Summer 2023

It’s ironic. June 19th marked four years of our family living in Germany, and on that day we found ourselves sitting in America. We have spent the month of June stateside and very much enjoyed the breath of fresh air it is to be with our family here. And yet, by God’s grace, content and with joy we will head back to our life and ministry in Germany next week. Please pray for our travel and as we readjust to being in Germany. It is always hard to leave what was home and return to what now is home. Anywhere in this life is just home-ish (Hebrews 11:16).

CHURCH

Jonas just finished preaching through the gospel of Mark. We have seen the regular preaching of God’s Word change hearts and lives.

In April our church hosted a regional elders meeting with 15 leaders from other churches. The focus was on Mike Cosper’s book, Rhythms of Grace, which is about healthy rhythms in the church life and how to display the gospel in everyday life.

A third group of people completed the baptism course where they learn about the gospel and conversion as well as the significance between baptism and church membership. Three women were baptized at the end of May. Below are photos of that morning. After the baptism we had a breakfast together followed by the regular church service. With family and friends visiting the church after the baptism, we were past (past, past) max capacity. Which is a good, but very real, problem to have. Please pray with us for a bigger meeting space.

As we grow, we continue to need good leadership and structure in the church. Please pray for this as well.

We look forward to hosting a team of 12 from Redeemer at the end of July for a short-term mission trip. The group will spend time with our church and then be helping at a church camp.

FAMILY

In April we attended the Evangelium 21 Conference in Hamburg. It’s always so encouraging to meet up with families serving churches very similar to ours. Mark Dever and Mac Stiles both spoke and there was live German translation. Nora sweetly whispered, “Papa, I understand both.” Our little bilingual lady.

Our time in America has been full of family, friends, and delicious food I (Paige) didn’t need to cook. So a vacation. It is precious to us that the girls can still have time with this side of our family.

We are incredibly thankful and spurred on by our brothers and sisters at Redeemer Bible Church. Paige especially enjoyed simple coffees with friends and play dates with moms, and any opportunity to speak English. Redeemer, your love, support, and care for us is felt deeply and you continually cheer us on, pointing us to our all-sufficient Christ.

Jonas dusted of the English and preached at Hurricane Community Church. We are thankful for their love and support as well.

Four years, and it just now feels like we have settled a bit in Germany. Thank you for all who pray for us as we keep going. Jesus is strong and kind, and he has the whole world in His hands. We look forward to going back, and as Nora says anytime we are away, “my bed is calling.”

And in cute closing, Fenley would like to know where the bees are at Applebee’s. If you know message us some info.