From Texas to Turkey

It is hard to believe that we are now one month away from leaving the United States to serve in Turkey. We depart on Jan 8th.

It has been a real journey. Pat and I went to Turkey for the first time for 19 days in December of 06. We had a sense that God wanted us to serve in Turkey, but we were not sure. We returned to Turkey this summer during the month of May and June for the purpose of seeing if God in fact was calling us to Turkey. By the end of our time in Turkey, we came home knowing without a shadow of doubt that God was calling us there.

Since our return at the end of June and webegan to share what we sensed God was saying to us we have had nothing but "green lights" from everyone we have spoken to. The executive director for the International Turkey network has given us encouragement. Intimate Life Minisries has provided us with resources to use in Turkey, as well as taking care of our flight to Turkey. We have been blessed by our home church Northwest Fellowship, Fellowship Bible Church, Ausin Stone, Church of the Hills, and Hill Country Bible Church for one time gifts or monthly support. At this point we are about $800.00 short of what we estimated for monthly support.

We had our 4th garage sale Saturday as we continue to down size all of "our stuff."
Our home has been on the market since Oct 1st, but there is an offer working even as I write this.

The journey thus far has been amazing for me (Mark) personally. I am one that normally must have all my Ts crossed and Is dotted. I have a high need for securtiy. However, ever since we said yes to God, I have had perfect peace. It so great that both Pat and I are totally together on what God is calling us to do. We see this as one of he greatest adventures in our lives.

Our goal at this point is to be a part of the Bodrum Grace Church and to bring encouragement for those that pastor there. However our primary goal is to be available to the English speaking couples that serve in Turkey for Marriage Enrichment. Pat and I will be moving into a 2 bedroom home in Turgutreis, Turkey. One bed room will be set up exclusively where a couple can stay with us for Marriage Enrichment, a Marriage Intensive, or a respite. If they are not able to come to us, we will do everything in our power to go to them. Also we will be available to do marrige conferences.

I am greatful to Noe Banda from Northwest Fellowship for setting up this blog for me. I hope it will be helpful for keeping everyone interested informed.