As summer moves forward, our team at Developing Workers is grateful for what God is doing both locally and globally. From Kenya to Arizona, and into the lives of leaders here at home, your prayers and support continue to fuel the mission.
Kenya: New Life and Lasting Impact
Our Kenya team has returned full of stories of God’s goodness. Thank you for praying, giving financially, and encouraging them along the way. Here are just a few of the highlights:
- Six men said “yes” to Jesus! Some have already joined the church, and Pastor Wilson is following up to ensure they stay connected and supported.
- A powerful moment of prayer: A husband accepted Christ during a home visit, and his wife—already a believer—dropped to her knees to thank God.
- New life through childlike faith: A 9-year-old boy gave his life to Jesus after a conversation with Ethan Heston. He stayed with the team all day, joining youth activities and soaking up the truth of the gospel.
- Marriage conference: John and Stacy Heston, Elijah and Kennedi Hernandez shared biblical encouragement with 25–30 attendees—including a widow hoping to raise her sons as godly men.
- Church anniversary celebration: The team celebrated two years of Kitengela Baptist Church with Pastor Wilson, joined by the county governor who offered his blessing. Pastor Wilson has now planted 19 churches!
- Youth, worship & play: The team led worship, played games, taught piano and card games (UNO, aka “Moja” in Swahili!), and shared meaningful time with kids during VBS.
- VBS theme: “Together, we are one team” – From Nehemiah 1–6, kids learned that God is with us, He gives us strength, and each person has purpose.
From joyful celebrations to powerful moments of salvation, the trip was full of transformation.
Kenya: New Life and Lasting Impact
This summer was especially meaningful for Michael Parker, who lead the team to Kenya and had the joy of serving alongside former interns who are now pastors—like Eric, John, and Elijah, who is now on staff with DW. Together, they witnessed eight people come to know Jesus and saw discipleship happening in real-time: up close, personal, and over time.
One of the greatest joys was bringing families into the mission. Michael’s wife, Chris, co-led the women’s ministry and thrived as she encouraged and walked with the women of Kenya. Their daughters, Kendra and Cassidy, helped lead VBS alongside Chris, Evan, and Alex—each using their God-given gifts and growing in faith.
Michael also spent time at summer camp, encouraging youth pastor Scott as he led the entire camp program. Alongside John and Stacy Heston in the kitchen and Ryan, a missionary from Papua New Guinea, Michael helped raise up young leaders. A highlight: Evan surrendering his heart to Jesus through worship—a beautiful moment of transformation.
Discipleship in Mexico
Mazatlán: Matt and Onalee Swartz led workshops on soul care and marriage, and encouraged Pastor Luis and his church, now over 200 strong. Their focus remains on discipleship, even in the midst of growth.
“We talked about not letting success distract us from the mission of making disciples.” – Matt
Tabasco: Mike Fike and the team trained 68 leaders in rural villages near Villahermosa. Many are already applying the training, and our partnership with the Presbyterian Church of Mexico continues to deepen. Pastor Juan Marcos has helped open doors across the region, especially in communities that rarely receive training.
Matt Swartz will be starting his sabbatical for about 6 weeks starting after the Global Leadership Summit next week. Please be praying for him during this time.
Investing in NextGen Leaders
Matt and Onalee also joined Sun Valley’s Young Adults Retreat—Matt spoke during the weekend while Onalee enjoyed time with their grandson, Oliver! Together, they connected with young adults who are living boldly for Jesus.
Ongoing Discipleship & Coaching
Peter Gonzalez is using Knowing God to equip new small group leaders at his church. The resource is laying a strong foundation for understanding the gospel, and he’s actively mentoring pastors—including one preparing to launch a bilingual church.
Elijah and Kennedi Hernandez co-led the marriage workshop in Kenya and contributed to the team’s spiritual growth through daily devotions. Elijah wrote a 10-day devotional through 1 John that sparked deep conversation, vulnerability, and spiritual growth among the team.
“We laughed, cried, got honest, and walked away changed—closer to each other and to God.” – Team Member
Join Us In Prayer:
🙏 Global Leadership Summit: Our entire DW team will gather next week (August 7th and 8th) to grow and reconnect.
🙏 Financial Support: Pray for provision for Peter, Elijah, Kennedi, and the DW team.
🙏 Pastors Being Mentored: Pray for their spiritual health, protection for their families, and renewed strength as they serve.
