01/13/2026
In July, 2025 Grace Usher went on a mission trip to Peru. She and her team traveled nearly 3,000 miles to dance and share the Gospel. We talked with Grace about what it’s like to venture outside of your comfort zone and share God’s love through dance in a place far from home.
What were you hoping to gain personally from this trip?
My biggest goal was to grow spiritually. Whenever you are immersed in a new environment, there are challenges. When we rely on the Lord in the middle of those difficulties, He will use us to accomplish more than we ever thought possible.
How did you prepare for the trip?
We received pastoral training to help us minister and pray for others more effectively. And there were many dance rehearsals, often lasting 5 or 6 hours. Spending time in God’s Word and prayer every day was also essential. Preparation is so important for a trip like this.
What were some of your biggest challenges you faced?
The biggest challenge for me was fear. Reminding myself that the Lord had me there for a purpose was key.
It was also physically demanding. We danced nearly all day, everyday. And in between, we were setting up, tearing down, and traveling to the next performance. It’s tough to stay in an attitude of worship when you are so exhausted. But it teaches you to rely on the strength of the Lord.
Do you speak Spanish?
No, but we had a great translator with us. College students from a local church helped as well. It seems like a huge barrier but the Lord always makes a way.
What type of places were you dancing?
Street performances, churches, schools, gyms, and nursing homes. Dancing and spending time with children at the schools were my favorite.
Was there a moment from this trip that made a big impact on your life?
Yes! One of our dances is called “Healer”. The lyrics repeat “nothing is impossible for You”
After the dance, some people from the crowd brought a woman in a wheelchair to us. She had severe back pain and had been unable to stand for a long time. They asked us to pray for her. I gathered with a few other dancers and we prayed for God to heal her. As we prayed she began shaking. We finished praying, her family thanked us and returned to their seats.
After the performance, the woman in the wheelchair came and found us. She explained that the pain in her back was gone and amazed us all when she got up from her wheelchair. For the first time in years, she was able to stand. God healed her that night!
What would you tell someone who has been thinking about going on a mission trip but is unsure?
You don’t need a bunch of credentials for the Lord to use you. He will do more than you can imagine if you trust Him. The enemy will try to make you feel inadequate but don’t believe the lies. God created you for this moment and His plans are good. He will equip you with all you need when you rely on Him.
