NLAI Ministry Update | July 2025
This month, we are thrilled to introduce you to four new missionaries who are following God’s call to serve through NLAI. Two who are preparing to move to Guatemala, and two who are preparing to build something brand new.
Robert & Keva Fowlkes - A New Beginning in Belize
Robert and Keva Fowlkes are saying “yes” to something brand new: they will be the pioneers launching NLAI’s first-ever children’s home in Belize.
Their hearts for missions were shaped over years of serving in children’s homes, experiencing God's presence in Haiti and Honduras, and driving from Texas to Panama and back, all the while asking: Lord, where do you want us?
When they heard about NLAI through their church in Lubbock, Texas, they said yes … before ever stepping foot in Belize. Why? Because God is in the details. And when He sends, they trust that He goes before.
Right now, they’re laying the groundwork for this new home: legal steps, infrastructure, and community partnerships. But more than that, they’re dreaming of the children to come. These children will be welcomed into a family, discipled in faith, and reminded every day that they are seen, known, and deeply loved by God.
“We believe that love, forgiveness, healing, and compassion will grow and expand far beyond what we could dream, ask for, or imagine as these children transform into the very people God created, who can shake cultures and shift nations.”
Please pray for Robert and Keva as they walk by faith, prepare to build something from the ground up, and trust God to provide the people, place, and support needed.
The Belize Team
Front Row L-R: Keva Fowlkes, Ashton Neubert, Dorothy Kennedy, Ashley, Gracelynn, and Landry Alexander. Back Row L-R: Robert Fowlkes, Jacob Neubert, Kenny Kennedy, Craig Alexander, Kendon Wheeler.
Sydney O'Guinn - A Heart for Teaching, A Home in Guatemala
Sydney first felt called to missions at eight years old, and to education at twenty-two. Her calling came full circle when she stepped onto the campus of NLCH last summer, and God whispered: This will be your home.
Soon, she’ll be teaching first grade at Little Pasos, leading children in bilingual education with Christ at the center. With a background in special education and a heart that overflows with joy, Sydney is eager to begin.
“God is going to change these kids’ lives, and I am so blessed to be a part of it. Seeing their smiles every day and watching them worship God is truly amazing!”
Pray for Sydney as she is building her support team and preparing her heart to step into the classroom and the calling God placed on her life long ago.
Sarah Kennedy - A Spark Rekindled
Sarah knew from the start that she was meant to serve. But after a difficult season teaching in Nashville, she wasn’t sure she’d ever want to teach again… until she walked through the doors of Little Pasos Learning Center.
“It brought back the spark I thought I had lost. This is what I had dreamed of with the Lord. The school is so anointed…and I’m just so thankful I get to be a part of it.”
Soon, she’ll be in the classroom full time, pouring out her energy and joy on the children God brings her way. With a heart for reaching kids exactly where they are - emotionally, spiritually, developmentally - she’s ready to serve, to teach, and to show up with the overwhelming love of Christ.
Pray for Sarah as she leans into intimacy with Jesus during this busy season of preparation. Pray that her eyes stay fixed on Him and that her joy stays full as she trusts Him to provide every need.
Your Part
Each of these missionaries is currently fundraising for their upcoming move and ministry, and your encouragement, prayers, and generosity mean more than you know. These aren’t just financial partners. They’re spiritual lifelines.
You can:
Support their mission: Give a one-time or monthly gift
Join their prayer team: Commit to praying for one missionary each week
Share their stories: Introduce them to someone you know who might want to give
If you’d like to connect with Robert & Keva, Sydney, or Sarah directly or learn more about their journeys, reply to this email. We’ll point you in the right direction.
Thank you for standing with us as we follow Jesus into the unknown — knowing He goes before us, prepares the way, and writes stories far greater than we could ask or imagine.
With joy and gratitude,
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Kendon Wheeler
NLAI President