timing, she finds places in her community that need her compassion. Currently, Lan volunteers with a local organization that teaches her how to befriend new refugee families. In one particular instance, an Afghan family recently arrived at the center. We shall call the husband, Abdul. “ used to work with the military in Afghanistan. He was in the right place at…
November 4, 2021
New Leaders Moving WorldVenture Forward Press Releases

New Leaders Moving WorldVenture Forward

  WorldVenture President, Jeff Denlinger, announced the hiring of Soraya Marin to the role of Vice President of Operations/Chief Operations Officer (VPO/COO), anchoring WorldVenture’s Global Operations. Ms. Marin starts January 1, 2022. “We are turning a significant leadership and ministry corner with Soraya joining our team,” Denlinger shared with the WorldVenture Leadership Community. “Soraya’s prior corporate world experiences and her heart for people have been instrumental in her missionary service in Spain. This leadership role requires the VPO/COO to listen well to the needs of individuals and teams within WorldVenture as well as our external partners while at the same…
October 13, 2021
15-Second Testimony: Evangelism Training That Works Features

15-Second Testimony: Evangelism Training That Works

James Riggins, an Appointee/Global Worker to the Philippines, invites you to join him in Evangelism training on Tuesday, October 26 at 7 pm CST by Zoom. We will open up fifteen minutes early for fellowship.  He will spend the hour equipping you with how you can share your story in a way that opens your audience up to hear more! Please click on this link to register.  James spends his time mobilizing believers to minister in the United States while also providing distance training to places he cannot travel yet. Learn more by clicking here.  Related trainings by Zoom and…
October 4, 2021
A Conversation About Children’s Ministry Features

A Conversation About Children’s Ministry

What is the difference between children’s ministry in the United States and children’s ministry among North African families in Europe? Katy Hubbard, Children's Ministry Director at Palmcroft Anthem in Arizona, and Chelsi Johnson, our Global Worker, held a conversation via Facebook Live on September 2, 2021, on the differences between children's ministry in the United States as compared to North African Families in Europe. About our guest:  Katy Hubbard was born in San Diego but grew up in Arizona. Her family moved to Phoenix, AZ, and began attending Palmcroft Church. Katy started to attend kids ministry at Palmcroft Church back…
September 24, 2021
Book Recommendations on Understanding Refugees FeaturesM Outreach

Book Recommendations on Understanding Refugees

Are you looking for some good reading material to understand the plight of the refugee? Our colleagues recommend these books... Why God Calls Us to Dangerous Places by Kate McCord "Soon after 9/11, Kate McCord left the corporate world and followed God to Afghanistan—sometimes into the reach of death. Alive but not unscathed, she has suffered the loss of many things: comfort, safety, even dear friends and fellow sojourners." Learn more In The Land of Blue Burqas by Kate McCord "Riveting and fast paced, In the Land of Blue Burqas depicts sharing the love and truth of Christ with women living…
September 21, 2021
Afghanistan Prayer Guide Features

Afghanistan Prayer Guide

Afghanistan: 70 people groups* 67 unreached people groups (95.7%)* 39,627,000 people* Main Religion: Islam (99.8%)* Evangelical Annual Growth Rate: 0.0%* (This cannot be measured as there are no above ground churches. We hear that there is a growing underground church).   Scriptures to pray for the people in Afghanistan: Worship of our Almighty God: O Lord my God, You are very great; You are clothed with splendor and majesty. He set the earth on its foundations; it can never be moved. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the Lord and most…
August 26, 2021
40 Days Among Unreached Peoples Features

40 Days Among Unreached Peoples

*Steve, a Pathfinder, recently spent 40-days among unreached people groups in Asia. He is now back in the United States and adjusting to life at home, but not without deep reflection on his time spent overseas. A Pathfinder is a 4-week to 1-year volunteer program focused on growing the kingdom of God, both in the life of a Pathfinder and in the locations where they serve. Steve didn’t know the language of that country. This didn’t stop him from heeding the call to go to this part of Asia. “I often had to rely on translators or on miming when I was interacting…
August 15, 2021
Rediscovering Vision at 30,000 Feet Features

Rediscovering Vision at 30,000 Feet

By Nikole Hahn  When I've read about pioneers, I might have imagined their life differently, like Thor Heyerdahl, who was forced to prove that "ancient people could have made long sea voyages, creating contacts between societies." The data he compiled wasn't enough. Thor had to do the hard work to prove his theory by raising the funding, going to Peru, finding the proper logs to cut down, floating them down the river, and taking much risk. In 1947, he built a raft and sailed 5,000 miles with a small crew to live and prove his theory. He didn't even know how…
August 14, 2021
n hahn pic of church in yosemite
3 Lessons About Social Media From John 8 FeaturesThe Church on Mission

3 Lessons About Social Media From John 8

By Nikole Hahn Jesus stood amid a gathering crowd, teaching, when “the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees” dragged a woman caught in the act of adultery to the front of the group (John 8:1-11). What happens next is an excellent example to follow on Social Media. The teachers and Pharisees had a hidden agenda. They said, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” Like gnats, they pestered Jesus for an answer. Jesus paused, bending down to write something on the ground, before standing again. Note…
August 6, 2021
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Abraham Joseph: Acts 8:26-40 Features

Abraham Joseph: Acts 8:26-40

Abraham and Laura Joseph are on Home Assignment from the Philippines. Recently, Abraham spoke at Fellowship Bible in Waco, Texas. Abraham at Fellowship "My Scripture passage was Acts 8:26-40, the story of the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch through the ministry of Philip the deacon-evangelist." Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is a desert place. And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come…
August 5, 2021
Commemorating A Faithful Missionary to The Philippines News

Commemorating A Faithful Missionary to The Philippines

(Denver, CO) - WorldVenture sadly announces that Carla Chanco, long-time missionary to the Philippines, died Tuesday, July 27, 2021. Carla was born in California, raised in Oregon, and pursued academic studies and a career in secretarial work. She felt a strong call to missions in 1983 that led her to use her administrative and evangelistic gifts to make disciples in the Philippines. It was during that time that she met the Rev. Rene Chanco. They were married in 1987 and have two children.  Carla served faithfully with her husband, Rene Chanco, in the Philippines for more than three decades. Appointed…
July 30, 2021
Samuel’s Bleeding Features

Samuel’s Bleeding

Samuel's childhood in Sésènne, a neighborhood of Diourbel, Senegal, was steeped in traditional African religion. It is the home of several priestesses who conduct the traditional exorcism dances ("ndëpp" in Wolof). This is the type of dance that gave birth to voodoo-ism. Samuel suffered from deadly nosebleeds that no traditional or modern medicine could cure. Massamba is a pastor in this African country. During Kids' Club in Sésènne, the pastor and his wife noticed how sickly Samuel looked.  The pastor's wife offered to pray for him. Samuel agreed, and that day he felt better. As he continued to participate in…
April 30, 2021
Live Tour and Prayer Walk of Mozambique FeaturesM Outreach

Live Tour and Prayer Walk of Mozambique

On Friday, April 9, 2021, Rodger Schmidt gave us a live tour and prayer walk of Mozambique via Facebook Live. We have provided the edited version of the live for your viewing here as well as two other videos of Juma and Robson's testimonies on our Youtube account. Why not subscribe to our Youtube to get notified of new video uploads?  In this video, Rodger and his friends take us on a historical tour of Mozambique which includes its history, the rich culture of the people, and why Mozambique is in the news. This video is about 50 minutes in…
April 17, 2021
A Piece of Heaven in Brazil Features

A Piece of Heaven in Brazil

Ninety-minutes from the main Day Center in Itu, São Paulo is Camp California (managed by Restoration Ministries). It is a gorgeous piece of property with lush green ground cover, beautiful flowers, and some fruit trees. It is often described by the children who come as a “piece of heaven.” Restoration Ministries uses the camp all year round for children, youth, and adults who come from the slums. This January, Brazil experienced a significant increase in extreme poverty."Today, the country has more people in poverty than before the pandemic and the beginning of the last decade, in 2011," wrote a reporter…
April 12, 2021
The Courage of a South Sudanese Refugee Features

The Courage of a South Sudanese Refugee

And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” - Romans 10:15 Dominic Living Wawa, a Fall 2019 graduate from the Western Uganda Baptist Theological College (WUBTC), works with others to spark a discipleship movement in the Bidibidi Refugee Settlement in Uganda. Dominic is a South Sudanese refugee waiting out civil war to return home to share the Gospel with his people. He shares his story with us. "I was born in a village called Lapajo, Morobo Country, Central Equatoria State, South Sudan. My mother…
April 9, 2021
Online Prayer Event: April 17 Features

Online Prayer Event: April 17

You are invited to an online Zoom prayer event on how to deepen your prayer life for heart transformations. Peter Persson, Director of Global Prayer Initiatives, leads this online Zoom event on Saturday, April 17, 2021 from 4 to 5 p.m. MST AZ. This event is limited to the first 50 people who sign up here. Apprentices of Jesus Christ have the desire to grow in their prayer lives. We want God’s “will to be done on earth as it is done in heaven” and we intuitively know that prayer is the key for that to happen. But are our prayers for God’s…
April 3, 2021
Virtual Prayer for The Technologically Challenged FeaturesThe Church on Mission

Virtual Prayer for The Technologically Challenged

“hurchgoers, even those who have stopped regularly attending worship services during the pandemic, want support from a church community. Practicing Christians across the U.S. are seeking “prayer and emotional support”… – Barna, July 2020 Face-to-face prayer, phone call prayer, and virtual prayer share the same ingredients—consistency, compassion, and patience. The difference between them are the tools we use to convey the “prayer and emotional support” that practicing Christians are seeking today. In fact, on a spectrum of interaction where face-to-face prayer is most personal, virtual prayer is a step above a phone call because we can see each other on…
March 11, 2021
Pancakes and Discipleship: Bolivia Features

Pancakes and Discipleship: Bolivia

Video Length: 2 minutes Learn about the Atkins: Click here. Learn about the Transition Home: Click here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNwhpbtyLzo Buttermilk pancakes This recipe made for high elevation. Bolivia is at 8500 ft. The recipe in the video is made for sea level. Recipe adapted for 8500 ft. above sea level. For sea level, increase baking powder and baking soda to one teaspoon each.  Ingredients 2 cups (241g) flour 3 tablespoons (35g) sugar 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda  1/2 teaspoon salt 2 large eggs 2 cups (454g) buttermilk 4 tablespoons (28g) melted butter or 2 tablespoons (25g) vegetable oil…
March 9, 2021
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Virtual Prayer Walk – Ghana, Africa Features

Virtual Prayer Walk – Ghana, Africa

While this went live via Facebook on Saturday, February 27, 2021, you can still ask questions. Go to this link on Youtube to leave a comment or on Facebook. If you are a church wishing to share this with your congregation, you can download the video from here. Learn more about The Waltons here.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xhiyAipe_A Header Image by Kojo Blebu from Pixabay 
March 2, 2021
Bringing Light to Myanmar Features

Bringing Light to Myanmar

The recent military coup in Myanmar, following their November elections and a failed challenge of election fraud by the military in that country's Supreme Court, echoes a violent coup in that nation in 1988. "Until two years ago, Myanmar, also known as Burma, was ruled by the longest-running military dictatorship in the world," NPR reported. "A disagreement in a tea shop between university students and people linked to the government eventually grew into a student-led movement calling for democracy in the summer of 1988." The protests led to martial law and banned public demonstrations. Violence followed with about 3,000 people shot, 3,000 Burmese sent…
February 5, 2021
How to Make Taco Soup Features

How to Make Taco Soup

Mandy and Jason Post from Ireland share stories of student ministry in this 3 minute video. Recipe below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxMUtxMk5bA Taco Soup Ingredients:  2 tbsp. olive oil one large onion chopped 2-3 cloves garlic minced 2-3 sliced or chopped chilies 2 pounds ground beef 2 cans of corn (or 2 cups frozen corn) 2 cans of beans, drained and rinsed (kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans) 2 cans stewed or chopped tomatoes 1 16 oz can tomato sauce 2 packages taco seasoning (or add your own seasonings to taste: salt, cumin, chili powder, paprika) corn tortilla chips sliced or cubed avocado,…
January 26, 2021
The 4 Phases of Mentoring Features

The 4 Phases of Mentoring

The 4 Phases of Mentoring was a Facebook Live for #NationalMentoringMonth on January 14, 2021. Featured are Gerry Schroeder from RussiaWorship.org, Andre, and Larry. It's worth setting aside 24 minutes to listen to the stories as Gerry shares about the phases of mentoring. Please do share your thoughts and this blog on your social media. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aw8NuAQfe_o  
January 16, 2021
Dr. Leonard Tuggy News

Dr. Leonard Tuggy

It is with sadness as well as joy that we learned Dr. Leonard Tuggy passed away Thursday January 7, 2021 and was received into the arms of the Savior who he loved and served. Dr. Leonard Tuggy and his wife Jeannette were appointed with the Conservative Baptist Foreign Mission Society in 1956 to serve in the Philippines. Dr. Tuggy’s central ministries over the years in the Philippines had been evangelism, church planting, teaching, and leadership development. During their first term, he developed lessons on basic Christian beliefs for new believers. He also worked with a young but growing church in…
January 9, 2021
How a Dictionary is Helping People in India Features

How a Dictionary is Helping People in India

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. – Hebrews 4:12 ESV Themshang Horam is a graduate of Singapore Bible College. He served at Crossroads International Church in Singapore, where Dr. Rick Griffith pastors. After graduation, Themshang returned to Manipur, India, and became the Education Secretary to the entire Tangkhul Baptist Churches Association (TBCA) in Manipur State. The Tangkhuls have had the Gospel for 100 years, but theological education has been slow…
December 17, 2020
Grieving Parents Find Faith and Purpose FeaturesM Outreach

Grieving Parents Find Faith and Purpose

“Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.” – Psalm 54:4 Esther first met Brenda Allen in Guinea, West Africa while attending the local University and became her yard mate. Brenda and a local pastor’s wife discipled Esther. Esther would teach children in the local language at Sunday School as well as lead Bible clubs after school. During that time, Esther became engaged to Philip. Philip was an intern at a local campus ministry. His dream was to become a pastor. Brenda’s local church sent him to a seminary in another part of the country.…
December 11, 2020
Jonah: The Heart of God For the Nations Features

Jonah: The Heart of God For the Nations

By Brody Philips  And should not I pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know their right hand from their left, and also much cattle?" — The LORD (Jonah 4:11) Such a provocative question with such profound implications. By now, almost all of us have heard the story of Jonah: a reluctant prophet sent by God to preach a message to Nineveh, the capital city of the Assyrian empire — the same Assyria that would soon take the nation of Israel into captivity. Jonah refused to go to Nineveh, and in…
November 18, 2020
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Our Heart in Response to God’s Call Features

Our Heart in Response to God’s Call

By Evans Walton Our hearts need to be fertile when we respond to God’s calling. A heart that is fertile is willing to submit to the direction of God, recognize the grace of God, and be willing to share God's grace with others. The book of Jonah primarily focuses on a gentile city called Nineveh which was infamous for its cruelty. The prophet missionary was sent to warn the people of Nineveh about God’s coming judgment. MacArthur writes, one of the book’s intents was to, “shame Israel by the fact that a pagan city repented at the preaching of a…
November 3, 2020
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What to Do When the Post Office Fails Features

What to Do When the Post Office Fails

Stories from the field and practical advice on supporting your missionaries with prayer and mail By Nikole Hahn Our small group decided to partner with the missionaries our church supported through writing letters and prayer. Working at a church, and with some of these missionaries from the different organizations, gave me insight into the practicality of letter writing. While the commercial open rate for an emailed newsletter can range from 20% to 30% on average, regular mail is making a comeback. In the past, we went to email because our mail boxes were full of junk. Like a pendulum swinging…
October 23, 2020
Japan: A Bible Cafe Media

Japan: A Bible Cafe

Japan, known as the “Land of the Rising Sun”, while prosperous materially, is a nation steeped in spiritual darkness and despair, and remains largely unreached. Since our deployment to Japan in 2009, we have had the privilege of serving alongside both missionary colleagues as well as Japanese church leaders to build up the church and shine the light of the Gospel of Christ among the Japanese people. - Greg and Asa Swenson https://vimeo.com/446959462      
October 6, 2020
Reset: We Just Started The New Testament Features

Reset: We Just Started The New Testament

Reset: (verb) to set again or anew. Fall is often the symbol of change. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! - 2 Corinthians 5:17 Reset is a mindset we should embrace these days. Perhaps we could start that through a new spiritual habit of reading the Bible each day?  Peter Persson, Director of Global Prayer Initiatives, started a Reading the Bible in a Year plan in January through our Facebook group. He recently began the New Testament. It's not too late to dig into the New Testament…
October 3, 2020
Foundations: A Church Building and Community Center Media

Foundations: A Church Building and Community Center

And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. – Luke 14:23 Church Building and Community Center in Senegal (Click Here to View Project Information) They still need about $200,000 in gifts. https://vimeo.com/458280380 Articles and Blogs: Building a Church Legacy in Senegal     
October 2, 2020
How Social Media Can Help You Live Deeply Features

How Social Media Can Help You Live Deeply

By Nikole Hahn The mocking voices of social media drive that anger and grief more deeply into a person’s heart with each refresh of the newsfeed. Even what we post online is what we saturate our hearts with, and so, if what we post is angry, grieving, or mocking, we hear that voice, too, deeply in our souls. If social media can infect us this way, what would happen if we altered how we posted? Would that change how we lived each day? In thinking of this, the word repent comes to mind. The word repent means, “to change one’s…
October 1, 2020
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Marilee Morden: Leadership Training and Church Development in Brazil Media

Marilee Morden: Leadership Training and Church Development in Brazil

About Marilee Morden The leadership training course (modular seminary) was originally designed to train lay leaders from the small, interior churches in Northeastern Brazil. Since the course began in 1992 over 200 have graduated and many have been ordained to the ministry. This has been an important way Marilee has found to help extend God's kingdom in ways and places she would never be able to personally. Click here to view her profile and learn more.  https://vimeo.com/458204585   Header Image by Fabricio Macedo FGMsp from Pixabay   Related Articles:  Learn about Bruce Tissell.  Explore our free downloadable resources to help…
September 30, 2020
5 Ways to Share Your Faith Online FeaturesThe Church on Mission

5 Ways to Share Your Faith Online

By Nikole Hahn Paul spent his time in prison writing letters. Even when Paul himself couldn’t minister in person, God used his words to traverse obstacles, distance, and time. Paul’s words continue to make an impact, in large part because they were fixed in time to a timeless medium. Luke’s “Acts of the Apostles” is similar. According to the introduction in Bible Study Tools of the Book of Acts, it was written “To depict the triumph of Christianity in the face of bitter persecution.” Fixed in time, but timeless! Written in one place, but unconfined by time and space. Many…
August 10, 2020
2 Ways to Help Beirut News

2 Ways to Help Beirut

The Beirut explosion on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 left 300,000 people homeless, 135 people dead, 5,000 wounded, and according to USA Today, up to 15 billion dollars in damages. While Lebanese neighbors scour the city for missing relatives, we pray. As the Red Cross warns that death toll numbers could rise, we pray. As our colleagues in Beirut lament, we pray. Our colleague writes, “We sleep. We wake. Shocked and numb. It seems it was an accident, they say. A horrible accident. Only Hiroshima and Nagasaki more powerful. Can’t scream, can’t cry. Work. We can work. Grab my daughter and…
August 6, 2020
Continuing Ministry Online During COVID19 Media

Continuing Ministry Online During COVID19

by Nikole Hahn A simple guide on how to use social media and technology to keep life on some sort of normal in this period of church closures, quarantines, self-isolation, and social distancing due to COVID19. Bible Studies: Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, and Discord can be used to lead a video Bible Study like your face-to-face. This is an opportunity to invite people from your community. Hold the Bible Studies during times when the rest of your community can join you, too. Think of the working class in your planning. Small Groups: Your small groups are going to need your…
March 19, 2020
How Internships & Short-Term Mission Trips Are Meaningful Features

How Internships & Short-Term Mission Trips Are Meaningful

As we began our descent into Tegucigalpa, Honduras, we passed over the roofs of shanties, saw the laundry hanging on the lines, and the streets that the missionary from One Collective described as like a plate of spaghetti. Trips like this one forever changed how I viewed missions, people, and ministry.  Now, almost five years later, I am a Digital Engagement and Disciple-Making Coordinator with WorldVenture wanting to help others know that life-changing experience of serving. One of the ways to experience God at work in the world is to become a Pathfinder. Pathfinders is a 4 week to 1-year…
February 13, 2020
How The WhistleBlower Motivated Adrienne Livingston Features

How The WhistleBlower Motivated Adrienne Livingston

The Whistleblower (2010) was inspired by true events. A Nebraska cop in the late 1990s became a United Nations Peacekeeper in Bosnia only to witness sex trafficking by the very officers and organizations pledged to keep the peace in the aftermath of the Balkans war. This movie helped motivate Adrienne Livingston to find her calling as director of Anti-Sex Trafficking Initiatives with WorldVenture. “It’s a God-thing.” She said. After working at a non-profit and graduating with a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies from Western Seminary, she felt burned out. “I was the executive director for 9 of the 14…
February 5, 2020
The Taal Volcano Aftermath News

The Taal Volcano Aftermath

Spewing an eruption column 3,281 feet into the air, Taal interrupted life in the Phillippines on Sunday, January 12, 2020. Images of evacuations, ash-covered homes, and roadways as well as animals dead and alive plastered the internet. The ash cloud spread as far away as Manilla (60 miles to the north), felt by our colleagues 41 miles from the eruption site. (read our update from January 15, 2020) The Philippine field and our national partners in ministry gave us a new update on the Taal Volcano eruption.  The Philippines, January 23, 2020: Most people in the danger zone are evacuated…
January 24, 2020
Taal Volcano: January 15, 2020 Update News

Taal Volcano: January 15, 2020 Update

Spewing an eruption column 3,281 feet into the air, Taal interrupted life in the Phillippines on Sunday, January 12, 2020. Images of evacuations, ash-covered homes, and roadways as well as animals dead and alive plastered the internet. The ash cloud spread as far away as Manilla (60 miles to the north), felt by our colleagues 41 miles from the eruption site. We reported on Facebook on January 12, 2020, that our colleagues said, “…ash falling in our area. Schools are closed tomorrow, and the airport is closed right now.” The people who live near the volcano have inadequate structures. As…
January 15, 2020