Missions Upside Down (MUD), a six-part series offering practical insights into Christian missions, has been acknowledged by a range of film festivals and competitions.
Just months after its release, (MUD) is already making a significant impact—receiving accolades from both secular competitions and Christian film festivals. The six-part video series, created to equip Christians with a broader perspective and practical resources for missions, went live earlier this year and continues to draw recognition for its quality and impact.
MUD has been recognized not only for its high production values but also for its bold, refreshing take on global missions. With content that is both compelling and valuable, MUD is quickly becoming a standout resource in faith-based media.
MUD has earned multiple awards across well-respected competitions judged by peers and media professionals from around the country and world:
“These are all secular competitions with judges from across the country and world,” says Mark Volkers, instructor of digital media production at Ƶand co-producer of MUD. “This recognition speaks volumes about the quality of the work.”
The series has also been recognized at several Christian film festivals:
“In these festivals, being chosen as an ‘Official Selection’ already puts you among a very select group,” says Volkers. “From there, additional awards—like Best Editing or People’s Choice—are decided by festival judges.”
According to Aaron Baart, chief of staff at Ƶand co-producer of MUD, the series stands out not only for its technical execution but also for the challenging questions it raises. “The cinematography, production value, and editing are being noticed and appreciated by professionals in the field. But in terms of content, we’re reclaiming the importance of missions while examining the traditional paradigm—especially the model of sending Western missionaries abroad. It’s that shift in framing that people seem to be finding most compelling.”
With a growing list of honors and a message that resonates across generations and cultures, Missions Upside Down is proving itself a timely and thought-provoking contribution to the global conversation on missions and God’s redemptive plan for all corners of the world.
To learn more, view the series and resources, or find a full list of MUD’s recognitions and awards, visit .
About Ƶ
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Ƶ equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Ƶis a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.
Recognized for his global impact in Reformed teaching and ministry, Rev. Dr. Jay Shim, professor emeritus of theology at Ƶ, was named a 2025 distinguished alumnus by Calvin Theological Seminary.
Related Events