Earlier this month, a team of teenagers, young adults, and adults representing multiple generations participated in a 10-day short-term mission experience through the ACTS Teams (Advancing Christ Through Service) ministry of Global Reach, the missions arm of the Churches of God, General Conference (CGGC). The team served in and around Gamerco, New Mexico, ministering to communities on and near the Navajo Nation.
The team was led by Pastor Kendall and Donna Hughes. In addition to serving on Winebrenner Theological Seminary’s Board of Trustees, Kendall serves as the Director of the Western Region of the Churches of God, General Conference.
Throughout the trip, the team stayed at Gamerco Church of God, where Jacob and Haley Day serve as pastors. Both are graduates of Winebrenner’s Master of Arts in Practical Theology. Along with completing a variety of ministry and service projects at the Gamerco church, the team also assisted with projects at Hooghan Nizhoni Church of God, where Pastor John Thumma serves.
One of the highlights of the week was leading a Vacation Bible School for the children of the Gamerco community. At the same time, adults were invited to participate in a course on Interpreting God’s World & Word, taught by Winebrenner President Dr. Brent Sleasman.
The primary text for the course was How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart. The course reflected the content and learning objectives of several one-credit courses Winebrenner offers in partnership with regions throughout the CGGC.
Participants explored the various literary genres found in Scripture and learned why understanding those differences matters for faithful interpretation. From the poetry of the Psalms to the historical narrative of Acts, students gained practical tools for reading the Bible more carefully and applying its truth to everyday life. Throughout the course, significant time was devoted to discussing how Scripture shapes Christian living across different cultural contexts.
Regardless of our family background, culture, or ethnicity, the Bible tells the universal story of God’s work among all people. It was a privilege to partner with Gamerco Church of God, the students, and the Churches of God, General Conference in equipping believers and advancing God’s Kingdom together.
Of course, no mission trip would be complete without taking time to appreciate God’s creation. The team visited Window Rock, the capital of the Navajo Nation, where they spent time praying for the leaders, communities, and people who call this beautiful land home.
The visit served as a meaningful reminder that the mission of God extends to every people and every place.
- Brent C. Sleasman, President