Both of us were privileged to be raised in Christian homes and godly environments where we each made early professions of faith.   Marie grew spiritually and God developed her spiritual gifts as she served in a variety of ministries: Sunday School teaching, playing piano in church, etc.  

Following their marriage in 1968, though actually unsaved, Rick completed undergraduate requirements for a degree in Theology (Bachelor).  God increased conviction of sin and finally Rick trusted Christ as his personal Saviour in 1977.  While serving God in numerous ministries (Sunday School, Junior Church, choir and music groups) God’s hand became increasingly plain in directing them into full-time work.  Following the completion of Rick’s two graduate degrees (Th.M., 1981; Th.D., 1983), God used them both in Christian schools, Bible Colleges and in church leadership in Ontario, Newfoundland and Manitoba.  It was following Rick’s ordination to the Gospel Ministry in 1986 that God really increased their burden for missions, with a special emphasis towards Russia.  

Their theme verse in missions continues to be the prayer of Jabez wherein he prayed, “Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested” (1 Chronicles 4:10).