As young adults, Steve and Sheryl Martin developed a sense of call to serve God internationally. Through convictions partially developed during the Gulf War of 1991, they became convinced of the importance of a peaceable witness in that part of the world.
Sheryl and Steve served in Afghanistan with Mennonite Mission Network and one of its predecessor agencies over a period of 16 years, from September 1991 through June 2007. They were based in Kabul except for two stays in Mazar-e-Sharif for security reasons (1992 and 1996-1997) and two home leaves in the United States (1995 and 2001).
Steve worked in the finance department for an international nongovernmental organization, becoming finance director in 1997. Sheryl served primarily in nursing, much of the time in maternal-child health. She also worked occasionally with community health and eye care.
The Martins’ three children—Sara (1995), Micah (1998) and Elizabeth (2001)—joined them in their vision in service to the Afghan people. As part of a larger international team, they had many interactions with different cultures and attended a small English-language international school.
Steve and Sheryl Martin currently live in Lancaster County, Pa. Steve is finance director for Eastern Mennonite Missions. Sheryl works part-time as an RN consultant for Friendship Community. Their children attend Ephrata area public schools.