This week, I had the privilege of connecting with a group of inspiring American faith leaders serving across Africa - South Africa, Madagascar, Namibia, Abidjan, and beyond. I’m grateful that my church offers these virtual global team experiences, which allowed us to explore how we’re partnering with Urban Tribes to build faith-centered communities in vibrant urban centers. The individuals we connected with each morning are doing remarkable work—planting churches, spreading the gospel, and serving in some of the world’s most dynamic cities. If you're unfamiliar with world missions, let me tell you: it’s so much more than preaching. It’s about building relationships, fostering community, and showing love in meaningful, tangible ways.
[Urban Tribes is a dynamic organization committed to planting churches in the heart of urbanization and globalization, where cultural shifts are happening. By focusing on areas that are hubs for young professionals, they work to establish vibrant, inclusive church communities that meet the diverse needs of these rapidly evolving spaces. Their approach taps into the pulse of urban life, seeking to build community and bring faith to the places where change is most evident. If you’re passionate about reaching people in these transformative environments, I encourage you to explore the work of Urban Tribes and see how they are making a real difference.
Explore their vision at Urban Tribes.]
In every represented country I connected with, I was struck by the shared mission of church leaders: planting churches in urban centers, where the pace of change, culturally, socially, and economically is happening at lightning speed. These cities are where globalization and urbanization are taking root, and people are drawn from all corners of life, bringing with them their unique experiences and struggles. In these rapidly changing environments, these leaders are planting vibrant, welcoming churches that reflect the diversity of the communities they serve. In places like South Africa, Madagascar, and Namibia, church leaders aren't trying to change the political landscape or get wrapped up in debates about social justice causes. Instead, they’re focusing on what’s truly important building trust and fostering genuine, long-lasting relationships. It’s not about being politically correct; it’s about showing up, being present, and walking alongside people as they navigate life’s challenges.
What really stood out to me this week was the power of relational ministry. It's easy to get caught up in external factors politics, social issues, or the noise of daily life. But the real work happening on the ground is about something far more fundamental: connecting with people where they are physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Church leaders in these areas are focusing on the long-term work of building community, and that’s where the power of transformation lies. It's not about offering quick fixes or temporary solutions it’s about forming deep, meaningful relationships with people and creating a space where they can grow in their faith, support one another, and walk through life’s ups and downs together. They’re meeting people in their brokenness, in their struggles, and they’re offering a place of refuge and hope, grounded in faith. That, to me, is what true ministry looks like.
This whole experience has been a reminder to me of the power of the gospel to transform lives no matter the political or cultural climate. The work being done in these countries isn’t just about buildings or numbers. It’s about the hearts of individuals being changed and communities being built on the foundation of faith.
As I reflect on the lessons from Africa’s past and present, I can’t help but feel inspired. It’s easy to look at the world’s problems and feel overwhelmed. But witnessing the work of these faith leaders has reminded me that real change starts at the grassroots level, through the relationships we build with those around us. It’s not about waiting for a perfect moment or a grand political movement it’s about taking action today and being faithful in the work we’re called to do.
Faith in action is what we saw in South Africa, Madagascar, Namibia, and beyond. It’s young leaders planting churches, offering hope, and making a difference through the simple act of showing up and loving people where they are. It’s a powerful reminder that the church isn’t just a place to gather on Sundays it’s a force for change, a place where lives are transformed, and communities are built.
I’m leaving this week more encouraged than ever. The work being done across Africa shows me that when we live out our faith through action, no matter the circumstances, we are participating in something bigger than ourselves. And that’s a lesson I’m carrying with me, ready to take action here at home too.
So the question is, what are we doing with our faith? Because at the end of the day, faith without works is dead.
And I’m inspired to do the work.
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