Relevant Media

Our first story is a recent one from our new family. It might be a “You had to be there moment,” but I will share it anyway. We also want to tell you about our summer.

“Ready?” I ran across the room to sit beside my wife and son. As the light flashes faster, Rachel rips the pacifier out of Braden’s mouth just before the camera takes a picture of our new family. This happened about 10 times before we got just the right shot. Well, almost the right shot. Our faces are red and there are tears streaming down our faces from laughing hysterically, but Braden looks great. It was the most fun we had had in 4 weeks.

Things are definitely funnier when you are really tired. The past 7 weeks have been an amazing adventure. We have learned a lot about diapers and burps, and have realized that we have no clue how to be parents. Each day is an adventure and an experiment, and we are enjoying every minute of it.

As the summer draws nearer, we are beginning the planning process for the Crossroads Innovation Project. Our summer assignment this year is in Indianapolis working with students from all over the country that want to use their skills for ministry purposes. I will be leading this project with Kristin, another designer that works with me in the office.

This unique project attracts students with operational skills, including design, web development, video production, writing, finance, and conference planning. What makes this project different than the other summer projects is that these students work in the office instead of getting a job at a tourist location.

Our hope for this project is that students would get the same resources and developmental training that student leaders get on the other summer projects. At the same time, we want them to realize the benefit of using their skills and the importance and need for them in ministry.

The atmosphere of this project is similar to an office environment. They will be living together in an apartment complex in Indy, and drive to work. We desire that they experience close fellowship with each other, and professionalism in the workplace.

One of the main projects that the students accomplish every year is developing the theme and design for Christmas Conference, our region-wide conference in December. Besides this main project, they will be working in various areas to expand the ministries on our campuses.

I experienced the call to come on staff and use my skills in ministry through a similar summer project at the National Headquarters in Orlando when I was a student. I pray that the students would be able to leave the summer knowing that wherever the Lord calls them, they will be equipped to use their skills for ministry.

Thank you for your prayers and support! We are seeing the Lord do some amazing things through them!

Please Pray

> Our small group of students would be a tight-nit group who work well together and learn from each other spiritually and professionally.

> Balance for Ryan between family and ministry.