As many of you know, I (Ben) have been involved in the construction business for over 35 years. I have learned a great deal about preconstruction management, project costing, project management, construction means and methods engineering and all of the business side of running a construction business. Over the years I have had different roles in constructing many buildings. Although I can appreciate the tangibles that I build, my fulfillment has come more in my personal interactions with project team members and clients. My heart motivation whether working as an employee or operating my own business has always been to bring glory to God by using the gifts He has given me to the best of my ability and to be a channel of His love to those around me.
In the fall of 2017, I went on a two week trip to Korea with an organization that shares the same values I have when it comes to construction. Engineering Ministries International (EMI) is a Christian ministry that designs and builds facilities that serve the poor in developing countries. These facilities – including hospitals, orphanages, schools, clean water projects and more – directly impact communities by meeting physical needs and communicating God’s love in practical ways. To produce their designs, they blend their team of in-house project managers with talented volunteer architects, engineers, and land surveyors recruited from around the world. Many ministries that EMI serves with their designs also have a need for construction management assistance. Not only is the goal to see their projects completed as designed but also to invest in the community directly by teaching skills to national workers. The Gospel is regularly proclaimed on these work sites and new believers are given opportunity to grow in the Lord through work site chapel services lead by local pastors. EMI has piqued my interest as a potential next place to serve the Lord. Therefore, in only a few weeks, Judy and I will be headed to East Africa for me to observe EMI’s Uganda office and for Judy to observe life in Uganda. It is an exploratory trip for us to continue the process of discerning if this is an avenue in which we feel God’s leading for us. A volunteer position with EMI would likely be a three year commitment. For now, from May 24th through June 5th, Judy and I will travel throughout Uganda trying to get a glimpse of what God has done and is doing through the physical work of EMI. You can learn more about emi by visiting emiworld.org.
We would be honored to have your participation with us as we head to Africa. First of all, we ask you to be with us in prayer. You have no doubt heard missionaries say this is the most important need. It really is! We have already felt much spiritual opposition. Please pray that we know God’s presence, protection, and His leading – that we would discern direction from Him during this time. Secondly, there is obviously a financial cost. Airfare, EMI fees, food/lodging, and other transportation costs will total up to around $5000 for the two of us. While it is difficult for me to be gone when self-employed, I do believe that God provides for each of our needs. If you desire to participate with us in this way, your gift is tax-deductible through EMI and will go directly to our expenses. If you want to give through the mail we will get you an envelope addressed to EMI, or you can donate online. In order to give online, go to https://emiworld.org/give. After selecting the appropriate currency scroll down to “Give to a Trip Volunteer”. Select either my name or Judy as the Trip Volunteer.
Please use the form on our contact page or give us a call if you want more information or to let us know the Lord is leading you to be a part of our team.