Global Missions
Making disciples who make disciples.
HUNGARY
In 2021, Monterey became the primary sponsor of John and Susan Cooper in their calling to the European continent. They are currently based in Budapest, Hungary. Having formerly served in Croatia, John and Susan now work with Team Expansion to build disciple-making movements across Europe through their Media to Movement platform. The Coopers also practiced ministry in Austin and Abilene and are Texas natives, along with their children Nash and Van. Susan grew up in the Monterey family. Learn more about the Coopers here.
PORTUGAL
Landon and Courtney Shuman, along with their four children, relocated to Portugal in December 2025 after more than a decade of ministry in Tanzania. Monterey has partnered with the Shumans since the beginning of their work and became their primary supporting church in 2021. Landon is pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Lisbon while the family continues building relationships with local churches, ministry leaders, and missionaries throughout the region.
Courtney, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LMSW), provides counseling to missionaries and ministry families while developing partnerships that expand access to quality member care for cross-cultural workers, particularly those serving in under-resourced contexts. Together, the Shumans are committed to strengthening the global Church through counseling, encouragement, and Christ-centered relationships.
KENYA
Building on the foundation established by Jim and Phyllis Beck in 1985, a vibrant network of Kenyan churches and ministries now serves the Giriama people through local Christian leadership. Today, these ministries include a Bible college, primary and secondary schools, healthcare, clean water initiatives, sustainable farming, support for HIV+ mothers, and other Christ-centered outreach that continues transforming lives across generations.
Two ministry hubs—Uzima in Malindi and Mahenzo in rural Kenya—anchor this work. Monterey now partners directly with Kenyan leaders, helping equip the next generation of ministers through a Bible college extension of Nairobi Great Commission School (NGCS), while investing in the churches, schools, and ministries they faithfully lead.
NORTH AFRICA
Monterey partners with long-term workers serving in North Africa through relationship-centered ministry among communities with limited access to the gospel. Their work emphasizes hospitality, disciple-making, leadership development, and walking alongside those exploring spirituality and faith in Jesus.
For the safety of those involved, we share only limited public details. Please pray for open hearts, lasting relationships, and the growth of healthy, multiplying communities of faith.
OLIVE BRANCH
Olive Branch International’s mission is to introduce people to the Gospel by compassionately ministering to their physical, emotional and spiritual needs by creating opportunities for individuals to use their skills and gifts to serve God by serving others. Olive Branch hosts a variety of short-term mission trips each year for universities and church members. Monterey has partnered with Olive Branch in countries from El Salvador to Peru, Nicaragua, Guyana, and Uganda, ranging from medical missions to kids’ summer camps, from collecting shoes for orphans to supporting the reduction of maternal mortality in undeveloped countries. Their primary work is currently in Peru and Nicaragua.