OUR WORK
Click on a country to learn more about our local teams and the community-transforming work in each country.
We are global and local
We partner with local indigenous leaders and missional organizations around the world as they listen to the communities they are already serving and identify their greatest needs.
We listen to those in need
We partner with the Global Church to transform communities to look more like the Kingdom of God and reach unreached people groups through the expression of the local church.
We develop culturally relevant theological resources
We create curriculum and train leaders on how to build healthy missional relationships and restore honor to all peoples by helping them understand the gospel through their own cultural lenses.
We respond by sustaining local communities
We assist in planning and promoting locally-sustained projects and initiatives that aim to transform communities from the inside out. Whether it be through a small business, medical clinic, school, immediate relief, or local church plant, our partners are empowering not only this generation but also those to come.
Recent blog posts
Our partners are constantly starting new projects, raising support or sharing the joy of the Lord, stay current with these recent blog posts.
Answering God’s Call to a Challenging Mission
Building Relationships and Meeting Practical Needs
Witnessing Miracles in Ministry
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
The Impact of Missions in Indonesia
Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is a nation of immense cultural diversity and deep spiritual need. It is home to more than 786 distinct people groups, 233 of which remain unreached. Nearly 86% of the population identifies as Muslim, and many communities have yet to encounter the transformative power of the gospel.
We are deeply grateful to be partnering with a local ministry in Indonesia that is committed to reaching these unreached groups. Together, we are equipping and supporting 55 missionaries who are working to make disciples and transform their communities to look more like the Kingdom of God.
Equipping Missionaries for Effective Ministry
Reaching the unreached in Indonesia requires intentional preparation and a holistic approach to missions. Each missionary undergoes a comprehensive six-month training program, consisting of four months of on-campus instruction followed by two months of practical fieldwork.
This training equips missionaries with skills to engage in “business as mission” or “profession as mission,” enabling them to connect with communities through meaningful work. By starting micro-businesses, providing farming resources, or offering educational services, missionaries meet tangible needs while building relationships that open doors for sharing the gospel.
The missionaries also participate in annual training sessions designed to evaluate their progress, provide ongoing equipping, and refresh their spiritual commitment. Last summer, Olivia, Mission ONE President, and Bikonzi, Mission ONE Programs Manager, had the privilege of attending this training in Indonesia. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with the missionaries, hear their stories, and witness the impact of their ministry firsthand.
Transforming Communities Through Relationships
Once in the field, the missionaries focus on building trust and forging deep connections within the communities they serve. Whether mentoring youth, offering practical skills like farming, or running small businesses, they embody the gospel in both word and deed.
This relational approach is vital in villages where trust is built over time. By addressing practical needs and living as Christ’s hands and feet, missionaries lay the foundation for lasting spiritual transformation in these communities.
Partnering to Reach the Unreached
The work in Indonesia is a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness. Through the dedication of these 55 missionaries, the gospel is reaching some of the most spiritually neglected areas, transforming lives and communities in profound ways.
Looking ahead, we are filled with hope and excitement for how God is using this ministry to expand into new regions and reach even more unreached people groups.
We invite you to continue praying for these missionaries—that they may stand firm in the face of challenges and walk in obedience as they minister to the unreached, bringing the light of Christ to those who need it most.
At Mission ONE, we are passionate about partnering with local missionaries who are uniquely equipped to share the gospel and meet the needs of their communities. For over 30 years, we’ve stayed true to this vision, empowering leaders across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Today, Mission ONE supports over 540 local missionaries, each bringing the hope of Christ and holistic transformation to their communities.
This model has been foundational to our ministry since our beginnings in 1991, when founder Bob Schindler embraced a new perspective on missions during a trip to Kenya. His story and the values he instilled continue to shape Mission ONE today.
Our Founding Story: The Birth of a Vision
Mission ONE began with a simple yet profound lesson in cross-cultural ministry. In 1988, Bob Schindler, an American traveling evangelist, was invited to teach on evangelism at a Bible college in Kenya. During the trip, the hosting missionary offered Bob a piece of advice that would change his life:
“You will be a blessing. But while you are here, listen. Learn what it’s like to live as a Kenyan.”
Bob did just that. He saw firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities of ministry in Kenya, gaining a deep appreciation for the strength and resilience of local church leaders. This experience inspired him to create a ministry that supported local leaders rather than imposing Western methods.
In 1991, Mission ONE was founded with the goal of planting churches that reflect the cultures and communities in which they are formed. From the start, Mission ONE has prioritized empowering local missionaries who understand the needs, challenges, and spiritual landscape of their communities better than anyone else.
Bob Schindler, Mission ONE Founder, with local leaders on his first trip to Kenya–where the vision for this ministry was first formed
Why We Partner with Local Missionaries
Partnering with local missionaries is more than just a strategy—it’s a conviction rooted in biblical principles and a deep respect for cultural diversity.
- Cultural Relevance
Local missionaries understand the traditions, beliefs, and languages of their communities. This allows them to share the gospel in ways that resonate deeply and break down barriers to faith. - Sustainability
Local leaders are committed for the long term. They live among the people they serve and have a personal investment in the well-being and spiritual growth of their communities. - Holistic Impact
Our leaders don’t just preach the gospel—they meet physical, social, and emotional needs. From launching education initiatives to empowering women and addressing poverty, local missionaries understand their communities’ challenges and are able to address them in creative and sustainable ways.
Our Approach: Walking Alongside Local Leaders
Mission ONE’s role is to come alongside local missionaries with the resources, training, and encouragement they need to thrive. This includes:
- Training and Discipleship: Providing theological training and practical ministry tools.
- Economic Empowerment: Supporting community projects like schools, businesses, and agricultural programs that create lasting change, both for the communities and missionary families.
- Creative Solutions: Tailoring ministry strategies to the unique challenges of each region.
It’s not about imposing our vision. It’s about listening to our leaders, learning from their experiences, and equipping them to fulfill God’s call in their lives.
Our local leader with members of his community in South Sudan
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Over three decades, we’ve faced challenges that have strengthened our commitment to this model:
- Persecution: Many of our missionaries serve in regions hostile to Christianity. Their courage and faith inspire us to support them in prayer and action.
- Limited Resources: Financial constraints can make it difficult for missionaries to expand their ministries. This is why Mission ONE continually seeks to grow our support network and build sustainability through projects.
- Contextualization: No one-size-fits-all approach works in global missions. Adapting to each culture requires flexibility, humility, and trust in our local leaders.
Through these challenges, we’ve learned that patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn are essential for lasting impact.
Local missionaries gathering for training in Indonesia
What Sets Mission ONE Apart
Mission ONE’s approach to missions is distinct. While many organizations focus on sending Western missionaries, we prioritize empowering those who are already deeply embedded in their communities.
- Longevity: By investing in local leaders, we create ministries that endure beyond external funding or influence.
- Relational Ministry: Our partnerships are built on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect.
- Global Reach: With over 540 missionaries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, our impact spans continents and cultures.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Legacy
Mission ONE’s commitment to local leaders remains as strong today as it was in 1991. We are passionate about equipping these leaders to plant churches, share the gospel, and transform lives.
It’s not just about what we accomplish. It’s about honoring the cultures and communities our leaders serve and meeting them exactly where they are. By empowering local missionaries, we reflect the love of Christ and create a ripple effect of hope that extends to families, villages, and nations.
Across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, local churches are bringing life-changing hope to their communities, meeting both spiritual and physical needs. In places where resources are scarce, our network of over 540 missionaries is serving on the front lines, sharing the gospel, providing support, and meeting urgent needs.
Through these local churches and the dedication of our missionaries, real change is happening. This past year alone, we have planted 424 churches in places where there were none. These new churches are now providing a space for people to gather, learn about Christ, and receive vital support. The impact is clear in the lives of 5,539 people who have found hope in the gospel, and this transformative work continues to grow.
Meeting Needs and Sharing the Gospel
Our missionaries serve in some of the most challenging places. They spend their days connecting with people, praying, and sharing the message of Christ. They’re often the first people communities turn to for help, whether it’s providing food, clothing, or a listening ear. Beyond spiritual needs, our missionaries work to meet physical needs by creating sustainable initiatives like small business training and agricultural projects.
One example is a chicken project in a refugee camp that provides jobs and income for local families. Once, it employed only three people, but now it provides jobs to 10 refugees. Projects like this give communities stability and a chance to build a better life.
Reaching the Unreached
Even with this progress, thousands of unreached people groups Africa, Asia, and the Middle East have yet to hear the name of Jesus. This work remains essential as our missionaries bring hope to places where the gospel has not yet reached. Every church planted and every life touched is part of our mission to reach more communities and transform them to look more like the Kingdom.
How You Can Help
As the year comes to a close, we’re raising $200,000 to continue supporting our missionaries in the coming year. This funding is essential for our missionaries to keep building relationships, sharing the gospel, and meeting community needs.
Here’s how your gift can make an impact:
- $200 will equip more missionaries with the tools they need to disciple their communities.
- $125 will support the needs of our church plants, where people gather to worship and find support.
- $75 will provide essential resources to help local leaders share the Good News.
Make a Difference Today
When you give, you’ll be part of a mission that brings hope to communities that need it most. Your support will empower missionaries to reach unreached people groups, expand the church, and bring both spiritual and physical relief to those in need.
To make a difference today, click here to give. Your gift will allow missionaries to keep transforming lives and bringing hope. Thank you for joining us in this vital mission.
At Mission ONE, we are dedicated to partnering with the Global Church to make communities look more like the Kingdom of God. This mission has driven us for over 30 years, guiding our work with local leaders, missionaries, and churches around the world. Our vision is clear: to see every community transformed for the glory of God and the honor of all peoples.
But what does it truly mean to transform a community to look like the Kingdom of God? It means addressing both spiritual and physical needs, creating an environment where individuals can flourish, and helping people understand their identity in Christ. Transformation happens when the gospel’s redemptive power touches every aspect of life—relationships, systems, and structures.
Here’s how we’ve seen communities transformed through the principles of God’s Kingdom:
1. Empowering Local Leaders to Drive Transformation
We believe God has already placed capable, passionate leaders within every community. Our role is to listen and come alongside these local leaders who understand their culture, needs, and challenges. By equipping them with resources and support, they can lead change in ways that are relevant and sustainable.
Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:27, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” Local leaders are an integral part of this body, uniquely positioned to reflect God’s love in their communities.
Our local ministry leaders gathered together at our Mission GATHER conference in October 2024
2. Meeting Holistic Needs: Spiritual and Physical
True transformation addresses the whole person—spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially. Jesus modeled this throughout His ministry, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom.
When we meet immediate physical needs through initiatives like medical clinics, schools, small businesses, or relief efforts, we reflect God’s compassion and justice. And when we couple this with sharing the gospel and discipleship, we help people discover their identity in Christ. It’s in this holistic approach that individuals and communities truly begin to thrive.
3. Reaching the Unreached and Planting Churches
In areas where the gospel is unheard or unwelcome, transformation begins with the introduction of Jesus Christ. That’s why we support a network of local missionaries who share the gospel in unreached regions and plant churches where none exist.
Romans 10:14 underscores the importance of this work: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” These missionaries bring the light of Christ to the darkest places, sparking hope and renewal.
4. Building Locally-Sustained Solutions
Short-term fixes cannot achieve long-term transformation. Over the years, we’ve learned that sustainable, locally-led projects bring dignity, stability, and flourishing. Initiatives like small businesses, agricultural programs, and education provide communities with the tools they need to thrive.
These efforts not only alleviate immediate struggles, but also empower communities to stand on their own, creating a ripple effect that lasts for generations. These programs also support the long-term financial needs of the ministry—ensuring local missionaries and churches are able to continue supporting the communities they’re serving for years to come.
For example, several years ago Mission ONE initiated a car rental business led by one of our local ministry leaders in Eldoret, Kenya. This business is sustaining ministry efforts long-term as it generates income to support ministry initiatives while providing jobs and essential services to the community. Currently, five cars are consistently rented out, earning an average of $1,500 per month.
We are grateful for God’s provision and the leadership guiding this project as it continues to advance His Kingdom!
Sammy, local leader of the car rental in Eldoret, Kenya
5. Fostering Identity in Christ for True Transformation
When people understand their worth as children of God, transformation takes root. Knowing one’s identity in Christ brings freedom, purpose, and hope. This is why discipleship and teaching are central to our work.
As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” Transformation begins within the heart and radiates outward, touching families, communities, and beyond.
Lessons from 30+ Years in Ministry
Over the past three decades, we’ve encountered challenges—from navigating cultural differences to sustaining projects during economic and political instability. Yet through every difficulty, we’ve seen God’s faithfulness.
We’ve learned that listening and collaborating with local leaders is essential for success. Transformation is not about imposing external ideas, but about empowering communities to reflect the Kingdom from within.
How You Can Help Transform Communities
Your partnership plays a vital role in making this work possible. When you give to Mission ONE, you’re equipping local leaders, supporting missionaries, and funding initiatives that meet both spiritual and physical needs.
Together, we can see communities transformed to reflect the Kingdom of God—a place where people thrive, discover their identity in Christ, and live out the values of love, justice, and mercy.
Join us in this mission of holistic transformation. Together, we can bring God’s glory to unreached communities around the world. Learn how you can support this work here.
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TRAINING
We develop curriculum and train leaders in new ways that are more relevant to peoples that have historically been difficult to reach with the gospel. Learning to teach the Bible through a different cultural lens gives people ownership of the gospel, rather than feeling like it's just a story from another culture.
Our staff of writers and theologians have developed incredible resources for both our partners, their work, and change agents in the US. Check out the many books and training resources available.