Open Doors Across the UK
Reflections on a Recent Ministry Vision Trip
Recently, I had the privilege of traveling to the United Kingdom alongside several church leaders from Wisconsin to explore future ministry partnerships and church planting opportunities. Over the course of our journey through England and Wales, we encountered vibrant churches, faithful pastors, rich history, and exciting possibilities for gospel expansion.
We enjoyed connecting with Converge missionaries, Thomas Clyde and Steve Bialy (and their families), to encourage them, learn from them, and listen carefully for new opportunities for partnership.
What stood out most was not simply the beauty of the cities or the significance of the historic sites, but the unmistakable sense that God is still at work across the UK through churches committed to the gospel and the mission of Christ.
One of our first visits was to The King's Church in Chessington. It was encouraging to see a church intentionally engaging its community while maintaining a clear commitment to biblical teaching and discipleship. Conversations with leaders there reinforced the importance of healthy local churches serving as centers for evangelism, leadership development, and community outreach.
While in London, we also visited several historic churches that remind visitors of the deep Christian heritage woven throughout the city. Walking through these historic places was both inspiring and sobering. These buildings stand as reminders of past gospel influence while also challenging the current generation to faithfully carry the mission of Christ forward in a rapidly changing culture.
Another meaningful stop was Danbury Mission and their church-planting initiative known as “Mission Essex.” Hearing their vision for reaching communities throughout Essex with new gospel-centered churches was especially encouraging. Their passion for multiplication and strategic engagement highlighted the ongoing need for church-planting partnerships and leadership investment throughout the region.
We also had opportunities to connect with church-planting efforts in Wales, where faithful leaders are laboring to strengthen churches and expand gospel witness in communities that often have limited evangelical presence. These conversations reminded us that while ministry contexts may differ, the need for healthy churches and faithful proclamation remains the same everywhere.
One of the highlights of the trip was hosting a leadership luncheon that gathered pastors and ministry leaders from across the UK. Around the table were men united by a shared love for Christ, a commitment to Scripture, and a burden to see the gospel advance in their communities. The fellowship was rich, the conversations were honest, and the opportunities for future collaboration became increasingly clear.
Of course, the trip also included wonderful meals, laughter, and memorable moments together. Shared experiences often deepen ministry relationships in ways that formal meetings alone cannot accomplish.
As we returned home, we left grateful for the friendships formed and encouraged by the open doors ahead. The spiritual needs across the UK are significant, but so are the opportunities. We continue praying that God would strengthen existing churches, raise up new leaders, and plant more gospel-centered churches throughout the United Kingdom in the years to come. We are actively reviewing where we might focus efforts and explore longer-range partnerships with different in-country leaders. Please pray with and for us
