Hey there, missionary mama, are you aching for some like-minded folks who can commiserate? You might not be able to find that connection close to home, but those women are out there longing to chat with someone who understands. I would love to connect all of you.
Join Parents of Goers on our first monthly Zoom call for mothers and grandmothers of Goers on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at 10:30 am CT (see accurate times in other zones below). If you would like to share an hour with others mamas who understand, contact Sarah at meekhofs@msn.com to sign up and receive a zoom link.
Tag Archives: fear
Honest Words from the Mother of a Goer in a Conflict Zone
WE ARE STARTING A MONTHLY ZOOM CALL!
Parents need a supportive community where they can share the joys and anxieties of having a child on the mission field. Join us as we offer support to senders on October 28, 2026 via Zoom. Scroll to the bottom of this post for more details.
But before you do that, read what one mother has to say about her experience. LAB understands and writes with heart-wrenching honesty. Read her excellent post below.
Suitcases, Sacrifices, and Sending Well (reflections from the author of the new book, For Those Who Send)*
Hello Parents of Goers,
I have been absent for a bit, trying to keep all the plates spinning–can you relate?
Recently, I read an article to which I know you will relate: A former Goer sends her own daughter and now becomes the Parent of a Goer–like you. Sending her daughter across the ocean allowed her–the Stayer–to intimately understand the cost of sending. She says this of letting go, “It’s a noble and beautiful and right thing to gift to our children. And yet, I’ve learned that giving them that permission will cost you dearly.”
The author of this post, Heather Fallis, has just released a new book of liturgies that will be a balm to your soul. See the link to the book, For Those Who Send, in her article.
Wishing you a beautiful beginning of a new school year and a wondrous autumn season!
TORI
An Open Letter to Relatives of Workers in Conflict Zones
You’re probably surprised to hear from me again so soon. When I read this post on A Life Overseas (a blog specifically for Goers), I thought of so many of you who are praying and trusting God with your precious ones in these places. May this helpful article bring you peace and rest.
A Strong Tower
When we try to find peace by arranging our lives, or the lives of our kids, so that nothing bad will happen, we will be greatly disappointed when our arrangements–and our rest–crumbles around us. Our true rest in not in perfect circumstances. True rest is found in Christ.
The TCK Surprise
The children of Goers are ofter referred to as TCKs. They don’t completely fit in their stateside culture, nor do they fit in their home (overseas) culture. They exist in a third reality that is made up of both cultures combined. That is why we refer to these kids as Third Culture Kids. Ann Bowman has third culture grandkids and has seen the ways that their experiences abroad and on furlough have shaped them to be unique in so many ways. Read this new post (and listen to the podcast!) as Ann talks about ways that we all can minister to these very special kiddos.
Departures Are Messy
Ann Bowman knows about departures. With two daughters serving globally, Ann is an expert at saying goodbye. This excerpt is from her new book, “I Never Signed Up For This”, and describes the ache of surrendering those most precious to you. Listen to her extended story on the most recent Parents of Goers Podcast
What Missionary Grandparents Give Up–and Gain
Being a long-distance grandparent is really hard. This excellent article written by a former goer offers great perspective to our kids abroad, and helpful advice and encouragement to those of us missing our precious grands. May it encourage your soul.
Confessions of a “Fix-It Father”
Many of you have expressed interest in resources for fathers. Here’s an article from a self-proclaimed “Fix-It Father” who has learned to yield his protective fatherly instincts to God’s sovereignty. Mark wisely reminds us that we are just caretakers of these children. They really belong to God.
Mothers, Fathers, and Missions: A Lesson From Jim Elliot
Parents must resist the urge to hinder their children in the work of missions under the guise of parental protection. This is a very difficult act of surrender and a peculiar sorrow which has been endured by parents through the ages. Read this fascinating letter from the late Jim Elliot to his parents.
Predictably Unpredictable Visas
The whole visa process is confusing to me and other parents, I assume. At least it was confusing to Connie, who sent me this question via the Parents of Goers website.
As I get these questions, I will share them with you all since we are all in this boat (airplane?) together. I will respond with my personal experiences, but I would love for you all to chime in with yours in the comments so we can all learn from one another. Hang in there Missionary Mamas and Dads!
New Podcast Episode! Advice for Parents and Grandparents
Are you a parent or grandparent grappling with the idea of your child or grandchild pursuing a missionary calling? Do you find yourself filled with questions and concerns about how to support them effectively? In this episode of The Missions Podcast, our host Scott Dunford engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tori Haverkamp, founder of Parents of Goers Ministries and author of the new book Missionary Mama’s Survival Guide.
In Case of Emergency
With family so far away, Goers can feel helpless when hard things happen at home. And they can feel isolated as they navigate big changes abroad. Both parents and Goers will sacrifice as a result of this missional life. Abigail Follows gives a seasoned perspective on the cost and beauty of the Missionary’s task.
The Sacrifice of Surrender
Our nation has endured great trauma lately. Is God truly good and in control of everything?
