A Night of Unity, Faith, and Impact: Global Ministries 30th Anniversary Gala
The Global Ministries 30th Anniversary Gala held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Union Station in Indianapolis, Indiana, brought together friends, global partners, and supporters for an inspiring evening celebrating three decades of “One Mission, One Calling.”
The evening highlighted four meaningful themes: Celebrate, Witness, Reflect, and Invite, and was emceed by Rafael Sánchez, a multiple Emmy Award-winning anchor and reporter in Indianapolis at FOX59/CBS4.
CELEBRATE: Opening the Evening
The celebration kicked off with a high-energy cultural performance by the Indiana Association of Chinese-Americans. Following the opening showcase, Global Ministries Co-Executives Rev. Shari Prestemon and Rev. Dr. LaMarco Antonio Cable welcomed friends representing both denominations as well as international guests and supporters. The evening began with welcoming remarks and an invocation during which Board Presidents welcomed attendees and led the opening prayer as we looked toward the future while honoring the past. The 30th Anniversary Committee Co-Chairs highlighted the biblical foundation of the work with scripture readings shared in both English and Spanish. Guests enjoyed dinner while watching regional video vignettes sharing work across Global Ministries’ five regions.
WITNESS: Honoring Ecumenical Partnerships
The program centered on the unique partnership between the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ (UCC). Denominational leaders and Ecumenical Officers took the stage to express the significance of two faith traditions standing united in one shared mission. Co-Executives offered context on thirty years of history while laying out the vision for the next thirty years, honoring current and past staff and mission workers in the room.
REFLECT: Impact, Legacy, and Looking Ahead
The final portion of the evening included an energetic performance by Laya, an Indian performance group. Special guest Dr. Joyce Larko-Steiner (Program Director from the Christian Council of Ghana) shared powerful insights on what genuine, walk-alongside global partnership truly looks like on the ground. Generous donors and long-time legacy supporters who have sustained Global Ministries were honored through the Pearl Society and Donor Recognition. Reverend Dr. Howard and Reverend Darlene Goodrich were spotlighted in a video for their contributions to Global Ministries. Looking to the future, speakers shared more on the next generation of global mission work, embodying the vision for the future.
INVITE: Launching into the Future
As the program came to a close, guests were invited to join in supporting the future of Global Ministries. All present joined together in song for a joyful rendition of “This Little Light of Mine,” opening the floor for a celebratory night of dancing.
View photos of the evening: Gala Photos