Missionaries Serve in Arusha, Tanzania
This past July, more than 20 missionaries representing churches from Maryland (Brinklow, Seabrook, and Metropolitan), Virginia (Coastal Shores), Atlanta, Alabama, and Florida joined together for a life-changing mission trip to Arusha, Tanzania. This mission trip was made possible through a partnership with Global Vessels and the faithful support of many churches and individuals who prayed, gave, and encouraged along the way.
The team worked tirelessly at a local orphanage nestled between Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Mt. Meru is the first sight you can see when reaching Arusha town. The mountain is 14,990 feet, Tanzania's second highest peak after Kilimanjaro and the fifth highest in Africa—painting, repairing facilities, and spreading joy to the children. In addition, Metropolitan SDA Church contributed board games for the children and contributed toward critical electrical work needed at the orphanage, helping ensure safety and stability for years to come.
For many, the highlight was connecting with the children and experiencing their vibrant faith.
Oneeka Tyrrell, from Florida, shared, “On July 22nd, I was blessed to participate in a mission trip to Arusha, Tanzania. Our goal was to help with the upkeep of the orphanage by painting and sanding. This was the first time in the area of painting and sanding, so I picked up two new skills, for which I'm grateful. However, I gained so much more. The experience was so eye-opening on what God spoke and showed to me. The kids were so sweet and loving. They truly showed how much they loved Jesus by their worship. I made many memories and met many wonderful new people on this trip. I am truly thankful and would love to go on a mission again.”
The team also visited the Maasai tribe—learning about their traditions, stepping inside their homes and classrooms, and sharing in music and fellowship.
Elaine Kinlock described it as both eye-opening and spiritual:
“This was a culture shock to see this way of life for our own people, and yet they live their lives in content. God is obviously in their midst.”
Every evening after supper, the children called the missionaries into worship. They sang, danced, and led devotions—reminding everyone that God is present in every culture and every space.
Elaine recalled one unforgettable moment:
“The three- and four-year-olds were singing, ‘Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?’ I dropped my paintbrush just to get closer to them. You could feel the love and respect as though you were in a different space.
Alongside service, the missionaries also witnessed the beauty of God’s creation. They visited Mount Kilimanjaro, went on a safari where they saw up close God’s amazing creation, and explored local markets. These experiences deepened their appreciation for God’s majesty and the richness of His people.
This mission trip was more than travel—it was transformation. Mission is at the very heart of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It changes the lives of those who are served and those who serve.
AEC President Dr. Trevor Kinlock reflected, “We had a great and successful mission. The girls worked hard repairing the orphanage and a local house in the community. On Sabbath we visited a local church in Kilimanjaro and afterwards went house to house blessing the local villagers with prayer and money. All in all, it was an AMAZING opportunity to serve. We’ll do it again in 2 years!”
We give special thanks to all who prayed, donated, and encouraged the missionaries. Your support made this trip possible and multiplied the impact far beyond what could be done alone.
“This is the result of one who listens to the voice of God and does not delay. Trust the Lord, and He will take you to places you have never been, cause you to renew your strength, soar on wings like eagles, run and not become weary, walk and not faint.” Said Elaine.
Metropolitan SDA Church hosts annual mission trips, and we invite you to prayerfully consider joining us in the future. Whether you are young or seasoned, there is a place for you to serve. The youngest missionary on this trip was just 9 years old, showing that mission service is for every age and stage of life.
Plans are already underway for the next mission trip. If God is stirring your heart, connect with us and be part of what He is doing around the world.
“Here am I, send me.” – Isaiah 6:8
Written by Natasha M. Iheme, Metropolitan SDA church mission trip team lead and communications director.