Let Earth and Heavenly Saints Proclaim

Ordination Ceremony

"Again Jesus said, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' He answered, 'Yes Lord, you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Take care of my sheep.'" John 21:16

This year we had our very first ordination ceremony. The staff and incoming apprentices (previously called interns) made promises to the community on how we would live our lives, how we would act towards them, and what we would do for them. Many individuals from the churches involved with FOCUS came as well to witness it.

Staff Retreat

"One who has unreliable friend soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24

Early this month we also had our staff retreat for all of our staff across campuses. It was a great time of learning, relating, and fun. Unfortunately, I was having too much fun and didn't even take a single picture! So until one of my coworkers chooses to unveil one they took, you'll just have to imagine what it was like. But we were on a lake so it looked something like this picture we took in Washington. We really value being like a family, in our community and among our staff. So it's important to us to get quality time together even when we our campuses are far apart. 

Looking Forward

"I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death." Philippians 1:20

Over the summer we've been working a lot, but a lot of that is planning for the new year, brainstorming on more effective methods, preparing our new students leaders, and deciding who those should even be. This summer has really stretched me since I'm not a huge fan of planning. I like to do and be productive, and I only like to plan what's necessary and immediate. So having to rest and allow this season to take its course has been a challenge, but a lot has been planned and I'm really looking forward to the new things we have going on this next year. We have plans to utilize even more of our students, giving them opportunities to serve and catch a vision for a ministry-filled life, we have plans for a politics class to help our students learn how to think through politics as a follower of Jesus, and so much more! I can't wait to tell y'all of how it works out this year!

Thanks!

"Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done." Psalm 105:1

Thank you to all of my supporters both past and present who are praying for me and giving to this mission. I couldn't do what I do without your help. Please pray as the first week of school starts soon and our students are going to be meeting new students on campus! It's probably the busiest two weeks of the entire school year so pray for energy all around. Thanks so much, guys!