As the sun rises over the rolling hills of Norfolk, a sense of excitement and anticipation fills the air for Alexander and Astrid Milne, a devoted missionary couple who are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Next month, they will be leaving behind the familiarity of their home in rural Norfolk and flying to Kenya to share the Good News with unreached people groups. This moment marks the culmination of a six-year journey, during which God has been guiding them towards this remarkable opportunity. For Alexander and Astrid, this is more than just a new chapter in their lives; it’s a calling to spread love, hope, and faith to those who need it most.
The journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Six years ago, Alexander and Astrid first felt the whisper of God’s voice, nudging them towards Kenya. Two years ago, they embarked on a vision trip, which not only confirmed their calling but also deepened their passion for the mission. Now, with their hearts filled with conviction and their spirits renewed, they are ready to dive into the unknown, armed with nothing but their faith and an unwavering commitment to their mission. They will be partnering with the No Place Left (NPL) coalition, an international team dedicated to empowering indigenous churches to reach unreached people groups. This collaboration will enable Alexander and Astrid to equip local churches with simple yet effective tools to evangelize, make disciples, and plant new churches, thereby spreading the Good News far and wide.
Alexander and Astrid’s journey into ministry began 18 years ago in London, where they spent nearly two decades serving with London City Mission and engaging in outreach efforts. Following their time in London, they moved back to rural Norfolk, where Alexander was born and raised, and continued to serve while raising their family. Their decision to move to Kenya is not just a personal choice but a response to a call they believe they have received from God. They have been touched by the words of a Kenyan pastor, Robert Koskei, who has seen over 30 churches planted and is willing to facilitate their move and oversee their well-being. This, coupled with the support of their family and a small but dedicated team in the UK, has given them the courage to take this leap of faith.
As Alexander and Astrid prepare to leave, they are acutely aware of the challenges ahead, from navigating the complexities of living in a foreign land to ensuring their financial stability. Alexander’s Driving Instructor license has come to an end, Astrid has resigned from her position as a Teaching Assistant, and their children will remain in the UK to pursue their studies and careers. Despite these changes, the couple remains resolute in their commitment to their mission. They have signed a contract for a house in Mombasa and are diligently working through the practical considerations, including permits, insurance, and fundraising. Their trust in God’s provision is unwavering, and they believe that He will bring in the necessary finances as they step out in faith.
Astrid’s words encapsulate the sense of community and support that Alexander and Astrid cherish: “We are thankful that we have a small support team in the UK that provides us and our family with accountability and care; however, we would like to find more people to partner with us in this mission to take the Good News to the nations.” This invitation to join them on their journey is not just about financial support but about becoming part of a larger community that believes in the power of faith and love to transform lives. For those who wish to support Alexander and Astrid, stewardship.org.uk/Alexander-Astrid offers a platform to contribute to their mission. For more personal updates and to stand with them in prayer, they can be reached at [email protected].
As Alexander and Astrid embark on this extraordinary adventure, they carry with them a sense of hope, joy, and anticipation. Their story is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to respond to a higher calling, to step into the unknown with courage, and to trust in a power greater than themselves. In the words of the Macedonian Call, “Come over and help us,” they have heard the plea of those in need and are responding with open hearts and willing hands. Their journey to Kenya is not just about them; it’s about the countless lives they aim to touch, the hearts they hope to uplift, and the communities they aspire to transform through the Good News. As they take their first steps into this new chapter, Alexander and Astrid are a shining example of what it means to live a life dedicated to service, love, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s calling.
