July 2026, During our learning trip to Honduras, I had the opportunity to experience firsthand the mission partnership between Lake Grove Presbyterian Church and Agros International.
Alongside Laura Fuller, Director of Discipleship Ministries at Lake Grove, and a cohort of pastors and church leaders from partner congregations, we explored the work of Agros at one of its newest development sites, La Fortaleza.
We met with the remarkable Agros staff, visited with farmers and families who are already beginning to cultivate the land, and spent meaningful time with community leaders, pastors, and other faith leaders from the surrounding villages. Seeing Agros’ model of sustainable agriculture, intentional community building, and asset-based community development in action offered a powerful glimpse of what long-term, transformational mission can look like.
For me, this experience was especially meaningful because it connected deeply with my own background in international development before entering pastoral ministry. More than anything, I was inspired by the conversations we shared as church leaders about what faithful development looks like—how communities can be strengthened not only economically, but spiritually, relationally, and culturally.
Agros demonstrates that sustainable development is most effective when it honors the God-given dignity, gifts, and leadership already present within a community.
Walking alongside farmers, local leaders, pastors, and the dedicated Agros team reminded me that Christian mission is at its best when it cultivates both hope and opportunity, embodying the love of Christ through relationships that empower communities to flourish for generations.
Greg Allen-Pickett,Senior Pastor of Lake Grove Presbyterian Church.