09/04/2026
🛠️ : UKANDU 2003!
This week, we’re heading back to 2003 and the inaugural year of Chicago UKANDU, Trinity’s annual summer service mission trip!
As you can tell from the photos, there was no shortage of ways to serve—painting, landscaping, community outreach, prayer, worship, and plenty of teamwork. And, of course, UKANDU has always been about much more than the projects. It’s about serving together, growing in faith, and building relationships along the way.
❤️ We’ll always remember with full hearts Mark Heidloff’s wonderful gift for bringing everyone together in song.
There was also some great family participation that first year—you go, Backsmeiers! And remember, this was before cell phones were in everyone’s pocket, so Mary and Crystal kept tabs on the crews with their trusty . 📻
And then there’s that photo of a certain Trinity Elder who apparently had some pretty impressive dance moves. 💃🕺 Who knew?!
From that first UKANDU in 2003 to the 159 participants serving this summer, what an incredible tradition of faith and service it has become.
Do you recognize anyone in these photos? Were you part of that very first UKANDU crew? Share your memories below!
