After attending First Church for several years, my husband and I became affiliate members in 2016. I wanted to get more involved and be of service while getting to know the people and the operations of the church more intimately. Lucky for me, at the Women’s Ministry golf outing, I met a mission enthusiast who had just finished her term on the Mission Leadership Team. I had always had a heart for missions and expressed my interest in serving. (After college I had joined VISTA—Volunteers In Service To America, a domestic version of the Peace Corps.) My new friend encouraged me to join the Missions team.
It felt fortuitous—as though the hand of God was guiding me to this opportunity. While learning about all of our church’s mission partners, I have been gratified to see the work done around the world through First Missions and how we support those who toil in our own community in the spirit of the Lord. The creativity and passion demonstrated by each organization seems contagious. I have embraced opportunities to learn more about their work through day trips, fundraisers, and research to better understand their goals and accomplishments.
It is such a joy to meet our church-supported missionaries individually when they visit. During this time, I have also become better acquainted with Trusha Barner, our Director of Missions. I admire her commitment and leadership as she shares her passion for missions with us.
In the last two years, my husband and I have both participated in the Great Banquet, which has heightened my desire to serve the church as part of the Mission Leadership Team. I am grateful for the enriching experience of sharing this important work and seeing the heart for missions each team member brings with them.
by Kathy Aznavorian, Mission Leadership Team
