At Home… and an Accolade

Greetings from “stay-in-place” Central Florida. Isn’t is strange how things are changing day-by-day, then again, we are home all day and so much is the same? I look at our family photo above and think, “six feet apart people!!”

Our tribe is doing well — Kevin is working from home and Cady is home with her girls and they are flourishing. Zach is teaching online while Becca and Murphy go to preschool each week day. (Becca was recently promoted to her center’s Assistant Director.) Rachel has finished her 4th year of college (she will be staying for a 5th) and is living and working in Traveler’s Rest (just over from Pumpkintown, South Carolina). See below for Rachel’s latest accolade. We are proud of her for so many reasons!

Technology as Ministry

Andy transitioned smoothly from the office to working from home. He has been VERY busy as programs his team has had planned for months are still rolled out, and new things come up all the time. People with bad intentions are still working in this crazy time. Andy’s team is working to keep Zoom meetings “Zoombomb” free. He is either on the phone or on a video call much of each day. Currently he is taking two seminary classes, the last two of Cru’s required continuing education program.

Still Communicating

When the pandemic began to change our lives, there was a flurry of communication between our leadership and our staff members. Spring Break conferences and summer missions, both stateside and international were canceled. College students were being sent home. High school students were transitioning to learning from home. I had the privilege to edit devotions for a 40-Days of Prayer initiative. I am currently helping edit a curriculum for a Spiritual Formations class to be offered on-line to our staff this summer. And this summer I will be taking two seminary classes as well.

The Gospel Has Not Changed

Around the world, people are seeking Jesus in amazing numbers. Churches globally are seeing an increase in attendance. Cru will be involving students in virtual international summer missions which will allow students to go where they have not been able to go before, reaching their peers in new and creative ways. Local ministries are connecting with area churches to help with resources and manpower where needed. In this time of chaos, many are seeking a peace that goes beyond the news and a movie on Netflix.

Andy and I are praying that each and all of you will sense what God is speaking to you in this time. We want to acknowledge that, for many of you, this season of COVID-19 has been disruptive. For some it has been devastating. For still others, a time of increased work in a new environment — your living room. We want to thank you all for continuing your partnership with us through prayer, and through finances as you are able. We have been praying for you. If you need prayer please let us know, through email at Andy.Kellogg@cru.org or Catherine.Kellogg@cru.org, or through text at 407-721-4875 (Catherine’s mobile). You are loved!

Catherine