At the end of May, a team from Ohio Christian University traveled to Uganda to serve alongside World Gospel Mission missionaries already working in the area. This trip would best be described as a vision trip rather than the typical mission work some may think of. The team got to see many different ministries the missionaries are working with as well as support them through fellowship and prayer.
During the two weeks the team was abroad, they worked with a wide range of ministries, one of which is known as the Dignity project, providing women and girls with reusable feminine products allowing them to stay in school. They also partnered with a ministry called Tutapona which means “we will be healed” in Swahili. Tutapona is a nonprofit organization that does pain and trauma counseling focused on war and violence. They concentrate on group counseling and teaching how communities can help heal one another. The team was also able to visit refugee settlements as well as participate in Bible studies with the staff.
TAPP ministries or Tumaini Aids Prevention Program is another program the team supported. This ministry works with women and children who have tested HIV/AIDS positive and were completely exiled by their communities. TAPP works to empower them and provide them with an income through various avenues like crafts and child sponsorships.
“We were able to bless them by giving them food and other supplies and they treated us so well with what they did have," Jacob Waugh (‘19) said. "Even though they don’t have much, they wanted to show us that they have God and that was honestly one of the most moving things that I took back home with me.”
Being able to see all of the different ministries missionaries are partnering with is a unique opportunity that was not lost on the team. While many see mission trips as pouring concrete or painting a building, an equally effective ministry is being a support to the people involved.
Articles of Interest
Trailblazer Baseball Hosts Local Student Battling Cancer
Published: April 8, 2020
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - Back in February, the Ohio Christian Baseball team helped
host a local student battling cancer in the community. Sam, who currenlty has
spinal ependymoma, came to campus on February 24th to hang out with the team
and experience a practice.
...
Read More
Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - Back in February, the Ohio Christian Baseball team helped
host a local student battling cancer in the community. Sam, who currenlty has
spinal ependymoma, came to campus on February 24th to hang out with the team
and experience a practice.
... Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - Back in February, the Ohio Christian Baseball team helped
host a local student battling cancer in the community. Sam, who currenlty has
spinal ependymoma, came to campus on ... Read More
Ohio Christian Hosts A New Leaf Inc. For Afternoon of Fun
Published: December 17, 2019
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - On December 8th, Ohio Christian University hosted an
afternoon of games and inflatables in the Maxwell Center gymnasium for A New
Leaf Inc., a local foster care center. In total, 400 kids attended the annual
holiday party.
...
Read More
Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - On December 8th, Ohio Christian University hosted an
afternoon of games and inflatables in the Maxwell Center gymnasium for A New
Leaf Inc., a local foster care center. In total, 400 kids attended the annual
holiday party.
... Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - On December 8th, Ohio Christian University hosted an
afternoon of games and inflatables in the Maxwell Center gymnasium for A New
Leaf Inc., a local foster care center. In total, ... Read More
Festival of Carols Shares Message of Christ
Published: December 10, 2019
The Ohio Christian University Music Department shared an impactful message of
Christ’s birth in its annual Christmas concert, Festival of Carols. The
concert presented this story of glory to audiences of almost 500 on both Dec.
7 and 8 in the Ministry...
Read More
Read More
The Ohio Christian University Music Department shared an impactful message of
Christ’s birth in its annual Christmas concert, Festival of Carols. The
concert presented this story of glory to audiences of almost 500 on both Dec.
7 and 8 in the Ministry ... Read More
The Ohio Christian University Music Department shared an impactful message of
Christ’s birth in its annual Christmas concert, Festival of Carols. The
concert presented this story of glory to ... Read More
Trailblazers Send Love Overseas For Christmas Season
Published: December 10, 2019
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - The Ohio Christian University Athletic Department spent the
month of November gathering supplies to show the love of Christ this holiday
season, packing 20 boxes to be sent overseas as a part of Operation Christmas
Child.
...
Read More
Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - The Ohio Christian University Athletic Department spent the
month of November gathering supplies to show the love of Christ this holiday
season, packing 20 boxes to be sent overseas as a part of Operation Christmas
Child.
... Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - The Ohio Christian University Athletic Department spent the
month of November gathering supplies to show the love of Christ this holiday
season, packing 20 boxes to be sent ... Read More
Trailblazers Send Love Overseas For Christmas Season
Published: November 30, 2019
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - The Ohio Christian University Athletic Department spent the
month of November gathering supplies to show the love of Christ this holiday
season, packing 20 boxes to be sent overseas as a part of Operation Christmas
Child.
...
Read More
Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - The Ohio Christian University Athletic Department spent the
month of November gathering supplies to show the love of Christ this holiday
season, packing 20 boxes to be sent overseas as a part of Operation Christmas
Child.
... Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH - The Ohio Christian University Athletic Department spent the
month of November gathering supplies to show the love of Christ this holiday
season, packing 20 boxes to be sent ... Read More
Emergency and Disaster Management Partner with Mennonite Disaster Service
Published: November 8, 2019
Representatives from Ohio Christian University’s Emergency and Disaster
Management Program recently joined their new disaster partner, the
Mennonites, at the Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) Region 2 Conference. The
event took place in Rosedale, Ohio on Oct. 25-27.
The Mennonite Disaster Service is a network of Anabaptist churches that
responds in Christian love to those affected by disasters. While their
primary focus is on clean up, repair, and rebuilding homes, they expand
beyond these activities. Their service touches lives and nurtures hope,
faith, and wholeness.
Emergency...
Read More
Read More
Representatives from Ohio Christian University’s Emergency and Disaster
Management Program recently joined their new disaster partner, the
Mennonites, at the Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) Region 2 Conference. The
event took place in Rosedale, Ohio on Oct. 25-27.
The Mennonite Disaster Service is a network of Anabaptist churches that
responds in Christian love to those affected by ... Read More
Representatives from Ohio Christian University’s Emergency and Disaster
Management Program recently joined their new disaster partner, the
Mennonites, at the Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) Region ... Read More
Orchestra Shares Gospel Through Music in Japan
Published: November 8, 2019
This summer, Ohio Christian University’s orchestra went on its third
mission trip to Japan. From Jul. 29 to Aug. 17, students had the opportunity
to share not only their musical talents but their passion for spreading the
gospel.
The orchestra directors, Roger and Linda Stieg, completed their graduate work
at the Talent Education Institute in Matsumoto, Japan. After graduation, the
Steigs were asked to come back to play some concerts. They agreed to return,
hoping to be an example of how God can use even musical talent to help
fulfill the Great Commission. Found in Matthew 28, the...
Read More
Read More
This summer, Ohio Christian University’s orchestra went on its third
mission trip to Japan. From Jul. 29 to Aug. 17, students had the opportunity
to share not only their musical talents but their passion for spreading the
gospel.
The orchestra directors, Roger and Linda Stieg, completed their graduate work
at the Talent Education Institute in Matsumoto, Japan. After graduation, the
Steigs ... Read More
This summer, Ohio Christian University’s orchestra went on its third
mission trip to Japan. From Jul. 29 to Aug. 17, students had the opportunity
to share not only their musical talents but their ... Read More
Trailblazers Participate In 21st Annual Ralph C. Starkey Community Action Day
Published: October 16, 2019
CIRCLEVILLE, OH – Last Wednesday, the Trailblazer Athletic Department, in
partnership with the university, participated in the 21st annual Ralph C.
Starkey Community Action Day. This year, Ohio Christian partnered with United
Way of Pickaway County to expand the reach and scope by coordinating and
bringing together the organizations individual efforts to serve the
community.
...
Read More
Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH – Last Wednesday, the Trailblazer Athletic Department, in
partnership with the university, participated in the 21st annual Ralph C.
Starkey Community Action Day. This year, Ohio Christian partnered with United
Way of Pickaway County to expand the reach and scope by coordinating and
bringing together the organizations individual efforts to serve the
community.
... Read More
CIRCLEVILLE, OH – Last Wednesday, the Trailblazer Athletic Department, in
partnership with the university, participated in the 21st annual Ralph C.
Starkey Community Action Day. This year, Ohio ... Read More
Students Serve Community in 21st Annual Ralph C. Starkey Community Action Day
Published: October 16, 2019
Over 460 students from Ohio Christian University and local high schools
through a partnership with United Way of Pickaway County came together on
Oct. 9 to serve the community. During OCU’s 21st annual Ralph C. Starkey
Community Action Day, students engaged in clean up and restoration projects
at 44 sites throughout Circleville and the surrounding county.
Before starting, the students were addressed by event organizers, Ralph C.
Starkey’s daughter Beth Starkey Hill, Circleville Mayor Don McIlroy, and
Pickaway County Commissioner Brian Stewart. Executive Director of United Way
Jama...
Read More
Read More
Over 460 students from Ohio Christian University and local high schools
through a partnership with United Way of Pickaway County came together on
Oct. 9 to serve the community. During OCU’s 21st annual Ralph C. Starkey
Community Action Day, students engaged in clean up and restoration projects
at 44 sites throughout Circleville and the surrounding county.
Before starting, the students were ... Read More
Over 460 students from Ohio Christian University and local high schools
through a partnership with United Way of Pickaway County came together on
Oct. 9 to serve the community. During OCU’s 21st ... Read More
Ohio Christian Partners to Serve Community
Published: October 16, 2019
Ohio Christian University will hold its 21st annual Ralph C. Starkey
Community Action Day on Oct 9. The event historically sends out over 400
students, faculty and staff into the community of Circleville and the
surrounding area to serve those in need. This year, Ohio Christian has
partnered with United Way of Pickaway County to expand the reach and scope by
coordinating and bringing together the organizations individual efforts to
serve the community.
Ohio Christian has traditionally held Community Action Day in the spring but
switched to fall this year so the day would coincide with...
Read More
Read More
Ohio Christian University will hold its 21st annual Ralph C. Starkey
Community Action Day on Oct 9. The event historically sends out over 400
students, faculty and staff into the community of Circleville and the
surrounding area to serve those in need. This year, Ohio Christian has
partnered with United Way of Pickaway County to expand the reach and scope by
coordinating and bringing ... Read More
Ohio Christian University will hold its 21st annual Ralph C. Starkey
Community Action Day on Oct 9. The event historically sends out over 400
students, faculty and staff into the community of ... Read More
Mark Lee Performs on Campus
Published: October 16, 2019
Mark Lee caught the attention of Ohio Christian University and the
surrounding community with his witty sense of humor and passion for sharing
Christ with others. Lee is a founding member and guitarist for popular
Christian band Third Day. During his “An Evening with Mark Lee” concert
on Sept. 16, Lee shared his music as well as stories from his own life.
During the concert, Lee shared a part of his testimony from his recent book
“Hurt Road.” Lee told the audience how his leg was badly injured as a
result of an accident with a truck. It was during this down time as his leg
was healing...
Read More
Read More
Mark Lee caught the attention of Ohio Christian University and the
surrounding community with his witty sense of humor and passion for sharing
Christ with others. Lee is a founding member and guitarist for popular
Christian band Third Day. During his “An Evening with Mark Lee” concert
on Sept. 16, Lee shared his music as well as stories from his own life.
During the concert, Lee shared a ... Read More
Mark Lee caught the attention of Ohio Christian University and the
surrounding community with his witty sense of humor and passion for sharing
Christ with others. Lee is a founding member and ... Read More
Lest We Forget Honors the Fallen
Published: October 16, 2019
Lest We Forget returned to Ohio Christian University to remember those who
lost their lives 18 years ago on 9/11 when terrorists hijacked commercial
airliners and struck down the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New
York and damaged the Pentagon. The event honored the first responders who
sacrificed themselves to save others on that fateful day and the military
service members who answered their nation's call to fight against terrorism.
In the 9/11 attacks, almost 3,000 innocent civilians lost their lives, over
400 firefighters and police died during rescue operations, and...
Read More
Read More
Lest We Forget returned to Ohio Christian University to remember those who
lost their lives 18 years ago on 9/11 when terrorists hijacked commercial
airliners and struck down the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New
York and damaged the Pentagon. The event honored the first responders who
sacrificed themselves to save others on that fateful day and the military
service members who ... Read More
Lest We Forget returned to Ohio Christian University to remember those who
lost their lives 18 years ago on 9/11 when terrorists hijacked commercial
airliners and struck down the twin towers of the ... Read More
Ohio Christian Atlanta Site Students Honor Caregivers
Published: October 16, 2019
A group of three students at the Ohio Christian University Atlanta site, as
part of a project management class, chose to plan and host their own event
honoring caregivers. In the course of five weeks, the students developed a
charter, raised community support, and organized a black and white dinner for
over 40 caregivers and nurses in the Atlanta area.
“For the way they started and the way they finished in that class time, I
was just truly amazed,” their professor, Selena Buchanan, said.
The class normally requires students to plan for a fictious event, however,
class member LaShaeele...
Read More
Read More
A group of three students at the Ohio Christian University Atlanta site, as
part of a project management class, chose to plan and host their own event
honoring caregivers. In the course of five weeks, the students developed a
charter, raised community support, and organized a black and white dinner for
over 40 caregivers and nurses in the Atlanta area.
“For the way they started and the way ... Read More
A group of three students at the Ohio Christian University Atlanta site, as
part of a project management class, chose to plan and host their own event
honoring caregivers. In the course of five ... Read More
Gerald Murphy Encourages Revival
Published: October 16, 2019
Gerald Murphy (’13) had one goal in mind for the campus of Ohio Christian
University as he spoke during Fall 2019 Revival Week, and that was to have an
encounter with Christ.
Murphy, a graduate of Ohio Christian, encouraged students to let go of their
former selves and take on their new identity as sons and daughters of God. In
order to take on this new identity, Murphy said that one must first stop
self-identifying as a sinner saved by grace. “If you continue to call
yourself a sinner,” he said, “you’re going to keep acting like one.”
Next, one must stop relying on their own actions...
Read More
Read More
Gerald Murphy (’13) had one goal in mind for the campus of Ohio Christian
University as he spoke during Fall 2019 Revival Week, and that was to have an
encounter with Christ.
Murphy, a graduate of Ohio Christian, encouraged students to let go of their
former selves and take on their new identity as sons and daughters of God. In
order to take on this new identity, Murphy said that one must ... Read More
Gerald Murphy (’13) had one goal in mind for the campus of Ohio Christian
University as he spoke during Fall 2019 Revival Week, and that was to have an
encounter with Christ.
Murphy, a graduate of ... Read More
Ohio Christian Hosts Youth Explosion
Published: July 29, 2019
Ohio Christian University was happy to host the Youth Explosion camp on July
25 through 28. The camp was organized by the Marion Christian Center’s
Youth Ministry. The event was meant to provide the opportunity to experience
God in a real and impactful way.
“This year, the theme is that God made them special and how to discover
their gifts and talents to glorify Him” said Marion Christian Center Lead
Pastor Perry Payne.
Each day of camp kicked off with a student led devotional going over the
Beatitudes of Jesus followed by real life breakout sessions. After lunch,
students...
Read More
Read More
Ohio Christian University was happy to host the Youth Explosion camp on July
25 through 28. The camp was organized by the Marion Christian Center’s
Youth Ministry. The event was meant to provide the opportunity to experience
God in a real and impactful way.
“This year, the theme is that God made them special and how to discover
their gifts and talents to glorify Him” said Marion Christian ... Read More
Ohio Christian University was happy to host the Youth Explosion camp on July
25 through 28. The camp was organized by the Marion Christian Center’s
Youth Ministry. The event was meant to provide ... Read More
Kids on Campus Returns to OCU
Published: June 7, 2019
Ohio Christian University welcomed Kids on Campus — a summer enrichment
program for first through fourth graders that allows them to experience
academic life on a college campus, while improving their math, science,
art, and technology skills — for the 13th consecutive.
The program is a partnership with Pickaway WORKS and Ohio Christian
University with generous support from others as well.
Campus rarely lacks youthful exuberance, but having Kids on Campus brought a
child-rich energy. It wasn’t just the adults who enjoyed having the kids
around; the kids had fun too.
Carley Derexson,...
Read More
Read More
Ohio Christian University welcomed Kids on Campus — a summer enrichment
program for first through fourth graders that allows them to experience
academic life on a college campus, while improving their math, science,
art, and technology skills — for the 13th consecutive.
The program is a partnership with Pickaway WORKS and Ohio Christian
University with generous support from others as well. ... Read More
Ohio Christian University welcomed Kids on Campus — a summer enrichment
program for first through fourth graders that allows them to experience
academic life on a college campus, while improving ... Read More
Community Action Day - It was a GREAT Day!
Published: April 18, 2019
April 11th proved to not just be a nice day to be outside, but a great day to
serve the community of Circleville and surrounding areas. In its 20thyear,
Community Action Day brought out over 400 students to serve residents and
businesses who were in need. A tradition at Ohio Christian University,
classes were canceled, and students were able to go into the public and
implement the service attitude taught at OCU.
With help from Volunteer Economy and RPHF Solid Waste District, students were
equipped to effectively serve and feel prepared to do so. Students served in
various capacities...
Read More
Read More
April 11th proved to not just be a nice day to be outside, but a great day to
serve the community of Circleville and surrounding areas. In its 20thyear,
Community Action Day brought out over 400 students to serve residents and
businesses who were in need. A tradition at Ohio Christian University,
classes were canceled, and students were able to go into the public and
implement the service ... Read More
April 11th proved to not just be a nice day to be outside, but a great day to
serve the community of Circleville and surrounding areas. In its 20thyear,
Community Action Day brought out over 400 ... Read More
Archived Articles
Graduate Profile: Matt and Megan Harshbarger Team Up at Cornerstone Church
Published: November 18, 2019
In 2014 Matt and Megan Harshbarger graduated from OCU with degrees in Worship
Leadership. Today they serve together at Cornerstone Church in Akron, Ohio.
Matt is the Worship and Production Arts Director, and Megan is the Worship
and Creative Arts Director.
Megan produces and directs all services and special events, coordinating and
co-leading worship teams at Cornerstone’s Mogadore and Portage Lakes
campuses. Matt guides and directs worship and production teams for weekend
services and special events. Together they support Senior Pastor Brenda
Young and Mogadore Campus Lead Pastor...
Read More
Read More
In 2014 Matt and Megan Harshbarger graduated from OCU with degrees in Worship
Leadership. Today they serve together at Cornerstone Church in Akron, Ohio.
Matt is the Worship and Production Arts Director, and Megan is the Worship
and Creative Arts Director.
Megan produces and directs all services and special events, coordinating and
co-leading worship teams at Cornerstone’s Mogadore and ... Read More
In 2014 Matt and Megan Harshbarger graduated from OCU with degrees in Worship
Leadership. Today they serve together at Cornerstone Church in Akron, Ohio.
Matt is the Worship and Production Arts ... Read More
Student Profile: Tyler Forney Is Learning Service over Self
Published: August 27, 2019
Building safer houses, constructing new roofs, and laboring in Tennessee’s
hot summer sun isn’t routine for OCU Junior Tyler Forney. What is routine
is witnessing about Jesus, having a heart for Youth Ministry, and placing
others' needs above his for the glory of God.
Choosing to spend his summer with Service Over Self (SOS) in Memphis, Tyler,
along with 40 other young adults, spread the Good News to middle and high
school students and learned to be an SOS team leader.
An avid OCU community member, Tyler appears happy-go-lucky, working for SAC,
serving as a hall chaplain, and walking...
Read More
Read More
Building safer houses, constructing new roofs, and laboring in Tennessee’s
hot summer sun isn’t routine for OCU Junior Tyler Forney. What is routine
is witnessing about Jesus, having a heart for Youth Ministry, and placing
others' needs above his for the glory of God.
Choosing to spend his summer with Service Over Self (SOS) in Memphis, Tyler,
along with 40 other young adults, spread the ... Read More
Building safer houses, constructing new roofs, and laboring in Tennessee’s
hot summer sun isn’t routine for OCU Junior Tyler Forney. What is routine
is witnessing about Jesus, having a heart for ... Read More
Graduate Profile: Rev. David Dean
Published: August 27, 2019
Upon graduation in Theology from Ohio Christian University, David Dean
entered Olivet Nazarene University’s Church Management program and earned
his Master's degree. Since then David has been an evangelist in many
churches, camps, and colleges, as well as a servant in mission fields for 25
years.
Since 2015, Rev. Dean is serving as OCU’s Director of Church Relations and
Executive Director of the Toler Leadership Institutes. He is also the
appointed Chairman of the Commission on Evangelism and Discipleship for
Churches of Christ in Christian Union.
Previously, David was Senior Pastor...
Read More
Read More
Upon graduation in Theology from Ohio Christian University, David Dean
entered Olivet Nazarene University’s Church Management program and earned
his Master's degree. Since then David has been an evangelist in many
churches, camps, and colleges, as well as a servant in mission fields for 25
years.
Since 2015, Rev. Dean is serving as OCU’s Director of Church Relations and
Executive Director ... Read More
Upon graduation in Theology from Ohio Christian University, David Dean
entered Olivet Nazarene University’s Church Management program and earned
his Master's degree. Since then David has been an ... Read More
Students Serve on Summer Camp Teams
Published: August 27, 2019
The Ohio Christian University Summer Camp Teams have now wrapped up their
ministry for 2016. A group of 49 OCU students ministered at 27 camps this
summer in seven different states—Ohio, Kentucky, New York, Pennsylvania,
West Virginia, Georgia, and Indiana.
The students were hand-selected through an application and interview process
and received over 50 hours of training in preparation.
Student Camp Leader, Mekayla Deffenbaugh, shared her experience with camp
teams saying, "OCU Camp Teams have given me the opportunity to expand my
comfort zone, meet amazing people, test my patience,...
Read More
Read More
The Ohio Christian University Summer Camp Teams have now wrapped up their
ministry for 2016. A group of 49 OCU students ministered at 27 camps this
summer in seven different states—Ohio, Kentucky, New York, Pennsylvania,
West Virginia, Georgia, and Indiana.
The students were hand-selected through an application and interview process
and received over 50 hours of training in preparation. ... Read More
The Ohio Christian University Summer Camp Teams have now wrapped up their
ministry for 2016. A group of 49 OCU students ministered at 27 camps this
summer in seven different states—Ohio, Kentucky, ... Read More
University Recognized as a Top 20 Online Bachelor's of Ministry Degree Program
Published: November 18, 2019
Press Release from OnlineSchoolsCenter.com:
Ohio Christian University has been named a Top 20 Online Bachelor's of
Ministry Degree recipient for 2019.
Students in Ohio Christian University’s online Bachelor of Leadership and
Ministry program have many opportunities to direct the flow of their
education through a concentration that is most suitable to their needs, and
to work closely with a diverse group of peers and professors. For those
interested in earning the Master’s degree, OCU also offers an impressive
Master of Arts in Ministry program, with its own concentration options, to...
Read More
Read More
Press Release from OnlineSchoolsCenter.com:
Ohio Christian University has been named a Top 20 Online Bachelor's of
Ministry Degree recipient for 2019.
Students in Ohio Christian University’s online Bachelor of Leadership and
Ministry program have many opportunities to direct the flow of their
education through a concentration that is most suitable to their needs, and
to work closely with a ... Read More
Press Release from OnlineSchoolsCenter.com:
Ohio Christian University has been named a Top 20 Online Bachelor's of
Ministry Degree recipient for 2019.
Students in Ohio Christian University’s ... Read More
