Hello friends,
There has been a lot of time between updates, and much has happened in that time. I am sorry for not updating you all through my decision-making process, but after much consideration, I have decided to not continue the apprenticeship with AT3. I did not make the decision lightly and spent much time praying, asking God to provide discernment in the decision process. The choice to not go through with the apprenticeship was hard, but it was the right choice.
I wanted to start overseas ministry and begin the journey of serving the Lord in that capacity so badly, but London was not the place for me. I overlooked a lot of the things I was searching for because the mission checked enough boxes for me to begin missions. I still have so much to learn, and I thought because I could get my master’s degree and be an apprentice, it would be perfect as a jumping off point. The crucial point I overlooked though, was where God was leading me. I spent a lot of time in prayer, submitting to where God was leading me. I began to realize more and more that I didn’t need to go overseas to serve the kingdom and learn more about ministry. I just kept thinking over and over as I prayed that everywhere I go is a mission field.
I love my community here in Phoenix, my church, and the opportunities I have here. Since I am still so new to the Christian community, I want to continue to grow with the people whom God has currently placed in my life. I love and trust them, which God has helped me to realize is exactly the environment I need to be in for this season of life. I am still trying to figure out the gifts God has blessed me with and how they fit in ministry, while also learning what it means to be a woman in ministry within a safe environment that encourages me.
The past eight months or so have also not been easy for me. Building community and support raising at the same time is not for the faint of heart, that is for sure. I have struggled and haven’t been given the kind of support I needed in the process. I do not know much about the mission world and support raising, so I didn’t even know what kind of questions to ask to receive help. To put it plainly, I was stressed and confused for most of my time leading up to the departure date. Since I have decided to not continue with London, I have felt peace and a sense of rightness. I know this is where God wants me, I’m still unsure where He is leading me, but I have faith that God will make His will known.
Thank you all for supporting me and being so gracefully patient with me. This is all so new to me and I sometimes forget that people want and care to know what is going on. I promise to keep everyone updated as things start to come together, but until then I pray you all are well and God continues to work in each and everyone’s life.
In Christ,
Grace Schmidt
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