Every year we share a personal family update in one letter since many of you have asked. We keep these separate from our ministry updates so we can stay focused there. We hope you enjoy our updated family cartoon in the top left corner—we loved the old one, but the kids have grown so much it was time for a refresh. Thankfully, AI made it free and easy!

As for me (Joey), this past year has been very life-giving. Outside of campus ministry, I’ve taken on new volunteer opportunities at our home church, including leading worship from time to time. I always want to stay open to how the Lord is stretching me. Another big update is that, after 3.5 years, I’m almost a dual citizen of Italy! It’s been a long process of paperwork and waiting, but I made a commitment years ago and followed through. I was able to pursue this because both my parents are immigrants from Italy.

(Jenn here!) Funny enough, I also decided to pursue dual citizenship while my parents were visiting from El Salvador—and I was able to complete it in just 30 days! You can imagine how that went over with Joey haha. Things are going well overall. I’m thankful for a great school year with the kids at my elementary school. Being a librarian in an inner-city school comes with challenges, but it’s also very rewarding. I’m especially grateful for summer as the warmth and sunshine have me excited for our upcoming Japan trip!

Gianluca (15) just finished his first year of high school. We were a bit nervous about the transition due to his autism, but his small class size and great teacher have been a blessing. This year he taught himself how to create animated videos on his iPad—creative and often hilarious. We helped him start a YouTube channel called “Gianluca Fan 2000.” He’s always been artistic, and recently his art was featured in a local gallery. 

Gabriel (13) was baptized on Easter! It was a special moment after months of prayer and consideration after trusting Christ. He continues to be a well-rounded kid who loves reading, friends, youth group, video games, and pizza. He also earned the family’s first cast after fracturing his wrist in a fall, which he’s very proud of.

Our silly, creative, studious and daughter Lana (9) will be moving into advanced classes this fall for 4th grade and is excited to have at least one close friend there. She is a straight-A student, though sometimes a nervous test-taker. She loves the playground after school and a weekly crafting class. Of all the kids, she probably shows the most joy and consistency in learning her instrument (piano)—it’s been a joy to watch her grow.

Thank you for caring for and partnering with us in our missionary journey. We’re grateful for your support. Please pray for us as we travel to Japan on June 19th for the ISI staff conference followed by a short vacation until July 3rd. Thank you!