Hosted by Dave and Pris Reimer, MK care coordinators, the junior high and high school students are riding roller coasters, canoeing, playing soccer and enjoying the 80 degree weather. The Reimers decided to plan a separate schedule for the MKs, hoping it would encourage and energize them.

 "We want the kids to love being at the home office," said Mrs. Reimer.  "And it's good for Dave and me to get to know the kids in a fun context, so we can serve them better during the school year."

Lauren S., an Avant MK from Ecuador, thinks the activities have been effective in helping the MKs develop friendships. Lauren said, "Going to Worlds of Fun [theme park] was good because we were able to get to know one another in a comfortable environment."

The MK schedule also includes 45 minutes of lecture each morning.  Dave Reimer leads the youth in discussions about their positions as third culture kids transitioning into North American culture.  "We'd rather they have a heads up attitude about transitioning," Mrs. Reimer said.  "If they at least expect to face some of these things, they'll be a little more prepared."

The lectures have been beneficial, said Lauren.  "It is good to hear the perspectives of other MKs," she said. "Dave understands us and I like his advice."

KANSAS CITY, Missouri - Whetstone started Tuesday morning with smooth stones and sticky post-it notes. 

"You and I need to remember we're locked in a vicious battle, and the enemy will send all of the giants he can," said Jones.  "We need to take the stones God has given us so that we can be victorious."

Beth B., Avant missionary to Brazil, found Jones' examples of giants to be realistic to her experience on the field.  "At one point, you meet all of those giants," Beth said.  "They're all very common."

Thirty-six adults and 28 children are attending Whetstone. The retreat features worship led by Brett Francis, worship leader at Antioch Bible Baptist Church in Kansas City, Mo., as well as lecture electives and recreational activities for the adults and children. 

KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Thank you Avant community for your generosity and desire to Transform Central Asia. As of May 22, you have contributed sufficient funding to launch a network of reproducing churches in one of the least-evangelized regions in the world. 

Many of you participated in a day of prayer and fasting for Central Asia on April 26.  At that time, nearly $75,000 was still needed to begin this church-planting effort. But in the three weeks since, God used people like you to close that gap in its entirety.

Rejoice with us as we celebrate what God has done thus far and what He will continue to do in the lives of Central Asian people who have never heard of him. Please continue to pray for Central Asia and for this network of reproducing churches, as we hope this is only the beginning of a movement that will truly transform Central Asia.

To view the details for this project, click here.