From February 28 to March 1, Life Pacific University East hosted its Spring Preview, themed Go Global, in partnership with the African Awareness Conference at The Bridge Foursquare Church. Together, we welcomed around 170 guests from across the globe, creating a dynamic and transformative experience for students, leaders, and ministry partners.
The event’s global reach was truly inspiring, with students, prospective students, leaders, speakers, and worship leaders representing Uganda, Rwanda, Egypt, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, South Africa, France, Portugal, Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Cote d’Ivoire. The diversity and passion of these students and leaders reflected the growing impact of Life East in equipping global ministry leaders.
Beyond the international representation, what stood out the most was the powerful move of God throughout the weekend. “Seeing students respond to the call to ministry at the altar was an unforgettable experience,” said Sara Huson, VP of Enrollment Management and Marketing at LPU. “These moments remind us why we do what we do—to empower and equip future leaders for Kingdom impact.”
A Defining Moment for Global Ministry
Will and Juniece Fillingham, pastors of The Bridge Foursquare Church, shared the impact of the African Awareness Conference, which ran alongside Preview East:
“The African Awareness Conference was an unforgettable and transformative experience! Centered around the theme ‘Kingdom Vision—Global Mission,’ the atmosphere was alive with vision and purpose, from powerful learning moments with global leaders to strategic partnerships with FMI Regional Representatives. We were honored to empower leaders from 11 nations across four continents and connect them with our American Foursquare pastors, forging relationships that will impact generations. Adding to the momentum, over 100 university, college, and high school students participated, with more than half passionately answering the call to global missions, boldly saying ‘yes!’ to the journey ahead. This was a defining moment, and we know its impact will resonate for years to come!”
Strengthening Partnerships and Expanding Vision
For many at LPU East, this event was not only about engaging with prospective students but also about strengthening partnerships and expanding the university’s reach.
“The thing that impacted me the most was the increasing partnership,” said Ryan Lytton, Assistant Professor & Director of Academic Services. “It feels almost like coming out of a fog—things that were always there are drawing into focus. We’ve got former students returning, new professors joining us, and new partnerships forming. It’s all very exciting.”
The Preview experience also impacted current students, partner pastors, and local university attendees. Virginia Tech and Radford University students joined our application party, where they learned more about LPU’s undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs.
“The campus atmosphere was vibrant, filled with global leaders, FMI leaders, partner pastors, and students from local universities,” said Dr. Gretchen Abney, Campus Life Director. “The highlight of the weekend was seeing multiple students receive confirmations of their ministry calling and being drawn to global missions and greater cultural awareness.”
Kingdom Partnerships for Global Impact
This weekend at Life East showcased one of the unique values of our denomination: Kingdom Partnerships.
“Life East is beyond excited to partner with ministries around the world so we can continue to transform students into leaders who are sent out to advance God’s Kingdom across the globe,” said Mia Rinehart, Admissions Counselor.
For more information about Life Pacific University and upcoming events, visit lifepacific.edu.
