Goforths on the Ground: Faith at the Forefront
For Michael and Crystal Goforth, the winding road to Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) was marked by faith, flexibility, and a technical calling to serve the world’s isolated communities. “At every step, we’ve relied on our faith in who God is and the assurances we have in His perfect plan, trusting Him as we move forward in our journey with MAF, one step at a time,” Michael shares. That steadfast faith continues to ground the Goforth family as they step into the vital work of supporting MAF’s global network.
Michael’s role as an IT Field Support Specialist is a critical link in MAF’s chain of reaching the lost. During a recent internship, he witnessed firsthand the essential role technology plays in ensuring mission planes—and the people who need them—can reach the most remote corners of the globe. “IT resources provide the behind-the-scenes framework that enables all the other departments to work together and ensures that MAF airplanes can safely fly to the most isolated people groups,” he explains. From prepping laptops for the avionics section to assisting in the development of technical processes for ongoing operations, Michael’s expertise will enable others to succeed in MAF’s programs around the world.
Crystal, Michael, and their children, Christina and Paul, have also learned the beauty and challenge of flexibility. Transitioning from a traditional office job to the unique rhythms of missionary life has demanded adaptability and resilience. Instead of structured schedules, their pre-field work revolves around community events, partnership building, and sharing the story of how God is reaching isolated people through MAF’s ministry. Through it all, the family has found belonging: “We love MAF because it functions much like a family by caring for and encouraging each other, with meaningful purpose and eternal results.”
Looking ahead, the Goforths are actively building their ministry partnership team, receiving specialized IT training, and eventually joining the IT team in the field. While their exact assignment is still unfolding, they move forward with open hands: “Above all else, we simply seek to serve the Lord in whatever capacity He grants us. We hope to leave a legacy that advances the Gospel through how God uses ordinary folks like us.”
The Goforths are now seeking prayer and financial partners to join them in advancing MAF’s mission. To learn more about supporting their journey, visit www.maf.org/goforth.
