The highlight for October was representing Harvest at two different events.
First in mid-October, Darla and I traveled to Coshocton, Ohio to represent Harvest Aviation at MMS Aviation’s 50th anniversary, along side several other missionary aviation ministries in attendance. MMS Aviation is a missionary aviation ministry that trains men and women who are aspiring missionary aircraft mechanics. They have a similar mission as ours, but they only concentrate on an aircraft mechanic's training program. Harvest’s relationship with MMS goes back many years. Two of our staff members are graduates of MMS. In addition, because we do not have an engine shop, MMS is currently rebuilding a replacement engine for our Piper Chieftain. Harvest heavily relies on the mission of MMS because the organization does not charge for labor when they do repairs on our planes. We are so grateful for the ministry of MMS, making it possible for us to do what we do, and we celebrate God's blessing on MMS for 50 years!
As Harvest representatives, we spread the word about our mission to train mechanics and pilots, and also let soon-to-be graduates know that we could use another full-time mechanic in our hangar. We met many people who have a heart for mission aviation, with nearly 2000 visitors celebrating with MMS over the weekend. Darla was able to share with one MMS financial supporter how Harvest depends on MMS for avionics and engine repair. As they parted, the woman asked to be on our contact list so she could pray for us too!
A personal connection to MMS for me is with one of the avionic technicians, Mike Dunkel. Mike and I were colleagues in the late 1980’s in Mozambique, where we both worked for Air Serv International. It had been 36 years since I last saw Mike and his family. Needless to say, we had a great reunion.
