Dear Friends and Faithful Supporters,
I am writing to you with a heart overflowing with gratitude and awe as I reflect on the incredible two weeks I spent on mission in Budapest, Hungary with Redeemer College Ministry. From May 4th to 16th, our team was immersed in a journey marked by worship, connection, and an ever-deepening awareness of God’s presence. None of this would have been possible without your generous support, prayers, and encouragement—you truly helped make this mission a reality.
Our mission in Budapest centered around two key goals: to build authentic community amongst our team and those we encountered, above all, to behold and worship God in every moment. From the moment we arrived and transitioned into Budapest, we were welcomed by Bekah and her team at Danube International Church. Bekah’s story—growing up as a missionary kid in Ukraine and now serving international students in Budapest—set the tone for what we would experience: a mosaic of backgrounds, faith journeys, and opportunities to witness God’s hand at work. Touring the church, Selah coffee shop, and spaces dedicated to student ministry gave us a glimpse of the vibrant community we would soon engage with.
A highlight of the trip was “America Night” at Selah, where we transformed the space into a American themed hub of music, food, and conversation. We shared BBQ, Mac n’ cheese, Corn on the cob, and laughter, danced to the Cotton Eyed Joe, and, most importantly, connected with students from Egypt, Kenya, Ireland, and even Alabama. Conversations ranged from sharing testimonies to hearing about the challenges and joys of pursuing faith in new environments. It was humbling to realize that for many of these students, this event was their first exposure to such a community of faith and joy. The Lord’s presence was palpable in those moments of connection.
Later in the week, we journeyed to Velence for the Királyság Gyerektábor (Kingdom’s Children Camp), where high school students practiced English with us while we shared cultural stories and, most importantly, the love of Christ. Whether through group discussions, dance-offs, or quiet moments sitting on the grass with Hungarian students like Bia and Ana, I was struck by the profound truth that God had orchestrated every detail. I was overwhelmed by the realization that He had known long before that I would be sitting in that circle, listening and sharing life with these precious girls.
Throughout this trip, God taught me invaluable lessons about worship and mission. I learned that glorifying God is not just about big events or grand gestures—it’s found in the small, everyday acts of love and service, even something as simple as sweeping the floor. I also came to understand the importance of being present, of embracing conversations as opportunities to plant seeds, and of trusting that God is the one who brings growth. A shift occurred in my understanding of missions: it is not always about doing more or going to the most remote places, but sometimes it is about being still, being faithful, and showing up with a heart ready to listen and serve.
I pressed into conversations that were intimidating at first, engaging with students on campuses, in coffee shops, and even in a library, sharing my testimony and offering prayer. These encounters were not always easy, but I left them with a deep trust that God’s Spirit was at work in hearts, even when I could not see the immediate fruit.
Looking back, I am humbled and filled with gratitude—for the chance to witness God moving in Budapest, for the friendships that were forged, and for the transformation that took place in my own heart. Thank you for believing in this mission, for standing beside me through prayer and financial support. Your partnership has made an eternal impact, not just in the lives of those we encountered in Budapest, but in my own walk with Christ. I invite you to continue praying with me for the students at Danube International Church and for the seeds of faith planted during our time in Hungary.
With gratitude,
Kelsey Lundgaard
I am writing to you with a heart overflowing with gratitude and awe as I reflect on the incredible two weeks I spent on mission in Budapest, Hungary with Redeemer College Ministry. From May 4th to 16th, our team was immersed in a journey marked by worship, connection, and an ever-deepening awareness of God’s presence. None of this would have been possible without your generous support, prayers, and encouragement—you truly helped make this mission a reality.
Our mission in Budapest centered around two key goals: to build authentic community amongst our team and those we encountered, above all, to behold and worship God in every moment. From the moment we arrived and transitioned into Budapest, we were welcomed by Bekah and her team at Danube International Church. Bekah’s story—growing up as a missionary kid in Ukraine and now serving international students in Budapest—set the tone for what we would experience: a mosaic of backgrounds, faith journeys, and opportunities to witness God’s hand at work. Touring the church, Selah coffee shop, and spaces dedicated to student ministry gave us a glimpse of the vibrant community we would soon engage with.
A highlight of the trip was “America Night” at Selah, where we transformed the space into a American themed hub of music, food, and conversation. We shared BBQ, Mac n’ cheese, Corn on the cob, and laughter, danced to the Cotton Eyed Joe, and, most importantly, connected with students from Egypt, Kenya, Ireland, and even Alabama. Conversations ranged from sharing testimonies to hearing about the challenges and joys of pursuing faith in new environments. It was humbling to realize that for many of these students, this event was their first exposure to such a community of faith and joy. The Lord’s presence was palpable in those moments of connection.
Later in the week, we journeyed to Velence for the Királyság Gyerektábor (Kingdom’s Children Camp), where high school students practiced English with us while we shared cultural stories and, most importantly, the love of Christ. Whether through group discussions, dance-offs, or quiet moments sitting on the grass with Hungarian students like Bia and Ana, I was struck by the profound truth that God had orchestrated every detail. I was overwhelmed by the realization that He had known long before that I would be sitting in that circle, listening and sharing life with these precious girls.
Throughout this trip, God taught me invaluable lessons about worship and mission. I learned that glorifying God is not just about big events or grand gestures—it’s found in the small, everyday acts of love and service, even something as simple as sweeping the floor. I also came to understand the importance of being present, of embracing conversations as opportunities to plant seeds, and of trusting that God is the one who brings growth. A shift occurred in my understanding of missions: it is not always about doing more or going to the most remote places, but sometimes it is about being still, being faithful, and showing up with a heart ready to listen and serve.
I pressed into conversations that were intimidating at first, engaging with students on campuses, in coffee shops, and even in a library, sharing my testimony and offering prayer. These encounters were not always easy, but I left them with a deep trust that God’s Spirit was at work in hearts, even when I could not see the immediate fruit.
Looking back, I am humbled and filled with gratitude—for the chance to witness God moving in Budapest, for the friendships that were forged, and for the transformation that took place in my own heart. Thank you for believing in this mission, for standing beside me through prayer and financial support. Your partnership has made an eternal impact, not just in the lives of those we encountered in Budapest, but in my own walk with Christ. I invite you to continue praying with me for the students at Danube International Church and for the seeds of faith planted during our time in Hungary.
With gratitude,
Kelsey Lundgaard