This blog is mainly to update everyone on what God is doing during my time in Middlesbrough.
But first, I feel like it's necessary to explain how I got to this point - this calling to go and serve.
It all started after my freshman year at UMHB. My college minister, Trey, told us that there was an opportunity to go to England on a mission trip after the end of the spring semester. For those that know me really well each year I have done some sort of mission trip and this just fell right into place. I never thought it would change my life, and my heart would stay in Middlesbrough. I would never consider myself a "missionary," but those two weeks I was there in the spring of 2007 - my heart was burdened for this area and for these people. This burden is what allowed me to continue to pursue this trip for the next three years - and honestly never worrying that finances would be anissue. After my trip in 2009, I worked as the children's interim minister at my home church (Field Street) and although I had a blast ministering to loads of kids, my heart was very restless to return to England. I could not for the life of me get Middlesbrough off of my mind. In praying about it and talking with the pastor at my church - Middlesbrough Community Church- I knew God was calling me to stay there for an extended time and do life and ministry with my friends I have grown to love.
So, as a college graduate with my degree and teaching certificate on my wall, I am following the leadership of the Holy Spirit and moving from the comfortable Belton, Texas, to the uncomfortable England (uncomfortable being new, and exciting - not meant in a bad way!!) God is constantly affirming my decision to set aside the "job" and pursue this idea of making His name known to the community of Middlesbrough.
I'm SO excited for the opportunity to work with Middlesbrough Community Church doing children's ministry with the Aklam church plant, help with children's ministry at MCC, do assemblies and after schools clubs at Archibald Primary School, and helping Anne (my pastor's wife) with Christians Against Poverty. I can't wait to pour my everything into the ministry and lives of the people at MCC. Their passion for making Christ known to their community is unbelievable!!!! I leave August 17th and will be there until the middle of January.
It is my prayer that as you read this blog, your heart is broken for the lost in the Middlesbrough area, and you will be encouraged to come alongside me in praying for Him to work through me to impact this community.
"Greater things have yet to come. Greater things are still to be done in this city"
