Who we are
Brian’s story
I grew up in a home with parents that established in my life a firm foundation of faith in Christ. My father is the preacher at my home church where my grandfather serves as an elder. Each of these men has influenced my spiritual growth and development, challenging me to grow in faith.
I went to Roanoke Bible College (now Mid-Atlantic Christian University) for my undergraduate studies and received a degree in Biblical studies and cross-cultural ministry. Later I went to the Graduate Institute of Applied Linguistics (GIAL) and received a master’s degree in language development. During my time in both of these schools I went on various mission trips to Africa and Asia which helped to solidify my future in missions.
I joined Pioneer Bible Translators in 2006 and met my wife, a member of Wycliffe Bible Translators, at GIAL in 2007. After much prayer we decided to serve together with Pioneer Bible as language surveyors. God has patiently guided my steps this far and I look forward to seeing what He has in store for my future and my family’s future.
Hannah’s story
I also grew up in a family that put Christ at the center. My father worked as a Christian psychiatrist and served in the Air Force for many years.
I received my undergraduate degree in secondary education with a concentration in history at Appalachian State University. While still in undergrad I became a member of Wycliffe Bible Translators and went to PNG as a high school teacher. During my time there I learned about language survey; I came home and started my graduate studies in language development. In 2007 I went back to PNG with Wycliffe to serve as a language surveyor. I loved connecting with Papua New Guineans and being a part of bringing groups closer to having the Bible in their own language. I came back early to marry Brian and finish my graduate degree in language development.
When Brian and I returned to PNG in 2011 with Pioneer Bible it felt like coming home. I was excited to be serving with my husband, and now I’m that much more excited to serve with my husband and beautiful children!
Ray’s story
Ray Evangeline is 12 (cue shocked gasp in my heart), learning and growing so much every day as she works towards being a sea turtle conservationist. School is not always easy for any of us, but she’s full of a desire to learn and curiosity about the world around her. Since we moved to Australia, she’s thrown herself into cricket and violin. It’s a pleasure to watch her thrive in both. We simply enjoy being around this kiddo!
Willa’s story
Willa Marie is 10! She was born in Australia, but she’s not an Australian citizen. Willa is determined and driven and full of hilarious antics. Her favourite things in the world are her sisters, dogs, PNG, piano, and reading. She’s also becoming quite besotted with cricket and followed her sister into playing for the local club. Willa brings life and joy and loudness wherever she goes, and we can’t imagine life without her!
Gemma’s story
Gemma Charlotte is 7 (no, seriously, where do the years flow off to?!). She loves her sisters, cockatoos, and listening to audiobooks. She enjoys Shakespeare and Lemony Snicket, but her true love presented itself in science last year: geology. She can’t get enough of rocks, gems, and geodes and, fortunately, lives in a great place to pursue that interest. Since moving to Australia she’s also fallen in love with indoor soccer, swimming, and being with her church friends. She’s our spark plug!
