“Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” (John 4:35)
This summer, Olivet Assembly USA (OA USA) launched the Summer Pioneering Project, a nationwide mission initiative that calls young leaders to bring the Gospel to college campuses. With a vision to reach students and raise future leaders for Christ, this movement seeks to create lasting spiritual impact through evangelism, discipleship, and fellowship. The project began in late June and early July and will run for approximately two months as a short-term mission effort.
Purpose and Vision
The Summer Pioneering Project is driven by a strong conviction that campuses are among the most strategic mission fields in today’s world. These environments shape the next generation of leaders, and introducing the truth of God’s Word can spark deep and enduring transformation.
The mission aims to:
* Establish Bible studies and fellowship groups on major campuses.
* Raise committed student leaders who can continue the mission beyond summer.
* Build sustainable structures, including officially registered student organizations and mission centers.
Collaborative Effort Across Fellowships
While OA USA serves as the main organizer, this project is a collaborative effort involving partner fellowships, including Apostolos Mission (AM), Youth Evangelical Fellowship (YEF), Jubilee World, and Youth Discipleship (YD).
To prepare for this ambitious mission, two dedicated training periods were held in April and June, equipping pioneers with practical skills for evangelism, Bible teaching, and campus engagement. These sessions strengthened their spiritual foundation and provided strategies for overcoming challenges in diverse cultural and academic environments.
Current Progress Nationwide
Young pioneers are now serving in multiple states, including North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Arizona, Minnesota, Washington, and Nevada, among others. They are conducting personal and group Bible studies, organizing local gatherings, and utilizing creative outreach strategies such as social media campaigns and mini-retreats.
Despite unique challenges on each campus, pioneers are witnessing encouraging signs: students opening their hearts to the Gospel, joining studies, and considering leadership roles within their campus fellowships. Every step reflects the power of faith and perseverance in mission.
Looking Ahead: The Summer Retreat in St. Louis
A key milestone for the project will be the Summer Retreat in St. Louis, where students and pioneers will come together for a time of worship, fellowship, and renewal. Leaders have underscored the importance of early invitations and prayerful preparation so participants can experience a deeper encounter with God and strengthen their spiritual commitment.
A Call to Prayer and Support
Guiding the pioneering efforts, Pastor Mark Spisak, General Secretary of OA USA, encouraged the team to keep the vision clear:
“Campus ministry is not about short-term results, but about raising leaders who will carry the Gospel forward. Every Bible study and every soul reached is a seed for the Kingdom of God.”
As the Summer Pioneering Project moves forward, OA USA invites churches, members, and partners to pray for open doors on campuses, for committed student leaders to emerge, and for lasting revival that will extend beyond this summer into generations to come.