A letter from Sandi and Brian Thompson-Royer preparing for service in Guatemala
Winter 2014
Friends:
For those of you who know us, you will not be surprised to hear our news! We have been called to Guatemala to serve as mission co-workers through Presbyterian World Mission of the Presbyterian Church U.S.A. We especially thank all of you who have been with us through each piece of our preparation.
Sandi will be accompanying the women of the Guatemalan Presbyterian Church, supporting leadership development and education. Women in the Guatemalan church have welcomed this partnership for over 14 years. Brian looks forward to the opportunity to continue to support Sandi’s work. He will also be open for additional opportunities to use his gifts and talents.
Sandi’s career working on the issue of violence against women began 26 years ago in her home, which provided safety for women and children leaving abuse. This experience of hearing personal stories of violence led to a career of advocacy and education for a variety of communities in the U.S. and Central America. In 2001 Sandi began “Women Walking Together,” taking groups of trained advocates to partner with women in Central America addressing violence. Over 300 women and men have been trained to provide support to victims and educate their churches and communities to work toward ending domestic violence. Women Walking Together has partnered with the Presbyterian Women of the Guatemalan church. While employed by the Women’s Ministries Division of the PC(USA) Sandi led the creation of the Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence Network (PADVN), a volunteer network addressing domestic violence in our denomination, now a ministry of the PHEWA (Presbyterian Health Education and Welfare Association).
Brian has worked in affordable housing: creating housing and hope for survivors of domestic violence, farm workers, the elderly, the mentally ill and the homeless. His recent vocation has included directing faith-based nonprofits, leading with a servant leadership model and supporting people to work together to make our world a better place.
At this time in our lives we are humbled to be asked to blend our Christian faith beliefs, values and vocation to serve in Guatemala. We believe that the initiatives of World Mission along with its global partners are what Jesus asks of us: educate children, help empower communities to seek change, and end violence.
Please walk with us on this journey. We can’t tell you exactly where it will take us but we know this: our hearts are open and we are willing to follow God’s call to witness peace in the global community.
After our January orientation we will be spending February through April looking for opportunities to share how you might become involved. Please consider what resources you have to give. We are inviting you to be a part of our service, the people of Guatemala’s lives, and the possibilities of transformation when we work together. Small amounts of giving can have a huge impact and grow into amazing possibilities. Please invite us to your churches, presbyteries, community, and any other group that is open to listening to the stories of our call and how you can walk with the people of Guatemala on this journey.
We will be receiving a salary during this time, so an honorarium is not necessary. However, the hosting congregation generally covers travel and is asked to provide meals and lodging; home stays work well. Travel expenses can often be shared by two or more congregations and groups within the community, and World Mission is able to help in some cases.
We are grateful for any way you will be able to provide support, including your prayers and spreading our stories. Please email us your contact information so we can keep in touch.
God’s peace,
Sandi and Brian Thompson-Royer
1928 S. Post Street
Spokane, WA 99203-2047
sandit@hotmail.com / 509-863-7005
pbroyer@hotmail.com / 509-220-1806
Read more about Sandi and Brian Thompson-Royer's ministry
The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, Guatemala, pp. 38–40
Write to Sandi Thompson-Royer
Write to Brian Thompson-Royer
Individuals: Give to E200334 for Sandi and Brian Thompson-Royer's sending and support
Congregations: Give to D507581 for Sandi and Brian Thompson-Royer's sending and support
