I’ve been asked how everything going on is affecting my departure for the uk, so i wanted to give everyone an update…

My original goal was to be fully funded by this summer and in the field by autumn. That goal was pushed back some while I worked on taking care of my health, but I continued to fundraise. Just as I had made a plan of how to increase my efforts, the world turned upside down and everything shut down. Borders closed. Stores closed. Schools closed. An amazing fundraiser for my Launch Fund that my sister was planning for May had to be put on hold. And while I thankfully continued to work as an essential worker, many lost their jobs or were forced to stay home with no money coming in. This meant that not only could I not meet with people, churches, and businesses because of social distancing, but many didn’t know if they could pay their bills or put food on the table, let alone support a missionary.

Now, we all sit waiting for the world to open up again. The UK is experiencing one of the tightest lockdowns in the world. They officially extended their lockdown for a short period in some areas, but the news reported that it could be 6-12 months before the country fully reopens. They are now requiring a 14 day quarantine for anyone coming into the country, and immigration offices are closed. Such a lengthy shutdown of the borders could have a major impact on when I arrive. But God knew what was coming, and it was a blessing that I wasn’t packed and ready or newly arrived when COVID-19 hit. I am home with my family instead.

In the meantime, there is much to do to be ready for when the country does reopen. I continue to look for opportunities to speak to people about becoming a monthly supporter. I need to be 100% funded before I can move. I also have to attend pre-field training here in the US once I near my 100% goal. So, there is plenty to be done in building my team of 60-80 monthly partners.

I am also sorting through my belongings to pack them, donate them, or toss them in preparation for my eventual move. That’s a daunting task right there! But taking care of that while most things are shutdown will allow me to focus on fundraising and other aspects of getting to the UK once things open up again.

This has also given me some extra time to get my health in order. I’ve been working with wonderful doctors who have hearts for missions to help me be healthy and fit for service.

I’ve continued to see God move me forward towards England even in these difficult times. Please pray that he continues to lead me in his perfect timing. I also ask for you to pray for my monthly partners that support me, those that are already a part of the team and those that will join. Pray not only that God leads me to partners, but that he watches over them and their families. As they invest in Kingdom, pray that they see God move in their own lives.

And I also ask that you pray for the English people. They are enduring an intense lockdown with potentially severe and longterm consequences. Pray that their leaders will act not out of fear, but out of what is best for the nation. And in the midst of all the suffering and turmoil and uncertainty, that the Church will be a light to the people. That the people that God loves so dearly will turn to him once more. Pray that even after all the lockdowns end, God will continue to move and heal this nation in ways we can’t even imagine.