Mission & Mercy Ministry Update - 2026, Issue 3
Table of Contents
Prayer Focus: God’s Heart for the Middle East
Mission Highlight: Members on Mission in 2026
Mission Opportunity: Victory Beyond the Cup
Mercy Highlight: UBC Blesses First Responders and Bus Drivers
Mercy Opportunity: Hope Rising Walk for Life - April 25
Meet our Core Team: Megan Kilner
Upcoming UBC Mission Trips: Current opportunities for 2026
Prayer Focus
God's Heart for the Middle East
Lord, be glorified even in the midst of violence and struggle. Use this time of strife to draw people close to Yourself, and may Your Church be a light of compassion and steady faith.
This month, our prayer focus at UBC is for the Middle East. For many of us, the headlines are hard to ignore. There is a sense of heaviness as we look at the conflicts in the Middle East. Yet, as a church body, we are called not to fear or even political debate, but to move forward in purposeful, faithful, expectant prayer.
As we pray for those abroad, we can also allow the Holy Spirit to examine our own hearts, and give us an extra measure of love for those we do not know, do not understand, or perhaps do not agree with.
It may be easy to let politics or opinions take over our lives during times of global crisis. Instead, let us allow God’s peace to dwell deeply within us. We remember that while God does not orchestrate evil, He is never surprised by it. He is a God who brings life from death and promises that our human pain is never wasted in His kingdom.
This month, let us fix our eyes on the sovereignty of God over every border and heart. We invite you to join us in praying specifically for the Middle East.
Prayers
Wisdom for Leaders: We pray for every leader involved in these conflicts. We ask that the Lord would grant them a spirit of wisdom and discernment that surpasses human strategy. May they be moved to seek the Lord’s guidance and act in ways that pursue true justice and peace. (Proverbs 21:1)
Protection for the Innocent: Our hearts break for the men, women, and children living in the shadow of war. We ask for the Lord’s hand of protection over the vulnerable and for His comfort to reach those who have lost much. (Psalm 82:3-4)
The Reach of the Gospel: Many parts of the Middle East are among the least-reached places on earth, with only a small fraction of the population professing Jesus as Lord. We pray that in the midst of turmoil, hearts would be softened to the message of the Prince of Peace. (Romans 15:20-21)
You can find a resource from the International Mission Board here: Pray for Peace in the Middle East Prayer Guide
Mission Highlight
Members on Mission in 2026
This Spring, many UBC and GHC members have stepped outside the walls of our community into diverse mission fields to actively live out their faith through short-term trips. Each have had unique experiences, challenges, and moments of impact. Here are some updates from the field about how God is at work through relationship building, meeting practical needs, and sharing the hope of the Gospel.
North Carolina
LeAnn Walker was sent out with CU Relief, a student-led organization dedicated to helping people in need who have been affected by natural disasters. The team of 38 students was in Black Mountain, North Carolina over MLK weekend to do cleanup and construction work alongside Cragmont Assembly and Emerge Ministries. They divided into three teams to go to different worksites for cleanup, framing, and working on building a house for the lead EMS/firefighter in the area who lost his home to Hurricane Helene. At the house, the team installed windows, doors, and built a deck.
A moment of awe for LeAnn was reading Scripture that was written on all the framing for the house. It was amazing to see how many people had come together to do this for him and his family. LeAnn said, “I went on this trip really looking forward to serving others and it ended up being such an encouragement to me. Getting to see the body of Christ working together to serve others was such a beautiful experience and really strengthened my faith.” The trip gave her a clear picture of what true community means and the strength we have in Christ’s unity.
Utah
The team consisted of 35 people from CU, including The Kimble Family, Aiden Gilboe, and Sawyer Hart. The team attended Gospel Grace and Gospel Fellowship churches and Dr. Kimble preached and taught
at Gospel Peace Church in Logan, UT. It was a blessing to encourage these fellow believers and to be encouraged by their love for the Word of God and one another! The week was spent canvassing for Gospel Fellowship, hanging about 9,500 doorhangers, in anticipation of their public launch on Easter. This is a strategic moment for this new church plant in Saratoga Springs, UT. This town is close to 90% Mormon and the population is booming. Already the church has reported five new family units have attended their Sunday service as a result, and one family unit has come three weeks in a row.
The team was also able to engage with University of Utah students and Brigham Young University, asking the students about what they believe and sharing the gospel as the opportunity arose. The fruit from these conversations may only be known in eternity. Sawyer said, “I left this trip feeling stirred up and challenged. I want to know God’s word even better in order that I might defend it against false teaching.” Let’s continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ laboring for the gospel in this state!
Guatemala
At the beginning of March, Savannah Evans had the opportunity to go to Buena Vista, Guatemala. While there, the team (a third of which attend UBC while at CU) worked with nearly all the students at DeepStream over the course of the week from preschool activities to primary English classes and high school youth group. In the afternoons, they visited families in the communities and provided food baskets for them. The families graciously shared their stories repeating the theme of God’s faithfulness. It was evident they depend on and cling to God for everything that they need.
Christ is being made known generationally in Guatemala. This community has faced incomprehensible tragedies and hardships but instead of dwelling on all that they have been through, they reminded the team of God's faithfulness and encouraged them to trust His plan and timing for everything. The trip was a humbling experience demonstrating how God moves and works at all times and places making His name known throughout the earth.
Jamaica
Ohio Southern Baptist Disaster Relief returned to Jamaica to assist with roof repairs on churches and schools. The latest team consisted of four volunteers from UBC. Ohio SBDR director John Heading, David Bonnell, Matt Crum and Sean Miller. The team was able to complete the roof repair and replacement on the Maldon Primary School and the Maldon Baptist Church parsonage. The team members were able to share the gospel and handed out nearly 20 bibles during their trip.
Paraguay
Wes Halderman, Jeff Robinson, and Jim Corbin joined an ABWE team for a medical mission trip in Paraguay. Throughout five clinic days in the outskirts of Asunción, they provided medical care and reading glasses while sharing the gospel with every patient. Despite difficult conditions at times—including heavy rain, flooding, and intense heat—the clinics served hundreds each day, with a total of over 900 individuals served. In the eye clinic alone, many received glasses for the first time, bringing both practical help and great joy. Many visiting the clinic received the gift of spiritual sight throughout the week with 153 people professing faith in Christ.
The team witnessed meaningful “God moments,” including unexpected ministry connections and local students boldly sharing the gospel, some for the first time. The trip highlighted how medical care can open doors for both physical and spiritual healing. Please continue to pray for the new believers and for the local churches as they follow up and disciple them.
Mission Opportunity
Victory Beyond the Cup
Did you know that more than 5 billion people will watch the World Cup this year? This summer UBC will also have the unique opportunity to partner with Athletes in Action (AIA) and Victory Beyond the Cup to use the largest sporting event in the world, The World Cup, to share the good news of the gospel. Victory Beyond the Cup is a growing movement of believers using the World Cup to open their homes, spark meaningful conversations, and point people toward hope.
How can the UBC family participate? Become a Key Player. Key Players are everyday believers who turn a shared moment into meaningful connection. As a key player, you play a vital role—opening your home to host a fun watch party for the World Cup. AIA is offering a free host kit to help you step into the world’s most-watched sporting event with intention, hospitality, and faith.
With flexible, plug-and-play resources delivered right to your door, the free host kit makes hosting your watch party simple, fun, and natural—so you can feel prepared and fully present with your community. Included in the host kit: Host Planning Guide, Conversation Cards, Vision Card for Prayer, Recipes from Various Countries, Fillable Bracket, Mini Soccer Ball, and more!
UBC has ordered 100 hosts kits to be distributed to UBC attendees. Watch for more information on how to sign up for a free host kit to help you host watch parties in your home and related church events! To learn more about Victory Beyond the Cup click here.
Mercy Highlight & Opportunity
UBC Blesses First Responders and Bus Drivers
Every other Monday, a group of volunteers gathers at UBC to bake homemade “goodies” for our first responders. This is a tangible way to express our gratitude for their service and commitment to our community. In addition, other volunteers with creative talents design cards and write heartfelt notes of thanks to accompany these treats.
Each Wednesday around 11:30 AM, boxes filled with delicious brownies, cookies, lemon bars, cupcakes, and other baked goods are delivered, along with the thankful notes and invitations, to our police officers, firefighters, paramedics and workers, as well as many school bus drivers in Beavercreek City Schools. They always receive these gifts with a big smile and sincere appreciation.
We praise God for the weekly opportunities He provides to our faith family to care for and demonstrate Jesus’ love to the first responders who serve our community so faithfully. They assist our neighbors every day, often facing challenging and impactful situations that affect both them and their families.
If you feel led to participate in this ministry, please contact us to join in serving and caring for our first responders. Reach out to missionsteam@ubcbeavercreek.com or francisco.jimenezpena@ubcbeavercreek.com.
Mercy Opportunity
Hope Rising Walk For Life - April 25
In our ongoing efforts to support local pro-life organizations, the UBC Pro- Life Ministry and the Hospitality Ministry are joining forces to provide lunch for the annual Hope Rising Walk For Life.
Event Details: Hope Rising Walk for Life
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Location: Schoolhouse Park, 1875 Nutt Road, Centerville, OH 45458.
Time: Check-in at 10:30 AM; Walk begins at 11:30 AM.
Activities: Lunch and family activities immediately follow the walk.
This fundraising event to support local families by funding pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and parenting programs will bring over 700 participants from around the Miami Valley and is one of the largest money-raising efforts for Hope Rising.
This year, UBC will provide lunch for all those walking for life. We will be feeding the expected 750 walkers who will gather in support of life. WE NEED YOU!!!
Volunteers are needed on April 24th for food preparation and to serve at the event on April 25th. If you would like to volunteer please contact Lee Carter at lcarter.mimi@gmail.com or Lindsey Bradshaw at lindseynbradshaw@gmail.com.
Meet Our Core TEam
Megan Kilner
Welcome to a new feature of the monthly update! We want you to get to know the Core Team for Mission and Mercy Ministries at UBC. It is our desire that this increases your passion and offers you ways to more personally connect with ministries happening at UBC and GHC. This month, we’d like to introduce you to Megan Kilner, a member at Gospel Heights that serves on the UBC Missions Core Team.
15-second testimony
Growing up, I was raised to love the Lord and gave my heart to Him at a young age. I was baptized at 10 years old, but went on to a few rebellious teenage years. During those years, God protected me from a multitude of sins and dangers. But, he also began to work in my soul, and teach me that my deep connection with him needed to grow fruit. I was living for self, even as I loved and believed in my Savior. My actions needed to match my inner life. The Lord continues this work in my heart daily.
What areas do you serve in the mission and mercy ministries?
I am a volunteer with International Friendships, Inc. (IFI), and an IFI liaison for UBC. I fell in love with this ministry 2 years ago when I connected with them through the Perspectives course hosted at UBC. I am continually in awe of God's work through this ministry as they show the love of Jesus to international students with life-changing hospitality and ultimately reach many nations with God's love. Also, they have FUN! If you would like to learn more about how to get involved with IFI, email mmstaff@ubcbeavercreek.com.
Tell us about your heart for missions.
I have always loved people, and as a young person I generally assumed I would serve the Lord by joining the Peace Corp or an international missions group. Now, as a social worker, I am especially passionate for missions work that shares the love of Jesus through compassionate, practical community support. Nearly everywhere that Jesus preached, he also healed and fed people. I want to always remember this in my efforts to live missionally.
What is an effective tool you like to use to have gospel conversations with others?
One tool that I have used to share the gospel is the Three Circles. In particular, I feel that this kind of conversation recognizes a commonality in all of us - that we humans attempt to fill a God-shaped void in our life with many other pursuits (success, relationships, intoxication or escapism, even good works) but they do not fulfill or provide the supernatural peace that only comes from our Lord Jesus. Secondly, I appreciate that the Three Circles conversation points to a much larger reality: that God's plan is so much greater than individual salvation, it is a plan to restore humanity to fullness of life and love in relationship with Himself.
What is one misconception people might have about missions?
One misconception people may have is that you need to be some kind of "super Christian" to be a missionary. I don't think this could be further from the truth. We are all equally dependent on God's grace. And, I often think of Moses, who God used mightily for His kingdom. Moses was deeply flawed, struggled with insecurity, and did not even begin his ministry until the age of 80! Yet, God met him where he was, gave him what he needed, and He does the same for each of us today.
Who have key mentors or influences been in your journey?
There have been many youth pastors, ministry leaders, and mentors who have poured into my life over the years. Still, probably the greatest impact came from my parents. While they were never formally involved in what they would have called "missions", they showed me what it looked like to live humbly, with a generous heart, and abundant hospitality. Growing up, my father was in the military, and he was always bringing home people from all walks of life. Young people, lonely people, people from other nationalities or beliefs. And my mother FED THEM ALL. She has never turned anyone away at dinner time, and to this day she shows incredible love through the gift of hospitality. My parents taught me to live with an open heart and an open door.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I love playing cards - and I collect them from all over! I have playing cards commemorating many places I or others I know have traveled to. The furthest place in my collection is Argentina, from a UBC short term missions trip!
Monthly Mission Quote:
" You have received grace for a goal. You have received mercy for a mission—to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of Christ's name among all the nations."
- David Platt, from "Radical"
Upcoming Mission Trips
"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news..." Romans 10:15
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How beautiful are your feet?
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"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news..." Romans 10:15 ~ How beautiful are your feet? ~
Current Opportunities for 2026
UBC has several short term mission trip opportunities for 2026! There are local, national, and global trips offered. You can learn more about some 2025 UBC trips through “Stories from the Field,” a subseries of our UBC Talking Points podcast. Episodes are available now for the 2025 trips to Southeast Asia, Namibia, Uganda, and STUMIN trip to Utah. You can find them here.
If you are planning to participate on a mission trip with another organization (e.g. Cedarville’s GO trips), please contact us to let us know more!
If there is a nation or a people group that God has placed on your heart, share it with us. We would love the opportunity to hear and to help you find a trip in the coming year. Reach out to Francisco Jimenez Peña (francisco.jimenezpena@ubcbeavercreek.com).
May 5-19, 2026
Namibia
Assist the Bahuns in their ministry. Help with their local church Mission Conference, run a day camp for local children, and complete their church library. More information may be found here.
Contact: Sharon KerestesMay 11-15, 2026
Builders for Christ
Serve in the mission field of church construction and help a church build their building in Logan, OH. During "saw week" the team will be prepping materials for the rest of the build. More information may be found here.
Contact: Dave GneiserJune 11-25, 2026
Uganda
Come help serve South Sudanese refugees as we share the gospel and start discipleship groups. More information may be found here.
Contact: Jim CorbinJuly 10-19, 2026
St Vincent
Serve alongside a ministry team from Trinidad and Tobago, joining God’s work already unfolding in the region. Vacation Bible School will be our primary focus, but the mission extends beyond the mornings. More information may be found here.
Contact: Aidan WrigglesworthAugust 10-14, 2026
Builders for Christ
Serve in the mission field of church construction and help a church build their building in Logan, OH. During "finish week" the team will be tiling and putting other finishing touches on the build. More information may be found here.
Contact: Dave GneiserJune 28-July 3, 2026
Builders for Christ
Serve in the mission field of church construction and help a church build their building in Logan, OH. During this week join the team making crafts for local outreach or the construction team. More information may be found here.
Contact: Dave GneiserJuly 31-August 9, 2026
Argentina
Work with Pastor Fabian Santillan, one of UBC's mission partners, and the church plant in La Banda. More information may be found here.
Contact: Jim Corbin
Contact to learn more:
Francisco Jimenez Peña
francisco.jimenezpena@ubcbeavercreek.com
To read past Mission Updates or to get more information about UBC on Mission, visit
https://www.ubcbeavercreek.com/mission-and-mercy-ministries.