As we near Thanksgiving, I am giving thanks for all of our kids who have chosen to go abroad to share God’s love with others. This thankfulness bubbles up from my utter gratefulness to God–I am amazed at His provision for us as believers; He allows us to do His work in His power even though we often take the credit. Let’s rejoice together that God is allowing us, and our kids, to “make cookies” with him. May this post help you understand and rejoice in the role God has given us in His Kingdom.
Tag Archives: grandparenting
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
A Letter to My Missionary Grandsons
I have grandparenting on my mind. As a grandma with five precious grands and three more on the way, I understand how crushing it is to have some of those beautiful children too far away to touch. When you are a grandma (or grandpa) to missionary kids, your heart constantly reminds you of the loss of physical closeness. But reading Oma’s story will remind you that your love for them can remain constant even a world away.
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.
Goer Gifts for Christmas
Sometimes you just want to give your Goer a gift for a special occasion. But when your child lives overseas, actual “sending” is often unpredictable or unreliable. Here are some ideas for last minute gifts you can still “send” your Goer for Christmas.
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.
Creative Connection at Christmas . . . or Anytime!
The holidays can be especially hard if you are a long-distance grandparent. Since you can’t spend Christmas morning with your faraway grands, try some of these ideas to bridge the miles during traditional family gathering times (or anytime!)
You Can’t Cross the Ocean on an iPad
The parents of the Goers aren’t the only ones sacrificing when their child is called to missions. The Goers themselves (and their children) sacrifice much of the typical extended family experience. Read as Beth relates the joys and hardships of the technology that connects her to family back home.
Parents of Goers 