This spring break, seven Midway University students, joined by FCA leader Emily Woodside and two of her daughters, stepped into this calling—serving a community in Eastern Kentucky and living out the message of Romans 10.
The group traveled to Harlan County to partner once again with Meridzo Ministries, where Midway’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter first served on its inaugural mission trip last year. Reconnecting with missionaries on the ground, the team spent the week supporting ongoing ministry efforts through hands-on service projects across the property and participating in community outreach events.
Their work went beyond physical labor. In a region still feeling the economic impact of the coal industry’s decline, encouragement, presence, and connection matter deeply. The Midway students came ready to serve—and to share the love of Christ. Throughout the week, they demonstrated compassion, humility, and boldness in their faith, embracing opportunities to step outside their comfort zones.
Each student encountered moments of growth—times that challenged them, stretched them, and ultimately changed them. Ask any participant, and they will tell you the same thing: the chance to serve something greater than themselves, while building meaningful connections with their peers, was life-changing.
Perhaps most powerful is this: while many college students spend spring break in rest or recreation, these students chose to say “yes.” Yes to service. Yes to community. Yes to going where they felt called.
The impact of this trip was made possible through the generosity of many supporters. Midway University Student Affairs provided transportation, the Student Government Association contributed funding, and the Central Kentucky FCA Collegiate Director covered lodging expenses. Additional support came from local churches—one through a financial offering and another by providing necessary equipment—as well as a generous donation from a student’s family. Because of these combined efforts, the trip was fully funded, removing barriers and making this opportunity accessible to all participants.
The Midway FCA team is deeply grateful for this outpouring of support. More importantly, they are thankful for the opportunity to be sent—to serve others, to grow in faith, and to share the hope of Christ with an incredible community.
Members participating included Zech McGahan, Greg Anderson, Colton Cox, Mary Helen Hickey, Hannah Holden, Abbie Cook, and Tori Belcher, along with Emily Woodside and her two daughters Avery and Isabella.
