Currently, Fred serves in administration for the Ecuador program where they have served for almost 12 years, as well as, provides some of the proficiency flight reviews that are required of each MAF pilot every six months. Fred says, "Although I don't fly as much as I used to, I still spend about a week every month and a half in Shell, flying into the jungle communities, transporting missionaries, health care teams, and medical emergencies." Fred plans to continue in the role of mentoring and orienting new Ecuadorian pilots wishing to join the national Alas de Socorro team. I Peter 1:3-4 is a meaningful passage for Fred, "I've been impressed over and over again that we have such a special message of hope in Jesus Christ. What a joy to share something so life-changing and eternal." His ministry as an Elder in their church and in an English conversation class, called Spotlight, stretches him to be a consistent witness for the Kingdom of God.
Fred, although born in Minnesota, grew up in Ecuador with his missionary family. He accepted Christ as his Savior when he was 10, after hearing a radio message by Billy Graham. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Bible and Missions from Grace College of the Bible in Omaha, Nebraska. At Moody Aviation he earned his airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanics license, commercial-instrument pilot's license and a flight instructors rating.
Desiree grew up on a cattle ranch in North Dakota, and became a Christian at age nine while attending a Bible camp. She says, "We had missionaries in our home and I often felt very drawn to their lives and stories. At age 12, I dedicated my life to missions." She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Grace College of the Bible and an Associate degree in Nursing (R.N.) from the University of Nebraska College of Nursing. Fred and Desiree met in college, and married in 1981.
For the last four years, the Schmidts ran a ‘mini dorm' to allow coworkers' teenagers an opportunity to attend Alliance Academy in Quito. Others also benefit from their extended hospitality when in Quito. Desi's involvement in women's ministries encompasses teaching, mentoring, and encouraging women to grow in their faith and care of one another. Desiree shares that her favorite verses are Proverbs 3:5-6.
Tyler, their oldest son, and Renae are expecting their first baby in July, after his graduation from Moody Aviation. They plan on serving the Lord in missions also. Trevor, their second son, graduated with a business degree and is currently seeking God's direction for future ministry and further studies. The Schmidts' only daughter, Danica, attends John Brown University, and Kyle, their youngest son, a recent graduate from high school, will join her.
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 Fred and Desiree in this strategic ministry. Please prayerfully consider involvement with them through prayer and/or financial support.