Our Mission:
To reach the boating community for Christ, empower believers to grow deeper in their faith and equip them to live purpose-driven lives, and to reach the lost with the message of hope and salvation, both on the water and beyond.
This year, we had the privilege of attending ICOM as exhibitors with Hope Fleet. With over 350 exhibitors and more than 6,000 attendees, the conference was a powerful gathering of individuals and families passionate about fulfilling the Great Commission. The theme of the event centered on empowering and equipping missionaries, ensuring that each attendee left encouraged and ready to carry the gospel to the ends of the earth. For our family, it was exactly the boost we needed.
At times, the work of ministry can leave us feeling weary and worn out, and honestly, we had reached that point. We were tired, running on empty, and in need of spiritual renewal. From the moment we walked through the doors, the energy and fellowship of the event began to lift our spirits. The sessions were incredibly practical and motivating, touching on key aspects of missionary life. One session that stood out to us was “Stewarding Your Children’s Hearts on the Mission Field.” It reminded us of the importance of nurturing our children’s faith in the midst of the challenges of ministry.
We also gained valuable insights into how to raise ministry partners—something we’ve been praying about and feeling God leading us to do. The session on partnership building gave us strategy and perspective on how to engage with potential supporters and collaborators in more meaningful ways.
One of the most impactful aspects of the conference for our family was the student ministry portions. Our two older daughters were particularly touched by the sessions designed specifically for them. They came home with renewed enthusiasm for the mission field, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of being faithful and obedient to God’s calling.
Seeing our daughters’ hearts stirred and their commitment to the mission of God strengthened was one of the greatest blessings of our time at the conference. It reaffirmed to us that this mission is for our entire family.
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Worship at ICOM was nothing short of powerful. There’s something incredibly special about gathering with thousands of people, all united by the same purpose: to glorify God and advance His kingdom. Each worship session was a refreshing reminder that we are part of something far bigger than ourselves, and it recharged our hearts in ways we didn’t even know we needed.
Beyond the sessions and worship, it was the fellowship with other missionaries that truly strengthened us. We met individuals and families from all over the world, all working in various ministries, and it was awe-inspiring to hear their stories. Being surrounded by so many passionate and dedicated individuals reminded us that we are not alone in this mission—there is a global community of believers working together for the gospel.
One of the most humbling aspects of the conference was seeing the diversity of missionary organizations from all corners of the world. It was a beautiful reminder of the vast array of work being done for the kingdom and how each part plays an important role in God’s mission. From medical missions in remote areas to church planting in urban centers, the variety of work being done was as inspiring as it was overwhelming. We left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the global mission we are all a part of.
As we left ICOM, we felt renewed, recharged, and more equipped for the work ahead. The conference reminded us that even in the most challenging seasons of ministry, we are part of something much bigger. To anyone feeling called to ministry or currently on the mission field, we highly encourage you to attend conferences like this. They are invaluable sources of encouragement, insight, and fellowship that can fuel you for the road ahead.