Summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro
We are proud to announce that from January 16–24, we will be summiting the world’s largest free-standing mountain, an unforgettable expedition reminding us that just like a healthy marriege it takes one strong step at a time.
How Summit Strong was born
At 63, Melisa reached a defining moment. Instead of accepting limits, she chose discomfort and committed to living without limiting beliefs, beginning with her health.
In July 2025, she completed a Mud Run — not because it was easy, but because she refused to quit. That choice marked the beginning of a new direction.
Encouraged by her son, Melisa continued forward. In September 2026, she completed her first 10-mile trail race, proving this journey was about more than fitness — it was about growth, courage, and perseverance.
That’s when Steve realized this was no longer a solo pursuit. He chose to join her, and together they began asking a new question:
What kind of challenge would require faith, endurance, and full commitment?
While on a ministry trip in California, Melisa met Cheryl Wolfinger, founder of the International Sports Federation and a world-record holder in the Highland Games. Cheryl shared her story of attempting to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, turning back just 1,000 feet from the top due to health complications.
The mountain still called to her. She believed the climb was possible — and worth it. After prayer and continued training, Steve and Melisa felt the invitation to say yes. When Melisa reached out to Cheryl, she learned Cheryl was ready to attempt the summit again. In that moment, everything aligned.
At Bridge Builder Marriage Ministry, the parallels are clear. Marriage requires endurance. Progress can be slow. The climb is often steep — and quitting can feel easier than pressing on. But the view from the summit is always worth it.
In January 2027, we will summit Mt. Kilimanjaro to celebrate 15 years of building strong marriages and invest in the future of families. We climb as a living picture of what lasting marriages require — one committed step at a time. And we invite you to be part of the climb.
This is not just for us
We invite you to join us in taking on this challenge as a powerful reminder of what it means to build a healthy, long-lasting marriage. This climb is more than an event — it’s an opportunity to step into something that requires commitment, endurance, and the willingness to grow together.
We are opening this invitation and would love the opportunity to talk with you more about the event, answer your questions, and help you discern if this journey is right for you.
How to get involved
Join the climb
Step onto the mountain with us and take part in a real, physical challenge that requires preparation, endurance, and commitment. Experience the journey firsthand alongside others who are choosing to press forward together.
Help support
Not everyone is called to climb, but everyone can help make the journey possible. By supporting the climb, you invest in the mission of building strong, lasting marriages and healthy families.
Find out more
If you’re curious about the climb or discerning your next step, we invite you to learn more. Ask questions, explore the details, and discover how you can be part of Summit Strong.