Summer Sprint - May and June Update!
Hello Friends and Family,
We hope you’re finding satisfaction in the Lord and delighting in His presence. Summer is flying by for us — and it’s only getting busier!
🎉 Wrapping Up April & Launching into May
We ended April by celebrating Baylee’s 21st birthday, gathering with friends to share snacks and good company. Then May began with a Spirit-led journey to Guatemala — a trip we weren’t entirely sure we’d take at first.
To be completely honest, we didn’t fully know why we were supposed to go. But the Lord was prompting our hearts, and as we prayed, one of you generously gave — covering the full cost for one of us to go. That provision confirmed what the Lord was already speaking. So, despite financial discomfort, we took the leap of faith — and were deeply met by the Lord.
🙏 Purpose in the Going
Leading up to the trip, the Lord began to show us His purpose. He reminded Ethan that the first six months of this year would be a time of remembrance and reflection on the last 2.5 years of overseas missions. Ethan’s journey began in Nicaragua in 2022 (which he revisited earlier this year) and ended in Guatemala in 2024 — and the Lord brought us back to both.
In both places, God emphasized the theme of remembrance. As others remembered Ethan, the Lord was guiding Ethan to remember His faithfulness.
While in Guatemala, the Lord ministered to us deeply:
Baylee had been needing dedicated space to behold the face of God — and she was met by His presence.
We visited a ministry called Prayer Mountain, where people retreat to be with Jesus. The atmosphere there was filled with peace and the Holy Spirit.
We worshiped with Worship Room Antigua, joining voices in different languages to declare God’s glory — a beautiful reminder of the unity of the Kingdom.
We also celebrated Ethan’s 22nd birthday and partnered with a local ministry creating a safe place for children to play and eat.
One especially impactful moment happened when we ran into Pablo, a brother in Christ, in the streets of Antigua. He was jobless and hungry. As we fed and prayed with him, he knelt right there on the cobblestone road, lifting his hands to heaven. It was a powerful picture of Matthew 5:6 — blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Even others with us were deeply moved by the moment, a reminder that the Lord uses the body to uplift the body.
🧳 June: Debrief, Training & Travel
After returning to Georgia, we helped lead debrief for four World Race teams — three nine-month teams and one five-month team from the Middle East, totaling around 110 people. Debrief is a sacred time for helping racers process their ministry, challenges, and spiritual growth — and to end their season well before stepping into the next.
We then launched into Training Camp for summer trips. Around 60 participants prepared to go to Central America and Southeast Asia. We were honored to help disciple the team going to Indonesia and Thailand (A-Squad!).
🎂 Family, Friends & Ministry in the PNW and Beyond
After training camp, we flew to Washington to celebrate Ethan’s mom’s birthday — a beautiful and full time with family from both South Africa and the PNW. We celebrated birthdays, Father’s Day, and even hosted a worship night where we shared ministry updates. Thank you to everyone who came!
Baylee then traveled to Minnesota to celebrate one of her best friends who’s getting married soon. From there, we both flew to California for a week-long L-Squad reunion and a send-off for a dear friend heading into long-term overseas ministry. It was such a refreshing time — full of beach hangs, soccer games, worship, and deep connection with friends who know us well.
🛫 What’s Next
We’re now back in Georgia, continuing to care for A-Squad as they are on the field through prayer and weekly meetings. We are now preparing for Fall Training Camp and all the people who will be coming in early September. More travel lies ahead this summer, and we’ll keep you updated as it unfolds.
🙏 Final Thoughts & Prayer Requests
As we continue forward, we would love your prayers in a few key areas:
Financial Provision: We’re currently about $500/month away from reaching our initial fundraising goal. Please pray for continued provision and new monthly partners to join us in this mission.
Mentorship for Ethan: Ethan is currently seeking a new mentor to walk with him as he continues to grow in the Lord. Pray that God would bring the right person at the right time.
Deeper Transformation: Most of all, pray that we both would continue to be transformed day by day — becoming more like Jesus by beholding His face and walking closely with Him.
We love you all — thank you for praying, giving, and journeying with us. God is building His Kingdom, and we're honored to play a part in it alongside you. If you have any prayer requests please do not hesitate to reach out.
Much love,
Ethan & Baylee
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