We have heard a few questions repeatedly when we speak to people about what we are planning to do.
- How often do you go to Asia? Which countries? In early 2026 we will be traveling to Malaysia, India and Nepal. In 2025 I went twice to India, and Lisa went once to India and once to Malaysia. Our trips to be short (less than 1 month), but in 2026 we will be in Asia for about 3 months. We have had ministry in other countries in the region, and may do so again, like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
- Why Asia? When I (Rich) was 24, I was in a small group of senior students talking about our vision for our lives. I was not much older than those students, and so while the focus was on students sharing their vision, I shared mine. I had at that point been to the Urbana Missions conference three times (in '79, '81, and '84) and in part my answer was an answer to the question, "Why aren't you planning to go as a missionary overseas?" I said, "I want to be wherever I can be most strategically used. I want to be in student ministry in the US now, where youth and energy is so prized, when I am young. When I am older, I want to serve in a place (like Asia) where age and wisdom are valued." Now, certainly, I could not have known then what course my life would take, nor the twists and turns that has taken me to Africa and Europe, and now, to Asia. But my/our desire to be used in ministry in strategic locations remains, and the church in Asia is awakening to become a vibrant part of the outward movement of Christ's global church. We have no illusions about being at the center of the very large move of God that is happening there, but we have certainly taken our place alongside people who have gone before and Asian nationals who have said yes to God's call.
- Where will you live when not traveling? We have decided to put down roots in Durham, and we will seek long-term housing upon our return to Durham sometime in May, 2026. Our daughter and her husband live there, and we have a good church and friend community there. We will continue to pursue zoom teaching ministry from there, and occasional overseas trips can start from Raleigh-Durham Airport nearby.