Rachel Holsten

Rachel Holsten is a short-term missionary teacher assigned to serve with Mission Aviation Fellowship in Papua, Indonesia.

Rachel grew up in the small town of Sterling, Colorado, where her dad has been the pastor of a Bible church for some 20 years. Growing up in a strong Christian family allowed Rachel to be actively involved in church ministries such as Sunday School, Children’s Church, AWANA, and Vacation Bible School. Rachel received Jesus Christ as her Savior when she was seven years old while watching a film on the Gospel of John. She continued to grow in her relationship with the Lord when she was older by actively participating in youth groups and Bible studies and serving in a variety of children’s ministries at church.

When Rachel’s Uncle David and Aunt Natalie Holsten began serving with MAF in Indonesia, she watched a video they had sent back the United States to update their supporters about their first few months on the mission field. She was so fascinated by the work that her family was doing overseas that she knew she wanted to serve overseas one day, too. After graduating from high school, Rachel had the opportunity to take a gap year to live with David and Natalie’s family in Papua while assisting teachers at Hillcrest International School.

After returning to the United States, Rachel was determined to pursue a degree in elementary education. Rachel graduated with a B.S. in Elementary Education from Pensacola Christian College in Pensacola, Florida. Before committing to serve with MAF, Rachel taught 6th-8th grade English and History in a combined classroom at Calvary University Academy in Fort Morgan, Colorado.

Rachel has been greatly encouraged by God’s promise in 2 Timothy 1:7 which states, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” She holds on to the promise that God will sustain her and give her the love she needs as she strives to obey His calling in her life. She is excited about teaching students the truths from God’s Word and showing them His love for them on a daily basis.

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 Rachel’s ministry.  Please prayerfully consider becoming a ministry partner with them through prayer and/or financial support.