MARK
I was saved at an early age and in fourth grade, God began a special working in my heart. I surrendered and committed to serve the Lord full-time, anywhere that he led me. Soon after, I began reading a biography on the life of Jim Elliot, missionary to Ecuador, and was captivated by the story and sacrifice. I believe that God used that book in my life to show me the need of Ecuador. A short time later, I felt God calling me specifically to Ecuador through the preaching of God’s Word at my church. From that day forward, I purposed that I would be a missionary in Ecuador.
In high school, I felt it was important to begin preparing to follow God’s call. I began learning Spanish, the main language spoken in Ecuador. Through the mentoring of a Sunday School teacher, now a missionary pilot in Cameroon, I earned my Private Pilot’s license. I desired to be equipped as much as possible to reach those in outlying areas. I was also able to take several missions trips during high school.
I enrolled in Baptist College of Ministry in 2010 and studied Bible and Foreign Missions. It was there that I met Ashley and we graduated together in 2014. Through college, I ministered in a Spanish church plant in my hometown of Milwaukee, WI and saw God use me to see many Latinos saved, discipled, and attending church. In 2012, I interned with a church planter and missionary pilot in Bolivia, South America. Through this preparation, God’s provision, enabling, and blessing, He has renewed and confirmed his call in my heart.
ASHLEY
I surrendered my life to the Lord at a young age. I desired to serve the Lord however He would use me, but I didn’t know where that would be. I endeavored to train and prepare for Christian service until God revealed His will. It wasn’t until after college that God specifically began to lead towards foreign missions. He convinced me that accomplishing the Great Commission ‘’in the uttermost parts of the earth” is something that I cannot do, but God wants to do it through me as I rely on His strength.
