He became aware of mission aviation in his senior year in high school while applying to colleges. Following his mother’s suggestion, he looked into the field of mission aviation and read the book, Jungle Pilot, where he was first introduced to MAF. He attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago for two years to fulfill the biblical and general studies requirements, and then moved to Spokane, Washington, with the new Moody Aviation program. He also attended Spokane Community College to earn his Airframe and Powerplant licenses and an Associate of Arts degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology. He graduated in May 2007, from Moody Aviation with a Bachelor of Science in Missionary Aviation Technology with a Commercial Pilot’s License and an Instrument Rating (ASEL).

Joy was born and raised in Ontario, CA, and grew up in a Christian home. Her family attended First United Reformed Church of Chino, where she grew to know Jesus as her Savior. Joy shares, “While attending Ontario Christian High School, many missionaries spoke during chapel; one in particular challenged us to obey God’s calling on our lives even if it meant becoming missionaries. I accepted their invitation, and still have the puka shell which stands as a reminder of my promise.” In college, she went on several building projects to Mexico, and also to the Dominican Republic. These opened her eyes to real needs.

She attended Whitworth College in Spokane, WA, graduating in 2005, with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After graduation, she worked as an RN in a local hospital where she was able to pursue her love for maternity and also gain valuable skills in the medical-surgical unit. Joy is excited to see how God will use them together as a team to serve Him. She looks forward to using her nursing skills with those in need, whether that means teaching health care or serving in a community clinic. One of her favorite Bible passages is Psalm 105:1-4, “Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make know among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.”

Chris and Joy met in their college group at Fourth Memorial Church in Spokane. A year and a half later they were married (January 28^th, 2006) during Moody’s winter break. After graduation, Chris and Joy joined Servant Wings, a “bridge” program helping mission aviation graduates stay on track and get the flight and maintenance experience they need in order to join a mission organization. Also during this time Chris worked at Hillsboro Aviation as a mechanic for the flight school, working on General Aviation aircraft (fixed wing and helicopters).

To fund the worldwide ministry of MAF, God is faithful in providing generous ministry support from His people. He has called the men and women of MAF to serve Him in a unique way. He is also calling people like you to play a special role in the ministry of MAF around the world. You are invited to become a ministry partner with Chris and Joy in this strategic ministry. Please prayerfully consider involvement with them through prayer and/or financial support.