Passion for Paraguay

It's been almost 22 years since I set foot back on Paraguay soil, to become a full time missionary. During those early days, I did not know how long I would stay or last - well I kind of knew it was a life calling. Many events have shaped our journey these past decades. Let me tell you about a family event that's rocking our house.  I want to announce that our son Marcos, our oldest, is getting married next month to a wonderful woman. Her name is Paola. They have been dating for a couple years and are ready for the next step. They will tie the knot September 14th.  Marcos and I have bonded over this past year, especially during our long motorcycle trip between the USA and Paraguay at the beginning of 2024. We have learned more about unconditional love and about working together on difficult tasks. I believe Marcos is ready to tackle life and move into the next season of his life as a husband to Paola. Marriage is beautiful, but growing deeper and becoming one in mind...

As a father, I struggled when Carlos - we call him Carlitos, came to us and asked if he could go out with Nicole - just as friends he said, nothing serious - just getting to know each other. yeah right I thought to myself - just friends !! At the time Nicole was fifteen.  I came into Nicoles life only five years before. We had just celebrated Nicole's 15th birthday, she was excited about getting a horse, playing the harp and just plain enjoying high school. Suddenly Carlitos came into the picture. I knew it would not take long for Nicole to get a date and be seeing by the guys - but so fast? I was taken by surprise.  She is cute, good looking, smart and has all the traits for being an incredible spouse. She will do well and be a great christian leader, wife, and mother. But I was not ready!! Fast forward- Nicole turned 20 this year. Carlitos popped the question six months ago, and gave Nicole a beautiful ring, Nicole said yes, and here we are, only 10 days before they tie the ...

2014: A Year of Healing Fifteen years ago, in 1999, Julie and I were making wedding plans. We were in seminary, and the big news was about Y2K. Still in school, we wondered what the future would bring after we finished our degrees. In August 2000, Julie and I were married. We were both so excited about beginning a joint future together. A few months later, we embarked on one of the longest possible drives on Earth. We drove for a period of 70 days, crossing 13 countries to arrive in Paraguay, exhausted but excited to begin our lives as full-time missionaries. As I look back, I realize just how much we were able to enjoy and do as a family over this past decade: Between 2002 and 2010, we helped pioneer and direct what was, until recently, the only Christian radio station in southern Paraguay. Today the station is self-supportive and under national leadership, and is now launching into television. Between 2002 and 2012: ·         Dozens of t...