Jim was raised in Lansing, MI. After graduating from high school, he joined the Air Force and began his training in electronics. An Air Force friend’s Christian attitude created an interest in Jim to understand what made this man different. This interest eventually led Jim to accept Christ. He was later discipled and encouraged in his faith by a minister. Participating in short-term mission trips has shown Jim the need for better training for pastors throughout the world. In addition to Jim’s Air Force training, he attended Lansing Community College and majored in electronics. For the past 45 years, he has worked in the technology field in the Lansing area. For the last fifteen years he has owned and operated a small commercial communications company that designs, installs and services audio and video system for Churches, schools, industry and other institutions.

Shirley was raised in Detroit, MI where she attended church as a child. A school friend invited her to a Christian camp, where she accepted Christ. Later, she was discipled by a minister and his wife. It was through this discipling and subsequent short-term mission trips that led her to understand the need for Christian distance learning in many countries. Shirley has a degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, and she has worked for the past 20 years as an educational consultant in the area of home education.

Jim and Shirley thank the Lord for leading them on paths of experience that can now be used for God’s glory in missions. They both have been looking forward to serving the Lord in missions for many years. Proverbs 9:9-10 are special verses for them. “Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” As they instruct others they also look forward to the instruction they will receive.

To fund the worldwide ministry of MAF, God is faithful in providing loyal, generous ministry support from His most caring people. He has called the men and women of MAF to serve Him in a unique way. He is also calling people like you around the world to play a special role in the ministry of MAF.

You are invited to become a ministry partner with Jim and Shirley in this strategic ministry. Please prayerfully consider involvement with them through prayer and/or financial support.

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