News

We are delighted to announce that Graham and Kathryn Dunwell will be our new country managers for the Dominican Republic for our teams in 2024. If you want to know all about Graham and Kathryn here is all about them in their own words.

Who We Are

Graham and Kathryn are married with two children named Troy and Precious. They are a devoted Christian family, passionate about sharing the love of Jesus. They come from a background in hospitality; they had a café and catering business in Wakefield for several years, where they partnered with their local church to reach out to the lost and broken in the city. Some years later, through a miracle encounter, they connected with a Christian charity based in Manchester that helps people have a second chance in life through a holistic approach of bible study, discipleship, practical life skills, and job training. They moved to Manchester several years ago and used their experience to support the charity’s ongoing work; this God-given opportunity inspired them to pursue a full-time commitment in ministry.  

A Season Of Preparation

Kathryn is passionate about studying the Bible, so she attended university to study theology and deepen her understanding and relationship with God. Graham continued at the charity until COVID hit and the work was halted; during this time, he began to seek the Lord for his next season he felt led to join Kathryn at theological university. During Kathryn’s second year of university, she got placed with a church planting network in Manchester; they were recommended to apply for a church planting role in the city centre. Their theological training and practical experience in church planting have been a season of preparation for what God was calling them into next.

Their heart was getting stirred to work as missionaries overseas; after much prayer, speaking with their pastor, and decerning their next steps as a family, they felt called to the people of the Dominican Republic. An opportunity opened to work for Mission Direct as an overseas country manager.  

Following The Call

They will oversee missionary teams on short-term mission trips where they will engage with various local projects supporting children and low-income families. Education, food, and healthcare are significant issues in the Dominican Republic. They will live in Sosua, an area known for being the sex capital of the Caribbean, where they aim to help contribute to combating the sex industry and supporting the ongoing women’s ministries. Their responsibilities will include serving different partner ministries, leading missionary teams, and assisting with projects such as building schools, food programs, drug rehabilitation, accommodation, healthcare, job training, and education.

An Invitation To Make A Difference

The Dominican Republic and neighbouring Haiti have many significant needs, Graham, Kathryn, and their children are dedicated to positively impacting these communities with the love of Jesus.

“We would love you to be part of the journey. We are trusting God for more prayer and financial supporters with a heart to reach the lost and help change the future of many hurting individuals through the love of Jesus and extending God’s Kingdom. You can even join us in person and be practically involved in the missionary work and witness firsthand the difference you are making in the lives of others on one of Mission Directs mission trips.”

“We appreciate your prayers as we prepare for the mission field!”