On August 31, the Rosedale International Center (RIC) in Columbus, Ohio, sprang to life as twelve young adults poured into the building with their families in tow. These young people—representing six states and three countries, with different backgrounds, life experiences, and hopes for the future—had arrived at the RIC to pursue their common goal: to follow the call of Jesus in their lives. They were here to begin REACH 2024-25.
While the “flashier” aspect of RI’s REACH program is six months spent overseas, the transformative work begins much sooner with discipleship training school. Known as DTS, the first three months of REACH are a time to invest in study and spiritual growth, bond as teammates, and prepare for overseas outreach.
The past nine weeks have been “full of life and joy” as each REACHer has dedicated themself to this task with purpose and intensity. “Our afternoons usually consist of teambuilding exercises, outreach programs, preparation for cross-cultural outreach, and language class for those who need to learn a language,” Becca (Team Zambia) shared in a recent blog post. “We’re never bored, that’s for sure!”
Each morning, the REACHers’ focus is spiritual growth. In sessions, they have studied the spiritual gifts, the authority of Scripture, and intimacy with God. They’ve learned how to run Discovery Bible Studies, and shared vulnerably with each other during ministry week.
In their spiritual reflection, a common theme has emerged—God as a steady Father. “I’ve recently been able to focus on and experience the gentle sides of God’s love,” Madelyn (Team Mediterranean) shared. “The major lesson I took from our first few sessions was that our Father is sending us an invitation… We do not have to chase after Him, trying to catch up as He sprints in the opposite direction. He is standing right beside us, waiting for us to turn and look at Him.”
“We’re never bored, that’s for sure!”
In three short weeks, the class of REACH 2024-25 will graduate from discipleship training school and launch into cross-cultural outreach. This year, RI’s Short-Term Programs is sending four teams overseas—the program’s most post-COVID-19. Team Himalayas will work alongside a local believer, trekking through the mountains to visit local churches and believers. In each location, they’ll minister through service projects, teaching English, and sharing the gospel.
Team Zambia will join the rhythms of life in a rural village. In partnership with a local ministry, they will aid the work of planting churches, caring for orphans, and discipling new believers.
RI’s long-term workers in Thailand and the Mediterranean will each welcome a team as well. Team Thailand will serve in Bangkok through prayer walks, ministry to children and refugee families, English teaching, and support of the long-term team; Team Mediterranean’s ministry will focus on long-term support, joining the team in hospitality, teaching English, and childcare.
Although the months ahead may seem daunting, the REACHers are ready and excited for what will come. “[In her session], Kara [Personnel Facilitator], called us to remember that when we decided to follow Jesus, we decided to join in His suffering,” Melanie (Team Zambia). “There will be many tough things ahead of us these next several months, but I’m willing to face whatever comes for the sake of the Kingdom. And I’m confident there will be so much growth through those hard times.”
Please lift up each REACHer in prayer as they complete DTS, say goodbye to their families and friends over the Thanksgiving holiday, and jump into life in very different cultures. Pray for team unity and harmony, for energy and perseverance, and for the ability to depend on Jesus. Pray that as they serve God overseas, they will continually turn to face Him.
The names of some people and places in this article have been omitted for security. To follow along with the REACHers as they embark on outreach, visit their team blogs, updated weekly.
