March of 2024 marked 30 years of serving in Assemblies of God World Missions. Twenty years of serving as Area Directors for Central Europe, then Central Southeast Europe and now Southeast Europe. This journey has taken us on so many roads filled with twists and turns. From some of the highest mountain tops to the deepest valleys ever imagined. But through it all, God has remained ever faithful.  Ever present. Ever guiding and leading.

On this journey of life, sometimes things turn out exactly how we plan, or how we hope. Other times, oftentimes, this journey of life takes us to places we never imagined we'd go. On every step of my journey, every mountain top, every dark valley, the Lord has been with me.

In June of 2024, I was ordained. Jim was not there to stand with me as I was prayed over. His absence cut through me once again, in waves of grief. But I was not alone. Jesus was there. And He sent others to stand with me as well. And somehow, I knew that somewhere in Heaven, Jim was among the great cloud of witnesses cheering me on. My journey of faith continues.

After accepting Jim’s mantel to carry on our mission in Southeast Europe, my biggest concern was what it would be like reconnecting with national church leaders. Meeting with new pastors and ministry leaders and sharing in the national churches is not at all common for a woman. With joy, they welcomed and respected me, a woman minister, as their spiritual leader. They now call me "Boss Lady."

Even though I may be walking this journey on my own now, I am never alone. What is behind is filled with the most precious memories and seeds planted throughout Europe. What is ahead is still unwritten, but I'm holding on to Jesus' hand as He faithfully leads me. God continues to take care of all my concerns as He is ever reaffirming His Call on my life. "On Christ the solid rock I stand..."     

Sherry serves as the first female Area Director for Southeast Europe.