We have had a huge answer to prayer this month (August 2023) – we are under contract on a home!! It is hard to believe, but we have been looking for a house for 2 1/2 years. And more than just the house, waiting for “the” place and community that God wants us to plant our roots in. There is too much to share in this update, but we have seen God’s hand so much in this whole process. Our new home will be in Brentwood, right outside St. Louis city limits. We are very excited about the missional opportunities in this neighborhood – the homes are close together, and we are within walking distance to our library, the elementary school, and 3 parks. In fact, there is no public school bus system, so we will be walking to school every day with our neighbors!
One of our favorite parts about how God wove this story is how he allowed our church family to be an active part in his provision. This summer, our church has been learning about the spiritual discipline of fasting, as well as fasting together every Monday, breaking our fast with communion at our gathering on Monday evening. Many members of our community specifically spent time each Monday praying for our ministry and for breakthrough in our housing situation. So what a joy it is for us to not only get to celebrate God answering our prayers, but that others get to experience the power of prayer as well! We are incredibly thankful for them, and the many of you reading this update, who I know have been praying for us as well.
Throughout the summer, our church community has been prayerfully considering how to make room in our Missional Community for new people. Our current group is at capacity, making it hard to be hospitable to new people or practically even have room for them. Although it is always difficult to change things, the members of our group unanimously decided to split into two gatherings in the fall. God has been bringing people to mind that we are wanting to invite in, and is also calling some into leadership of these groups. We are currently in the process of ironing out all of these details, so please be praying for us as we navigate this change! We are encouraged and expectant for what God is wanting to do!
We continue to be so blessed by those of you who pray for us regularly! We could not “carry on” in full time ministry without your covering us in prayer and interceding on our behalf. Please continue to be praying for us and our ministry! Below are some areas that we need specific prayer in:
- Housing – We are praising God for our new home! Please pray for the details to continue to run smoothly, and for our girls as they go through this change.
- Leadership/Mentors – We have been intentionally praying for some new people to come alongside us that are already of similar heart and mind, and have capacity to help take up leadership in our church.
- Church members – Please continue to pray for the work that the Holy Spirit is doing in the lives of our church members and that they will continue to experience God in a radical, life-changing way.
Anthony and Kylie are church planting using Inspire principles and practices in St Louis, Missouri, USA. Read more and find out how to support them here.