Years ago we were introduced to Derek and Anlee. They were new parents and had just returned to the area from living overseas. They were moving back to the area and were looking for jobs and a house. We met one time over dinner at Derek's parents' house.
Fast forward to 2016, due to our extended time home I was able to get involved in MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) at our church. This was a really neat time of mommas getting together to hang out while someone else watched our kids! It was about 3 hours of great socialization for our kids, and honestly, a great time for tired moms to connect on an emotional level to other women who also spend their whole day trying to reason with a pre-schooler.
This is where I "re-met" Anlee. She became an instant friend. It's rare to find someone who can relate to living overseas, not just going on short term trips. Finding someone who understands culture shock, the depth of loneliness you experience, and the wealth of perspective you gain is really difficult in America. Kate fell in between the ages of her two sons. We walked (not literally because we were pregnant!) the road of pregnancy together, and our daughters were born a few days apart. Her husband, Derek, and Josh grew up together. They were involved in a men's Bible study group and met weekly.
So it only made sense that we invest ourselves in the church plant they were involved in. When we stepped in, they had already been meeting for several years- experiencing the birthing pains of a church plant. The group was meeting weekly in different homes. When we returned from Texas in February, the group announced they were looking for space to rent to launch Roots Church. God provided in incredible ways, making the next steps clear. A space was available to rent and open up services to the community. It was an exciting thing to see! On September 10 the church officially launched. That morning the sending church (Communion Church) had a time of prayer and sending out Derek, Anlee and their kids. Communion Church members were like proud parents!
It's really difficult to describe the special place Roots has in our hearts. They came alongside us and ministered to us in ways they will never know. Our joy was renewed in being reminded of the importance of serving the Lord by serving and loving His bride, the church. We continue to pray for Roots Church, Derek and the leadership to be vessels of God's love to the surrounding community.
