As we step into 2026, my heart is full of gratitude. Thank you—truly—for your prayers, encouragement, and faithful support. Every message, every prayer, and every act of generosity has been a tangible reminder that I am not walking this road alone.
2025 was a defining year. It was the year I returned to Romania—only to temporarily leave again for six weeks while my residency permit was being processed, and then return once more. It was a year marked by movement, obedience, and purpose: traveling to serve in Ukraine, Salem’s church retreat in the mountains, welcoming the Mannahouse Storm Team who came to serve here, the Oxigen Youth camp, and our Christmas Day church service—each one a moment where God’s presence was unmistakable.
Beyond those highlights, there were at least a dozen other quieter moments of joy: teaching conversations, shared meals, answered prayers, small breakthroughs, and gentle reminders of God’s grace. These moments—often unseen—are what truly shaped the year.
On a personal level, this year was one of struggle, perseverance, and daily faithfulness. I woke up each day choosing to pursue obedience to the assignment God has set before me in this season. The missionary life is beautiful, but it is also costly. It has meant missing my family deeply, walking through the heartache of failed relationships, grieving the loss of my grandmother, and continually surrendering every desire of my heart to Christ—choosing to carry my cross daily.
This lifestyle has required me to stop thinking far ahead and instead live one day at a time, with patience and grace for the challenges of that day. I’ve held tightly to Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:34:
“Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
As I look toward 2026, I do so with hope. The future feels bright—filled with progress toward God’s unfolding purpose for Salem and growth in my own life as well. I trust that He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it.
I am also pleased to announce that my repair bill of $1000 for my car has been completely fulfilled. I feel so blessed for those who gave. It has filled my heart with so much faith. I look forward to being of better use to Salem and to perhaps see another castle in Romania 🙂
I also ask for your prayers for my thumb… On Saturday, I was chopping kindling, and my hand slipped, and I gave myself a deep cut. By God’s miracle, I still have my thumb; there weren’t any fractures, and I didn’t need stitches, but I will have to keep bandages on it for 10 days. Pray for quick healing!
After I got back from Poland, Nate and I went straight to work clearing the parking lot of snow and ice. I have woken up several mornings at 4 am to put wood on the fire as well as spreading salt on the pathways and parking areas. It’s hard work, but I am thankful that it will be safe for the school and the church.
With oceans of gratitude, thank you for being a part of God’s Handiwork in Romania. Your partnership means more than words can express.
