Another Season of Adventure with PathFinders International

For twelve years I have been serving with PathFinders International. Most of my work has involved living in the states and traveling to other countries around the world. Now God is opening another season of ministry for me in PathFinders.

“Leave your country, family and go to a land I will show you.” Gen 12:1

I have entered a voyage that will involve moving and basing myself in Africa for a season. I will be traveling to several countries throughout Africa. As the year unfolds, I am praying that God will reveal more of His plans. I do have the first twelve months of general information.

First, as I travel around I am praying to meet and learn from African leaders with a passion for global mission. PFI is planning a global mission forum in Sept. 2008. I am looking to invite a few of these leaders to Southeast Asia for this round table event. Second, I will be involved with leadership training in East Africa, including Uganda, Kenya and Egypt. Last but not least, I am praying to discern God’s direction in connecting with ministry partnerships and training church leaders in Church Centered Mission throughout Africa.

“Now go, and do as I have told you…I will tell you what to say.” Exodus 4:12

My control side would love more details, but God is teaching me trust. He has spoken to my heart to be flexible for the next two years. Like others in the Bible, God gives us what we need to step out in faith and not a whole lot more. The words to a song my grandmother loved states, “If Jesus goes with me I’ll go, anywhere…” I pray that my life lives out the words of this song. Keep praying this trip will require a lot of discernment and wisdom. I am thanking God that He has given me an Aaron for the first part of the trip. Joy, a friend from my church will come with me the first two weeks.

For 3 months, Oct. to Dec. 2007, I am learning to live out of a suitcase. I have already moved from my apartment and have given away most of my things. It is a spiritual and physical challenge to condense your stuff down to three suitcases or less. Thanks to my family and friends for letting me practice “portable living” stateside. This is a gracious way to learn to die to self.

I am finishing the final details to be ready to leave on Jan 1, 2008. One of those items is to get this letter out, letting you know about this step in ministry. Another is finding a garage space in the Palatine area where I can keep my car for ten months. Over the next several weeks I will be doing a lot to prepare my heart, mind, body and spirit for what lies ahead. I am excited, overwhelmed and nervous all at the same time. This is a deeper level of learning to trust God’s leading and direction.

During this adventure, I need your ongoing prayers and your faithful financial support. I am praying that many of you will continue to stand with me in this next season of ministry. I am very grateful for the life giving support and encouragement that I have received. I will need others to take a step of faith and partner with me. I have an immediate need to cover airfare and insurance expenses. Please place my name in your 2008 calendar several times as a reminder to pray for me. If God impresses you to give financially, I would be very appreciative.

Next month I will EMAIL a prayer calendar so you can join me as I travel around Africa. If you would like to receive an email during my journey please send me your email addresses. Let me know if you do not have email. If you have not received this letter in your email box, it’s because I do not have an email for you.

I pray that I can count on your support for this new season of ministry. I am looking forward to serving with many of you as we journey together to serve the Church on her mission for the kingdom of Christ.

Thank you so much for standing with me in ministry.

Tentative Prayer send-off:

Sunday, December 2, 2007

Blogspot page: Hadassahscall.blogspot.com email ehjoy@hotmail.com

Esther c/o PathFinders International 60-B W. Terra Cotta Dr #205 Crystal Lake, IL 60014