19th Missionary Gathering Dinner

Last night, April 15, we gathered once again—part of a rhythm that has quietly shaped who we are.

Every 40 days, we come together as a family of everyday missionaries across San Diego County and Tijuana. We come to encourage one another, to celebrate what God is doing, to build connections and partnerships, and to pray—by name—for each other.

This was our 19th dinner. And the table keeps growing.

Around 30 missionaries were in the room, including six who joined us for the very first time. A beautiful reminder that this is only a glimpse of a much larger family—one that stretches beyond the room. Those who couldn’t be with us were not forgotten; they were remembered, named, and lifted up in prayer.

We were hosted by Hope Lutheran Church in Linda Vista—a place that holds deep meaning for us. This is the community that, in 2022, gave birth to the Lutheran Mission Society San Diego through a bold and generous investment. To gather there last night was to remember our story with gratitude.

We listened to the Word shared by Pastor Kevin Sharp. We celebrated ministry milestones—the launching of new initiatives, the consecration of deaconesses. And we also rejoiced in personal moments: an engagement between two missionaries, healing from cancer, and many other quiet victories of grace.

Stories were told. Testimonies were shared. Joy was present.

This is what family looks like on mission.

And we give thanks.