From Puppet Shows to Gospel Access

The first time Kelly and I traveled to the Dominican Republic (DR), we were teenagers. Because of our group’s size, airport officials directed us through the diplomatic line at immigration. It felt ironic. We had come to perform puppet shows and help with work projects—and we didn’t even speak Spanish.

Never could we have imagined that decades later we would return to sit around the table with national church leaders, discussing the future of ministry in the Dominican Republic.

Our meeting with national leaders: Julio Morales (R), Jonathan Herrera (C), and Jamie Bello (L)

This spring, we returned as Northern Triad Area Directors to collaborate with church leaders and missionaries regarding Gospel Access. Together, we explored ways to strengthen the national church’s vision while expanding gospel witness among those with little or no access to Christ.

We were encouraged by our meetings with church leadership. They expressed a desire for greater missionary involvement in underserved regions, as well as assistance in missions training, children’s ministries, and missions awareness initiatives. These discussions strengthened our partnership and shared commitment to Christ’s kingdom.

We also spent time encouraging the missionary fellowship and discussing opportunities and challenges across the field. We were encouraged by their dedication to the mission and their desire to serve well together.

Gathering with the DR Missionary Fellowship

A highlight was participating in a farewell gathering honoring Zach and Johanna Welsh, who concluded their service in the DR. The day was filled with gratitude, celebration, and reminders of God’s faithfulness.

As we reflect on this trip, we are reminded that God’s work spans generations. From teenagers carrying puppets to leaders discussing gospel strategy, from seasoned missionaries to young workers answering God’s call, the Lord continues to invite His people into His mission.

One of those young workers was Andrew Willey, a 21-year-old intern serving in the Dominican Republic whom we met on our trip. Tragically, Andrew passed away just weeks after our visit due to complications related to myocarditis. Please join us in praying for his family, the Dominican Republic missionary team, and the many lives touched by his faithful service. Though his years were few, his example reminds us that a life surrendered to Christ is never wasted.

Thank you for your prayers and partnership. Together, we are helping bring the hope of Christ to the nations.

Note: If you’d like to print this update, take a look at the PDF version of our quarterly newsletter or, better still, sign up to receive our newsletters direct to your inbox!