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Andy is from Preston, Lancashire, England and Esther is from Coshocton, Ohio, USA. And if it wasn’t for MAF, they probably would have never heard of the other’s town!
Andy has always been interested in anything flying, thanks to his Dad’s involvement in military aircraft. He’s also been technically minded as far back as his parents can remember and is something he used in his electronics engineering career. His Christian journey started with a big statement to God: “If Jesus is real, prove it to me!” Over the next seven years, He did! Andy made a simple commitment when he became a Christian: “Whatever I do, I’ll live for You.” This lead to seven exciting years of full-time youth work in Lancashire. In 2007, Andy learnt about the MAF engineering scholarship at Missionary Maintenance Services in Ohio, USA. He couldn’t get it out of his mind and was excited about an opportunity to combine two things he’s passionate about: aeroplanes and Jesus Christ – with a little adventure, too!
Esther was blessed to grow up in a Christian home and came to know Jesus Christ at a young age. After high school, she went to a Christian college where she received a degree in accounting and management. She used that degree in a ministry for people with disabilities until God began to open the doors for new plans. Spending most of her life surrounded by people with varying disabilities, Esther is excited about the opportunities that may unfold as they go out to serve people around the world.
For both of us, 2009 was a year of change. Esther changed jobs and Andy moved countries. We met as church and became good friends; such good friends that we were married in June 2010.
Once Andy gains his mechanic’s licence, we’ll be ready to move to yet another continent, this time together.