Ministry in Action

“The how of church-planting is determined by the who, where, and when of the culture.” ~ Ed Stetzer

Wales is a unique country, lending itself to unique opportunities to reach the lost with the Gospel message.  We have shared with you the why, when and what of our ministry – now we come to the how.  These are just a few doors that we already see how God is orchestrating for us to use in our future ministry.

Church Planting

God has given us a burden towards this specific focus of our ministry – Church Planting.  There are many areas here, as there are in every country, with no Gospel witness.  In these areas, church planting is a vital need.  This particular need requires great planning and patience.   However, if I only had one word to describe church planting it would be…

The Welsh are a very kind and hospitable people, but they are also very guarded.  If we are to be a witness, we must first be a friend.

Building relationships with folks in the area is vital.  Without that bond of trust, and a strong testimony of God’s love and care for their souls, this effort would meet failure. Below are some of the ways we hope to learn more about the Welsh and begin building a friendship and relationship of trust with them, as we give and take from each other.

But how?  How does an American family move into a country and start building such vital relationships?  The short answer?  In the every day, here and now.  We live their life, we learn their culture, and we brush up on our Welsh!’

Below are just some of the ideas that God has given us that we plan to pursue once we arrive in Wales.

EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)/Counseling

I am a firm believer that God leads us all through different stages of life, and what we learn during each stage, will better prepare us for the ministry in which He leads.  To that end, I am excited to explore the possibility of taking my experience as an EMT, as well as my training in counseling and use these to better serve the folks in the Wales.

To serve in the emergency medical  field requires a special heart and compassion for people.  Day to day EMTs globally are exposed to the sick, the dying and the hopeless.  Without the foundation of God’s love and the hope of eternity, I cannot grasp what it would be like to live with the harsh reality that it is “appointed unto man once to die.”   Depression in this field of work is not uncommon as most come face to face each day with the brevity of life.

What an opportunity to spread the hope of eternity to both those sick and dying, as well as those caring for these in need of help.  What a joy to be able to look at these dear folks eye to eye with the confidence that God offers more than the few years we share on earth.  This is one area of ministry that, Lord’s willing, I will immediately pursue when I reach the country of Wales.

Public School System

Unlike the United States, one of the most welcome outreaches in the country of Wales is surprisingly the public school system. Public schools have specific periods set aside for religious training.  These class periods welcome religious leaders of all faiths to come and share their faith with the students. This avenue of outreach both exposes the children in a community to the Gospel and exposes them to the local pastor!  We are literally invited into the schools to begin building a relationship with the Welsh children!

Photography / Design Ministry

It only takes a few minutes around Michelle to realize her love and passion for photography and design.  She has a joy in taking small “homemade” projects and giving them a professional edge.  With this ministry avenue, she hopes to be able to provide a means for small Welsh business owners to  advertise and market their products and services professionally, who may not other wise have the resources available.  This will provide a great service to local owners, as well as give Michelle a chance to better know and serve the folks in our area of ministry.

Various Community Outreaches

There are a variety of other means of creative outreach that have found some success in Wales including church-sponsored “teas”, morning coffees, mom-and-toddler groups, music ministries and the list goes on.

While the people of Wales are generally hospitable, they are typically somewhat reserved, making any form of ministry one of patience and dedication.  But with God’s calling, the Bible as our guide and a bit of creativity, we’re looking forward to the challenge!