“I know a guy who writes better stories than I do.”I’ve said this a thousand times, and it still applies to every season and mood. I know a guy who was writing my story long before I realized it. I know a guy who was preparing me for France before I ever surrendered to ministry. I know a guy who is writing our story right now—one page at a time.
This past month felt slower than the flurry that followed our missions announcement. Nevertheless, every step we’ve taken reminds Michelle and me that this mission is bigger than our little family. God is using sending churches, partners, counselors and co-laborers to prepare the way for gospel work in France.
“The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.” (Psalm 138:8 ESV).
A Visit That Strengthened Our Church
We began the month with an encouraging visit from BMA Global President Dr. John David Smith. His clarity about what it means for a church to send its own helped us all see the beauty of our BMA family — ordinary churches faithfully working together to make disciples on six continents with sincere commitment to contextualization.
This past Sunday, we presented our plans for France to Denver Street in more detail. Of the nine times I’ve made the same presentation at other churches, this was the one that made me the most nervous. These are the people who let me cut my teeth as a pastor — the ones who showed me, often through the school of hard knocks, that real ministry is more than teaching right doctrine because it’s about conforming hearts to the image of Christ.
Several members encouraged Michelle and me to make more Sunday mornings available to visit churches and share our vision. That willingness to release us while they are in their own season of transition is a tremendous act of love. So, with Denver Street’s blessing, we’re available for:
• Morning services in December, January and February
• Evening services or special meetings anytime through February
• Michelle is available and excited to share as well if your church has a Ladies’ ministry meeting.
Progress Toward the Field
In addition to pastoral responsibilities, we’re steadily working toward meeting BMA Global’s pre-field requirements and opening our schedule for partnership development.
I attended the BMA of Arkansas meeting earlier this month. Meeting with pastors and friends from across our state encouraged me. I asked not to be nominated for another officer role since our mission plans will take us away from Arkansas before we’re able to meet again.
I didn’t get to stay for the entire meeting so that I could make it home in time to take Charlotte to her school’s daddy-daughter dance. I will treasure making this a priority as we prepare to transition our lives overseas.
• Pre-Field Counseling — One of the mission office requirements was completing pre-field counseling.I finished my sessions and received my sign-off this month. We covered my past, present rhythms and how I typically handle stress. I left those meetings particularly aware of how thankful I am for Michelle. God has shaped our marriage in ways that will sustain us on the field. I’m thankful He has prepared us together.
• Next Check-In — Our next formal check-in with BMA Global will be in February, when we meet with the Missions Advisory Committee in preparation for the BMA of America annual meeting in Conway. If you’re able to attend the meeting, please come. We’d love to see you there and hug your necks.
New Rhythms for the Journey
Michelle and I started adding two new rhythms to our week. On Tuesday, we usually take time to have lunch together in the afternoon. And on Thursday, we have a time dedicated to praying over our ministry in France. These have quickly become my favorite moments of the week.
Our Website Is Live
With Michelle’s help, I repurposed an old blog into a ministry-focused website where partners can stay updated and engaged with our journey. Check it out at livingoutthegospel.com.
The Barnabas Hub
This is a private sign-up area that allows us to maintain some confidentiality while keeping past newsletters available, providing live updates on monthly support commitments and launching fund progress. Feel free to join the Barnabas Hub by visiting livingoutthegospel.com/newsletter.
A Unique Opportunity
On Nov. 1, Christ Covenant Church, based in Atlanta, released a beautifully produced documentary about the spiritual state of France. The description on YouTube says, “Behind Paris’s beauty lies deep spiritual need. ‘A City of Light’ follows local pastors and their churches as they bring gospel hope to one of Europe’s most secular cities. This in-depth documentary explores what it means to plant churches in a post-Christian culture — where Christianity is often seen as antiquated, foolish or even offensive. Through vulnerable testimony, historical reflection and biblical conviction, this film captures the struggles and the joy of planting churches in Paris.”
As I watched, I found myself saying, “This is exactly what I’ve been telling people.” It feels providential that it launched just as we are preparing to take the gospel to the French countryside.
I reached out to the elders at Christ Covenant Church, and I now have a meeting scheduled for December with their missions pastor. I’m encouraged by the opportunity to connect with American missionaries who share the goal of bringing the gospel to one of the most secular nations on earth.
Michelle’s Growing Excitement
One of the sweetest blessings this month has been watching Michelle’s excitement grow. The last five years have demanded so much of her as a mom. As God opens up this new chapter, she is stepping into her role as a missionary in her own right. She has always been the better half of my ministry, and I look forward to serving alongside her in France.
Why Your Partnership Matters Now
We are entering a crucial stretch. Denver Street has agreed to be our sending church, and we are beginning to assemble the support team that will sustain us for long-term ministry.
As we prepare to step away from the pastorate, we must build:
• Monthly partnership (base funding)
• A launch fund that carries us through the season of full-time deputation and PFPO (pre-field preparation and orientation)
Every new partner brings us one step closer to living out the story God has been writing to bring us to France.
How You Can Pray
“A pastor who isn’t praying is playing; a people who aren’t praying are straying.”
Here’s how you can pray for us this month:
• Denver Street’s transition — pray for wisdom as they assemble a pastor search committee.
• Reliable transportation — pray our vehicles remain dependable through our travel-heavy months ahead.
• Wisdom for our Advisory Team — We’re assembling a team of spiritual advisors to help us navigate a couple of key decisions ahead.
• Open Doors — Ask God to give us more opportunities to share our vision.
• Base Funding & Launch Fund — Pray that God provides monthly partners and one-time gifts needed for our base support and launch fund for full-time deputation.
If God leads you to partner through financial support, you can send donations to: BMA Global, P.O. Box 878, Conway, AR 72033, and write “Bremers to France” on the memo line.
You can contact us: The Bremers, Missionaries to France, 3245 Eagle Drive, Greenwood, AR 72936 • derrick@livingoutthegospel.com, michelle@livingoutthegospel.com.
