Rod and Valerie Hochstetler have served as missionaries with Mission Aviation Fellowship since 1990. The Hochstetlers live in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Rod works as the West DRC program’s accountable manager; he is also an instructor pilot, and a maintenance instructor. He enjoys flying to assist mission and development work throughout the country and working as a mechanic in the hangar. Rod considers maintenance to be a top priority in the program to keep the planes safe and flying. Because Rod has a passion for the spiritual and emotional health for the people around him, he is working on a Biblical Counseling Certificate. Rod also serves as the chairman on the leadership team of their church in DRC.
Ephesians 2:10 is a meaningful Scripture to Rod. He shares, “God thought about me long before I came to be. He gave me a purpose (to do good works) and handpicked the good works I was created to do. I do them, not because I need to prove anything to Him, but as a way of showing my thankfulness for all He has done for me.”
Valerie loves to teach. She has a degree in Master of Arts in Teaching with a Special Education emphasis. She also enjoys adventures as God provides them for her whether sharing the gospel in unexpected ways, taking on a challenging endurance activity, or attempting a new craft. Additionally, she loves to host people in their home, for a meal, overnight, or in large groups on holidays.
Currently, Valerie’s favorite verse is Romans 5:8. She shares, “This verse reminds me continuously that God loved me first even before He sent Jesus to die for me and even though I was a sinner. His grace continues to be an amazing gift even years after accepting Him as my Savior.”
Their four adult children are following God’s direction in their lives in various places in the world. Although they miss their children deeply, the Hochstetlers believe God has reconfirmed their call to continue serving Him in Congo. They love to partner with Congolese believers to see Christ’s church grow in Congo. MAF’s specialty is reaching out to people in isolated places for His Church. Please join them in praying for a spiritual revival for the city of Kinshasa and Congo as a whole. They would also appreciate your prayers for their team and the different ministries they participate in.
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 Rod and Valerie’s ministry. Please prayerfully consider becoming a ministry partner with them through prayer and/or financial support.
