Can you believe we have been on the journey together for 5 years?
January 1, 2021, was the day we showed up for day one of our work at SOAR. We had no idea what was in store for us, but God did. There have been many ups and downs, but through it all, He has been faithful to protect and guide us.
So what have we been doing during these five years?
During the first year, we spent a great deal of time learning about and understanding the world of Mission Aviation. Seth began the next phase of his flight training, and we started using our skills to help move the work forward. We contributed in many areas, including building maintenance and photography, filling gaps wherever needed. Since then, Seth has earned his Instrument, Commercial, and Flight Instructor certifications. We have helped equip missionary candidates through flight, maintenance, partnership development, and practical teamwork skills. As we’ve taken on new roles and responsibilities, we’ve seen both big and small changes, and through it all, God has remained consistent and faithful.
Some big milestones are:
- This year, SOAR is celebrating 15 years of service. God has grown this team, and He continues to build a strong community.
- We have developed a process to help mission candidates be more successful in raising their support.
- We have updated our flight program to incorporate more missionary-specific training.
- God has expanded our aircraft fleet to meet our growing training needs.
- SOAR has been able to add a grass runway at the Bolivar Airport.
- Some of our team participated in the creation of Andy Glendenning Memorial Park, honoring one of our former flight instructors.
- Bolivar and SOAR hosted the 53rd IAMA Conference, welcoming mission organizations from around the world.
- Since our joining, SOAR has sent 5 missionary pilot/mechanics to the field. They are serving in Alaska, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, and Tanzania. We are privileged to be part of their ministry journeys.
- SOAR is currently training 4 missionary pilot/ mechanics. It has been incredible to watch how God sends one out and brings the next one in.
- SOAR has 2 additional mission candidates we hope will joining us soon
In 2020, when we surrendered to the calling of full-time Mission Aviation, we had no idea how the Lord would grow us. We never imagined asking partners to join us in this work during a pandemic, yet we were humbled by the generosity and faithfulness of our partners. That same generosity continues today as we faithfully serve.
To all of you who have been on this journey with us from the beginning or who have joined us along the way, thank you. You are an integral part of the work of training laborers for the harvest through Mission Aviation.
Where are we headed in the Next 5 years
As our responsibilities have expanded over the last five years, we are thankful to help lead the next chapter. Some goals we hope to accomplish at SOAR and personally.
- SOAR needs to grow its staff team to expand our impact in equipping workers for the harvest.
- We hope to provide housing not only for those serving at SOAR, but also to host other mission programs for short-term training at our facility.
- Seth plans to pursue his CFII certification so he can continue expanding and strengthening our flight training program.
- We are trusting God to grow our partnerships to support Deb’s part-time role at SOAR.
We are praying for God’s direction in leading us, and we are praying that he will provide our needs. Will you join us in praying toward these goals?
