A message from Pete and Kristy Ziolkowski, Expand’s newest church planters
The Z Fam is settling into Oregon! God continues to open doors for us for ministry and relationship. We have met neighbors, strangers, and ministry partners. The spirit of collaboration Jesus has established in Portland is special. We are grateful to be the recipients of it and honored to contribute to seeing God’s Kingdom come in Portland as it is in heaven.
Church Support and Collaboration
We have established a pattern of meeting and serving with Bob and Stephanie Johnson through our fellowship with the Bridge Church Northwest. We meet on a weekly basis for coaching and sporadically to enjoy each other’s company. Pastor Bob has invited us to preach once a month, serve on the prayer team, and contribute in different areas of ministry as needed. Beyond this, we’ve shared many meals with many wonderful people. There’s a reason so much of Jesus’ ministry revolved around food!
Many wonderful churches in the Expand Northwest network – and beyond – have graciously demonstrated remarkable hospitality. A number of churches have partnered with us and invited us to contribute to their ministries as well. We are so humbled by this!
Serving Portland through Transitional Youth and Church Planting
On the church planting side of the equation, the Holy Spirit has narrowed our focus to Portland’s Eastside. Primarily the Northeast. Micah Dodson with Thrive is coaching us as we discern how best to develop the foundation of the kind of church Jesus is building in Portland. And, of course, Sean Thomé is there every step of the way, ensuring our hearts stay close to God’s.
Beyond this, Kristy has begun a part-time job with Transitional Youth. She works with at-risk youth, mentoring and discipling them. She has the honor of teaching them how to up-cycle donated materials to create beautiful, new pieces and make a living in the process.
Thank you for praying for us and supporting us!
