August and September Update 2023 

Updates

Our youth group is embarking on a journey as we kick off our new series, "Discover." This series, inspired by the insightful book by Mike McGarry, aims to guide students through the maze of questions and uncertainties that teenagers are grappling with today. With faith as our foundation, we will dive into biblical wisdom to find answers to the 20 questions echoing in our youth's hearts and minds. "Discover" offers students a chance to strengthen their spiritual roots, navigate the complexities of life, and build a firm foundation in the Word of God. As we embark on this journey together, we are excited to find answers and foster a more profound connection between faith and one another. It's an exciting series for us, one filled with learning, growth, and the discovery of the Bible's profound wisdom.

We're excited to share some changes in our youth ministry that we believe will benefit everyone involved. In our commitment to providing intentional discipleship, we've restructured our program to cater separately to pre-teens and teens. This means that each age group will have a unique space to explore their faith, discuss their questions, and grow in fellowship. Additionally, we're empowering our dedicated leaders to take on more active roles within the ministry, fostering an environment of shared responsibility and collaboration. This shift allows us to better address the specific needs of our youth but also promotes a sense of ownership and leadership among our team. We're looking forward to this new chapter in our youth ministry and are confident that these changes will lead to deeper connections, greater growth, and a more fulfilling experience for all our young members.

Thanks to our Sports Ministry Outreach supporters, this month we organized a thrilling pickleball event that turned out to be a success. Not only did our participants have a blast, but we also attracted five new students who have committed to joining our youth group. These engaging sports activities are a fun and powerful tool for reaching and connecting with young individuals in our community. We want to thank all our supporters for partnering with us in this endeavor. Your support is helping us make a difference in the lives of these young students, and we are grateful for your commitment to our Sports Ministry Outreach. Thank you for standing with us!

Before diving into our family update, I want to give a prayer request for our missionary journey. One main area is your financial contributions. Expectant fluctuations have risen from different supporters and life here in Finland. If you believe in what God is doing here in Finland, I encourage you to pray about what it would look like for you to support this ministry financially. Our goal is to raise $600 recurringly for the next season of ministry to accommodate the fluctuations. We are grateful for any help you can provide. 

Family

As I begin my last year, I'm on the final leg of my seminary journey. The first semester is dedicated to independent study. It's an opportunity to dive into specific areas of theology and ministry that resonate with my heart. In the second semester, I'll craft my thesis, culminating all I've learned and experienced throughout my seminary years. It's an exciting and, undoubtedly, a long endeavor ahead, and I'm both eager and humbled by the opportunity. As I start this year, I ask for your prayers and support. Your encouragement and prayers will help me on this journey, and I am grateful for your unwavering belief in my calling and purpose. Thank you for being part of my seminary experience. By the way, here is a link to my most recent sermon if you are interested.

Heidi's college experience has been great so far. She's learning Computer Science, and it's been truly awesome to see her dedication in this new endeavor. She is great at these sorts of technical skills and she's thriving as she continues into the world of coding. But that's not all; Heidi has also found a wonderful sense of community through a steady Bible study group. It has been a source of spiritual growth and connection, allowing her to go deeper into her faith while building strong fellowship with like-minded individuals.

We are overflowing with joy as we watch Lukas grow and thrive. In Finland, it is fairly common for every child to have godparents. This can be family or friends. In light of that, we chose Noah’s godparents in the States when he was born. Recently, Lukas, after prayer and consideration, was blessed with godparents. We celebrated his life with them, surrounded by love and support. We are grateful for them and look forward to them being part of his life. 

Lukas is reaching new milestones every day - his babbling has reached an all-time high, filling our home with his chatter and yelling. His athleticism is remarkable; he's a little dynamo, always on the move and showing coordination and energy. Lukas is a source of constant delight and amazement in our lives, and we are so grateful for every moment we get to share with him.

HEIDI AND THE BOYS ARE COMING TO THE STATES! 🙌🏾

They will be there on October 24th and return to Finland on November 2nd. I will not make this trip, but I am excited for them!  The family will be coming to C3 Sunday, October 29th. Please love on the family for me. Noah has missed Houston so much, so I think this will be great for him.