Travel has always been a very important part of my life.


Over the years I have had the privilege of traveling to more than 30 states and more than 10 countries. Many of these adventures were mission trips with my church, family, and, more recently, with faculty and other students from Concordia University Ann Arbor. Last winter I had the opportunity to fly to Houston, Texas, to help rehabilitate houses after devastation from hurricane Harvey. That trip, and many others, have helped me grow closer to my family, my church, my Concordia family, and, most importantly, to God. In my future profession as a Family Life Educator in a church, I will be working to help people grow in their relationship with God. This past year, CUAA has helped equip me with many of the skills I will need.

Last spring my family and a group from my church traveled to Germany. We journeyed through the areas where Martin Luther lived and worked 500 years ago. Last year we celebrated the 500th anniversary of Reformation Day. As part of the choir from CUAA, I sang during the LCMS Michigan District’s Reformation celebration service. That experience showed me the immense family of faith I have. We live in a time where we are surrounded by people who want to cause division. However, we are brought together by the love that Jesus Christ first showed us. Concordia literally means, “with one heart.” I believe that CUAA’s faculty, students, and generous donors, such as yourself, are working with one heart to spread God’s love to others in our own country and beyond.

Your heartfelt prayers and generous support enable me and other students at CUAA to follow God’s call through many “uncommon” adventures. He has called us to live the adventure of sharing his love to others. Thank you and may God continue to work through you!

If this story has inspired you, why not explore how you can help further Concordia's mission through giving.