Why Gathering Matters: A Reflection from Our Missionary Conference in Kenya

This month in Kenya, something sacred happened.

Our missionaries—from all across the country—gathered in one place. Many of them serve in remote, challenging areas. Some had never met each other. But for a few beautiful days, we shared the same space, broke bread together, worshipped side by side, and leaned into something that’s long been at the heart of Mission ONE:

Training matters. Gathering matters. Relationship matters.

This was more than a conference. It was a time of deep connection and renewal.

Who Was There

We invited each of our ministry leaders from across Kenya, along with the missionaries who serve within their ministries—leaders working in same or near-culture contexts on the frontlines of gospel work. They came from every corner of the country. We also welcomed our ministry leaders from Togo, Uganda, and South Sudan—partners we’ve been walking alongside for decades.

In addition to the majority of our U.S. staff being in attendance, we were honored to welcome our Mission ONE Board Chairman, Sam Melvin, who led in speaking and prayer during one of the sessions. We also had with us Ross McGregor, Missions Pastor from Orchard Church in North Carolina, a long-time supporter of Mission ONE. He led our team of missionaries in devotion, sharing with us wisdom and encouragement for the work ahead. With him, Nate Webster, Deacon at Orchard Church, offered faithful support throughout the week—speaking, encouraging, and engaging with local leaders in fellowship.

We were a team of over 70 leaders and faithful servants of God—gathering together, uniting in purpose, for the Kingdom.

Why It Meant So Much

We didn’t just meet in a conference room. We laughed, prayed, shared meals, and heard each other’s stories. For some, this was the first time they had ever stepped away from their ministry context to be poured into. And for all of us, it was a reminder: we’re not alone.

At Mission ONE, our missionaries are at the center of everything we do. And this gathering reminded us just how powerful it is when leaders are cared for, equipped, and given the space to cast vision together.

These men and women pour themselves out every day—facing spiritual battles, cultural resistance, economic challenges, and isolation. Yet here, they were seen, reminded of their value, and refreshed in the Word. Instead of pouring out, for these few days, they were poured into.

Through biblical training, discussion, and prayer, we allowed time to learn from one another’s testimonies and experiences, learned how to endure in difficult seasons, and focused on what holistic transformation can look like in each unique community. But the greatest gift? Being together.

Why We Do This

After more than 30 years of ministry, we’ve learned that the most lasting change doesn’t happen through quick solutions or outside answers. It happens through trust, time, and shared vision.

We believe in long-term partnership. We believe in the local church. And we believe that when leaders are equipped and encouraged—not just with tools, but with relationships—communities change. We’ve seen it again and again.

This gathering in Kenya was a reflection of that commitment. It’s why we prioritize training. It’s why we make space to gather. It’s why we listen before we lead.

Read more about our last missions conference in Thailand here.

A Glimpse of the Kingdom

The Kingdom of God is not built by individuals working in isolation. It’s a body—many parts, different callings, one Spirit. And that’s what we saw in Kenya. A room full of leaders, each with a different story, yet united in purpose: to glorify God and honor all people.

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” –1 Corinthians 12:27

We’re still thinking about those days. The conversations. The laughter. The tears. The Spirit’s movement.

And we’re thankful—for the privilege of walking alongside these leaders, and for every supporter who makes it possible to invest in their growth.

This is why we gather.
This is why we go deep.
This is how the Kingdom grows.