Work Continues

 One of the cool things while we're in the States is seeing how our partners continue on the work; we see pictures posted every week of Bible Studies and other ministries continuing on. We are so thankful for our partners in the ministry! 

One of the things that has been a challenge during this season is that we feel like we're burning the candle at both ends. When we were first doing tribal church planting, when we came to the States, there was no way to bring any of the work "with us" as it were because no one was really online. However, now, after covid lockdowns, everyone is much more connected online. This is great because it allows us to stay in touch with our partners, even from this side of the world, but it is also difficult because then we are trying to invest on two sides of the world simultaneously. Exciting but tiring. Prayers appreciated as we sort through all the opportunities and find balance - and time to rest - during this Stateside. BUT rejoicing for sure that our partners are there, continuing on the work, even when we are on this side of the world.

Under Construction

In November, construction began again on our new land. The Tribal Bible College is up and running, but now the construction has begun for the Church Planting/Livelihood Skills Training Center. Steve has been coordinating with the guys on the ground as they move forward with construction, even though we are here in the States.

Hagen Family Reunion

One of the things we got to do on this last road trip was attend a family reunion for Steve's side of the family. We had a wonderful time and even spent a couple of days at the beach!

Stateside

 We arrived back in the States the end of Oct for a 4-month furlough; we'll head back to the Philippines on February 21. One of our first weeks back, the boys had a college break, so we got to enjoy some family time. It had been almost 2 yrs since we'd seen Zach, and we cherished every moment together as a family.

We also enjoyed a couple days with my sister and her family; the cousins had fun hanging out again.

In November, Steve, Mikayla, and I did a 3.5 week road trip to visit friends, family, supporters & speak in a couple churches. We are thankful for safe travels, and we got to stop in and see the boys at their school too!

As soon as we got back from that road trip, I was able to attend a fundraising dinner put on to help support Mikayla as she gets ready to move to the Philippines in January.

So thankful for time to reconnect with family & friends during this season!