Jansma Newsletter (Fall 2025)

Jansma Journal

Hello Dear Family, Friends, and Supporters,

God is so faithful! It’s hard to believe we’re sharing our very first Teen Missions Ministry update. Though our time here has only just begun, the journey has taken a great deal of prayer, discernment, and trust in the Lord’s guidance. We’re also incredibly thankful for the many ways you have supported us. Moving a family 1,100 miles across the country is no small task, but God paved the way, and we give Him all the glory.

We’re excited to share about what He’s been doing in and through us this summer and what lies ahead!

Summer at Boot Camp

Before our move, we traveled to Florida to serve at Teen Missions Boot Camp. By God’s grace, we made the trip smoothly and quickly—no issues, no traffic! While we’ve experienced Boot Camp in the past from a parent’s perspective, this was our first time serving. Russ had past experience as a teen, but it was all brand new for me (Kelly)!

Russ contributed to the grounds and maintenance team, taking on several major tasks to prepare the base for upcoming projects. He spent a few days cutting up old equipment with a torch so it could be hauled away, assisted in repairing broken machinery, and transported debris from multiple cleanup sites to the dump.

In addition to maintenance work, Russ pitched in with food preparation—grilling 600 burgers and a large quantity of chicken. On pack-out day, he was once again behind the controls of a machine, helping to efficiently pack and store equipment.

(I) Kelly served in the Boot Camp store alongside two amazing women. I was able to interact with the teens throughout the day—hearing about their struggles and triumphs (especially on the Obstacle Course!), and offer encouragement while they purchased some daily essentials, Gatorade, gum and a few souvenirs along the way. Fun fact: I was initially set to help in the kitchen. Before Boot Camp, Cavan shared that I should work in the store because Ms. Penny needed help last summer. Turns out, he was spot on—and God redirected my path perfectly. I even got a little taste of kitchen life when Russ and I served together at Gator Pizza & Milkshake Night. What a fun experience that was!

Moving to Florida

After Boot Camp, we returned to Indiana on June 29 and had a whirlwind three weeks to pack and prep before closing on our home on July 21. The very day we closed, we hit the road back to Florida. Once again, God protected us on the journey, even giving us a few traffic breaks to slow down and rest (not ideal—but we were safe and thankful!).

As we arrived, Teen Missions teams were returning from overseas. We were blessed to attend nightly presentations where teams shared testimonies, challenges, and victories from their trips. The spiritual growth and deep friendships formed over the summer were beautiful to witness—we pray these experiences stay with them for life and that many return to serve again next year.

Settling In & Getting to Work

On August 6, Russ officially started work on base—exactly two months after his last day as an operator. Eager to get back to work, he’s been doing everything from mowing and welding to repairing equipment, building stairs for staff housing, and clearing clogged culverts. Water management is a big deal around here and clearing the way helps to maintain the buildings on base.

Family Life

The boys are adjusting well!

• Case got his driver’s license shortly after our arrival and is now in 11th grade at Merritt Island Christian School. He’s hoping to join the basketball team this winter and is prayerfully considering his future after high school.
  
  

• Cavan is continuing to homeschool, in the 7th grade, and will be attending a local co-op. He also hopes to play basketball and is preparing for a Teen Missions trip to Madagascar next summer!
  
  

What’s Next?

While plans can still change, Russ and I are currently slated to lead a team to Peru next summer. We’re excited and trusting God to direct our steps, whether it's Peru or another location.

We’ve also had the joy of “adopting” a Bible school student—mentoring and supporting them as they begin their three years at the Sojourner School of Ministry. This term there will be 21 students—praise God!

Prayer Requests

We’re so grateful for you and would love to hear how you’re doing and how we can pray for you. Please also pray for us in these areas:

• That God would lead us to a home church here in Florida.
  
  

• For a strong, Christ-centered youth group for our boys.
  
  

• That we would be bold in our faith and a blessing to our new community.
  
  

Thank you for standing with us in this new chapter. We look forward to sharing more updates as the journey continues.

With love and gratitude,

Russ, Kelly, Case & Cavan