As a child growing up, I never heard or knew of any missionaries. My first introduction to missions was during my senior year of high school. After a visit at New Harbor Church in Benicia,CA, I was informed of a mission trip to Ensenda, Mexico. I was told about the amazing work they do there regularly and asked if I’d like to join in on their next trip. I must say, at the time, I was not too happy with the idea of going. I had a hand full of reasons why I did not want to go. Like most new opportunities that arise, I was persuaded by my mother to “just try it”. Thank God for moms right? It was a trip filled with love and joy. That short term, 7 day trip changed the course of my life.

During the summer of 2022, I got the opportunity to be a missionary intern through Converge in Osaka, Japan. I learned so much during my time there. It was a trip affirming my call to ministry and pricking my heart for the unreached people group of Japan. Now, I am preparing to go back for a 2-year term. While there, I will be collaborating with local church partners to see ministry among Japanese people flourish. In partnership with the Japan Initiative team, I will coach and lead a group of interns in summer 2025 at the Worlds Expo in Osaka. Also, embracing the strategies and values of the Japan Initiative, their partner church and minister in alignment with them. It will be my task to become proficient and minister effectively in Japanese, participate in team activities and build relationships with Japanese people with the desire to develop them as transformational leaders. Most importantly, praying earnestly for the Holy Spirit to work among the Japanese.

I do not expect all of my time in Japan to be easy, but God has called me to GO! I am ready and willing for whatever the Lord has for me to do and experience there.