Ashley’s YWAM Journey

YWAM has changed my life, and my experiences in it helped shape me into the person I am today. At the age of 18 I was graduating from high school and wanted to go on a mission trip. My dad and youth pastor both suggested YWAM, and so my journey began.
I prayed and consulted with my parents on the location of my Discipleship Training School (DTS). We all agreed that YWAM Pursuits in Matamata, New Zealand was the place. I cried the whole flight from Seattle to Los Angeles, but found strength the rest of the way to New Zealand, knowing there was no turning back. I was about to embark on an adventure with God and some of my soon-to-be best friends.
During the six months of my DTS, my faith was shaken and challenged more than ever before. My faults, weaknesses, and sins became more apparent. I was finally able to accept and receive the freedom that comes from being a child of God. My faith became my own and I got baptized in a swimming pool.
God grew my passion, compassion, and love for other cultures and people groups while on outreach in Fiji. I knew what I believed and was excited to share the same revelations of God’s love, character, and forgiveness with everyone. I knew I would never be the same again.
I went home to Seattle and couldn’t help but share my pictures, experience, and the change God did in my life with anyone who would listen. Little did I know one of those people would be my future husband. I was home for a year and a half before getting married to the love of my life.
A year and a half after being married, my husband and I felt that God was calling us into YWAM. We sold EVERYTHING and headed to YWAM in Salem, Oregon, USA. We spent three years learning, training, and living in Salem. We led two DTS teams overseas to India, Nepal, and Thailand.
I cherish the privilege of every experience, memory, and relationship I have had while in YWAM.
Now my husband and I live in the heart of Hollywood. I believe God prepared us in many ways while we were in YWAM to make a difference here. We desire to be lights in Los Angeles and to live lives that are pleasing to Him.