MAF missionaries raise support for a pooled fund out of which MAF covers salary, housing, benefits, and staff-related ministry expenses. MAF exercises discretion over the use of missionary support to carry out its mission and care for its staff.
Dave and Erin have been serving in Haiti with MAF since 2016. As a pilot/mechanic, Dave is passionate about seeing God use the resources he provides MAF to share His love and allow ministry partners to have greater impact in the remote areas they serve. Erin is engaged in directing the education of their four children (Elsie, Sammy, Isaiah, and Ruth) while fostering close relationships in the community. She also provides consultation as a nurse/lactation specialist as opportunities arise. The Simons are also involved in ministry at their local church in Sunday School, worship, and on the board of elders. In all that they do, they aim to see Jesus magnified through their lives and ministry.
Dave grew up in Portland, OR, in a family passionate about aviation. He began his own flight training in high school. While working at a local car wash, he was challenged by a co-worker to develop a personal relationship with Jesus. He attended the University of North Dakota (UND) and surrendered his life to Jesus during his freshman year. After graduating, he flew for Pen Air out of Anchorage, AK, until the opportunity arose to fly for his hometown airline, Horizon Air. Over the next several years, Dave participated in several mission trips and grew increasingly passionate of God’s activity around the world.
Erin was raised in North Dakota and was encouraged from a young age to follow Christ as she watched her family love and trust in the Lord. She also attended UND where she obtained her degree in nursing in 2005. During college Erin faced the choice of making her faith her own. As God continued to be faithful even during her doubts, Erin re-dedicated her life to Christ. Over the years, she has participated in a few short-term mission trips within the States and in Mexico. She first felt a call toward missions during college.
Dave and Erin met in college and developed a deep friendship which continued over years and across states. They were married in the fall of 2007 and began their lives together in the Pacific Northwest, where they both enjoyed their careers and growing their family. However, God continued to confirm a call in their lives to serve in missions and directed them to MAF. They made the decision to leave their professional careers so Dave could complete his mechanic training in 2014 and be qualified to serve with MAF. Looking back, Dave finds Romans 8:28 a fitting summary of how the Lord tenderly led Erin and him toward ministry with MAF, “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
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 Simons’ ministry. Please prayerfully consider becoming a Ministry Partner with them through prayer and/or financial support.
1 Bases: Port au Prince
3 Aircraft
Population: 10.6 million
Capital: Port au Prince
Official Language: Haitian Kreyol, French
Currency: Gourde (HTG)
