Children in Missionary Families: Stories of Pain, Hope, and Resilience
The 2026 Ralph D. Winter Memorial Lectureship will focus on the lived experiences of children in missionary families—often called Missionary Kids (MKs)—and the long-term personal, cultural, and spiritual dynamics that shape their lives.
Hosted by the Ralph D. Winter Research Center, a joint project of Frontier Ventures and William Carey International University, this year’s lectureship gathers researchers, practitioners, and people-care leaders to examine both the challenges and the long-term strengths found among children raised in missionary contexts.
In recognition of Ralph Winter’s 100th birthday and the multi-generational legacy of mission engagement within his own family, the 2026 lectures will reflect carefully on pain, formation, resilience, and faith development among missionary children—drawing from research, case studies, and lived experience.
About our Topic
The experience of being a kid sent to a mission field is unique and quite complex. And the fact of the matter is that many adults and organizations around these kids aren’t really sure what to do with them. Should we think of them as kids whose parents are missionaries? Is there also some sense in which the kids are missionaries themselves? Are they a problem to be managed? Workers to be supported? In addition to these questions, Missionary Kids also often end up with an awkward relationship with the concept of a “home culture,” not entirely sure where they belong. This also leads to some very divergent faith walks, even among siblings. Happily, the experiences of kids in missionary families have been getting increased attention from mission researchers and organizations in the last few decades.
This year, in honor of Ralph Winter’s 100th Birthday and the long heritage of mission engagement in his children and grandchildren, the Ralph D Winter Research Center is spending time reflecting on the experiences of children in missionary families. We will be presenting research and insights from experts in people care and develeopment and also gathering several thought-leaders in the field.
Selected Paper & Session Topics
Sessions will address topics such as:
A biblical understanding of children in missionary families.
Understanding the divergent experiences of missionary kids within sibling groups.
Navigating special circumstances (physical and educational disabilities, adoption, single parenting, etc.)
Developing core skills in caring for missionary kids.
Schedule Overview
All sessions will be recorded and made available to registered participants.
Thursday, February 5
7:00–9:00 PM
Friday, February 6
9:00 AM–9:00 PM
Lunch and dinner provided
Saturday, February 7
9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Travel & Lodging Information
Lodging
On-campus housing
Participants may reserve rooms at the Asbury Inn.
Phone: (859) 858-2156
Mention the Ralph Winter Lectureship to receive the conference rate.
Early booking is strongly recommended.
Off-campus options
Wilmore, Kentucky offers a range of nearby VRBOs, Airbnbs, and bed-and-breakfast accommodations.
Air Travel
The closest airport is Lexington Blue Grass Airport (LEX).
Alternate airports include:
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
(Both approximately 1.5 hours away)
Registration
Registration for the 2026 Ralph D. Winter Memorial Lectureship is handled through the Ralph D. Winter Research Center.