It's Been Awhile

Hi, Dear Ones.  Thanks for continuing to check in on us.  It has been way too long since I've posted anything.  We are in the thick of trying to re-settle into American life.  American life is so, so busy.  Maybe that is partly why I've not blogged in awhile.  Also, we are living the common American life now.  No amazing missionary stories to post.

So, we are currently at a DAR (Debriefing and Renewal) conference here in Palmer Lake, Colorado at Mission Training International.  This is the link if you want more info: http://www.mti.org.  This is very good for all five of us.  They are helping each of us (even Annaleigh) to process what we've been through in Ghana, what it is like to come back to US after having experiences in another country.  So very good.  For those on furlough or moving back to US for a longer period of time, we HIGHLY recommend this if your sending agency does not do this for you.  Or if you, like us, do not have a sending agency.

It's such a blessing to be here with other missionaries who are going through the same process right now.  Many are in transition, trying to find the next step the Lord has for them.  All of us have had many common experiences.  We are so thankful our missionary friends, Sarah and Nathan Esala, told us about this conference.  They are here with us!

MTI also have training programs for those going to the field.  Please consider this for yourself or a missionary you know.

Moving on to some terribly sad news, friends (Brad and Jill Hixon) from Paul Ann Baptist Church in San Angelo, Texas had a dream for around 15 years of going to the mission field.  Other friends, Mark and Alicia Raley, had already gone over about 3 years ago.  They are all living in South Africa and going into Mozambique to minister to the people there.  The Hixons left in January for Africa after taking many short-term trips there over the years.  Caitlin Holt went with the Hixons to teach their children while Jill did ministry. This was a dream of Caitlin's for a long time, as well.

We got word last night that Jill passed away in her sleep due to a blood clot.  So very sad.  Please be in prayer especially for Brad, their five children in the home, and their grown daughter and her family.  As well as the many other friends and families who are touched by this tragedy.  My heart is so sad for them all.  We are in prayer for all of these folks and ask that if you feel led, that you would do the same.