What if the greatest impact of a mission trip isn't what we accomplish while we're there, but what we learn from the people we meet?
Since Summit's first trip to Africa in 2006, when we witnessed the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa, we've been learning what it means to serve communities across the world with humility, generosity, and a willingness to listen.
Over the years, we've built lasting relationships with local leaders and organizations committed to caring for children, strengthening families, and creating sustainable change in their communities.
And we've learned something important along the way: Our partners don't need us to arrive with all the answers.
They're already doing meaningful work every day. Our role is to come alongside them, support their efforts, build relationships, and learn from their experiences.
That's why we invite everyone at Summit to be part of our global ministry in three ways: PRAY. SPONSOR. GO.
PRAY
Prayer is the foundation of our global efforts. We pray for our partners, the children and families they serve, and the teams who travel to work alongside them.
But prayer also changes us. It expands our understanding of God's love for the world and reminds us that we're part of something much bigger than our own community.
SPONSOR
Through our partnership with I Care for the Nation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Summit families have helped provide education, healthcare, and support for vulnerable children.
We've had the privilege of watching children grow into teenagers and young adults, preparing for their futures through continued education and new opportunities.
Sponsorship is about more than meeting immediate needs. It's about investing in children, families, and the long-term work of local leaders who know their communities best.
GO
Not everyone can travel to Africa, but for those who do, the experience often changes the way they see the world.
We learned early on that what our teams could accomplish during a short visit was small compared to the work our partners carry out year-round.
Yet the relationships built, stories shared, and opportunities to worship alongside believers in different cultures have had a lasting impact on our congregation.
Our teams go to serve and encourage, but they often return having received far more than they expected.
Your Next Step
Following the way of Jesus calls us to love and serve others, whether that's across the street or across the world.
We're grateful for the relationships God has built between Summit and our partners in Africa, and for the ways these friendships continue to shape our understanding of faith, generosity, and community.
Whether you pray, sponsor, or go, there's a place for you in this story.
Learn more about Summit's global partnerships and ways to get involved.
