Missionaire is Relocating!

If you've ever visited us in Kimball, Nebraska, you probably remember the wind blowing. You can't see the wind, of course, but you sure know it's there. Wind many times means change is coming - a cold or warm front passing by, a storm approaching, or simply the change of seasons.

We look back with joy at what God has accomplished through Missionaire in the last decade:

•He has brought 26 individuals and families across our path for training and service in various aspects of missionary aviation. Some have been on the mission field for many years now. Some have served on short term assignments. Others decided against missionary aviation completely - we were able to be a part of that process of discovery, too.

•He has allowed us to prepare, completely restore, or maintain 11 different aircraft for His work. Mike Bunn, with Mercy Air - Brazil, says other missionaries make fun of his "dinosaur" plane (a '60's vintage Helio) - but he tells us often how he appreciates the work we did to restore it and how it's always in the air even when the newer, fancier planes are down for maintenance. ¨

•Over the years our staff and students have personally taken on mission projects within the Kimball community such as fixing cars for single moms, painting homes for elderly people, handing out Jesus Films to every home in the area, working with international students, starting a college and career ministry, playing in worship bands, and doing youth-related outreach and discipleship.

Jon Foote, Director of Operations for Missionaire, has served as the airport manager for Kimball during our time here. He has made it his goal to initiate change for growth of the airport, from making cosmetic improvements to facilitating major projects like a new ramp, weather reporting station, and taxiway. With the invaluable help of Missionaire staff, we have been able to transform an unimpressive little airport with six foot high weeds, piles of trash and abandoned tires decorating the property, to a place the Mayor of Kimball refers to as "one of the two most important features of our community (the other being the golf course)."

The doors have also been opened for ministry opportunities. The mission field literally comes to us - and people stick around or keep coming back simply because they can't quite figure us out. So many have seen "Jesus with skin on" through our staff and students. It's been an incredible experience. There are so many reasons that God brought us here. There have been times of frustration and tears as well, but we know without a shadow of a doubt that we have been right where He intended.

And now, God has made it clear to us that change is coming. Like the wind, we can't see Him, but we see His unmistakable hand at work. Almost a year ago God began to impress upon our director that it is time to leave Kimball. This came during a time of seeking God through fasting and prayer. A bit shocked, and not knowing how others would react, Jon shared this with a handful of key people. Over the last few months he shared with staff and board members. Through this process, God confirmed that Jon was not imagining or misreading the message. Our Board and staff are in unity that it is time. There is still a vast spiritual need in Kimball - but we believe that God will bring others to continue the work He has begun. We know that our work here is coming to a close and that God has plans to use our gifts and abilities in a different community.

So, what does the future hold? Here are answers to some questions you are probably pondering, and this list can certainly be used as a prayer guide:

† Missionaire will continue operating with the same goals and activities as in the past. After visiting several locations that have shown interest in us, we have narrowed the field and are pursuing one of those now. We have trusted that as we take steps of obedience He will show us clearly where that location is to be. We move forward with complete faith.

†Our director's airport manager contract will expire on July 31, 2006. He has given notice to the city that he will not be renewing this contract. As a result, we will lose the use of our current large hangar and adjoining office space after that date.

†Missionaire has acquired many items over the years, from donations of aircraft parts (which are not always small) to miscellaneous "stuff" - we are taking one day a week to go through things, keep what is useful, and sell or throw away the rest.

†We sold the Wheat Growers Hotel that Missionaire purchased in 2004, to someone right here in Kimball who will take it to the next step and use it to benefit the community! Praise Him!

†We are encouraged by the unity we all share as a staff. Please pray that God would use each of us and speak to each of us as to where He is leading, and for continued unity in the process.

†Missionaire would like to cover moving costs for the families and individuals that will be relocating. We will be selling many items that will go toward relocation expenses. Pray that God would provide for every need and detail.

We are thankful for your prayers and encouragement during this time. It is an exciting time, but also emotional. It's strange to say to our Kimball friends, "We're leaving." Although there are many things we won't miss about this place, it's easy to think of things we will miss. But, during this "change of seasons" for Missionaire, we are watching with eagerness and excitement to see what God will do! Thank you so much for praying and standing with us in ministry!