It is a joy to share some incredible news regarding a face many of you know and love. Starla Beachy’s journey into missions didn’t start with a plane ticket, but right in the pews and youth rooms of Nappanee Brethren Church. Under the mentorship of leaders like Pastor Tom Schiefer and Youth Leader Ryan Smith, Starla felt a persistent tug on her heart—a call to a life of service that she simply couldn’t ignore.

For several years, that calling took her around the globe with Youth With A Mission (YWAM), sharing God’s love in corners of the world many of us only see on a map. But recently, the Holy Spirit began weaving her path back toward some old friends for a new mission in a way only He could orchestrate.

While attending a conference in Durban, South Africa, Starla had a true “God-moment” when she reconnected with Sandile and Abby Mkhwanazi. Starla first met them nearly a decade ago at a 2016 Youth Conference at Ashland University! It is nothing short of amazing to see a friendship that began in Ohio bloom into a full-time Gospel partnership in South Africa all these years later.

Starla has officially concluded her time with YWAM and has moved to Durban to work directly with Sandile and the Brethren Church in South Africa. We are beyond thrilled to have her on the team as she helps the ministry grow and reach deeper into the local community.

As she settles into this new chapter, we’d love for you to join us in supporting her. Moving across the world is never a small feat, so please keep these things in your prayers:

• For her transition: Pray for Starla’s energy and peace as she adjusts to the rhythms of life in Durban and steps into her new role.
• For her family: It’s a sacrifice for the family left behind, too. Please keep the Beachy family in your prayers as they navigate having a loved one serving so far from home.
• For the mission: Pray for Sandile, Abby, and Starla as they work together. We truly believe God is up to something historic in South Africa.

Stay tuned—this story is only just getting started, and we are so glad that Starla is part of it!

Scott Soden
Director of Brethren Global Partners