The Boogaards desire to be a part of seeing the nations declaring the Glory of God. Many are still waiting to hear of His marvelous works that He has done through Christ on the cross. John and Kathryn are excited that, through serving with MAF they will have the chance to help reach the people of Kalimantan, Indonesia, with this wonderful News. John looks forward to using his skills as a pilot/mechanic to bless people by meeting their physical needs and earning the opportunity to share Christ so their spiritual needs may also be met. Kathryn, while taking care of their four children, is excited about building relationships with neighbors and sharing the salvation of God through faith in Jesus Christ.
John was born in San Jose, California, and at the age of 4 his family moved to Colombia, South America, where they served with Wycliffe Bible Translators for 15 years. At a young age John became a Christian through the testimony of his parents. Growing up overseas he also saw firsthand the importance of missions, as well as how the airplane has a role in spreading the Gospel. Growing through the challenges faced while serving 4 years in the Navy, John knew he wanted to serve in full-time ministry.
In 2007, John graduated from Moody Bible Institute in Spokane, Washington, with a BS in Missionary Aviation Technology, and proceeded to get his multi-engine rating and Certificate of Flight Instruction. John worked as a mechanic at Spokane Airways before taking a position as a pilot/mechanic with Dynamic Aviation in southern California to gain experience. Several of John’s instructors at Moody were MAF staff on-loan to the school. Their instruction and experience were a great encouragement to John and Kathryn as they sought the Lord’s direction for their future service.
Kathryn was born in Istanbul, Turkey, where her father served much of his Army career. Most of her school age years were in the capital, Ankara, except for junior high, in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Her father read to the family daily from the Bible and took them to church. Kathryn prayed for Jesus to be her Savior and Lord, as a third grader. It was in college, as a counselor at a Christian camp, that God led her to make a commitment of obedience to Him.
Kathryn received her BA in Elementary Education from Millsaps College in Jackson, MS, in 1996. She taught third grade in Jackson, MS, for five years and at St. Paul Christian School on Guam for two years. John and Kathryn met while on the island of Guam, and were married two years later, in 2002.
Kathryn’s experiences overseas have given her a love for nationals and an appreciation for other cultures. She enjoys being involved in women’s groups which focus on encouraging women in their Biblical roles as wives and mothers, and looks forward to the opportunities God will provide overseas.
God calls the men and women of MAF to serve Him in unique ways. He may also be calling you to a special role in the Boogaards’ ministry. Please prayerfully consider becoming a Ministry Partner with them through prayer and/or financial support.
