Finishing Up Training at JAARS

This past month, Brad and Cambria completed the JAARS Intercultural Communications Course, or ICC. The four-week class was the last of the major training events for us before our move to Papua New Guinea. While the course focused on living and ministering in a cross-cultural environment, it also included so much more. We covered a wide range of topics, including how to transition well, spiritual warfare and opposition, team dynamics and handling conflict, and working in multigenerational teams. It was truly designed as a full pre-field training class.

Following ICC, Brad did a bit of flight training, transitioning from the Robinson R66 helicopter to the Bell Long Ranger. This is the helicopter he'll be flying in PNG. This particular Bell is relatively new to JAARS here in North Carolina, so it's great that he is getting training and experience on it here before we move. The Bell was given to JAARS by Samaritan's Purse, and you can see in the picture below it's named 'Samaritan 1' in honor of their gift. It's so great to see different organizations working together and filling each other's needs!

It's hard to believe the summer break is already over (especially for the kids!), but we started up homeschool for the year a couple of weeks ago. We joined a new homeschool community this year in Waxhaw. William is starting 6th grade, Emrich 5th grade, Meg 3rd grade, and Millie kindergarten.

What's Next

We are still planning on moving to Papua New Guinea early next year. We are just now starting the process of applying for visas and work permits for the family. This can sometimes take many months, so please pray for a smooth and quick approval. In the meantime, we'll be at JAARS, and Brad will be helping out in the aviation department. The fall is a busy time, as JAARS does many outreach events with the aircraft. Brad will also attend a one-week Bell Long Ranger class in Texas this month.