Cloud of Witnesses

Serving with Open Hands: Paul & Patty Collier (Part 2)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 09:30:00 +0000

In the first part of the Colliers’ story, we heard remarkable accounts from Paraguay—stories of lives transformed as individuals surrendered themselves to Christ. In this episode, we follow their move from Paraguay to Costa Rica and witness how God continued to work through their ministry, shaping the lives of believers in their new community.

Cloud of Witnesses is a production of ABWE. ABWE is a global family of ministries sharing Christ, planting churches, and training Christian leaders in more than 80 countries. After nearly 100 years, ABWE is continuing to take the gospel to the ends of the earth. You can help us advance the kingdom for the next 100 years and beyond by supporting the mission through the Global Gospel Fund. Learn more at abwe.org/cloud.

Serving with Open Hands: Paul & Patty Collier (Part 1)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:30:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we begin the first of a two-part story featuring missionaries Paul and Patty Collier. Their story marks the final two episodes of the Cloud of Witnesses podcast series. Paul and Patty served with ABWE for 35 years, first in Paraguay and later in Costa Rica, serving God faithfully through every season of ministry.

Obedience in Action: Doug & Sharon Kreeger

Alex Kocman — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from missionaries Doug and Sharon Kreeger, who served faithfully with ABWE in Chile for 27 years. During their time on the field, the Kreegers planted churches, led church revitalization projects, and invested in training future leaders—as Doug served as Director of the Baptist seminary in Santiago.

Laying a Foundation: Rich Ernst

Alex Kocman — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:30:00 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we introduce you to missionary Rich Ernst. Together with his wife, Marcia, Rich faithfully served in Papua New Guinea for more than 45 years. As pioneers in ABWE’s early work there, their ministry included church planting, evangelism, and seminary leadership—laying a foundation that continues to impact lives for Christ today.

Persevering with Purpose: Larry and Nancy Allen (Part 2)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode of Cloud of Witnesses, you’ll hear part two of the missionary story featuring Larry and Nancy Allen, faithful ABWE missionaries who served in Bangladesh and later in the Philippines. In the first episode, we journeyed with them through their years of ministry in Bangladesh—learning about their heart for discipleship, the challenges of cross-cultural life, and their deep commitment to serving others with the love of Christ.

Persevering with Purpose: Larry and Nancy Allen (Part 1)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode of Cloud of Witnesses, you’ll hear the first of a two-part story featuring Larry and Nancy Allen, faithful ABWE missionaries who served in Bangladesh and later in the Philippines. From navigating the challenges of cross-cultural ministry to witnessing the transformative power of the Gospel, their journey is one marked by obedience, endurance, and deep compassion for the people they were called to serve. Join us as we explore their remarkable testimony of God’s faithfulness across continents and decades of ministry.

Building Bridges, Equipping Leaders: George Collins

Alex Kocman — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from missionary George Collins, who—alongside his wife, Debi—faithfully served in Bangladesh before founding GAP Ministries, which later became Live Global, an ABWE ministry. While working alongside national partners, George recognized a vital need: to better connect and equip national Christian leaders with the communication, encouragement, and resources necessary to strengthen their ministries.

Faith in the Amazon: Ralph Poulson

Alex Kocman — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear the inspiring story of missionary Ralph Poulson. Alongside his wife, Margie, Ralph dedicated his life to church planting among unreached tribes in the Amazon, serving with ABWE in Brazil. Their journey took them from the Port of Two Brothers deep in the jungle to Benjamin Constant and, ultimately, to leading a seminary in Natal, Brazil. Join us as we explore their incredible legacy of faith and service.

A Legacy of Fellowship: Bob and Lynne Trout (Part 2)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we continue the remarkable story of Bob and Lynne Trout. In part one, we followed their faithful service across South America—in Peru, Paraguay, and Colombia—where they shared the gospel and witnessed God’s transforming work in the lives of those they served.

In part two, we explore the next chapter of their journey: their continued ministry in South America and their transition to serving stateside with ABWE. From developing the member care program to leading the ambassador ministry, the Trouts have remained committed to encouraging and supporting missionaries long after their time on the field.

A Legacy of Fellowship: Bob and Lynne Trout (Part 1)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we begin the first of a two-part story highlighting the faithful ministry of Bob and Lynne Trout. Serving with ABWE across South America—in Peru, Paraguay, and Colombia—the Trouts dedicated their lives to sharing the Gospel and building up the Church. After decades on the field, they returned to the United States, where their calling continued as they helped develop ABWE’s member care program and played a vital role in strengthening the ambassador ministry, supporting and honoring retired missionaries.

Season 2 Finale: Into the Heart of the Jungle: Bob Wright

Alex Kocman — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:50:17 +0000

In this final episode of Cloud of Witnesses season two, we dive into the extraordinary missionary journey of Bob Wright, who served with his wife, Rita, in the jungles of Brazil. Called to reach unreached tribes, Bob shares the adventures and challenges of bringing the gospel to remote areas, including stories of divine providence and moments of risk. Bob’s story is a testament to a life of faithful obedience and the power of following God’s call to serve wherever he leads.

Committed to the Call to Serve: Johnny and Susan Bolin (Part 2)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this second part of Johnny and Susan Bolin’s story on Cloud of Witnesses, we follow their continued journey of faith and perseverance as missionaries in Colombia. After being advised to abandon their aviation ministry due to rebel activity, the Bolins pivoted to church planting and outreach in Villavicencio. They share how God opened unexpected doors, including their impactful ministry to the deaf community. As tensions in the region escalated, the Bolins faced the difficult decision of whether to evacuate the country. Tune in to hear their story of unwavering trust in God's plan through trials and triumphs.

Tune in to part one here.

Committed to the Call to Serve: Johnny and Susan Bolin (Part 1)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this first part of a two-part series on Cloud of Witnesses, we hear the compelling story of Johnny and Susan Bolin, ABWE missionaries who served as church planters in Colombia, South America. Johnny shares his journey of coming to faith in Jesus, while Susan reflects on her foundational Christian upbringing that shaped her passion for missions. Together, the Bolins navigated their call to serve, eventually joining ABWE with a vision to use aviation to reach remote areas of Colombia. This episode sets the stage for their incredible journey of faith, service, and the challenges they faced in fulfilling God's mission.

Building for the Kingdom: Bill Hanson

Alex Kocman — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 10:49:15 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear the inspiring story of Bill Hanson, a dedicated ABWE missionary who, alongside his wife Ginny, served for 20 years. Bill’s unique background in construction led him to the Project Office of ABWE, where he eventually became director. In this episode, Bill shares how God used his professional skills to advance missions work, as well as his journey of faith—from hearing the gospel as a child to understanding his need for a Savior through his relationship with Ginny. Tune in to hear how God built a foundation in Bill’s life that would allow him to construct churches and ministries across the globe.

Faithful to His Calling: David and Doris Totman

Alex Kocman — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, ABWE missionaries David and Doris Totman share their incredible 40-year journey of serving Christ in South Asia, Kenya, and Ghana. From facing opposition and spiritual warfare in the jungles of Bangladesh to planting churches in Kenya and navigating health challenges in Ghana, the Totmans faithfully followed God’s call, trusting him through every trial. Their story is a stirring reminder that obedience and faithfulness to God’s mission continue long after returning from the field, as they now serve in their local church, embodying a lifelong commitment to the Great Commission.

Key Quotes:

“God just wanted us to be faithful—wherever he leads.”
“Sometimes we think, ‘You go to the mission field, you come home and die,’ but there’s still so much ministry to be done.”

Learning to Be God-Sufficient: Ruth Wood

Alex Kocman — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 19:10:43 +0000

In this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we sit down with ABWE missionary Ruth Wood, who dedicated over 30 years to serving others. Ruth began her journey as a nurse in The Gambia, Africa, following the passing of her husband, Dave. Her call to medical missions led her to serve the unreached with the gospel. Ruth shares the challenges of missionary life, including burnout and the risk of illness. After contracting a chronic virus that caused debilitating headaches, she had to leave the field but continued her service stateside. Throughout her journey, Ruth learned the importance of trusting in the Lord, emphasizing the value of care, compassion, and the necessity of rest in ministry. Her story is a powerful testament to the sufficiency of God for all our needs.

Sharing the Love of Jesus: Dave and Debbie Woodard

Alex Kocman — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 11:08:37 +0000

In this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we sit down with Dave and Debbie Woodard, whose 30-year journey with ABWE has taken them from rural Tennessee to the heart of England and beyond. They share how God shaped their early call to missions, led them through decades of church planting and restoration in England, and guided them into leadership roles with ABWE. Through every challenge and opportunity, the Woodards have remained committed to loving their neighbors and faithfully serving the global church. Tune in to hear their story of humble obedience and steadfast faith.

Up in the Air for Him: Ruth Scheltema

Alex Kocman — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from Ruth Scheltema, who served with her husband, Hank, in Brazil as missionaries with ABWE for over 20 years. As church planters and pioneers in mission aviation, Hank and Ruth worked to spread the gospel to remote Amazonian villages previously accessible only by houseboat. Their aviation ministry revolutionized outreach efforts, enabling them to bring the gospel and medical aid to multiple villages in a single day. Ruth shares stories of overcoming fears and challenges, illustrating their unwavering faith and dedication. The Scheltemas' legacy continues to inspire future aviation missionaries.

A Life Transformed: Rich and Jo Ann Davis (Part 2)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we delve deeper into the life of missionaries Rich and Jo Ann Davis on the second of a two-part story into their lives. With over 50 years of their lives serving with ABWE, their journey has taken them to Peru, Central America, the Caribbean, and Moldova, each location presenting unique challenges. In the first episode, we heard of their remarkable transformation from flower children to followers of Jesus. As we continue their narrative, the Davises are in Peru, where they face daunting trials that test their faith but also reveal the divine plan God has for serving the people of this region.

A Life Transformed: Rich and Jo Ann Davis (Part 1)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from missionaries Rich and Jo Ann Davis. They have served with ABWE for over 50 years, with stops in Peru, Central America, the Caribbean, and Moldova. The Davises share an incredible story of transformation from being flower children to becoming followers of Jesus. This is the first part of a two-part episode featuring the life and ministry of the Davises.

SEASON 1 FINALE: To the Ends of the Earth: Bill and Debbie Tobias (Part Two)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:08:38 +0000

In the second installment of a two-part episode on Cloud of Witnesses, ABWE missionaries Bill and Debbie Tobias continue to share their three-decade-long mission journey in Papua New Guinea. As the last episode came to a close, the Tobias family was in the process of moving their family to the Simbai region. Listen now to hear about their life in the Simbai region and how they faithfully served with their unique gifts and talents for the purpose of sharing the gospel.

To the Ends of the Earth: Bill and Debbie Tobias (Part 1)

Alex Kocman — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:45:47 +0000

In the first installment of a two-part episode on Cloud of Witnesses, ABWE missionaries Bill and Debbie Tobias unfold their three-decade-long mission journey in Papua New Guinea. The narrative chronicles their initial season of uncertainty followed by God’s leading to to Papua New Guinea, where they invested their energies in Goroka Baptist Bible College and, eventually, ministry in the Simbai region. Listen now to hear how Bill and Debbie displayed faith in the midst of their trials, driven by their love for the lost.

An Emphasis on Family: David and Becky Nelson

Alex Kocman — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

In this enriching episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we delve into the nearly four-decade-long ministry journey of ABWE missionaries Dave and Becky Nelson, who devoted their lives to mission aviation and administrative roles in the Philippines. For Becky, missions wasn't just an overseas endeavor but started right at home, focusing on raising her children in the faith. As the years unfolded, the Lord led them from aviation to administration and even pastoring, always prioritizing family unity. Through all the shifts in vocation and location, Dave and Becky remained steadfast in their calling, illustrating that wherever you are, God will utilize you in his grand plan.

Equipping the Nations: Ken and Alice Cole

Alex Kocman — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 20:58:02 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we learn about the life and ministry of ABWE missionaries Ken and Alice Cole, who served in the Philippines and throughout Asia for over 40 years. The Coles served the Lord through medical missions, church planting, disaster response, equipping nationals for mobilization, and so much more—following the path wherever the Lord led them.

Surrendering to the Lord’s Leading: Gib and Marilyn Dickenson

Alex Kocman — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear the story of Gib and Marilyn Dickenson, who served in the West African country of Togo for 36 years. Gib and Marilyn share their experience of moving to Togo, which had recently opened to missionaries at the time, and the process of leading churches to become self-sustainable. Through three decades in Togo, the Dickensons learned to lean on God when unexpected changes and directions came their way.

Remaining Steadfast: Jim and Jan Ruff

Alex Kocman — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 20:47:34 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from Jim and Jan Ruff who served with ABWE in Japan for 20 years in leadership training and church planting. Jim and Jan share their early ministry trials of church planting and tell a heartwarming story of how blessings came to a family in the birth of a child with Down syndrome who warmed the hearts of those around him to Jesus.

Staying Faithful Where You’re Called: Rosie Stoner

Alex Kocman — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from Rosie Stoner, who served with her late husband Bill for 39 years as missionaries with ABWE in several countries. Rosie and Bill served faithfully with ABWE in Chile, Spain, the United States, and Budapest. Rosie shares her personal struggles through a miscarriage and how that shaped her trust in Jesus and later discusses how she and Bill followed Jesus' instructions to love by reaching many who were involved in drugs and alcohol.

Flying by Faith: Steve and Sandy Aholt

Alex Kocman — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 21:02:00 +0000

In this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from missionary pilot Steve Aholt, and his wife Sandy, who served in Papua New Guinea for 24 years in missionary aviation. Steve and Sandy share incredible stories of seeing God's faithfulness firsthand while serving the people of Papa New Guinea and opening up about experiencing the devastating loss of their son, who was living in the United States while they were overseas.

Patiently Waiting for Open Doors: Dennis and Rachel Weaver

Alex Kocman — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 21:01:18 +0000

In this episode of the Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from missionaries Dennis and Rachel, who served in England for 14 years as church planters. The Weavers open up about their early struggles of patiently waiting for an opportunity to plant a church or to restore a church all while faithfully trusting that this was the plan that God had for them.

Serving God Through Tragedy: Tim Bahula

Alex Kocman — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 21:00:00 +0000

In this pilot episode, we hear the story of Tim Bahula, from ABWE Canada, who served with his wife in Trinidad and Tobago for eight years. While home on furlough, the Bahula's received the unexpected and devastating news that Jane had been diagnosed with cancer, and within months passed away. Tim opens up about the struggles of resuming life without Jane and discovering the importance of leaning on church family and friends when you're going through hardships.