London Calling

Get it...London Calling...from the iconic red phone booths!

When we left Stockholm at the end of January, we were a bit uncertain of what the road ahead might look like. But we were confident that God would lead even if we couldn't see what path would unfold. Now the next stop on our journey has been revealed and we will be moving to London, England in August to serve as the interim pastors for the American International Church in London. We could not be more thrilled with this opportunity and thank God for his goodness to us.
This is a church with whom we share a history.

Our first trip to London, 1999

We've attended two pastors conferences hosted by this community. I have spoken at a women's retreat there and preached on a Sunday morning. Additionally, I was privileged to attend the ordination of their associate pastor and participate in that service last spring. We've known the pastor who is leaving well. In fact, he and his son visited Stockholm twice and I stayed in their home when I was there for the women's conference. Turns out, I was staying in the home that we will now inhabit.
The call is for 6-12 months, seeking to journey with the church as they search for a new senior pastor. It's perfect for us as it allows us to return to ministry, get back to Europe, serve another International church under a very different model than Immanuel, and get a feel for interim ministry. It is such a bonus that we already know several members of the community and have a great familiarity with the church. 
The church is right in the heart of London. It's a very urban, busy area and it will be quite exciting to see what's it's like to minister in a big, bustling city. And it will be fun to live in a foreign city where English is spoken!
So we'll be trading our shorts and sandals for rain gear and wellies! And yes, Tanner is going to make the journey. He does not know this yet. I'm wondering how he'll react when he sees that crate come out of storage!
London has long been a favorite city of ours. We've enjoyed the sights and sounds of this vast city. To be given an opportunity to live and work there, to partner with a vibrant church community as they continue to seek to fulfill their mission, to be invited in to lead and nurture a community as they seek their next steps is a humbling gift for which we are very thankful.
Keep us and the church in your prayers as together we seek God's will for His church in London.