In November 2025, four Americans hopped on a plane with Empower One and headed to South Sudan. They didn’t all have the same experience level. They didn’t all know what to expect. But they all said yes and that made all the difference.
Meet the Crew
This trip brought together:
- Jay Franklin – trip #2
- Trever Lasseter – trip #4
- Clay Gibson – first-ever trip
- Zach Potts – trip #14 (yes, fourteen)
Which means this was not a “you have to be an expert” kind of trip. It was a show up, be available, learn as you go kind of trip. First-timers fit right in. Veterans still learned something new.
What We Actually Did (Spoiler: A Lot)
No two days looked exactly the same, but here’s a snapshot of life on the ground:
- Evangelism near the Empower One compound and in the town center
- Road trips to villages, sometimes three hours each way, to support local churches
- Preaching at FBC KK and two village churches
- Morning Bible teaching before church (coffee helps)
- Wednesday night church teaching
- Evening teaching on Ebenezer Radio, reaching listeners far beyond the room
Some moments were bold and public. Others were quiet conversations that mattered just as much.
Graduation Day = Happy Tears
One of the highlights was the 2025 NEATS graduation. This wasn’t just a ceremony, it was a celebration of years of faithfulness. Jay Franklin got to encourage students he disciples all year long through WhatsApp. Trever Lasseter and Zach Potts reconnected with graduates they first met back in 2021 and others they regularly serve with in Juba. Watching those reunions happen was a reminder that this work is about long-term relationships, not quick wins.
Ministry Happens Everywhere
Not all ministry happened in churches. The team spent time visiting hospitals, praying, encouraging patients and families, and sharing hope in tender moments. These weren’t scheduled events. They were simply opportunities to love people well.
Behind the scenes, the team also spent three full days planning for the future. U.S. and African leaders worked together on the 2026 budget and on practical steps toward local financial responsibility and self-sustainability for Flagship locations. Important work. Real partnership. Shared ownership.
And Yes… There Was Fun
After long days, evenings often ended with local football (soccer) games, cheering, laughing, and being part of the community. These moments mattered just as much as the meetings and teaching. Ministry is about life together, not just the agenda.
So… Could You Go?
If you’re picturing yourself on this trip and thinking, Maybe I could do that, you’re probably right.
You don’t need all the answers. You don’t need to be a preacher. You just need a willing heart, a flexible attitude, and a yes.
This is what an Empower One trip looks like. And we’d love to see you on the next one.
