Our church, Rainbow Forest Baptist, was such a huge blessing to us while we were on the mission field, and upon our return. They provided us with temporary housing in their missions house, which was completely furnished. We can't begin to describe to you what a blessing that was to come into a home where we had everything we needed (if you've been on the mission field, then you know what I'm talking about!)

 

Ed was very fortunate to obtain a position with his former employer, and began work as a Software Developer in August 2002. Shortly afterwards, we purchased our own home, and starting moving again... the sixth time in three years!  We instantly got involved in our church, and the various ministries there. Ed is the worship leader for our youth, and Cheryl is the director of our children's ministry. Cheryl has also been working part-time as a receptionist in our church office.

 

The children have adjusted to life in the States, though at times we all miss Africa dearly. Their three years there have changed them and their worldview is so much broader than it was before. They have seen poverty at its worst, and have been God's hands to help meet the needs of others. They have seen God's handiwork across the Great Rift Valley, and have experienced wildlife closer than even most zoo keepers. They have seen drought nearly devastate a local community, and have rejoiced with their Kenyan neighbors when God chose to open up the heavens and replenish the earth with life-giving rain. They have made life-long friendships with people from different cultures, and have gotten a taste of what heaven will be like, as every tribe, every tongue and nation will join in harmonious praise to God. They have brought those experiences 'home' with them, and have shared them with their friends here.... we pray that God will use them and their experiences to change their worlds.

 

Continue to pray for us as we begin this next journey that God has planned for us. We are not sure what the future holds, but we know that God holds the future. We desire to please Him in all that we do, and to remain willing to go (or stay), wherever He leads.

 

We have had the privilege of hosting several former students from RVA, and we feel that God has given us a ministry of hospitality, at least for now. There are always opportunities for short-term missions trips, and we expect to participate in those both as individuals and as a family.

 

Take a look through our photo galleries, and see some of the incredible sights that we have seen over the past few years. To God be the glory, great things He has done!

 

In Christ alone,

Ed, Cheryl, Aaron, Matthew and Calise