Meet Jacob & Kristen

Jacob loving on kids in Africa

Jacob Hardesty is 23 and is a student at Oklahoma Wesleyan University in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.  He is pursuing a degree in Secondary Math Education with a minor in Youth Ministry.  At OKWU, he has played NAIA Division One Varsity Soccer for four years and Intramural Volleyball.  His plans include graduating in December 2011.  He likes to hunt deer and duck and likes to go fishing.  

Jacob had already been to Africa once this year.  He spent twenty-one days in and around Mbabane, Swaziland earlier this year in May/June.  While there, he experienced some life-changing moments.  He was able to see things with his own eyes...  “things” like you read about in the Bible…people being healed from sickness, paralyzed people standing up and walking, numbers being added to the Kingdom on a DAILY basis! "For a moment I was shocked almost as if “is this really happening?” I just had to step back and let God out of this little box that so many people try and force Him in.  It hit me This Is Africa!  Why was I so surprised when God did what He had already promised?"  It took him getting out of the “sheltered” American culture to begin to understand just how much God does not need “us” and how much we, people, need Him. 

He began praying for guidance on whether or not he should seek an opportunity to go again.  That evening Mitch Hildebrant had an interesting post on facebook that intrigued Jacob and sparked a little curiosity.  After inquiring with Mitch about the situation and pointing him towards Justin Carson, the rest is history.  The only way to explain it is God.  A simple prayer which led to the opportunity to return – for which he is thankful!

Kristin with her sponsored child in Dajabon, summer 2010

Kristin Kratt has a dream to be used by God as a medical missionary.  She is currently seeking education in the nursing program at Wicthia, KS.   Kristin is from Arkansas City, KS.  Last year, Kristin traveled with a team to the Dominican Republic.  I dare say that was a hinge moment in her life as far as seeing the needs of children and her role in helping people, as Kristin has a heart for serving kids.  Being the youngest team member we all wanted to mother her when she was sick on those malaria meds.  So excited that she is going to Africa with the team.