Posted on 08-22-12:
You just returned from attending the EAA 2012 AirVenture at Oshkosh the last week of July, where you set up a booth in the International Association of Missionaries Aviation tent. What is the main goal by attending this great fly in?
Exposure for the work and ministry of Wings of Faith; who we are, and why we help the American Indians on reservations right here in the U.S. We want to bring attention to the fact that many of them are going hungry, and lack basic needs. We also step forward as envangelists to pray for visitors that have a need, and share Christ with them. We also sign up visitors to receive our newsletter, and recruit volunteers for our organization, especially our Eastern division.
Was your goal realized ?
We did sign up some volunteers for our Eastern division. Things were a little slower this year because of the economy, but still okay.
How many years have you hosted a booth at Oshkosh ?
10 years
Which missionary organizations were in your tent?
21 missions from various locations, serving all over the globe. Missions Aviation Fellowship (MAF), Jungle Aviation Radio Services (JARRS), United Indian Mission ( UIM), New Tribes Mission (NTM), just to name a few. Also there are 4 colleges represented that have aviation training programs.
What was your typical day?
The day starts at Oshkosh with 7 a.m. breakfast and devotions. We man the booth in the IAMA tent from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with ½ hour for lunch. If we have enough people working in our booth we might get a chance to visit other exhibits or the air show. We have such a wonderful, unique opportunity each day to fellowship with the mission aviation staff.
Tell us a little about the family who hosted Wings of Faith.
We were honored to stay again this year in the home of Harry and Gail Pupp in their lovely tri-level home with a full refrigerator in our quarters and GREAT fellowship. Their home is located north of Oshkosh which is a 35 minute drive, and Harry & Gail loaned us a nice car for the commute.
Any special hurdles you had to overcome?
Weather can change rapidly and there was reduced attendance for the first two days due to rain, heat and humidity.
Did you have a “WOW’ experience?
Oshkosh is always a “WOW” experience – everyone should have an opportunity to see it at least once.
Any memorable visitors?
We were visited by all types of people, some who fly, some who are spectators – some believers, some not, but all are interesting to visit with at the booth. It’s a great time to share what we do, why we do it and who we do it for (Jesus). I had the opportunity to visit with some (still living) pilots who flew in combat in WWII. Another interesting gentleman in his 90’s told me of his flying experiences as a young boy. GREAT STORIES!! (I think some of them were true)
