Serving in the Caribbean

Our hearts are very bitter/sweet today. Today we said goodbye to our friends and coworkers Brad and Alicia Fox as they go to serve on the island of Grand Bahama and continue to develop the school we have there.

We have known the Foxes for years, long before either of us were married or had families. Brad and I, along with Alicia served as interns in 2002, and I remember from the first time I saw him that I thought he was someone I could become good friends with.

Healthy relationships within ministry is crucial, and as the Foxes leave for Freeport we are losing not only a valued co-laborer in the ministry, but good friends as well. We know that the relationship will continue, but it won’t be the same without them.

It really is a strange combination of emotions, because on the one hand we long for the school in Freeport to have a solid missionary family supporting it and serving the people. But as much as we want to see Brad and Alicia go, we want to have them stay. One specific loss is that Micah is loosing two of his friends with their kids Tristan and Evelyn.

We had a farewell dinner for the Foxes and a large number of the graduates came. Each one stood and shared how their lives have been impacted by Brad and Alicia and how they’re welcome back anytime. It was a special time and a memorable send off for such dear friends.

As the Foxes rode away on the ferry, the song on our radio was “You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone” by Earl Scruggs and Lester Flatt. Fitting… Brad and Alicia – we are going to miss you.

Please keep Brad and Alicia and their kids in your prayers as they transition and go through the challenges of moving, as well Emily and I as we take over here without the fellowship of our coworkers and without the benefit of like-minded friends.