When Rachel and Brandy first decided to move to Gracias, the plan was simple: Rachel would work part-time in the ministry while juggling the demands of motherhood. At the time, Michael was still a baby, and Nathan was a lively four-year-old, so it seemed like a reasonable plan. But, as often happens, God had other plans. Brandy’s move took longer than expected and there were unexpected staff changes in the ministry, so by the time Brandy arrived to start working at S4P, Rachel had already transitioned to working full-time with Sowers4Pastors.
 |
| Nathan and Michael hanging out when it was just the two of them |
Since then, their family has grown, with Levi and baby Charlotte now part of the mix. Thankfully, Rachel loves her work. While she sometimes wishes she could be present for every moment with her little ones, she knows she’d also miss the ministry if she stepped back. So, she carefully crafts each day to maximize her time as Mommy while also homeschooling Nathan—a role that demands its own significant time commitment.
 |
| Rachel and Brandy's yahoos (August 2024), from left to right: Charlotte, Levi, Michael, Nathan |
 |
| Nathan takes his schooling seriously (at least in this photo) |
Currently, Sowers4Pastors is navigating another round of staff changes. Esdras recently made the decision to leave S4P for a different ministry opportunity, and while Allen and Trish are still integral to the ministry, they’re moving toward retirement. Mary Faith is working on transitioning to Honduras, but she will be attending language school before she starts working with the ministry full time. S4P is hoping to hire one or two additional team members by the end of the year.
 |
| One of Rachel and Brandy's many challenges: Levi loves heights and has no fear! |
 |
| Charlotte doing the best she can to help with office work |
As Rachel explains, S4P is a medium-sized ministry, which means no one wears just one hat. Each team member needs to be versatile, ready to fill multiple roles. S4P is on the lookout for someone who can handle tasks like writing emails, managing social media, and also working directly in the communities they serve. It’s a tall order, but it’s what the ministry needs.
Then there’s the question of whether to bring on a Honduran or a North American. Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons. Honduran staff members bring a deep understanding of the culture and language, while a North American missionary might need time to learn the ropes, from mastering the language to handling basic tasks like shopping and going to the bank. On the flip side, North American staff often find it easier to deal with Stateside paperwork and to communicate effectively with supporters in the States. Both are invaluable!
 |
| Michael is one cool dude |
So, how can you help? Glad you asked! First and foremost, please pray that all staffing needs will be met. Next, consider donating to Mary Faith’s support fund. The sooner she can move to Honduras, the sooner the administrative staff will have someone to help lighten their very full load. Please pray that God will soon send the next staff member he has planned for the ministry, whoever that might be. And finally, think about your own call to missions. Whether it’s with Sowers4Pastors or another ministry, if you feel that nudge, don’t let it go to voicemail—answer it!
'"So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.'" (Matthew 9:38, NLT)
 |
| Rachel and Brandy and all their yahoos! Photo taken August 2024 |
- posted by Christi
No comments:
Post a Comment