Time: Saturday, 11:00am – 12:15pm

Presenter:  Edgardo Perez, Judson University

Time: Saturday, 11:00am – 12:15pm

Presenters:  Gary MacPhee, EMI Representative & Moses Clark, Project Manager, EMI

Description:  As the developed world seeks to interact with and assist the developing world, how do we ensure collaboration and cooperation in lieu of dominance?  Partnering with local organizations to design, build, and construct facilities that serve churches and communities helps balance the scale. Mobilizing and equipping local design and construction professionals can be an integral strategy to long-term self-sufficiency and cultural assimilation.  Learn how strategic planning and careful implementation of a professional training program has blossomed into collaborative partnerships, appreciative inquiry, and mutual discovery.

Bio:  For 13 years, Gary was an architect at the University at Buffalo, became the Director of Architectural Services for UB, incorporated his own private architecture consulting practice, and gutted and rebuilt a few homes along the way.

Gary and his wife Judylynn were active in the leadership of their local church for many years, until God redirected them into full-time mission’s ministry; Gary studied with Elim Bible Institute and is a licensed minister with Elim Fellowship.

Gary was a part of the small executive team that shepherded EMI as it grew from a tiny team in the mid-90’s (about 10 people) to the EMI world of today (over 250 in 12 offices worldwide)! He has served in many capacities, leading 50 mission teams in over 40 countries; for most of those years he was Vice President of Human Resources and Ministry Development and the Global Director of Recruiting, investing himself in discipling and developing others, raising up and preparing staff for new EMI offices worldwide, while affirming and inspiring vision in the next generation!

Gary and Judylynn call Colorado home and have been married for 41 years, with three children and eight grandchildren.

As a missionary kid, born and raised in Cameroon West Africa, Moses fell in love with culture, language, food, and people. He thrives in a third culture environment. He grew up 20 kilometers away from EMI’s current CEO John Dallmann, a civil engineer. Through years of watching projects be designed and built, Moses developed a knack for building. He attended John Brown University in Arkansas earning a Construction Management degree and moved to the Pacific Northwest for 6 years to work as a Project Engineer for a general contractor as well as earn masters in Global Development. Still feeling the call overseas, Moses joined EMI in 2018 and launched to West Africa in 2019 spearheading the CM programme for EMI in French speaking Africa. Over the years, Moses has become a project leader, helped build numerous facilities, and became an Owner’s Representative consultant working remotely in countries that are hard to access. Currently Moses is leading EMI’s Construction Management development for numerous offices helping equip and mobilise professionals in the field

Time: Saturday, 11:00am – 12:15pm

Presenter:  Sarah Dunn, DRR Program Manager, EMI

Description:  In this interactive session, participants will explore the critical role of disaster risk reduction (DRR) in the shelter, WASH, and construction sectors, along with biblical principles that support this work. The session includes group activities where participants work through sector-specific scenarios to propose risk-reducing solutions. Together, we’ll unpack practical strategies, explore common barriers and workarounds, and leave equipped with tools and next steps to help make communities safer and more resilient to future disasters.

Bio:  Sarah Dunn is a Registered Architect and Disaster Response/Disaster Risk Reduction Program Coordinator at EMI, based in the United States. With 25 years of experience, she has led and managed a wide range of architectural projects spanning residential, healthcare, religious, educational, commercial, public interest design, design-build, and pre- and post-disaster shelter and infrastructure initiatives.

She holds a Master’s Degree in International Cooperation in Sustainable Emergency Architecture from Universitat Internacional de Catalunya and a Bachelor of Architecture from Auburn University. Her professional credentials include NCARB certification, LEED AP accreditation, and recognition as a Safety Assessment Program (SAP) Evaluator by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.

Since 2011, Sarah has brought her expertise to international contexts, living and working in Uganda, South Sudan, Ukraine, Türkiye, and Lebanon, as well as other short-term assignments around the world.

Time: Saturday, 11:00am – 12:15pm

Presenter:  Brian O’Neil, President & CEO, Third Lense

Description:  In this session, we will discuss finding the healthy balance between implementing western best practices, utilizing local assets, honoring indigenous means and methods, and mitigating construction risk.

Bio:  Brian O’Neil serves as the President and CEO of Third Lens, a nonprofit organization that provides program management and design services to churches and faith-based nonprofits. Early in his career, Brian spent nearly a decade in the commercial banking industry before working in the construction, real estate, and nonprofit sectors.

Third Lens was founded in 2009 to help nonprofit leaders and pastors build with confidence and connect Christians in and around the construction industry with purpose-filled outlets to express their faith through their profession. Brian joined the board of directors in 2010 and worked bi-vocationally in the ministry for several years before accepting the position of Executive Director in 2016. Mr. O’Neil was promoted to President & CEO in 2021. His diverse industry and international experience have helped expand Third Lens’ work to 14 states and 27 countries globally.

Brian, his wife Caroline, and their family live in Auburn, AL, where they worship and serve at Church of the Highlands. Mr. O’Neil earned a degree in International Business from Auburn University, where he also served as a student assistant for the men’s basketball program under Hall of Fame coach Cliff Ellis. Brian is a member of C12 and has spoken at several national conferences on construction management, affordable housing, and nonprofit leadership. He also serves as chairman of the City of Auburn’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and on the board of the JEHH Memorial Fund.

Time: Friday, 3:45pm – 5:00pm

Presenter:  Mark Canterbury, Executive Director, CWE Missions

Description:  Assembling a short-term team involves the process of selecting, organizing, and mobilizing a team. This session will highlight a few key areas: Defining Objectives, Identifying skills, Establishing Roles and Responsibilities, Setting Communication Channels, Clarifying Expectations, Building Team Cohesion and, Providing Resources and Support.

Bio:  Mark and his wife, Jamie, have been married for 32 years. They have one daughter, Ashlynn (24), who is involved in the church praise team and is married to Parker Phillips. They also have a son, Bryce (21), who has served on several mission trips while in high school. Mark has been involved in Christian ministry for the past 28 years as an Educator, Coach, Director of Development, Facilities, and Finance.
Mark and Jamie are very involved in their church and enjoy hosting young people for game nights and Bible studies in their home. Mark was part of our Grenada team in 2023 and felt that God was working in his life since that trip, leading up to being asked to serve as Executive Director of CWE in January of 2024. Mark believes the Lord has called him to serve in this role, and his family is also excited to be a part of this long-standing legacy of seeing “LIVES TRANSFORMED for the Gospel’s Sake.”

Time: Friday, 3:45pm – 5:00pm

Presenter:  Chad Winsor, Executive Director, MCCW

Description:  Volunteers desire to be useful, and the long-term team needs their skills to accomplish the completion of projects. With limited resources and difficult work environments, how can the two work together for the ongoing effort of sharing the gospel? Communication, setting expectations and preparation are key. Join us as we discuss what we have learned over 20 years of Mission construction, having experienced both sides of this much-needed relationship and work effort.

Bio:  Born and raised in a Christian Home, by missionary parents, Chad grew-up with overseas experience. Working on the farm and helping with maintenance, he developed a desire to help and use his abilities to aid others. He was saved at an early age, baptized at 10, and dedicated his life to full-time service at 16. Serving in church, the military and as a fulltime missionary, he continues to grow and use the gifts God has given him to build into people’s lives through construction and leadership.

Chad has 21 years of experience in the construction industry. He learned his trade from the ground up and has hands-on experience in concrete, steel, woodworking, plumbing, and electrical. As Director of Construction on overseas projects, he provided oversight from concept and drafting through completion of several large-scale multi-building facilities.

Time: Friday, 3:45pm – 5:00pm

Moderator:  Matt Lethbridge, ABWE Construction

Description:   Medical work and gospel proclamation have a deep history of interconnection in missions work.  As medical outreach demonstrates the love of Christ in communities that are deficient of such services, it also provides a platform for declaring Christ’s message to those communities.  With the progression of medical missions, comes the need for increased understanding, planning and construction of facilities to support the mission.  Join us for an informative discussion about designing and building mission hospitals.

Bio:  Henry Watts is the executive director of Engineering Ministries International USA – the US branch of a Christian ministry of engineers and architects serving communities and the church around the world.

Henry has over 20 years of experience working with EMI on design and construction of dozens of projects around the world including hospitals, schools, universities, and campus and community infrastructure projects.  He has lived overseas in Amman, Jordan and western Kenya.  EMI has 12 offices around the world, with over 250 staff members, and has worked on over 2000 projects in 115 countries.

Kurt Hinrichs was the Chief Operating Officer for a design-build commercial construction company in Florida prior to mission work.  As a Professional Engineer Kurt was responsible for managing all phases of commercial building from planning and design to construction.

In 2017 Kurt transitioned into the role of Facilities Engineer for Soddo Christian Hospital in Ethiopia and was quickly asked to also fill the role of Assistant CEO.  This included managing a 450-person workforce and guiding the hospital through the COVID crisis and during a civil war.  In addition, Kurt assisted with obtaining and managing over $17 worth of grants.

As Facilities Engineer, Kurt managed multiple construction projects including a new outpatient building, warehouses, dormitories, and a new surgery pavilion, along with several complex renovations.  The responsibilities also included managing and mentoring a staff of 25 maintenance personnel and the oversight of the shipping container logistics.

Jerald and Katie Touchstone were first introduced to ABWE’s work in Togo in 2012 when Jerald served with a short-term (3-week) construction team during the building of the Hospital of Hope in Mango, northern Togo. In 2021, they moved to Togo to serve full-time at the Village of Light Blind School, doing farming, maintenance, and school administration. However, in 2024, the Touchstones were asked to move to ABWE’s Hôpital Baptiste Biblique (HBB), in southern Togo, where Jerald is now serving as the maintenance manager and the project manager for the HBB Vision Project. Katie handles the bookkeeping and admin work for the Vision Project and HBB maintenance department.

The Touchstones have been married since 1992 and have 3 adult children. They lived in Idaho for most of those years, where Katie worked as a legal secretary and bookkeeper. Jerald worked as an auto mechanic for 15 years, and then as a science teacher at a Christian high school for 15 years. Katie is a third-generation missionary. Jerald, having grown up on a farm, learned how to fix and build just about anything. All of his construction and handyman skills are now being put to good use in Togo.

Time: Friday, 3:45pm – 5:00pm

Presenter:  Wes Syverson, Tech Serve International

Description:  With the rise of technological opportunity also comes the rise of technological complexity, even in frontier missions.  Understanding how to harness the most from technology, while keeping things simple is of particular importance on the mission field.  Gain broad insights into basic IT Networking and building/campus installation, covering many aspects including quick Fiber Optic layout, easy GIS systems, Wi-Fi Bridging, conduit utilization / installation, as well as  a simple review of VOIP systems and VOIP Apps over campus Wi-Fi networks, with a bonus Wi-Fi Video opportunity for campuses/villages.

Bio:  Weston Syverson leads Tech Serve International, a small group of technologically oriented missionaries with a passion for assisting ministries around the world. Since 1989, TSI has served hundreds of different kinds of ministries and mission fields, sending volunteers on hundreds of projects from containerized buildings to complete IT and VOIP installed systems over Fiber. Weston has been hands-on all over the world at many ministry locations directing, installing, and maintaining infrastructure systems. He grew up as a Wycliffe MK and enjoys traveling, training, and interacting with people.

Time: Friday, 2:00pm – 3:15pm

Presenters:  Gary MacPhee, EMI Representative & Matt Hayes, Mobilizer, ABWE

Description: Growing your mission is a constant factor in the health and life of a ministry.  But growing your mission younger?  That presents an entirely unique set of challenges.  Attracting the younger generation requires more than just a flashy online presence.  Deep, meaningful connections are at the center of not just what attracts them, but what also keeps them engaged long term.  Ministries must get to the bottom of what is missing in their connections to the younger generation.  Come hear from two different generations how recruiting has been done in the past and ways to move forward into the future for the good of the Gospel!

Bio:  For 13 years, Gary was an architect at the University at Buffalo, became the Director of Architectural Services for UB, incorporated his own private architecture consulting practice, and gutted and rebuilt a few homes along the way.

Gary and his wife Judylynn were active in the leadership of their local church for many years, until God redirected them into full-time mission’s ministry; Gary studied with Elim Bible Institute and is a licensed minister with Elim Fellowship.

Gary was a part of the small executive team that shepherded EMI as it grew from a tiny team in the mid-90’s (about 10 people) to the EMI world of today (over 250 in 12 offices worldwide)! He has served in many capacities, leading 50 mission teams in over 40 countries; for most of those years he was Vice President of Human Resources and Ministry Development and the Global Director of Recruiting, investing himself in discipling and developing others, raising up and preparing staff for new EMI offices worldwide, while affirming and inspiring vision in the next generation!

Gary and Judylynn call Colorado home and have been married for 41 years, with three children and eight grandchildren.

Matt Hayes was born and raised in Northeast New Jersey, outside of New York City. He came to saving faith in Christ at a young age and knew he wanted to serve full-time in ministry since high school. Matt graduated from Lancaster Bible College in 2022 with a dual degree in Intercultural Studies with a specialization in Community Development and Biblical Studies. Over the last few years, Matt has worked in Mobilization with ABWE and seeks to raise up the next generation of laborers for the harvest. In his spare time, he loves to serve in his local church, read, brew specialty coffee, and watch the New York Mets. Matt and his wife, Grace, reside in Lancaster, PA.

Time: Friday, 2:00pm – 3:15pm

Presenter:  Henry Watts, Executive Director, EMI

Description:  We often see facility design and construction as a ministry of the end product – how the built facility enables another ministry to advance.  In this session, we will look at how we can use the process as a ministry of encouragement and discipleship.

Bio:  Mr. Henry Watts is the executive director of Engineering Ministries International USA – the US branch of a Christian ministry of engineers and architects serving communities and the church around the world.

Henry has over 20 years of experience working with EMI on design and construction of dozens of projects around the world including hospitals, schools, universities, and campus and community infrastructure projects.  He has lived overseas in Amman, Jordan and western Kenya.  EMI has 12 offices around the world, with over 250 staff members, and has worked on over 2000 projects in 115 countries.

Time: Friday, 2:00pm – 3:15pm

Presenter: Tim Hunsicker, Director, ABWE Construction

Description: Kicking off a project is a daunting task . . . so many things to consider, to think about and to do.  But there is hope, by following the fundamentals of starting a successful design and building project. From understanding initial planning phases to setting realistic goals, this discussion provides key insights for navigating the complexities of turning an idea into a tangible structure. Whether you are dreaming big or starting small, discover the tools and strategies to build with intention and purpose.

Bio:  Tim Hunsicker is the Director of ABWE Construction.  He is responsible for the design and construction team serving ABWE’s global ministry team.  Prior to joining ABWE Tim was a partner in an architectural firm in Cleveland, Ohio whose projects included work in the hospital and medical fields, libraries and higher education.  He has a passion for seeing projects meet the unique needs of the culture and community they are in, making his call to global missions design a natural fit.

Tim is a visiting faculty member of the International Center for Creativity which is affiliated with Cedarville University.  He has been teaching master planning and interior architecture to industrial design students for 8 years.  He is also a member of the architecture advisory council at Judson University.

In addition to leading ABWE Construction, Tim is a part-time pastor at their sending church (Cross of Hope Church) where he leads the Connections Ministry.

Time: Friday, 2:00pm – 3:15pm

Presenter: Kevin Sasson, Executive Director, SonLight Power & Clay Luna, Director of Programs, SonLight Power

Description: Is your mission limited by electricity that’s unavailable, unreliable, unsustainably expensive? See how solar power can save your mission precious resources, time, and quite possibly lives. Come learn from experienced missionaries who have dedicated their lives to equipping missions like yours with solar power for Kingdom impact.

Bio: Kevin Sasson left a Silicon Valley career to lead SonLight Power, a Christian non-profit dedicated to equipping people living in energy poverty with the love of Jesus (Son) and solar power (sun) for lasting impact. Since 2002, SonLight Power has impacted an estimated one million lives by increasing access to reliable, affordable electricity from solar power. SonLight Power has installed over 280 projects in 20 countries generating a combined 1.6 Megawatts of electricity.

Organizations and individuals from all sectors have rallied alongside the mission. Many more have trusted SonLight Power to design and install solar power to equip their missions. Notable mission partners include: ABWE, Back2Back Ministries, BLOC Ministries, Lifesong for Orphans, Matthew 25 Ministries, El Ayudante. Notable industry partners include: Enstall / IronRidge, Fronius, Prysmian, Cincinnati Zoo, Melink Corp & Solar, AllSource Logistics.

Kevin exceeded all expectations when he married his lovely wife, Jenny, while living and serving in Honduras. Kevin and Jenny have four awesome, active children. They are grateful for the special opportunity to grow together, follow Jesus, and raise their family in complementary ministries.

Clay Luna serves as Director of Programs at SonLight Power. In this role, Clay scopes, designs, and ultimately leads teams that install solar power systems to equip other organizations and people living in energy poverty. He is a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certified solar installer/instructor.

In 2021, Clay was the recipient of NABCEP’s prestigious Walt Ratterman Award for Creative Community Energy, the highest honor NABCEP bestows a solar installer. He was honored for the transformative impact generated from his work on the design and installation of a solar micro-grid at Peredo Community Hospital, operated by Haitian Christian Outreach in southern Haiti. The project has allowed the hospital to remain open and care for patients during Haiti’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, saving precious lives and resources.

Clay is regarded as one of, if not the, foremost experts on solar power in the mission field. He has elevated SonLight Power’s growing reputation as The Trusted Partner for Solar Power Among Mission Organizations. In the spirit of Ephesians 4:12, SonLight Power partners with other effective missions to equip them with solar power to impact more lives in the name of Jesus.

Clay is a Marine Corp veteran, having served tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. He and his wife, Melissa, are proud parents of three beautiful children.

Time: Friday, 11:15am – 12:30pm

Moderator:  Cara Hunsicker, ABWE Construction

Description:  Join us for an engaging breakout session exploring the unique dynamics of ministry through the lens of a supportive spouse.   As a spouse navigating a different ministry path, we will share how faith, teamwork, and individual gifts contribute to a shared vision of service. This panel discussion promises insights, stories, and practical takeaways for those balancing diverse roles in their own ministries or relationships.

Time: Friday, 11:15am – 12:30pm

Presenter:  Gary MacPhee, EMI Representative

Description:  All of us want to see the Kingdom of God grow, our ministry to increase its impact, and people to engage with our mission.  How do you explain how that happens for some people and their ministries more than others?  The essence of leadership is helping others discover their own voice and potential.  This involves seeing the inherent worth and capabilities in every individual and creating conditions for them to flourish.  Leading to Inspire will help you to discover your unique voice and inspire others to find theirs.  Together, we find our fit in God’s plan to reach the world, leading to personal and missional growth and success. 

Bio:  For 13 years, Gary was an architect at the University at Buffalo, became the Director of Architectural Services for UB, incorporated his own private architecture consulting practice, and gutted and rebuilt a few homes along the way.

Gary and his wife Judylynn were active in the leadership of their local church for many years, until God redirected them into full-time mission’s ministry; Gary studied with Elim Bible Institute and is a licensed minister with Elim Fellowship.

Gary was a part of the small executive team that shepherded EMI as it grew from a tiny team in the mid-90’s (about 10 people) to the EMI world of today (over 250 in 12 offices worldwide)! He has served in many capacities, leading 50 mission teams in over 40 countries; for most of those years he was Vice President of Human Resources and Ministry Development and the Global Director of Recruiting, investing himself in discipling and developing others, raising up and preparing staff for new EMI offices worldwide, while affirming and inspiring vision in the next generation!

Gary and Judylynn call Colorado home and have been married for 41 years, with three children and eight grandchildren.

Time: Friday, 11:15am – 12:30pm

Presenter:  Bill Tobias, Project Manager, ABWE Construction 

Description:  To say, “Building a mission base in a remote jungle could be challenging”, would be a gross understatement.  With an abundance of obstacles and very little resources all at great distance, how can it be accomplished?  This case study of overcoming difficulties in the highland jungles of Papua New Guinea gives great insight into the methodical advanced planning as well as the ingenuity required.

Bio:  Bill grew up in a Christian home on a small farm in Roulette, (north central) PA.  He surrendered his life to the Lord during VBS at age 11 and was baptized that fall.  Bill has a BA degree in Pre-Seminary Bible from Cedarville College, 1973; and was Licensed and Ordained as a Pastor in 1986.  He also completed a four-year carpentry training apprenticeship through the Carpenters Local Union in Portsmouth, OH in 1980.

Bill met his wife, Debbie, at Cedarville College and they were married in the fall of 1972.  They have 3 daughters; 11 grandchildren, 8 girls and 3 boys; and 1 great granddaughter.

Bill & Debbie joined ABWE in 1984 and served as Church Planting missionaries in Papua New Guinea for 30 years from 1987-2017.  Bill was involved in most of the building projects on the field.  They transferred to the ABWE construction division in 2018 and Bill works as a Project Manager, recruiting and taking volunteers on work team projects around the world.

Time: Friday, 11:15am – 12:30pm

Presenter:  Micah Pitner, P.E. Water Mission

Description:  If safe water is essential for humans, then water quality matters. But what determines water quality, and how can we ensure the water is safe for communities, people impacted by disaster, and refugees? Water Mission has recently attempted to clarify answers to these questions for our staff. Learn about our approach and what we have learned.

Bio:  Micah Pitner is the Director of Engineering Standards and Quality at Water Mission. After 14 years in the engineering consulting world focused on water resources, she joined Water Mission in 2022. Micah studied Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois and holds a Professional Engineer license in Illinois. She lives with her husband and two children in South Carolina. She thinks she has the coolest job in the world, but when she’s not at work she enjoys reading, listening to music, and being outside.