2012





CREWS FAMILY 2011
Beginnings and Endings…
I don’t know about you but 2011 has moved at lightning speed for us. This year had some major, life changing moments, some good, some not so good. It is a year we will always remember for many different reasons.

The year began with Robert and I signing up for the World Perspectives class offered at Church. A mind and heart altering class, to be sure. We found ourselves pushed beyond what we thought we could handle both in stacks of homework and papers but in our understanding of God’s plan for us, for all of us.
Liz was part of a short-term mission team that went to Toronto, Canada to work with Churchill Meadows Christian Church. It was a great time of learning about the cultural diversity in Canada. We spent time with a Polish Church plant, Portuguese start up church, and of course Churchill Meadows.
Then later that summer, Robert and Liz returned at Churchill Meadows request for Robert to perform some gospel illusions for a youth camp there and a little R & R for the two of them. Robert did an incredible job sharing the gospel through his sleight of hand and speaking skills. The adults were just as captivated as the kids.
We then moved into full wedding mode. Wayne married his beautiful bride Jamie November 5th, 2011 on an incredibly lovely day sandwiched between 2 days of pouring rain. The outdoor wedding was gorgeous, as were the bride and groom. Kathryn was promoted at Kohl’s to the store admin and truly loves her job. They count on her for so much and she loves the responsibility. Shelby has been studying, taking her SAT’s and applying at colleges; deciding where she will study Youth Ministry. Our children are all moving into the next season of their lives.

Among these unbelievable joys we have experienced, there have been some sad and heavier moments to deal with as well. Our sweet dog Ginger, we have had as a member of our family over 5 years got out of our backyard and ran away. She has not been found. We were and still are devastated, especially 2 days before the wedding. Our other dog, Toby, who ran away with her was located and returned to us. He was pretty shaken up and he still misses his best friend deeply; as we all do.
That same day, 2 days prior to the wedding, I received word that my former boss passed away. Gary was a kind, generous, funny man both Robert and I got to know well. He allowed us many opportunities to share Christ with him. Gary was Jewish, but questioned so much in his life. He was honest and direct and asked tough questions. He and Robert had many conversations about who Christ is. We spent lots of time sharing with him and encouraging him to question and seek who God is and what He did for him. It is difficult not knowing what was in his heart before he met with Christ, but we continue praying for his family as they grieve; he will truly be missed. Then, December 12, 2011 our Uncle David passed away of lung failure; an unexpected shock for the family, especially for his beloved wife Catherine. They were in love, true love and best friends.
Of course with Life’s ups and downs, it continues to march on…2012 looks to be a year of change and movement for the Crews’. As our kids are settling into the next period of their lives, we are getting ready for ours. We are preparing to move to Arizona at the end of 2012. The time has come for us to hand our lives completely over and take our next step. We are settling our kids into their lives, college, and packing (or getting rid of) our belongings and going. In this time, would you please pray for our family? Your prayers have sustained us through many difficult and tumultuous seasons and we are beyond grateful. There is much more news to come so stay tuned as we take the next Leap of Faith!

May God’s love bring you and yours peace, love and joy in the New Year!

Robert and Liz Crews