Previous | Next 

Fresno, Calif.
Program director joins YMI; administrative assistant moves on


Andrew Stanley has been appointed program director for Youth Mission International. Stanley will oversee YMI’s SOAR, ACTION and TREK divisions, which provide short-term mission and discipleship opportunities to Mennonite Brethren young adults in Canada and the US. He will also speak in churches,

Rebecca, Andrew, Hannah, and Faith Stanley

schools and conferences and provide direction for spiritual nurturing and equipping of YMI staff and participants.

Stanley considers involvement in YMI an important step in the faith formation of teens and young adults. “As a pastor, I have found that experiential learning is one of the most effective ways for young people to come to grips with their faith and to put the teachings of Christ into action,” he said.

After connecting with YMI staff in B.C. in January, Stanley and his family moved to Waterloo, Ont. He plans to continue graduate studies while working into his new role.

Stanley came to the attention of MBMS International when he came into the Abbotsford, B.C. office to inquire about long-term mission work.

“We value Andrew’s wide range of experience in short-term mission and working with youth,” said YMI Director Randy Friesen. “His desire to someday serve in long-term ministry brings an added depth to his work, as we seek to help youth discern a call that in some cases may include long-term ministry.”

Although Stanley grew up in a Christian home in Fresno, Calif., family events shook his faith during high school. Following a recommitment to God in grade 12, he formed a Christian band and spent the next three-and-a-half years sharing the gospel with teens through music. During that time, he also participated in short-term mission trips to Europe, Russia, Africa and Mexico.

Stanley has a B.A. from Fresno Pacific University and is working towards a Master’s degree through Associated Canadian Theological Seminary in Langley, B.C. He previously was pastor of student ministries at Bethany Baptist Church in Richmond, B.C. for three years. He and his wife Rebecca have two children, Hannah, 2, and Faith, 1.

Administrative assistant

Susanne Grogan has resigned as administrative assistant/trainer for YMI, effective February 28, in order to pursue further studies at Fuller Theological Seminary’s extension program in Seattle, Wash.

“Susanne’s love for God and people has impacted thousands of youth and young adults on YMI over the years,” said Friesen. “She combined great relational skills and creativity with quality administration, and we’re going to miss her.”

“It has been a great opportunity to work with Youth Mission International,” said Grogan. “The most rewarding part of my job was being able to teach, train and minister during YMI training sessions. It is an awesome privilege to see the Holy Spirit impact lives for God’s glory.”

YMI is a division of MBMS International, the global mission agency of the MB churches in Canada and the US.

 – from releases

Previous | Next 

Last modified July 5, 2001.

© 2001 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
Masthead and usage information.