By Amarachi Ugwuchukwu
1 Chronicles 4:10 – “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory!”
Early this year, God nudged my heart toward mission work, but as someone new to the UK with few connections, I wondered how this would unfold. Then came that remarkable June morning when I literally bumped into Esther Price on my run back from Sefton Park. Without knowing my heart’s burden, she mentioned an upcoming summer mission trip, and I said YES.
Dinner during Second Training Weekend
Our journey took off from August 21-31, 2025, spanning Northern Ireland and Scotland. Our team consisted of Esther (team leader), Jane, myself, and Gemechu. Through prayer and seeking God’s heart, He clearly directed us via Ecclesiastes 11:1-2 towards supporting two life-changing projects serving refugee communities.
Meet the Team – Me, Esther, Jane, and Gemechu (left to right)
Belfast City Mission became our launching pad, with Hanok, a vibrant young Ethiopian man, as our guide. At Vineyard Church’s Friday prayer meeting, we discovered our first recipients—Storehouse Belfast leaders who were pioneering a social enterprise and pottery initiative. Every detail they shared unknowingly to them matched exactly what God had revealed to us about the project recipients. After confirming they met the seven sustainability conditions, we joyfully presented £633 as seed funding.
Belfast overflowed with Kingdom moments: joining the March for Jesus, children’s face-painting and sports activities at Tulleycarnet Church, and celebrating as our evangelist, Gemechu, led a fellow Ethiopian to Christ.
Glasgow City Mission, the world’s oldest City Mission movement, was our second host. We served over 100 guests—refugees, asylum seekers, and homeless individuals—through urban ministry, women’s work, ESOL classes, and countless shared meals. Gemechu also witnessed a Muslim man surrender his life to Jesus Christ, a beautiful reminder that the Gospel transcends all barriers.
The week’s highlight came when we were invited to lead “The Gathering,” their Thursday evening worship. Our team crafted a puppet drama of “The Lost Sheep,” followed by Esther’s powerful testimony. It upsurged with everyone joining us in worship songs, “Omemma” by Chandler Moore and “Praise” by Elevation Worship. Though seemingly simple, we watched God break through hearts and draw people to Himself.
Team with Glasgow City Mission Staff, Volunteers, and Guest Interns
We contributed £633 toward Glasgow City Mission’s innovative pop-up restaurant project—a brilliant initiative giving refugee interns real work experience while serving the community. Our remaining mercy funds delighted the tireless staff with Krispy Kreme doughnuts, bringing unexpected joy to their day. In total, we raised £1,266 for the project, blessing both Storehouse Belfast and Glasgow City Mission.
March For Jesus in Belfast
The March For Jesus in Belfast absolutely captivated my heart! These moments crystallized why we serve, because every life touched by God’s love matters infinitely. This wasn’t just a mission trip; it was a cultural immersion and spiritual transformation that has forever marked my journey with Christ.
