My husband, Rod, and I raised ABC children. The letters stand for the nationalities they claim. I am American. They were born in Benin, West Africa, where we lived and served with Mennonite Mission Network’s predecessor agencies. Rod is Canadian. The challenges of being the child of mission workers are many. “Where do I belong?” is often a life-long question. Yet, the benefits of a broader perspective of God’s world and the ability to bridge differences are often embraced by children who grew up in a culture other than that of their parents.
I took on the task of co-editing this issue of Beyond when our editor, Danielle Klotz, gave birth to her first child, Francesco, two months earlier than anticipated. We wish Danielle and her husband, Natanael Fontan, God’s richest blessings of health, energy and wisdom as they begin their family life together.
In this issue of Beyond, we feature families in mission, beginning with Mission Network’s executive director, Stanley W. Green, and his reflection on how mission influenced his son’s choice to become a doctor to help address some of the world’s suffering. This is followed by the story of the Zingbe family’s faithfulness in following Jesus’ example of hospitality, and how ripples of caring have touched lives around the world before returning back to the place it all started in Ivory Coast.
We also learn of how Mission Network personnel cross cultural divides in the United States: the Rittenhouse sisters are nurturing a mision lifestyle by leading their second Service Adventure household in Johnstown, Pennsylvania; the impact of cross-cultural experiences on Sierra Ross Richer’s faith journey; and Duane Maust and Elaine Miller living out the good news of Jesus’ love in Mississippi with a long-term commitment.
And, Kelsey Hochstetler helps readers take a peek into the intricacies of parenting across cultures.
We hope this issue inspires you to delight in the diversity of God’s communities around the world, to build bridges beyond the daily routine, and help your family engage in mission.
