There are many ways for churches to engage in cross-cultural ministry. Sometimes, it makes sense to organize your own outreach event, mission trip, or local ministry. Other times, it might be better to join an event or trip hosted by another group or organization. Either way, it’s important for churches to understand God’s heart for the nations and how they can be involved.

Winona Lake Grace Church in Indiana is one church who has partnered with Encompass several times to participate in our Encounter events. Their Youth Pastor, Nick Deck, is committed to helping his students (and even some adults in the church) experience cross-cultural ministry. Over the years, he’s brought three different groups to the Encounter events.

When asked why, Nick said, “It’s a great mix of hands-on experience and classroom learning. It helps our students see others as people, first and foremost.” Our Encounter program focuses on teaching participants about other cultures and religions, but also on how to continue learning about them. This equips people for ministry in different contexts.

But the impact doesn’t stop after the event. Nick says that when students return home from Encounter, they’re excited about what God is doing around the world. They also have a deeper understanding of how God made us all unique, shaped by our cultures and worldviews.

Whether your church organizes its own cross-cultural event or partners with an organization like Encompass, the benefits of these experiences are huge. God’s heart for the nations is beyond what we can imagine, and He invites us to be part of sharing the Good News with the world. 

How is your church involved in missions?