Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Josiah Venture Stories
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discipleship and Miracles with Diana "DU" Anton | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:47:13 | |
Diana "DU" Anton serves in Bucharest, Romania, alongside her husband Bogdan. DU shares her spiritual journey from a young age and her calling into full-time ministry with Josiah Venture. She recounts her initial resistance to ministry, her supportive family, and her life's work in discipling young women and promoting the gospel. DU also details her personal challenges and triumphs, including her journey to marriage at 34 and the miraculous birth of their son, Adam, after years of struggle with infertility. The interview provides deep insights into the spiritual climate of Romania, DU's faith-driven life, and her hope and encouragement for young people today. Connect with Us:
Learn About our Team in Romania Subscribe & Share:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! Sign-up for our new Monthly Podcast Newsletter! | |||
| From New Age to True Faith in Jesus with Mateja Todorovska | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:44:13 | |
In this podcast episode, Mateja Todorovska shares her remarkable journey from growing up in a Catholic church to becoming deeply involved in New Age practices and the occult. After believing she was serving God through these practices, Mateja's life changed dramatically in December 2018 when she encountered Jesus while watching a YouTube video. This revelation led her to repent and fully embrace Christianity, even leading her former New Age followers to Christ. Mateja lives in Slovenia with her family, works with Josiah Venture, and is committed to helping others through her faith. Mateja also provides guidance on how to engage lovingly with those who are still involved in New Age beliefs. Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! Sign-up for our new Monthly Podcast Newsletter! | |||
| Fall Conference: Strategies, Stories, and Spiritual Warfare with Rob Chestnut & Brooke Stevens | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:38:34 | |
Discover the heart behind the Josiah Venture Fall Conference, featuring insights from Rob Chestnut and Brooke Stevens. They share the significance and purpose of the annual training and equipping event, detailing its varied history and evolution over the years. They explore this year's theme, 'Victorious: Equipped for the Battle, Anchored in Christ,' and share their personal experiences and insights into spiritual warfare. "There's a spiritual shift that's taking place in this next generation, like in ways that we really haven't seen before." -Rob "Is Jesus getting the headline of the story that I'm telling right now when it comes to spiritual warfare, or am I giving the headline to the enemy? He doesn't deserve and should never have the headline. That's why this is "Victorious"." -Brooke We invite you to join us in prayer for this year's conference!
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! Sign-up for our new Monthly Podcast Newsletter! | |||
| Camps Ministry and Mission Teams with Lelde Keice | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:41:07 | |
In this episode of Josiah Venture Stories, Gwynne Gardner interviews Lelde Keice from Latvia. Lelde became a Christian at 14 through a youth camp and was introduced to Josiah Venture during high school. She later moved to England to pursue an Applied Theology and Youth Work degree at Moorlands College. Called back to Latvia in 2015, she now serves as the Camps Director for JV Latvia and coordinates mission teams. Gwynne and Lelde discuss the impact of Christian camps on youth, Latvia's spiritual climate, and mission teams' role in local ministries. Lelde shares personal anecdotes and insights on how camps and mission teams foster significant life change and spiritual growth among young people. Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! Sign-up for our new Monthly Podcast Newsletter! | |||
| "Real Life" Story with Lee Humerian | 19 Aug 2025 | 00:50:30 | |
In this interview, Lee Humerian shares his journey from rock star to full-time missionary in Ukraine. Lee and his wife, Katie, led mission teams to the Czech Republic and then to Ukraine, which sparked their passion for youth ministry, leading them to join Josiah Venture in 2017. They have been deeply involved in various ministries, including Exit Tours and music camps. Due to the war in Ukraine, they have also led trauma-healing retreats. Lee now leads the evangelistic ministry programs team, while Katie handles human resources. They focus on supporting local church leaders and organizing camps for youth. This summer, the camp theme across our 16 Central and Eastern European countries was "Real Life," and Lee wrote the outlines for the evening talks, which focused on the life of the apostle Paul, for over 120 evangelistic camps. "We can't have the theme 'Real Life' without having stories from our real lives. Your story is powerful. I always think of the verse in Revelation: "We will overcome the enemy by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony." Our stories have the power to overcome the enemy, and so that was my proclamation." -Lee Despite the ongoing war and its impact, their ministry continues to thrive with a commitment to youth and their community. Please continue to pray for an end to the war in Ukraine, and for all of the after-camp follow-up events that are happening right now across all of the JV countries. Pray that young people will come to realize that real life is life with Jesus. Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! | |||
| Inside the Summer Internship with Rosie and Inita | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:23:35 | |
Summer is one of the most exciting seasons across the 16 Central and Eastern European countries where Josiah Venture serves. Local churches are gearing up for camps, short-term teams are arriving, and perhaps one of the most energizing parts of the season—our summer internship program—is officially underway. In this episode, interns Rosie Kaminski and Inita Gutmane recount their journey to joining the program, experiences during the Amazing Race, training sessions, and the impactful work they are involved in. Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! | |||
| Summer Intern Insights with Julie, Isaiah, and Adele | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:24:23 | |
Summer is one of the most exciting seasons across the 16 Central and Eastern European countries where Josiah Venture serves. Local churches are gearing up for camps, short-term teams are arriving, and perhaps one of the most energizing parts of the season—our summer internship program—is officially underway. In this episode, interns Julie Weeks, Isaiah Martin, and Adele Tamberg recount their journey to joining the program, experiences during the Amazing Race, training sessions, and the impactful work they are involved in. Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! | |||
| Extended Summer Intern Spotlight: Aidan Carson | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:38:22 | |
Get to know Extended Summer Intern, Aidan Carson, in this episode. Originally from Chandler, Arizona, Aidan majored in civil engineering and worked as an engineer before feeling called to intern. After interning last summer, he's back for another season, eager to continue building friendships with students and missionaries, make new connections, and help others become disciples of Jesus. Aidan shares his desire to grow in understanding the Czech language and culture, as well as his passion for supporting Edge Sports leaders as they use ultimate frisbee to reach young people who don't know Jesus yet. In this episode, you'll hear: • Aidan's personal faith journey • What led him to serve on mission teams and apply for the summer internship • Why he returned for another internship • How you can pray for him this summer • And more! Join us as we welcome Aidan to the show and hear his heart for ministry in Central and Eastern Europe. Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! | |||
| LAUNCHED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:39:03 | |
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "LAUNCHED" and is the last of this series. Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More:
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| TROUBLED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:39:39 | |
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "TROUBLED." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More:
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| DRAWN "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:44:34 | |
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "DRAWN." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More:
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| IMPRESSED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:42:18 | |
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "IMPRESSED." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More:
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| SATISFIED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:39:55 | |
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "SATISFIED." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More:
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| ALIVE "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead | 27 May 2025 | 00:40:37 | |
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "Alive." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More:
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| Peter Mead on Ministry Life and Biblical Preaching | 20 May 2025 | 00:41:52 | |
Peter Mead is the director of Cor Deo and part of the leadership team of Trinity Chippenham, a church in the UK Peter helped to plant back in 2014. Peter shares his background, including being raised in a missionary family, his initial resistance to ministry and preaching roles, and how his faith journey led him to embrace these callings. He discusses the inspiration behind the ministry training program Cor Deo, his involvement in church planting, and his approach to preparing sermons and teaching. Peter also talks about his recent venture into podcasting with a focus on preaching and provides insights into his writing process. The episode concludes with Peter's message of hope for the younger generation, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus. Peter was the main speaker at our annual Spring Conference and his teachings on "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ," will be released on the podcast over the next month. We invite you to listen to these teaching episodes and explore the gospel of John more deeply. Get to know Peter More:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! | |||
| 20 Years on the Field and beyond with Susan Ellis | 06 May 2025 | 00:34:30 | |
In this conversation, Josiah Venture alumnus Susan Ellis shares her remarkable journey from a life-changing trip to Europe in 1985 to becoming a Josiah Venture missionary in 1995. She discusses her deep emotional connection with Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, where she served for 20 years. Susan's work spanned youth ministry, discipleship, marketing, and program development. In 2015, she returned to California to support her aging mother and now serves as the Director of Local Compassion Global Outreach and Congregational Care at her childhood church. Susan underscores the enduring impact of bold faith and discipleship, both of which are cornerstones of her life's work. She also shares insights on being single in ministry and encourages others to take steps towards missions, highlighting the transformative power of serving God full-time. Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day! | |||
| From Youth Camp to Youth Leader with Baška Benešová | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:39:17 | |
Get to know Baška Benešová from Slovakia and be inspired by her incredible journey of faith. She gave her life to Jesus at a youth church camp at the age of 13 and has been involved in ministering to teens and young adults ever since. She currently leads the English camp at her local church and works as the director of pointonline.sk for TCK (Training Center Kompas), providing resources and support for youth leaders. Baška also shares insights into her participation in KPM, the Annual Youth Leaders Conference, and her experience with the School for Youth Leaders.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you friends, and have a blessed day! | |||
| Christian Content Creators and Digital Missions | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:42:39 | |
In today's special episode of Josiah Venture Stories, we're live from the Digital Missions Summit in the Czech Republic! This incredible event brings together content creators, influencers, and storytellers from Central and Eastern Europe who are passionate about sharing the gospel in the digital space. Joining me are three amazing guests who are pioneers in using their creative gifts to advance the Kingdom of God online. With a live audience submitting questions, this episode dives deep into the challenges, joys, and strategies of being a Christian content creator in a world dominated by screens. If you're passionate about using your digital presence to inspire and connect others with the gospel, this episode is packed with insights, encouragement, and practical advice. Guests:
Key Takeaways:
Connect with Us:
Listener Challenge: What's one step you can take this week to share the gospel through your digital platform? Whether it's posting a story, creating a video, or connecting with a follower in need, take the leap and make an impact! Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other creators who might be inspired to join the mission of sharing Christ in the digital space.
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| Youth Ministry and Christian Coaching with Mark Krupa | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:41:31 | |
Mark Krupa has been a Josiah Venture missionary for 26 years. He currently works as a Christian coach to young people and youth pastors and serves as the Josiah Venture country leader for Croatia. He discusses his ministry work dedicated to youth ministry and church leaders in the Czech Republic and Croatia. Mark shares his passion for seeing spiritual growth among youth and church leaders, emphasizing the importance of healthy leadership and vibrant youth groups. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Mark also talks about his personal interests, including working on old cars and exploring Europe. He explains his transition to Christian coaching after a decade of traditional ministry, outlining how coaching helps empower leaders by asking the right questions and providing support tailored to individual needs. Mark also gives insights into the spiritual climate in the Czech Republic, the ongoing prayer for revival, and his current responsibilities supporting the Josiah Venture team in Croatia. He ends with an encouraging message for young people to explore the transformative power of Jesus in their lives.
Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| From "Mistake" to Miracle, Music Inspiration with Faith Child | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:45:30 | |
Faith Child is a multi-award-winning rapper, presenter, and one of the UK's top Contemporary Christian Artists. Born and raised in South London, his music is an eclectic blend of Rap, Electro, and Pop. Putting his life experiences into music, Faith Child has a remarkable story that dates back to his birth. His consistent message is, " You are not a mistake. God has a plan and a purpose for every single person." Faith Child - Artist Profile on Spotify Listen to "Holy Place" with Faith Child, Joe L Barnes
Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Living Through War in Ukraine with Kristy Williams | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:51:29 | |
How do you hold onto hope in the midst of war? In this episode, Kristy shares how the team in Ukraine is doing after three years of full-scale, active war. At the end of the episode, she also shares specific ways you can continue to pray as we ask the Lord to bring peace and end the war. You can also support Ukraine by clicking on the following links:
Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Media, Ministry, and Mission with John and Erin Kloosterhuis | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:49:01 | |
In this episode, John and Erin Kloosterhuis share their journey into missions, starting from their college years, where they felt called to a life devoted to missions and relational evangelism. They discuss their move to the Czech Republic and later to Slovakia to support Josiah Venture's international communications team. John, an assistant communications director and UX design director, and Erin, who works in digital marketing, elaborate on using their skills and passions for God's kingdom. They reflect on the significance of media in missions and share their personal experiences and challenges. CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE: JOSIAHVENTURE.COM
Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Sacred Rhythms, Atomic Habits" with Landen Llamas | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:44:03 | |
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The fourth and final episode of our "Word Formed" conference series is "Sacred Rhythms, Atomic Habits" with Landen Llamas. In this episode, Landen explores ways to develop consistent, sacred habits of encountering God and His Word. He discusses the struggle of maintaining good habits and introduces insights from James Clear's book 'Atomic Habits,' focusing on how to incorporate these principles into spiritual practices. Landen examines how to cultivate a lifetime of following God through consistent engagement with His Word, drawing lessons from Scripture, such as Psalm 119 and Deuteronomy 6. Thank you for joining us for this teaching podcast. Watch/Listen to more teaching from the "Word Formed" Fall Conference. Follow @formissioneu on Instagram Praxologie Podcast Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Word Formed Hope" with Tyler Patty | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:36:48 | |
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The third episode of our "Word Formed" conference series is "Word Formed Hope" with Tyler Patty, Director of the ForMission College EU Campus. In today's world, young people face a constant barrage of conflicting messages about identity, truth, and relationships. But where can they turn for real answers? Our annual Fall Conference was dedicated to helping young leaders engage with the transformative power of Scripture in fresh, meaningful ways. The theme of the conference, "Word Formed," focused on helping young people transition from seeing Scripture as an obligation to embracing it as a source of light, life, and clarity. Through this shift, they can better understand their identity, convictions, and relationships, preparing them for a hopeful and resilient future. Watch/Listen to more teaching from the "Word Formed" Fall Conference. Follow @formissioneu on Instagram
Praxologie Podcast
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Meet and Listen" with Landen Llamas | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:45:18 | |
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The second speaker you will hear from in this episode is Landen Llamas, a teacher for the ForMission College EU Campus. In today's world, young people face a constant barrage of conflicting messages about identity, truth, and relationships. But where can they turn for real answers? Our annual Fall Conference was dedicated to helping young leaders engage with the transformative power of Scripture in fresh, meaningful ways. The theme of the conference, "Word Formed," focused on helping young people transition from seeing Scripture as an obligation to embracing it as a source of light, life, and clarity. Through this shift, they can better understand their identity, convictions, and relationships, preparing them for a hopeful and resilient future. Watch/Listen to more teaching from the "Word Formed" Fall Conference. Follow @formissioneu on Instagram
Praxologie Podcast
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Pay Attention to Your Path" with Sean Smith | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:53:46 | |
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The first speaker you will hear from in this episode is Sean Smith. He is the Research Director for the Josiah Venture Research Institute and a Formation Tutor for the ForMission College EU Campus. Video clip Sean mentions at marker 30:30 to help demonstrate "Selective Attention." In today's world, young people face a constant barrage of conflicting messages about identity, truth, and relationships. But where can they turn for real answers? Our annual Fall Conference was dedicated to helping young leaders engage with the transformative power of Scripture in fresh, meaningful ways. The theme of the conference, "Word Formed," focused on helping young people transition from seeing Scripture as an obligation to embracing it as a source of light, life, and clarity. Through this shift, they can better understand their identity, convictions, and relationships, preparing them for a hopeful and resilient future. Watch/Listen to more teaching from the "Word Formed" Fall Conference. Follow @formissioneu on Instagram
Praxologie Podcast
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Shaped by Scripture and Theology with Landen Llamas | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:40:50 | |
Landen Llamas is originally from California and now lives and serves in Olomouc, Czech Republic, alongside his wife, Jenny, who is a Czech national. They first met in 2005 at a Josiah Venture English Camp. He came to serve with his short-term missions team, and Jenny was the Czech translator and a summer intern with Josiah Venture. As their own relationship grew, so did their love for ministering to Czech young people. It was clear that God was bringing them together to be a powerful team that would use their intercultural marriage as a tool to share the love of Christ with Czech people. Follow @formissioneu on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Fatigue, Suffering, and Learning to Lament with David and Katka Bordner | 03 Dec 2024 | 01:02:51 | |
David & Katka Bordner share their profound experiences of suffering, faith, and community as they recount their journey through various health challenges while serving in Slovenia. Their story begins with a transformative trip to Slovenia that led to a lifelong commitment to youth ministry and missions. From David's persistent health issues starting in 2004 to Katka's own health struggles amidst the global pandemic, the couple discusses how they navigated suffering together. They explore themes of biblical lament, the power of community, and the importance of maintaining faith during difficult times. The episode underscores the profound impact of suffering in deepening one's relationship with God and highlights the delicate balance of celebrating and lamenting life's hardships.
Katka grew up in Slovenia and began serving with Josiah Venture back in 2001. After graduating from Multnomah Bible College in 2003, David joined the team in Slovenia as a one-year intern. His passion and love for the people of Slovenia quickly grew, and that internship turned into a long-term commitment. After working together for 2.5 years, David and Katka began dating and were eventually married in September 2006. After serving 15 years together in their local church in the capital city, Ljubljana, with David as the youth pastor, and Katka leading the worship team, they felt a clear call to a new city. In 2018, they moved to the coastal city of Koper, where they are passionate about helping grow the local youth ministry, continuing to train and equip worship leaders around the country, and developing a new songwriting ministry for Slovene churches. Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Happy Thanksgiving 2024 from the Josiah Venture Family | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:22:32 | |
Happy Thanksgiving! It's that time of year to express gratitude. This is the third year that we have released a special Thanksgiving episode of the Podcast. It is encouraging to hear from Josiah Venture missionaries, who live across Central and Eastern Europe, sharing what they're grateful for in this season. Get ready to discover their favorite aspects of this holiday, including a meaningful Bible verse about thankfulness. These 11 missionaries are featured in this episode.
This year, Giving Tuesday, an annual global day of generosity, falls on Dec. 3rd. As you plan your end of year giving, will you please keep our Josiah Venture missionaries in mind? Consider giving a one time gift to one of our missionaries or you can donate to the general fund. We pray you have a truly amazing Thanksgiving wherever you may be celebrating. This holiday is a beautiful time to cherish the presence of loved ones and to reflect on our blessings and God's unwavering faithfulness. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Digging Deeper Into God's Word | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:27:12 | |
Part 2 of Fall Conference interviews! Please enjoy getting to know these guests: 1. Diana from Ukraine, interviewed by Tadej from Slovenia 2. Lote from Latvia, interviewed by Tadej from Slovenia 3. Katka from Slovenia, interviewed by Tadej from Slovenia 4. Adina from Romania, interviewed by Tadej from Slovenia 5. Andre from Romania, interviewed by Kate from the USA 6. Nia from Bulgaria, interviewed by Kate from the USA 7. Dorka from Hungary, interviewed by Kate from the USA Amazing things happen when 400+ youth leaders from 21 countries come together to dive into God's Word! The Josiah Venture annual Fall Conference, which took place at the end of September, is always a highlight of the year. The theme for our 2024 Fall Conference was "Word Formed," and we focused on the significance of scripture. What do you feel when you read God's Word? A recent study of Gen Z youth in Germany found that while over 70% of responders felt loved when they read the Bible, 50% also said they felt guilty; that is a huge contrast! Our hope for this conference was to look at scripture in a new light and use that new reality to be "Word Formed." We hope that as young people come to love the Word more completely, their attitude towards scripture shifts from seeing it as an obligation to embracing it as a source of light and life. This change in perspective encourages consistent and thoughtful engagement with the living Word, allowing them to see their world and choices differently. While at the conference, we set up the podcast equipment in a vintage trailer parked inside a hang-out area where people mingled, ate dessert, and engaged in conversation. With the help of Tadej from Slovenia and Kate from the US, we interviewed various attendees to hear their thoughts about the conference, being Word-Formed, what their daily time in the Bible looks like, and more. Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Young People in Europe Loving the Bible | 29 Oct 2024 | 00:21:11 | |
Part 1 of Fall Conference interviews! Please enjoy getting to know these guests:
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "How to be filled with the Spirit" Spring Conference Talk with Dave Patty | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:35:31 | |
New teaching podcast! 🎙️ The theme of our 2024 annual Spring Conference was "EMPOWERED" - releasing the power of God in your life and ministry. Back in May, 300 2nd—and 3rd-culture missionaries gathered at Malenovice, Czech Republic, to be refreshed and encouraged. When Jesus gave his disciples the charge to spread his good news to the entire world, he told them that they needed power from on high to accomplish the task. Acts 1:8 says, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." We have the same need today because our strength will never be enough for the calling God has given us. During Spring Conference, we learned, discussed, and practiced the habits that can lead to greater empowerment in our lives and ministries. We invite you to study the Holy Spirit in Scripture and respond with faith and obedience so that you can experience more of his power and presence in your life. We pray this teaching encourages you. Thank you for listening! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Spiritual Gifts" Spring Conference Talk with Dave Patty | 08 Oct 2024 | 00:38:49 | |
New teaching podcast! 🎙️ The theme of our 2024 annual Spring Conference was "EMPOWERED" - releasing the power of God in your life and ministry. Back in May, 300 2nd—and 3rd-culture missionaries gathered at Malenovice, Czech Republic, to be refreshed and encouraged. When Jesus gave his disciples the charge to spread his good news to the entire world, he told them that they needed power from on high to accomplish the task. Acts 1:8 says, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." We have the same need today because our strength will never be enough for the calling God has given us. During Spring Conference, we learned, discussed, and practiced the habits that can lead to greater empowerment in our lives and ministries. We invite you to study the Holy Spirit in Scripture and respond with faith and obedience so that you can experience more of his power and presence in your life. We pray this teaching encourages you. Thank you for listening! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Your Will and the Spirit Spring Conference Talk with Dave Patty | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:45:14 | |
New teaching podcast! 🎙️ The theme of our 2024 annual Spring Conference was "EMPOWERED" - releasing the power of God in your life and ministry. Back in May, 300 2nd—and 3rd-culture missionaries gathered at Malenovice, Czech Republic, to be refreshed and encouraged. When Jesus gave his disciples the charge to spread his good news to the entire world, he told them that they needed power from on high to accomplish the task. Acts 1:8 says, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." We have the same need today because our strength will never be enough for the calling God has given us. During Spring Conference, we learned, discussed, and practiced the habits that can lead to greater empowerment in our lives and ministries. We invite you to study the Holy Spirit in Scripture and respond with faith and obedience so that you can experience more of his power and presence in your life. We pray this teaching encourages you. Thank you for listening! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Your Mind and the Spirit" Spring Conference Talk with Dave Patty | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:34:59 | |
New teaching podcast! 🎙️ The theme of our 2024 annual Spring Conference was "EMPOWERED" - releasing the power of God in your life and ministry. Back in May, 300 2nd—and 3rd-culture missionaries gathered at Malenovice, Czech Republic, to be refreshed and encouraged. When Jesus gave his disciples the charge to spread his good news to the entire world, he told them that they needed power from on high to accomplish the task. Acts 1:8 says, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." We have the same need today because our strength will never be enough for the calling God has given us. During Spring Conference, we learned, discussed, and practiced the habits that can lead to greater empowerment in our lives and ministries. We invite you to study the Holy Spirit in Scripture and respond with faith and obedience so that you can experience more of his power and presence in your life. We pray this teaching encourages you. Thank you for listening! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "The Counselor" Spring Conference Talk with Dave Patty | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:47:00 | |
New teaching podcast! 🎙️ The theme of our 2024 annual Spring Conference was "EMPOWERED" - releasing the power of God in your life and ministry. Back in May, 300 2nd—and 3rd-culture missionaries gathered at Malenovice, Czech Republic, to be refreshed and encouraged. When Jesus gave his disciples the charge to spread his good news to the entire world, he told them that they needed power from on high to accomplish the task. Acts 1:8 says, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." We have the same need today because our strength will never be enough for the calling God has given us. During Spring Conference, we learned, discussed, and practiced the habits that can lead to greater empowerment in our lives and ministries. We invite you to study the Holy Spirit in Scripture and respond with faith and obedience so that you can experience more of his power and presence in your life. We pray this teaching encourages you. Thank you for listening! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| "Empowered" Spring Conference Talk with Dave Patty | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:28:14 | |
New teaching podcast! 🎙️ The theme of our 2024 annual Spring Conference was "EMPOWERED" - releasing the power of God in your life and ministry. Back in May, 300 2nd—and 3rd-culture missionaries gathered at Malenovice, Czech Republic, to be refreshed and encouraged. When Jesus gave his disciples the charge to spread his good news to the entire world, he told them that they needed power from on high to accomplish the task. Acts 1:8 says, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." We have the same need today because our strength will never be enough for the calling God has given us. During Spring Conference, we learned, discussed, and practiced the habits that can lead to greater empowerment in our lives and ministries. We invite you to study the Holy Spirit in Scripture and respond with faith and obedience so that you can experience more of his power and presence in your life. We pray this teaching encourages you. Thank you for listening! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Unexpected Journeys and God's Timely Provision with Lauree Austin | 03 Sep 2024 | 00:57:41 | |
In this special 100th episode of Josiah Venture Stories, host Gwynne Gardner interviews Josiah Venture alumni Lauree Austin. Originally from Boring, Oregon, Lauree now lives in Nashville, Tennessee, working as a DJ for K Love radio. During the conversation, Lauree recounts her unexpected journey from the U.S. to serve with Josiah Venture in the Czech Republic, her diverse roles and experiences, and her impactful moments in ministry. Lauree's story touches on themes of personal growth, cultural immersion, navigating challenges in singleness, and recognizing God's provisions and guidance throughout her missionary journey. Lauree also discusses the importance of embedding oneself in the local culture as a missionary and the deep, transformative lessons she learned during her time with Josiah Venture. This episode is filled with inspiring stories, valuable advice for potential missionaries, and heartfelt encouragement for all listeners.
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Leading Short Term Mission Teams to Slovenia with Amy Moore | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:51:27 | |
Amy Moore has led and served on short-term mission teams to Slovenia for the past eight years. She lives in Nashville, TN, where she works as the Director of Connections for Fellowship Bible Church in Brentwood, TN. Amy's deep love for youth ministry and her extensive experience volunteering with her church's student ministry sparked her passion for Josiah Venture's vision and mission. In this episode, she shares how she got involved with going to Slovenia, stories from her years at camp, advice to someone thinking about serving on a mission team, and more.
More Summer Ministry Resources "Two Thousand Camps" Blog by Dave Patty "Summer On Mission" Blog by Rachael Davison Summer Internship Opportunities
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP | |||
| Serving the Czech Camps Ministry with Josh Nelson | 06 Aug 2024 | 00:40:34 | |
Josh Nelson grew up in Hawaii and was first connected with Josiah Venture through a trip with Moody Bible Institute. He has lived and served in the Czech Republic for 12 years and lives in Ostrava with his wife, Zuzi, and their daughter, Valentina. Josh and Zuzi serve together on the Camps team, equipping local Czech churches, mission Teams, and interns to reach out to their communities. In addition, Josh serves as a Ministry Partner Development Coach, while Zuzi serves as a StrengthsFinder coach. Josh has interned five times, run the Amazing Race ten times, and been to countless camps. In this episode, he discusses what he most enjoys about serving the summer camps ministry in the Czech Republic. More Summer Ministry Resources "Two Thousand Camps" Blog by Dave Patty "Summer On Mission" Blog by Rachael Davison Summer Internship Opportunities
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP
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| "The Original" Camp Theme with Julia Budd | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:43:05 | |
Julia Budd has been the International Summer Ministry Coordinator for Josiah Venture since 2021. She first came to the Czech Republic in 2013 as an intern. That summer, she saw how camps could be a powerful tool for discipleship as young people encountered Jesus for the first time and young leaders grew as disciple-makers in their local churches. Her internship, semester in Lithuania, and short-term trips to Poland and the Czech Republic confirmed her desire to make disciples in Central and Eastern Europe. She is thrilled to live in the Czech Republic while serving locally and internationally. Julia shares her passion for missions, what her role on the international team looks like, details about our summer internship, and the camp theme "The Original." More Summer Ministry Resources "Two Thousand Camps" Blog by Dave Patty "Summer On Mission" Blog by Rachael Davison Summer Internship Opportunities
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP | |||
| Living on Mission With God with Dorka Klaus | 02 Jul 2024 | 00:35:10 | |
Dóra Klauz, known to many as Dorka, was born and raised in Hungary. She serves in a youth group in Győr and has been a Hungarian Summer intern three times. A Formission graduate, Dorka now works part-time with the new Research Institute of Josiah Venture and manages the JVHungary Instagram account. She loves traveling and learning about new cultures and is constantly seeking new experiences and knowledge. In this episode, she shares her faith journey, about her three summer internships, her experience with the ForMission Program, and more.
More Summer Ministry Resources "Two Thousand Camps" Blog by Dave Patty "Summer On Mission" Blog by Rachael Davison Summer Internship Opportunities Learn more about Josiah Venture Josiah Venture Prayer Room Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com | |||
| Summer Internship Experiences in Central and Eastern Europe | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:56:53 | |
Summers are always exciting throughout the 16 Central and Eastern European countries Josiah Venture is located in as local churches prepare for camps and missions teams to arrive. Another cause for all the excitement is our summer internship program. Each summer, we invite college students and young adults who love Jesus and want to share the gospel with others to join us to help impact the next generation. This episode, hosted by Ruthanne Chadd, features nine of the 35 2024 interns. We encourage you to listen to the entire episode to hear all of the different stories and perspectives, but here is the time stamp for each interview.
Ruthanne has been on staff with Josiah Venture since 2014 and currently serves as the Intern Coordinator stateside. Each summer, she recruits, prepares, and sends college-age students from across the US, Canada, and the UK to serve alongside us. Enjoy hearing Ruthanne's passion for ministry as she guides the conversations with these interns. You will hear why they decided to intern, how they heard about the internship, what the amazing race was like for them, and more! Please also join us in praying for summer ministry. Our online prayer room has specific prayer requests for each of the 35 interns serving with us. Thank you for listening! Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP
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| Making Disciples Through Edge Sports with Ranno Seppel | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:47:54 | |
Ranno Seppel has worked with Koma, Josiah Venture's partner organization in Estonia, since Fall 2017. He has been the Edge Sports Director there for four years and has been involved in soccer camps for eight years. He recently accepted the Director of Edge Sports International role, which is very exciting!
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Edge Games International Testimonials | 21 May 2024 | 00:30:26 | |
This episode is all about Sports! The first-ever EDGE GAMES International sports tournament was recently held in Rumburk, Czech Republic. 340 people from 9 Central and Eastern European countries gathered to compete in floorball, football, or soccer for all Americans listening. Enjoy listening to this episode, featuring: 🇪🇪 Ruuben from Estonia - Student 🇱🇻 Linards from Latvia - Student 🇸🇰 Pali from Slovakia - Coach 🇪🇪 Mathias, 15, from Estonia - Student 🇵🇱 Magda from Poland - Coach
Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: www.josiahventure.com Social Media: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: pray.josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP: josiahventure.com/prayer-room-app | |||
| Plan "A" Discipleship in Poland with Bartek Wilkosz | 07 May 2024 | 00:41:44 | |
Bartek Wilkosz has been a Josiah Venture missionary in Poland for three years. His first involvement with Josiah Venture was in 2014 when he participated in a camp called Growth Academy, organized by El Dorado—one of JV Poland's national projects. El Dorado's activities aim to help young people discover Christ and his calling for their lives and equip teenage leaders to serve in their local youth ministries. Bartek's service with the project has continued to grow, and in 2019, he became a part-time Coordinator. In July 2021, he became a full-time JV missionary and now serves as the Director of El Dorado.
Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room | |||
| Exit Tour in Romania with Tino Peste | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:52:05 | |
Tino Peste and his wife live and serve in Constanta, Romania. Tino met and married Cristiana while they were studying theology in their country's capital and attending the same church. After finishing their education, both felt God's calling to serve the young generation in Constanta. They have two girls, Amanda & Haria.
Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com | |||
| Bringing the Gospel to Today's Online Public Square | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:33:25 | |
This episode features three individuals who are bringing the gospel to today's public square of social media and powerful online platforms. Alex Ralevic is a 16-year-old Serbian with over 40k followers on TikTok. He made his first video on a broken phone, using an orange as a stand. Janči Máhrik is a pastor in Slovakia and has a podcast in Slovak called "Zabudnuté Cesty," which translates to "Forgotten Ways." He and his co-host, who is also a pastor, use this podcast to show people how Bible truths apply to the modern world. Abel Aronica is a Hungarian who lives in Romania. He uses his knowledge of all things technical to help churches livestream their services. Over 50,000 people have access to sermons through these live streams. We hope you enjoy these stories. Please pray for the Christian influencers across Central and Eastern Europe who are carrying the gospel to today's public square.
Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP
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| Resting in God's Calling with Paul Williams | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:48:44 | |
Paul Williams serves as the Vice President of Finance and operations for Josiah Venture. In this capacity, he works alongside the President and other executive team members to provide leadership, support, and strategic thinking in JV's operations. Paul lives in the Czech Republic with his wife, Molli, and their daughter Mae. They have three additional young adult children (Tate, Claire, and Grant) who all live in Texas. In this informative episode, Paul shares how God called him to move from the business world into serving as a missionary, the humbling journey of support raising, his philosophy of living generously, and more. Shortly after the fall of communism in Central and Eastern Europe, Paul, his wife Molli, and their new baby moved to Prague, Czech Republic, for a two-year work assignment. The year was 1996, and they fell in love with the Czech Republic and its people during that time. In 2009, while attending a home gathering, Paul and Molli were introduced to the ministry of Josiah Venture and were overjoyed to know that God was working in a place they had grown to love so much.
Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com | |||
| Living with a Heavenly Perspective with Zuzi Dzubakovska | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:45:13 | |
Zuzi Džubakovska decided to follow Jesus when she was 10 years old at a camp organized by Child Evangelism Fellowship. Since then, her life has been one big adventure. During her management studies, she started working in business and continued in marketing and customer success for a few years. Meanwhile, she served in her home church—Bratislava City Church—where she became a member of the worship band and helped out with the Josiah Venture young adult ministry called EXIT. In 2019, she answered her calling to join full-time ministry. The Lord directed her to TCKompas (Josiah Venture Slovakia's partner organization) and their EXIT Tour ministry, which brings evangelism to high schools through a prevention program. She currently works with the Point Online team on their website and helps with internal human resources for the JV team in Slovakia. Zuzi lives in Bratislava, Slovakia, with her husband, Feri—who also came to Christ through TCKompas. They continue to serve together in her home church and serve other people with their open home. They never turn down an invitation for good coffee! They love to laugh and enjoy spending time with people and praying for them.
Website: www.josiahventure.com Instagram: @josiahventure Contact: social@josiahventure.com | |||