On thanksgiving, The student missionaries (SMs) celebrated Thanksgiving with the Kosrae Church pastor and his family. From left to right: Southern Adventist University SM Aaron Beltran, Walla Walla Adventist University SM Chet Gregg, Southern Adventist University SM Joshua Narvaez, Pastor Manny De Guzman, Betty De Guzman Glenice De Guzman, Southern Adventist University SM Ben Ronneburg, Southern Adventist University SM Noah Seibel and Andrews University SM Rece Wightman.
If you guessed Kosrae (pronounced Kos-rye), you’re right—but this island, nestled 370 miles north of the equator between Guam and the Marshall Islands, is more than just a name. It’s a paradise with a vibrant community of 6,000, pristine white beaches, and crystal-clear waters that attract surfers and snorkelers alike.
Since 2018, the North American Division Office of Education has partnered with Kosrae, where the Seventh-day Adventist School shines as a beacon of education and faith. With 80 students enrolled (58 in elementary and 22 in high school), the school is staffed mostly by young student missionaries from Adventist universities. Among them is Rece Wightman, a junior from Andrews University who although is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, has chosen a year of service at the Kosrae Seventh-day Adventist School.
In 2024, a long-awaited gymnasium was finally completed, thanks to generous donations and fundraising efforts. Despite COVID-19 delays, the gym now serves both the school and the broader community, offering a recreational space for everyone.
The Lake Union Conference continues to support their partnership with Kosrae through:
funding internet service for the school and church
providing monthly speakers and children’s story presenters for a Zoom church service
sending care packages and gifts for student missionaries and students.
offering curricular and classroom support
The latest and greatest news is that the Lake Union Conference has recently committed to reimbursing up to $1,000 of travel expenses for student missionaries serving for at least one year on either Kosrae or in the South Peru Union, another region partnering with the Lake Union Conference.
Looking ahead, Kosrae faces challenges, including the need for a school principal. As Superintendent Karina Bresla reminds us, there’s much to pray for—but with continued support and collaboration, the future of this island community looks bright. Stay tuned as we seek God’s guidance to explore ways to support the ministries taking place there!
You can join us for the LUC-sponsored online church service and experience the warmth of the Kosraean people on the fourth Friday evening of each month. During Daylight Savings Time, the service begins at 7 pm ET, 6 pm CT. Scan the QR code below to sign up!
Kosrae is more than a remote island—it’s a reminder that when we answer the call, “Here I am, Lord, send me,” we can make a lasting difference. Please remember to keep Kosrae cared for and prayed for.
Nicole Mattson is the associate director of Education for the Lake Union Conference.
