Missions.

Shawn and Jill: Alaska, SEND International

After both living for the worldly things of our culture, the Lord grabbed a hold of Shawn and Jill hearts in their early 30’s while they were attending Oak Pointe Church. Several years after attending OPC they went with the church plant to Bell Creek Community Church. Then the LORD put on their hearts the desire to use their gifts and talents for His glory. So they looked into missions and were led to Alaska Bible College with SEND INTERNATIONAL. Shawn is currently cooking for the bible students and encouraging students as a mentor.  Shawn and Jill both serve in their local church, Copper Center Community Chapel where they teach Sunday school. Shawn also works with the youth in the area.

The came to Alaska with three daughters, Trudie now 11, Allena 9 and Lydia 5 and this year opened their home to three foster children as well. Brianna 16, Dominick 4 and Chalyia not quite one. It is a full house with a lot of opportunities to grow in grace and godliness. They are grateful for the support of OPC where they first surrendered their lives to the LORD.

Recently, the LORD has called them to a different city in Alaska where they will help support a Teen Center / Restaurant for one year. The village is about 1500 people and is located on the Bering Sea coast. The village is 500 miles from the nearest road. They have committed to serve there for one year.

Praises:

1. The last month we had record breaking nights at the TC. This might look like 180 cheeseburgers and 50 pounds of French fries in 3 hours; I can’t even imagine how many milk shakes were made?????
   
2. On Friday Restaurant Night the teens have done a bang-up GREAT job waiting on customers; approximately 200 people in only 3 hours. The purpose here isn’t to just make money though; it is to give the L4L teens a training ground to learn life skills for work and ministry, and provide our community with a healthy place to bring and enjoy a good meal with their family. It has been REAL. The teens have been a joy to work with. We are blessed to be able to share in this opportunity to touch lives here!
   

Prayer Requests:

• Health for the family and fellow servants (we’ve had a lot of flu like stuff trying to bring us down).
  
• Unity and humbleness for all (that we’re putting others before ourselves)
  
• We have applied for a grant through the covenant church to be reimbursed for much of the equipment.
  
• For the remainder of equipment to arrive and complete the kitchen set-up
  
• For the believers here; that their walk is by faith and directed by His Word and through His Spirit.
  
• Pray for wisdom and discernment as we make plans for our future. Shawn may start classes for a teaching certificate.
  
• ‘Real’ life changing relationships with the teens here in the village. Especially Aana, Mary Ray, Chantell (girls in Jill’s mentoring group) and Bri, Trudie and Alice.

Pictures: