It is such a privilege to be in a world wide movement of churches where we have the ability to send people across the world and have confidence that they will be with other christians that will love and take care of them, be about the same purpose, teach the same doctrine, and will hold them to the same standard. This is exactly what we experienced this past month as we sent off three incredibly influential disciples back to the United States. It was so bitter sweet saying good bye to our much loved Mason and Natalie Fetelika and our brother Yamin Leyton.
The Fetelika’s were sent to Sydney for the original mission team just under two years ago and have been working for the church as campus interns leading the students here ever sense. The dynamic couple brought an immense amount to the Sydney church, whether it’s with their incredible voices, deep convictions, boldness to preach God’s word, or just their fun loving spirit, they will be missed tremendously. We can’t thank them enough for the countless hours and late nights they poured out their hearts to the disciples and the endless efforts they made to see more lost souls saved. We can’t wait to see them come back to prayerfully lead the New Zealand mission team in two years, accompanied by their soon to be baby! Congrats Mase and Nat! We miss you, but know God is going to be using you in incredible ways in Los Angels for the time being.
Yamin is one of the most mature sixteen year olds you will ever meet. This young man has been through more than most people have in their whole life, and yet has always fought to put God and His Kingdom first. He moved here from New Zealand just after the mission team was planted, after previously living in Chile and the United States. His zeal to preach God’s word powerfully is contagious and definitely something that will be missed. We know he is going to be able to get the training in LA he needs to come back even more on fire for God! We also can’t thank Yamin enough for all the time and dedication he’s has put into advancing God’s kingdom here in Sydney. It’s been incredible seeing the ways he was able to impact all the disciples here, especially setting an amazing example for the other young christians.
Although there were many tears, we know this wasn’t a goodbye but a see you later…family till the end.