Israel Martinez never imagined that a simple internet search would change the trajectory of his church’s global impact. As pastor of Redeemer Irving—a small, mission-driven church in Texas—he always hoped to reach people across the world. 

Exploring Acts 29’s online church directory opened his eyes to how his local congregation could actively engage in the Great Commission beyond their church walls.

A heart for missions from the start

Israel planted Redeemer Irving during the COVID-19 pandemic—a time when churches everywhere had to rethink how to engage their congregations and communities. 

For Israel, that period of uncertainty only strengthened his resolve. As a Puerto Rican who grew up in multiple places, he knew how to adapt. His diverse upbringing fueled his passion for the nations, and he wanted his church to share that vision.

“We’re a small church, and we’re in a place that isn’t super churchy,” Israel explains. “But my heart as a pastor is to put God’s heart for the nations in front of people. And church-to-church partnerships within Acts 29 are a key way that we do that.”

“We’re a small church, and we’re in a place that isn’t super churchy,” Israel explains. “But my heart as a pastor is to put God's heart for the nations in front of people. And church-to-church partnerships within Acts 29 are a key way that… Click Para Twittear

Redeemer Irving sits in a diverse community with neighbors from around the world. Israel saw a chance not just to reach them locally but to show how to serve the global church.

A surprise connection made a difference

Curious about how he could connect with churches abroad, Israel went to the Acts 29 website and started exploring. That’s when he found a church in Germany called Kirche Für Aschaffenburg, pastored by Dominic Hildebrandt. This discovery was especially meaningful because the church was in the same town where Israel was born and lived as a young child!

“That connection felt like a no-brainer,” Israel says. “I reached out, and before I knew it, we were talking regularly, building a relationship, and exploring ways our churches could support each other.” Israel and his family invited the Hilderbrant family to their home for vacation and church planting networking. Dominic, his wife, and three kids took them up on the offer. The families enjoyed the time of rich gospel community together and left as close friends.

Inspired by this experience, Israel continued looking for more partnerships. 

That’s when he zeroed in on Colombia. Through Acts 29, he connected with Pastor Juan Hernandez of Rescue Mission Church and Pastor Ruben Pana of Iglesia Cristiana Alumbra. 

What started as a few conversations soon turned into something much bigger.

Strengthening churches through theological training

Israel visited Colombia and was struck by the incredible work the churches were doing. They had started a seminary and were raising up leaders, which is rare in a country that generally lacks solid theological training. They also knew with the right support, they could do more. 

“Acts 29 serves as a bridge for that,” Israel explains. “These churches are eager to learn and train up leaders, but they need support.”

In Columbia, it’s common practice for churches to charge for basics like classes or baptisms. The Acts 29 churches there want to operate differently, but they need resources.  We get to be part of changing that,” Israel adds.

While Redeemer Irving does provide financial support, Israel emphasizes that true partnership is about much more than money.

“Pastors often feel isolated,” Israel says. “They think that Americans don’t understand what they’re doing. And honestly, sometimes that’s true. But it’s not that hard to build relationships. Send an email. Get on a Zoom call. Invite them into your home. These are now my brothers.”

Every year, pastors from Colombia visit Israel’s home in Texas. They stay for free, share meals, and build relationships with other Acts 29 churches in the area. “We try to send them off with personal gifts, financial support—whatever we can. But more than that, we’ve built a deep brotherhood. It’s a real partnership of spirit and truth.”

A two-way impact

These partnerships are transforming churches overseas while also shaping Redeemer Irving.

Israel highlights three key ways that global partnerships benefit churches in the U.S.:

1. Expanding the mission: Churches, regardless of size, can contribute to the Great Commission in ways that extend beyond their local community.
2. Connecting with the nations: Hosting international pastors helps churches connect with global missions and gain a broader perspective.
3. Growing together: Churches can strengthen each other, build deeper relationships, and fuel church planting through shared experiences. 

“The harvest is plentiful,” Israel references Matthew 9:37. “And in many places like Colombia, the laborers are not as few as you might think. They just need partners.”

Israel’s story proves that engaging in global missions doesn’t have to be complicated. “Pick one or two regions and commit,” he advises. “You don’t have to be an expert. Just be a willing participant.”

For Redeemer Irving, that has meant monthly Zoom calls, ongoing financial support, and simply showing up for their global partners.

Israel’s journey shows that any church—big or small—can make a difference. 

Acts 29’s church partnerships help churches support each other and grow in the gospel. If your church isn’t yet engaged in a global partnership, now is the time to start. 

Learn more at acts29.com/church-to-church and take the first step in partnering with churches around the world.