One Child’s Invitation Grows into a Ministry

Twelve years ago, Winona Lake Grace Church challenged its children to invite friends to a new Wednesday night outreach program. One child invited a friend from a nearby mobile home community. That friend invited another friend, then another. 

Today, the outreach has grown into a nonprofit called 318 Ministries, which serves dozens of families in a mobile home community that’s predominantly Hispanic. Every Thursday, nearly 40 preschoolers, elementary students, and teens gather at the Fairlane Community Center to enjoy snacks, games, Bible teachings, and relationships with grown-ups who care about them. "We're passionate about sharing God's love with the kids through both our words and our actions," says Becky, who is one of the ministry’s leaders. "Our team loves the Lord, loves these kids, and keeps showing up!"   

As time went on, God expanded the ministry beyond just their weekly Bible lesson. They now operate a food pantry so children can take food home. Families worked together to renovate the neighborhood playground, reminding the community how loved and valued they are. And just this summer, the ministry started offering English classes for teens and adults, which has been another opportunity to serve families and build trust. 

Of course, none of it happened overnight. "There were times early on when only a handful of kids came and other times when it was chaos all around," Becky says. "We had to keep reminding ourselves that God's Word never returns void." They stuck to it, and now more kids than ever come to their weekly gatherings. Many of them regularly ask thoughtful questions about Jesus or even text ministry leaders asking for prayer.  

One little girl asked if she could bring a Bible home because her dad was going through a difficult time. Another child shared that while he had heard about Jesus before, he was starting to love Him more. “This is God at work!” Becky says. “When we are obedient, He provides. I didn’t know how many kids would show up, but now He’s bringing more than we could have ever imagined.” 

As the church supported this outreach, it grew into a ministry that expanded beyond the church’s walls. Today, Grace college also partners with 318 Ministries, providing Spanish-speaking student volunteers. "I thought it all depended on me," Becky admits. "But I'm not their Savior. Jesus loves them even more than I do. He's building His church, and we're just blessed to be part of what He's doing." 

For churches wondering how to begin reaching their own communities, Becky encourages leaders not to overcomplicate it. "Start by building relationships," she says. "Volunteer at a local school. Look for where God has already opened a door. Then, faithfully take the next step." 

More wisdom Becky shares is, "Don't despise small beginnings—it doesn't have to be a huge ministry. God uses small acts of faithful obedience, so just keep taking the next step and trust Him to do what only He can." 

Isn’t it just like God to take one child inviting a friend and build that into an entire ministry that serves and loves their community? He can do the same through your church, using your small “fish and loaves” to love and reach the lost!   

To learn more about this ministry, reach out to Becky Wilson.