When comparing the backgrounds of Sylvia and Rocky, the only conclusion is that they shouldn’t have ended up together, striving toward the same goal. She grew up in the Midwest, got good grades, and stayed away from sports and guys with long hair. Rocky spent his time wrestling and playing Frisbee in New Mexico, with his flowing locks restrained by a leather headband. He did go to class on a regular basis. As they got to Arizona State, both of them found Christ and through a conference became interested in the world. Their relationship grew alongside a global fascination (and improved academics for Rocky). After graduation, marriage, and some work experience, they headed to Africa, but godly counsel sent them to Dallas Seminary for four more years to learn some theology. As they approached graduation (again!), they considered France, Venezuela and Uganda. Sylvia said she would never go to a Spanish speaking country and voila, God shipped them off to Caracas.

Michaela (21, studying secondary education in Longview, TX) and Matthew (19 with engineering aspirations at NAU) came along, and they left in 1991. Whether working with college students, disaster relief or professionals, the Engels have never strayed far from their mission to start local congregations with Latin leadership. The most recent new church, Confraternidad Cristiana, has been blessed with male leadership and a visible location. In 2005, the church moved into a rented facility, which was renovated and now houses a variety of ministries. The two primary objectives during their next term (2007-2009) will be to mature this leadership and facilitate growth with a target of long-term viability. With this in view, there is always lots of relational time, administration of the church, and time invested in maturing the local believers. Recently there has been an increase in the male participation, which is a big boost.

As a family they have been changing due to both children being in the States working on their college degrees. This is the first term of “empty nest” in Caracas. Though they know this will provide additional flexibility, they will surely miss the contributions of the children to the ministry and the energy they provide in the house.

Just as their ministry has changed form without changing focus, so has their mission agency. With over 60 years of ministry in 60 countries, WorldVenture has worked to be effective in the areas of greatest need, both physical and spiritual. When the Engels joined, it was known as CBFMS, but in 16 years it has morphed into a diverse tribe that focuses on establishing communities of believers in lands where the gospel has yet to make its impact.

For more information the Engels can be contacted at rockyandsylvia@yahoo.com.