Families on a mission today

For those who feel called to serve God and build His Church overseas, the idea of uprooting and adapting to a new culture and language, is daunting and challenging. For couples with children, such a move brings unique challenges and opportunities. We asked two families serving in the Arab world, to give us some insights into what life looks like for them.

What are the challenges of living as a family in the Arab world?

The Middle East
For us, our arrival coincided with us just starting out as parents and we struggled with the lack of formal support (e.g. baby groups) we had grown used to in the UK. Remaining in contact with my mums’ WhatsApp group proved to be an unexpected support in the early months and years, as it helped me realise that much of what we were facing was just normal life as a parent! As well as this, fitting both ministry and family life into our timetable is a regular challenge, and we find we have to be adaptable with our routine.

North Africa
In many parts of the Arab world there are quite strong expectations for men, women and children that often differ from those of the UK. The domain of men is often perceived to be outside the house and the domain of women and children to be in the house. There are also different attitudes to discipline, bedtime routine, etc. It can be challenging to be living differently to the prevailing culture.

What does community and team look like for your family?

The Middle East
Our team is very supportive, and we have many great expat friends and colleagues living close by. Our kids love visiting them and having them over for dinner. They are also a wonderful source of free babysitting!

North Africa
As families in our team, we seek to support each other through meals and socials. The older children in our team are great witnesses and examples to our children who are younger. We also seek to be a family to the single people on our team.

What would you say to a couple who are hesitant to go overseas with children?

The Middle East
I think it is right to be concerned about our children – they are a precious and specific gift and ministry from our loving Father. I would encourage parents to be as specific as possible about their concerns. Are they mostly related to education? Distance from extended family? Particular needs of your child? When you can name your concerns you will be more equipped to see if a particular field or ministry can address them, and that will help with the ‘I just can’t see us doing this’ feeling.

North Africa
We would encourage them that God ‍is with you wherever you go. He loves you and your family and your children more than you can possibly imagine. There are challenges for individuals and families overseas that are different from those that you would face in the UK/the West, but we can really testify that in all things God works for
the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).