Australia , Italy , Japan , and Germany . Although she served in the South Pacific for the majority of her years of ministry , God also sent her to Brazil , Haiti , and the OMS World Headquarters .
One former student of “ Aunt Esther ” in Haiti was a receptive 10-year-old fifth grader . She fondly remembers her teacher being fun and joyful . She was amazed by the way Esther incorporated reading into the school day . That exercise impacted her then and now . “ Aunt Esther believed in her students and built camaraderie between the children in different grades ,” the student remembers . Although they rarely see one another nowadays , when they do sporadically meet up , they have a precious time of reminiscing .
While serving in the South Pacific for
18 years , Esther taught many children at the OMS-related international school . The staff and families associated with the school stuck together through thick and thin . Esther sensed the love and support of the school body during her tenure . She found out years later from her students that the simple act of hospitality — opening her home for meals , games , and movies — profoundly impacted the kids and made unique memories for them .
Esther loves her life verses of Jeremiah 29:11 – 13 , “‘ For I know the plans I have for you ,’ declares the Lord , ‘ plans to prosper you and not to harm you , plans to give you hope and a future . Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me , and I will listen to you . You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart .’” This Scripture passage helped ground her thinking before she journeyed full time to the mission field , first to Brazil , then to Haiti , and then onward to the South Pacific . “ God ’ s plans for me were evident whether I knew about the details or not ,” recalls Esther .
Esther now lives in the United States , but she hasn ’ t retired . She now serves in OMS ’ Missionary Care Department , helping missionaries in a variety of ways . Her experiences and counsel are invaluable . She has a desire to help young people realize that God can use them wherever they are and , if he calls a person to go , he will help them accomplish his will with the specific talents and gifts he has given them .
Esther never stepped onto African soil to become a missionary nurse , but she has willingly given her life for what matters most — loving Jesus and others .
photos page 18 , top : Esther poses with her 5 th grade class in the South Pacific last year on international day . bottom : Esther continues to serve missionaries today with the Missionary Care team .
17