Bud and Jessica Houston have been married for 17 years and are raising five children—Cash (14), Quinn (12), Cannon (9), Carsen (6), and Caris (3). Their story is shaped by a passion to see gospel transformation among the world’s most unevangelized people groups, beginning right here in North America. Although Bud and Jessica have not served long-term overseas, they are deeply invested in reaching global gateway cities—places where unreached peoples gather, connect, and carry the Gospel back to their home countries. Together, they are equipping teams, training believers, and creating pathways for the least reached to encounter Christ. 

The Houston’s are committed to mobilizing and equipping the Church to reach least-reached people groups in North America, with ripple effects across the globe. Through training, data management, and hands-on ministry, they help catalyze disciple-making movements and the planting of healthy, indigenous churches. 

Equipping & Mobilizing Teams 

• Recruit, train, and encourage ministry teams to engage unreached peoples living in North America. 
• Provide cross-cultural discipleship opportunities for teams serving in local apartment communities. 

Global Data & Resources 

• Direct People Group Data at Joshua Project, curating and analyzing information to support churches, organizations, and individuals in strategic engagement. 
• Manage UPGNorthAmerica.com and host the Let’s Talk Diaspora Podcast to raise awareness and mobilize the Church. 

Local Ministry Impact 

• Partner with Texas Baptists through the Multi-Housing and House Church Ministry to start organic churches in homes and neighborhoods. 
• Equip and mentor local teams as they share the Gospel, disciple new believers, and form communities of faith.