Stephanie Gilcrease and her husband Doug are on staff with the AIA Pro Ministry in Tampa Bay, Florida. She recently took her two daughters (Matteson, 14, and Taylor, 12) to Kazakhstan on an AIA Tennis/Wrestling tour and provided insight to their trip.

Q: What were the expectations of the Gilcrease girls going over to Kazakhstan?

A: It was a hard decision to go because, as a mom, I knew I would be leaving a lot behind that needed to be done. But I had a desire to go on a mission trip with the girls to introduce them to another culture of people and to show them people in other countries that really need the Lord. I guess my expectations were that we would be available to do whatever God asked of us as part of this team. I expected God to give the girls a new and broader perspective on life and what is really important. I hoped that we all would be put in situations where we had to follow and trust God in new ways.

Q: What did you learn about the people (their lifestyles, hobbies, etc.) of Kazakhstan? Are the people of Kazakhstan glorifying God?

A: The lifestyle in Kazakhstan was very different than ours. The food was good but different. People weren't friendly at first, but really opened up and were more friendly and genuine as we got to know them.  I think the people lived a simpler life than ours and were very appreciative of what they had. We worshipped one Sunday at a church there and could see that God is definitely at work in that country in many ways. The stories of conversions from the Muslim faith to Christ were amazing.

Q: Describe the impact you saw God provide through the tennis/wrestling tour while in Kazakhstan.

A: We definitely say how awesome athletics can be as a platform for God. At the tennis tournament in Kazakhstan, we were able to talk openly and get to know people quickly because of our common ground as athletes. The same was true for wrestling and swimming. They respect American athletes and God opened so many doors for us to get to know the athletes and invite them to events where the gospel was shared.  Also, He helped us find favor in the eyes of the officials and coaches there. Hopefully, this will help others who minister there in the future.

Q: How did your view of God grow through your ministry to the people of Kazakhstan?

A: Wow...I saw God in a much bigger realm. These people give up "so much” to become Christians.  Many are even kicked out of their families and homes and threatened with their lives. Yet they share of how God has saved them and changed their lives. Their trust in Him is incredible. I think I left there more burdened to pray for people and more thankful for the privilege of knowing God here in America. We were in situations where we had no choice but to trust Him and follow Him. As a mother, I had to let go and let Him be in control as our Peace and Protector.

Q: What did you learn about your girls through their experience in Kazakhstan?

A: I am so glad you asked because this was one of the best parts about the trip. I learned that my girls can do and handle more than I ever thought they could. They taught me not to complain and to be flexible. I watched them reach out to people, make friends and do many things outside of their comfort zones. I respect them a lot for how they handled the trip. I know that both of them grew in their walks with the Lord, which was so encouraging. We also grew closer together, the three of us.

Q: How can we pray for Kazakhstan and for your family as a result of the tour?

A: Please pray that the people of Kazakhstan would respond to the love of God and that their country would be more open to the gospel. As for us, I know that God used this summer to work in all of our family's lives. My husband--who encouraged us to go--spent three weeks alone with our four sons while the girls and I were overseas. Please pray that, as a result, our children would develop a heart to follow God wherever He leads them.