“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”

Mathew 28:19-20

Written by President Lisa Breidenstein of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Blossom

At St. Paul’s Blossom in Elma, NY, we experienced something extraordinary this past Summer—a new step in faith and outreach as we helped sponsor our very first Short-Term Missionary through Spiritual Orphans Network (SON). Rachel, a devoted member of our congregation, embarked on a mission to Slovakia in the Summer of 2024, answering God’s call to share the Gospel.
This journey was not just hers; it was ours as well. Through prayer, support, and active
participation, we grew as a congregation in our understanding of short-term missions and
witnessed firsthand how the love of Jesus Christ is spread across the world.

Rachel’s announcement of her intention to serve in Slovakia was met with surprise, excitement, joy, and naturally—a little nervousness. Yet, her faith shone brightly. She trusted in God’s promise: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11 Immediately, the congregation rallied around, eager to support this mission. St. Paul’s Women of the Word, our Church Council, and many generous individuals contributed financially, ensuring Rachel could embark on this journey without hesitation.

During a moving Sunday worship service, we gathered to commission Rachel for her mission. Led by her husband, Pastor Jonathan Haseley, we reflected on Christ’s call to be fishers of men (Matthew 4:19). Surrounding Rachel, we laid hands on her, praying for God’s protection over her journey, her family, the SON staff, and the people she would be serving in Slovakia. The power of prayer was tangible, uniting us in a moment of deep spiritual connection. While Rachel was abroad, we as a congregation found ways to support her family at home. With three young children (all under five at the time!), Pastor Jonathan had his hands full! Church members checked in, delivered meals, and helped entertain the kids while helping them cope with missing their mom. Through these acts of service, we were reminded of the words of Paul: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 We followed Rachel’s journey closely through her posts on St. Paul’s Church Facebook page and the informative stories on Spiritual Orphans Network Facebook, witnessing the impact of her work in Ružomberok, Slovakia. Each update filled us with awe as we saw God’s hand moving through the mission team.

A TESTIMONY OF TRANSFORMATION

Upon her return, Rachel shared her experiences during worship, interviewed by Pastor Jonathan. She recounted powerful stories of faith, transformation, and the presence of the Holy Spirit at work. Her testimony ignited a new fire within our congregation. We saw the profound impact that missions can have—not only on those being served but also on those who go. Through Rachel’s journey, a door has been opened. We now recognize that mission work is not just for a select few—it is an opportunity for all of us. As a congregation, we pray that others will step forward, inspired by Rachel’s example, to bring the Good News to the world. “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” — Romans 10:15

We are deeply grateful to Spiritual Orphans Network (SON) for making this experience possible and for giving Rachel—and our entire church—the opportunity to participate in God’s mission. May the seeds planted in Slovakia continue to grow, and may many more come to know the love of Jesus Christ. To God be the glory!

We see that there are a variety of big and small ways to come alongside a missionary and think it’s amazing to do so as a whole congregation! Whether financially supporting, praying daily, sharing the story of SON, or supporting the family of a short-term missionary, you are making an impact alongside the missionaries that are sent! There are two sides to a missionary’s journey: the goer and the sender! We were blessed to be senders, and encourage any church that has the opportunity to (whether it’s someone from within your church, or a person sent by another church) to partner together!

While our church is not sending anyone this year, we can still partner with others who have the call to go placed on their hearts. SON has a fund for each missionary that will be sent and it helps the camps to take place! Check it out here and prayerfully consider your role as a first-time sender!