The Holy Spirit works in wondrous ways!

About a year ago, we had the opportunity to go on a week-long trip to serve the missionary families in the Africa region as they gathered for their annual meeting.  It was our job to provide childcare and Vacation Bible School-style programs for the children of our missionaries during the day. At the end of the week, we were invited to a cultural dinner theatre at Ndere in Kampala, Uganda.  The image above is of Michael talking to the Rev. Walter Steele.  This is the moment when Walter asked, “So when are you coming on the mission field?”  At that time, we had no specific plans in this regard.  We were just curious to meet the other missionaries of the region and discover more about their work and daily lives.  Little did we all know that the Holy Spirit prompted that simple question and would begin to work on our hearts over the coming months.  Fast forward to October 2025 and by the Lord’s grace and might, we have been called to serve as your newest missionaries in Shinyanga, Tanzania.  Michael will work at the newly constructed seminary as a Theological Educator, alongside Rev. Bryan Payne.  The Fall class of 2024 included 18 men, training to be pastors in East Africa.  Shanna will be starting an English school in conjunction with the seminary to help the students navigate the language of higher education: English.  Other languages will eventually be added.  We are very excited to begin this work in April of 2026.  In the meantime, we are undergoing the orientation process with the LCMS Office of International Mission.  Part of that orientation includes building a network of supporters (you) to walk alongside us.  We have already spoken to several congregations, Bible study groups, and a day school, with many more scheduled.