Birthday Memories & Greetings from Far and Wide:
| Name | We met | My Memory | Birthday Greeting | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Igor Tirnoviy | In YWAM Kyiv (Ukraine) | First time I saw Loren in YWAM Kyive. I think in his birthday (81/82). And second time I saw Loren around one month ago by ZOOM (conference for YWAM Russia). And I believe to see him again by ZOOM (conference for YWAM Ukraine), what I want organizing. | Happy Happy Birthday, Loren! Have a blessed day and year. |
2 | Judy Eckberg Robertson | Lausanne | That time you gave Jannie a wrapped gift, only to have her unwrap it.... and a frog jumped out. (Kaneohe base during the mud SOE) | Happy birthday. My oh my. Somehow I’ve managed to be a part of the Cunningham/Rogers lives since 1972. I have such tales of watching your kids, wallpapering your parents house.... and it goes on and on. Kind of a behind the scenes sort of connection. May you enjoy many more years. |
3 | Jonah Sinclair | Hong Kong/2009 | I had the privilege of sitting with Loren & Darlene over dinner in 2018 as they honoured those of that were serving in campus backbone ministries in Kona. I’d never spent real time with him before, just the occasional hello and thanks for sharing. I was nervous and tried to position myself in the room so that he wouldn’t see me 😂. He walked straight over to me, and said “hey sit with me!” We had a great time laughing, hearing his stories and he would ask and listen to mine as well. Loren’s humility and genuine interest in what I was saying meant so much. | Happy Birthday Loren! The direction of my life has forever been changed because you obeyed God! You are a true hero and father of so many, and we love you! May there be more breakthrough for you this year than any year before! |
4 | Thor Stensby | YWAM Kona | I play soccer and after a day of games in a tournament my wife and I go into Wal Mart. I knew Loren had been in "Table 71" meetings all day as I saw him come through the Wal Mart door right behind me. Before I could say anything, he exclaimed: "How did your game go?" I was shocked. Here he was, coming from a meeting with world leaders, and still had the presence and I don't know how, knowledge of me playing a soccer game. For me that is who Loren is, a WORLD LEADER and one who knows and cares about the smallest things around him at the same time. | Happy birthday Loren. You are an example of what a GREAT leader should be. So many things you have said and done as a leader have been areas I have tried to do on a much smaller scale, when I have been in leadership positions. Happy 85 and may you and your visionary mindset continue to live for many years to come. |
5 | Bryan Riley | July 2006 in Kona at his “office” (behind the Ohana Court) | Our first one on one was at Killer Tacos in Kona in July 2006. Here we sat at a tall table for two, eating tacos, and I knew very little about Loren or YWAM. In fact, when someone first told my wife, Tara, and me that we should meet Loren, Tara asked “Who is she?” I expected a serious man and often took a beat to catch it when Loren was joking, even with the twinkle he always has in his eyes. I came to YWAM desperate to deepen my relationship with God from the corporate world and was so blessed to have three months of working alongside Loren even before we did a DTS. Between bites, he asked me what I thought my greatest struggle was, and I said “pride,” an acceptable answer for many in both Christian and corporate circles. Without hesitation Loren asked me,, “Bryan, don’t you know what humility is?” Given my background and struggle I’m sure I gave some dictionary perfect answer and even talked about the Latin underpinnings. Loren looked at me with great love and grace and said, “Humility is simply being who God created you to be, nothing more and nothing less.” It was one of the best lunches I ever had, not because of the food of earth but because of the bread from heaven Loren was imparting. I’ve never forgotten and reshared with others many times. It was an important foundational truth for me as I began my journey in YWAM. | Loren, thank you for giving and receiving so freely. The grace by which you live has given YWAM life and vitality and led this mission to great things. You are a tremendous blessing to the body of Christ and I am grateful to know you. Happy birthday! May 2020 and 2021 be your most joy- and grace-filled years, yet. Psalm 8. |
6 | Rita Pretorius | I met Loren the first time at Hammanskraal, South Africa in 1980. We just heard that one of our staff from Namibia died in a car accident, on her way to the gathering. He was there to comfort us. | Being in hospitality I had the privelege to be Loren's hostess in several parts of the world over many years. One time here at Harpenden, I asked him if he needs anything and he quickly replied "Oh, I only need a few million dollars.". I told him I will pray and if the millions come in, would he remember to give me the tithe. We laughed. Walking across the Oval later that afternoon I heard him calling me. He had his wallet out and handed me £15 and said "Here is the first installment." | Dearest Loren, I first saw you at Hatfield Church when we were both young and beautiful. Now we are just beautiful. A Happy 85th birthday. Thank you for being the arrow that is always pointing us to Jesus. I always love the way that you bring in humour whenever you speak. Thank you for weaving that golden thread of hospitality, love and kindness in the tapestry of my life. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! |
7 | Tom Ivascanin | YWAM Kona 2000 | I was working at Loren’s home installing a shower near the pool area, was invited to have lunch with Loren and Darlene, it was amazing to see this man would let me join them, well I was scheduled to leave on out reach a few weeks later so I thought it be a great time to ask Loren for something profound that I can take with me to Ukraine, so I asked the question, I asked in one sentence can you please tell me what to do, his answer was so short but powerful, he said take the love of Jesus and that’s all you need, but I’m sure you can give me a bit more and he said again take the love of Jesus with you, I got it, and till this day I haven’t stopped taking the love of Jesus everywhere I go, especially the lost black sheep, Thanks Loren | Happy birthday Loren, may the Lord bless you more now than ever..... |
8 | Peter Millward | We never met as such, but heard Loren speaking while I was at Kona Hawaii. | Thank you for demonstrating walking in the Holy Spirit to us and hearing God! I think Loren would like to hear this - His hearing the Lord and obedience has affected many lives over the years....The anointing to hear God. In 1991 I drove to the YWAM base at the Kingslodge, Nuneaton for my DTS. I didnt really know much about YWAM - Only that it did short term missions and training for missionaries. As I got closer to the base..... I heard a voice inside me, saying quietly "I have longed to do this in your life!" in amongst all my thoughts and anticipating arrival at the base. This was repeated over and over, stronger and stronger like the waves of the sea..."I have longed to do this in your life" I was completely overwhelmed. When I got to the base, I was stunned by what I had just experienced, not really understanding, but I knew it was the Lord........5 months later and completing the DTS - I really knew - amazing....so much changed in my life, I have never been the same since.. Also God showed me I could use art for missions and preach the Gospel. | Loren, wishing you a happy 85th birthday! The painting was inspired by Loren's vision of the waves of young people, and as a boy, Loren looked at the moon and wanted to write God is love on the moon's surface. Darlene is also in the picture! God bless you both and all your family on Loren's special day. You mean so much to all of us! |
9 | Ruteneia Lima | Kona Hawaii/ 2012 | Loren you always impart God’s vision. You’ve inspired me So much to increase my faith and transfer faith. Mission is like a journey of adventures when we look at you Loren. | May God bless you with much more love from the Father!!! Happy birthday!! |
10 | David Stephenson | 1993 Trans-Tasman gathering in Kyneton Victoria (Australia). Then same year in Newcastle on the Ship tour. | I would say Personal conversations as he sharied wisdom after meetings in Perth, or when our Aussie elders met with Loren in Perth. A moment of sweet fellowship casually chatting when he was waiting for David (Cunningham) to arrive for dinner in Thailand after the recent global conference. | Hi Loren, Carrie & I want to send our greetings to you on this special birthday. So appreciate your commitment to running with a torch rather than a batten and lighting 🔥 ours in the process. Your image I think has attracted us all to the great commission for decades. Our love and our gratitude. |
11 | Kalafi Moala | Auckland, New Zealand | I met Loren in December of 1966 in Auckland, New Zealand. I was a scholarship student from Tonga in NZ. And was a part of an outreach team at a Coffee Shop ministry in downtown Auckland. The leader of the ministry one day told me that "two American guys want to meet with you". I came back the following day, and met Loren Cunningham and his brother-in-law Jim Rogers. Loren shared that they had come to NZ and felt God was wanting them to send an outreach team to Tonga for the King's Coronation celebrations in 1967. I told Loren that if you send a team to Tonga, I will leave my scholarship and return to Tonga to help organise the outreach. That meeting with Loren and Jim Rogers was the turning point in my life, for God has called me to be a missionary. I was only 19 at the time, and it has been 50 years. | Happy Birthday Loren. You have been my spiritual father for 50 + years, and I am grateful indeed that God gave me a leader like you to follow. You have been a wonderful Jesus model, and I am forever grateful for the incredible blessings you have been to my life. Thank you for your vision and for the sensitivity you've had to mobilise and disciple us from the Pacific to "Go". Wishing the best of all birthdays on your 85th. Ofa atu. |
12 | David Hall | Wahiawa '65 is the first time I can clearly recall | So many. But one I love to share because it so reveals his servant leadership heart. I was working with the Communications Department of what was then called PACU, or Pacific & Asia Christian University. Our offices had been at the CROWN Building in the old industrial area of Kailua-Kona for several years. The IMPACT Building just finished construction and was finally ready for occupancy, so we packed up all the office furniture, files, chairs, etc. into a rented truck and drove it from the CROWN Building to the Campus. The Communications offices were one of only three that had computers in those days. We barely got started unpacking when Loren pulled up in a car. To our amazement - as this was before the days of cell-phones - rather than continue on to the store, or wherever he was going, he got out and helped us unpack the truck until the job was done. Just one of many ways he's earned our love and respect. | Happy birthday Loren. Thank you so much for your outstanding leadership over the (many) years. Your life example, your seemingly limitless vision and flawless character, and so much more, make it easy for us to follow you, and hard not to put you on a pedestal. You will no doubt go down in history as one of the greatest missiologists and practitioners of the 20th / 21st century. Thank you for the privilege to be one of your friends. |
13 | Kit Hackett | 1979 | in the early days in Kona at Christmas time Loren would host a gift exchange Christmas Eve. All the staff would gather in the kitchen serving area in a circle. Loren would emcee it. My husband Gene Hackett started making signs for over the doors. But this Christmas he made one for Dick Bartsch , the only one who didn't have one. He slipped it into the gift exchange. Loren the perfect host and emcee had quite the time keeping the sign from Dick but in the end he offered to pay $20 for it. But Loren made sure he git it for free. | Dear Loren, our 10 years in Kona has been the highlight of our life. You are always an inspiration. May you receive the desires of your heart. May the Lord fulfill your dream of a Bible in every home. Happy Birthday from Gene and Kit Hackett. 41 years in YWAM and still going strong. |
14 | Christy McGuffey | Go Center breeze way - May 2018 | I was volunteering with Kokua Crew in 2018 and had prayed that God would let me meet you. I knew you traveled most of the time. So when we met, you asked my name, where I was from and what I did. When I told you I'm a Graphic Designer, you said " We need you here now!" Well - I'm back now - living in Kons & helping with the Communications & Media teams of Ships & Upper Campus. Your encouragement helped propel me to step into what God has been leading me to for many years. SERVING HIM IN HAWAII! | I pray that God explodes His love over you today in ways that catch you by surprise and move you to the core - in the ways only our loving Father does. You are a trophy of grace, and I just simply say - Thank You for listening to and obeying God's voice. Happy Happy Happy Birthday!! |
15 | Maria Jackson | 1978 korea - leadership training seminar | One USA tour with you Loren, and i was deeply distrubed by phone call i will gonna loose our condo, That morning you asked 3 times “how are YOU doing?“ finally i shared with you. Then this huge surprise, that eveing meeting at this one small korean church, you shared my story without mansion my name, and i was wonder who that person was... And you did love offering for us. You said, “ i never done like this which ask love offering for one person’s need.. But tonight...“ And that night you gave all the money you sold your books and plus love offering was exact mount of few months of morgage money we owed and ready to loose our condo.... You remind many people as “big, hudge visionary and yes, that is you but same time, you are the most kind and generous, loving person to least... Thank you so so much for your love and what an example that was to me and your are the role model to me and to many! Thank you!!! There is soany memories about you, so so awe to me. Ans thank you so so much for marrying my son David -!!!! What an honor thay was! | Happy Happy 85th Bithday to you---!!!! Many more to come---!!!! |
16 | Rhonda Wright | When my parents came to help rebuild Kings Mansion in 2002. | I remember leaving Kona for several years after meeting Loren and then returning and walking into Ohana court and seeing Loren enter the Ohana Court, make eye contact with me and say Hello Rhonda! I will forever be astounded by Loren’s superhuman, mutant abilities to remember people’s name! Just blows my mind and I pray for this same Gift! | Happy Birthday Loren! You are a true gift to this world and you have been one of the most godly men I have looked up to as a Ywam kid. |
17 | Daniel Snell | Harpenden, England | Having you teaching us all in The Factory team during Prepare and 40 Days. | Happy Birthday Loren. |
18 | Omayra Álvarez | I met Loren in my DTS in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 🇩🇴 in 1999 | Was really impacting to met the man that we were finishing to read his book Are you really God? To hear His testimonies and also he dance merengue with us. I enjoyed YWAM same year. God use him to chance my life and to obey my calling forever. Also I got the privilege to attended to my LTS in Barbados 🇧🇧 in 2002 And once again Loren and Darlene impact again my live in q deep ways. I’m the director of the base and part of the Caribbean ACT. | May God extend you life and allow you to see all nations worshipping the Lord. May God gives you health, wisdom and strength to continue serving him with the love, passion and perseverance that you had been investing to see millions serving Jesús. We love you and we honor you and your family |
19 | Cherry Costa | Lausanne Base, 2011 | I remember the most the story he told at YWAM together 2017 about the plan he thought of, to tell everyone in the world God loves them by writing “God loves” on the moon, big enough for everyone who looks at the moon to see. I thought it was so funny but it also really inspired me to think outside of the box about ways I can share this good news with others. | Thank you Loren for being faithful and obedient to God’s call from the beginning to bring young people to step into missions. Thank you for not stopping to dream God’s dream and inviting (and challenging! people to join in this wonderful (and hard but rewarding) journey to fulfill the Great commission. I wish you a birthday where you can count all the blessings and gifts given by God, and to dream more dreams for God. |
20 | John Briggs | New Life Christian Center, Polson, Montana 1984 | God's timing created the opportunity for me to ask you the question of how you had the courage to surrender all, including Darlene's life, in order to pursue Jesus. You answered in humility and transparency that continues to inspire me to follow Jesus, wherever that takes me until He returns or I expire first. | Thank you, Loren for your faith and trust in Jesus! Happy birthday, dear friend! |
21 | Dean Sherman | Seattle. June 1967. | The second time I met Loren was at the end of an outreach in Fiji in February 1968, led by Ross Tooley and myself. It had been a powerful, life changing time just like the outreach in Tonga six months before. I expressed to Loren that I would like to continue with YWAM. He responded by being affirming at what had happened on that outreach and said he welcomed me continuing. I asked him where I should go and what I should do next. His answer surprised me and in my insecurity, bothered me. It was, “I cannot tell you where to go and what to do. You will have to get that from God”. He grave some guidelines and a couple of suggestions. We agreed to keep in communication. Thank you Loren for allowing an avenue and encouragement that has given release of leadership to hundreds from every age (particularly young), every nationality, race, gender, section of the Body of Christ, differing political views, and different views and ways to serve humanity. We honor you today, are grateful, love you and pray blessings down upon your 85th! | Happy Birthday Loren |
22 | David Gustaveson | 1970 - at a conference - joined him in 1972 - Munich - joined staff in Kona in 1976 | We have had a ton of memories together in Hawaii and around the world from being in classes together, conferences, elders meetings and they were pretty long, concerts, KGMCT, hot tubs, hotel rooms and on and on | Have a very special birthday and celebrate a life well lived that opened the doors for so many including me |
23 | Tom Hallas | Port Moresby Png. | The big decision to not to pursue the purchase of the MV Maori.. We were in Otsu Japan when Loren declared that we would not go ahead with that purchase and forfeit our deposit. A brave and great decision to allow God to be God and deal with us He pleased as we entrusted ourselves into His loving Care. | Happy Birthday Loren we first met 48 years ago. I have not been disappointed with my commitment to journey with the followers just like yourself. Thankyou for keeping on that road and persevering with the likes of myself. Love and Blessings , . Have a great day. Tom. |
24 | Chris and Eliah Chon | Kona, 2005, 2006 | Dinner at Denny’s in LA and coming to our wedding. | Happy Birthday Loren! Your life and obedience to God has inspired us to know Him more and make Him known :) We wish you a wonderful 85th Birthday all the way from Yilan, Taiwan. Blessings and Love, Chon Family |
25 | Cristina Viado | First see him in YWAM Philippines 50th Anniversary in Manila | I don't have one but moments like hearing him talk during YWAM Gatherings or elsewhere is a blessing!!! | Happy Birthday Loren! I am blessed to be part of Gods legacy through you in Youth With A Mission. It's been a blessing to see how God has used you over the years of investing in YWAM. Thankyou that your hear God and you obeyed him that's why we are here today! God bless Loren and more birthdays to come!!! Cristina Ywam Gensan Phils |
26 | Rachel Tuerah | Kona, early 2000s | I was around 10/11 years old. My parents were doing a school in Kona. I got Loren's signature in my journal and is that really you God. He was really sweet. | Happy Birthday Loren! Thank you for being obedient to God's calling. |
27 | Sally McClung | Las Vegas Easter Outreach 1965 | During my Summer of Service in Jamaica in 1966, Loren asked me to pray about coming to work in the YWAM office in Pasadena, Calif. as a secretary - in those days there was one office and one secretary! I told him I was enrolled to study at SCC (now Vanguard University). He just said it was something to pray about. I continued with my plans, and was actually moving into the dorm after having driven from my home in Texas to Calif. But as I was carrying boxes in, I just "knew" I was doing the wrong thing. I went to find a pay phone and called Loren. I asked if the opportunity in the YWAM office was still available. He said "I've been keeping it open for you." My year in the YWAM office before Floyd and I got married was a foundation laying time in so many ways. I'm so grateful that Loren gave me that opportunity - and didn't give up when I turned him down at first. | Happy 85th birthday, Loren! My how the years have flown by. I've recently been watching the videos from the GO Festival in Randers, Denmark in 1985. I felt my heart stirred all over again as I listened to you Loren. I wish I was 16 again and could commit my whole life to Him. I'll just have to commit the rest of my years and pray for many more young people to join in sharing the Great Commission. The video would be too much for Floyd to listen to - but I know his heart would be stirred too if he heard it. He might try to get up off that hospital bed! :) I'm grateful for hearing about YWAM as a young 16 year old in Texas - going to Las Vegas for the Easter outreach - and then to Samoa that summer. My life was forever changed during those outreaches. I look back with such love and fondness to our years of working with you and Dar. Thank you for your friendship, your leadership, and for your obedience in making a pathway for others like us to walk on in serving the Lord. We are eternally indebted to you. I know Floyd would have join me if he could in wishing you a blessed, memorable, and very happy birthday! We send our best wishes to you, Dar, and the family. Much love, Sally & Floyd McClung |
28 | Markus Buser | in 1996 in Panama | I was impressed that you knew me when we met at a mission conference in Panama in december of 1996. Generally I am very blessed how you remember and honour people, how you opened a space for so many. Personally I was able to fulfill my calling for Missions because of YWAM, because not many other organizations would have opened the doors for a young and new Christians to go to Southamerica at the age of 21 years. Also I have been blessed by your humbless and passion for God, missions and people of all the Nations. Thank you also for your visit to my wife in 2010 in Cartagena after she had gone through surgery where she lost her overy and we lost our last hope to have biological children. Through YWAM we have been able to have many spiritual children and to enjoy God's family. | I wish you many more years in which you will be able to enjoy to see the fruits of your obedience. |
29 | PETER NYATSUNGA | CAPE TOWN DNA CONFERENCE 2017 | I AM A WAVE . HEARING GOD AND OBEY HIS VOICE | HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOREN. MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU. WE THANK GOD FOR YOUR LIFE AND FOR USING YOU.. yOU ARE A BLESSING TO US. |
30 | Yvette Anderson | YWAM Thailand Leaders Meeting (early late 1990's) | Approachable, positive and an infectious zeal for life...this was my first impression. I met Loren for the first time around the lunch table with leaders at a YWAM Thailand national conference. Loren asked my husband and I for an encouraging story of our church planting experiences. We fumbled out some answer (it was a very difficult season in our church planting years and we didn't have a ready "praise" story to share at that moment ) but Loren was very gracious with his response to us. Thank you, Loren, for your love for the Lord, your love for people and staying young! | Happy 85th, Loren! May it be an amazing year and may you know the love of the Lord afresh and may you know the love of people who cherish you. Blessings! |
31 | Laza Andriatiana | I have seen him on video and picture but I haven't met physically | A part from his amazing love for God, his great vision, his exemplary obedience, the following stays in my memory: - his close relationship to God through listening to the Master's voice - Accountability prevents us to fall | Dear Loren, Happy birthday from Madagascar! I haven't met you physically yet. But I am one of your thousands of students through videos and books. You are a great example for me in listening to the Lord, obeying Him, dreaming for Him, impacting the world for Him. May God multiply your example million folds to change this world for God. |
32 | Hinrich Kraenzlin | 1984 in Kona, Hawaii | It was in the early 90s when Loren asked me to organize a tour through Micronesia with a film crew which included his son David and a bunch of others. I was also asked to join the 3 week endeavor. It was such fun to share the room with you, Loren - to get to know you for who you are. Walking through the day with you during those three weeks was an unforgettable experience. I cherish the time immensely. You showed much integrity , humility, readiness to speak in any situation. I remember a particular Sunday when we were in Chuuk, FSM. You had been asked to speak at a large Church gathering in town. When we arrived at the speaking venue in the morning the service was well underway. And when they called on the speaker that morning they introduced a local pastor. In Chuuk's custom when a church service takes place, every pastor that is there gets to step into the pulpit - in the order that they arrived - and will preach, which means that the service can go on for hours, depending how many pastors / speakers ashow up that day. And during the service kids play, people eat, there are songs and prayers in between sermons - It;s like a big party! I remember looking at you, Loren, and you were not phased. We had arrived at about 10 am and you spoke at 2:30 or so in the afternoon - as usual giving a charge for missions! | I am so grateful for your life and the choice you made that brought you to this day! It is because of you , your visionary nature and your integrity that I am still part of the YWAM tribe - some 42 years after joining in 1978 in the castle in Germany..... HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Loren! |
33 | Laurent Gerber | Virginie USA mai 2005 après mon EFD - été 1998 à Avignon en France au Go Festival comme adolescent - Kona 2019 pour la graduation de ma fille | Passion pour les gens pour qu'ils rencontrent Jésus dans différents lieux - Une Bible pour chacun dans sa propre langue - Écoute Dieu, mets ta foi en Lui et agis ! | Dear Loren, thank you for the presence of Jesus in your life, thank you for the freedoom to give us for our responsabilities for the ministry, thank you for your love for the young generation, thank you for your exemple of faith and for your call to go to the nations. Blessings and Happy Birthday, Laurent from Canada (born in Yverdon in Switzerland) |
34 | Abigail Lutcher | Kona, Hawaii | I was in Kona for 21Project and I remember feeling so shocked and honored that you were able to be there to speak. I remember how humble and cheeky you were and it made me feel so at home and like I wanted to just be the one on stage with you interviewing you about all things YWAM. | Happy Birthday Loren! I hope you have a blessed and even more fulfilled birthday than maybe you've had in the past! That with age, you continue seeing the fruit of all you've done and accomplished. That God continues giving you the strength and wisdom needed to do what you do and continue doing it so well! Here's to a blessed year! |
35 | Dan Sorlie | YWAM Townsville - DNA Conference 2018 | He arrived late to the DNA conference and shared a word with us. I believe he had travelled through three continents over the last 5-7 days or so. Awestruck in how generous and glad he was to be with us after what must have been a weary travel. Privileged to have him and hear him speak. Special moment and very encouraging. | Thank you for leading us in such a generous and bold manner. We're truly blessed by you and your obedience. All the best on your day. |
36 | Brain Smith | Rangers, Denmark | Loren and I traveled through Japan together driving around Osaka, Shizuoka, Nagano and Tokyo; he was speaking and we did a book signing tour of Ís that Really You God’ in Japanese. In Osaka Loren was asked to not speak on missions at a Hugh conference and so Loren just stood up and told stories from his life which of course is all about missions. The organizers of the conference came to me and said it was one of the best messages they had ever heard and it was all on missions.We then boarded a ship in Tokyo and went to the Island of Ogasawra which was Loren’s last visited territory. Our ship got caught in a Typhoon and one of our fellow travelers got severely sea sick. We landed on the Island a day late because of the typhoon and we visited the only Church on the Island and prayed with the Pastor. We swam in the Ocean (Loren can float), prayed over the Island and ate good food. Three days later we returned to Tokyo and this time with great weather with dolphins swimming with the ship, whales off the bow and the entrance into Tokyo Harbor was incredible and so breathtaking. Loren impute so much into my life during this time and it a trip I will here forget! | Thank you Loren for all the input into our lives over the years. You are a blessing, encourager and a challenger to me And all of us here in Japan. You challenge me in the area of my faith every time I listen to you. Thank you for your commitment and obedience to the Lord which is such an example to us all in the Body of Christ and YWAM. All of YWAM Japan sends their love to you with a big hug, smile and thumbs up. Once again thanks mate!! |
37 | Belinda Chaplin | South Africa 1998 | I have met and spent time with Loren quite a few times over the years. I have met up with him in at least 5 different nations. I remember talking to him in 1999 at Colorodo Springs and he was jealous of my South African passport, as he was then still trying to get into Libya and as a US citizen her couldn't make it, but I as a South African could and that was his last country to visit in the world... | May the Lord grant you your birthday wish - to see the Bible in every language in the world, and that people will read it and understand it and follow it. Many blessings to you on this your special day!! |
38 | Lynn Green | He spoke at my home church in 1964. I first met him to talk to personally when he found me asleep under a post office box in Lausanne Switzerland, August 1969. | Happy Birthday Loren! It’s not only your birthday, but it also marks 52 years since I joined YWAM and found myself sleeping in the back garden of a Swiss house. For more than five decades you have been a consistent and inspirational example of godly leadership. I won’t apologise for stealing your secretary; I’m glad I did it, but I would say that Marti and I learned so much about marriage and parenting from you, especially during that year of living most of the time with you and Dar in the old Hotel Golf, Chalet-a-Gobet. Thank you for extending friendship to me and so generously giving me time with you and Dar in your home. Your Ohana is my favourite home-away-from-home, with nothing but fond memories. I might add, though, sometimes it is a little tiring, because you like to talk late at night, and Dar likes to talk early in the morning. Bu what is losing a little sleep compared to conversation with you and Dar? | May you have the "mountain" you requested! |
39 | Dodie Gunderson | Domestic Crusade in Westminster, CA in 1965. | How many ways can Liver Paste be served? We found out the possibilities were endless on our Middle East Field Trip in 1969 with you and Darlene when cases of it were donated! We haven’t had it since then. 😁 Do you remember you and Dar sleeping on that concrete floor in an old warehouse in the Virgin Islands with our SOS Team in 1965? We had one toilet for all of us, but no running water! So we had to hand carry buckets of water from the town pump in order to flush the toilet. One of the girls on the team (no, not me!) decided that some old, left over beef stew would “qualify” as water and she poured it into the tank of the toilet to “help” flush it! You can imagine what happened next. It was the biggest mess you ever saw. The toilet was immediately clogged and overflowing, and had to have emergency repairs! It was fixed, but we laughed about it the rest of the summer! I’m sure that was not planned for in the budget. 🤣 | Dear Loren, Denny and I want to wish you the Happiest Birthday ever! How can you possibly be 85 now when you were just 30 recently? At least that’s how old you were when I met you! Seems like yesterday. We want to thank you and Dar for being willing to follow the Lord all over the world, sharing the Gospel and calling people to missions. Denny and I would not have met otherwise, and thankfully we just celebrated our 50th Anniversary! Thank you for having that SOE in Switzerland! That’s where “we” began. So, we honor you and celebrate this special birthday with you. May you have many, many more! We love you! 💞 |
40 | Karl Mueller | 1977 Kona, Hawaii | I was a DTS student and remember that one evening there was a "base meeting" where Loren stood up in front of everyone and apologized for a mistake he made that cost several thousand dollars. He said that he went against the advice of others and made the decision himself and since this mistake impacted all of us, he wanted to publicly apologize. This was in 1977 - 53 years ago - but I remember it to this day. After Loren sat down, I clearly remember thinking - this is the kind of leader I want to follow, and I my prayer is that I will become that kind of honest and humble leader as well. | Many blessings on your birthday Loren. I pray for good health, fulfillment and joy this coming year! Karl and Debbie Mueller. Donovan Mueller and Hyesun Cho. |
41 | Ramona Musch | I first met Loren at Southern California College of the Assemblies of God in Costa Mesa, California during the fall of 1968. | Countless memories in approx. 52 years in YWAM. Memories of adventure on our SOE field trip with army tanks in Yugoslavia, sleeping underneath our vehicles when no camp sites available, taking a ship to Haifa, Israel, and having Loren come to us one morning to announce that a bomb had landed in our kibbutz in Israel, but, miraculously had not detonated. I so appreciated the real-life teaching as we followed the missionary journeys of Paul as well as the Easter sunrise service at the Garden tomb with a wonderful leader and teacher (Loren). I so appreciate your releasing of young leaders, myself included. You allowed me to take a team to Africa at 18 years of age, followed by numerous years of opportunities to develop that leadership. I've documented those years of a godly leader, Loren. | May you be filled with joy as you read the stories of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of YWAM'ers that have been taught the ways of God through your teaching and lifestyle. I trust that you will know God's faithfulness in seeing your vision of "Ending Bible Poverty Now" come into fruition. You are loved and appreciated greatly. Thank you for your leadership and numerous sacrifices that have led multi-thousands into missions, thus, multi-thousands into the Kingdom of God. |
42 | Kima Hmar | At the DNA in Kathmandu, Nepal | I remember the trip we made to the North East of India together - And at Shillong, Loren, Geeta and I stayed at a guest house together - once night LC and I had tea together after a meal and he prophesied over my life, which at the time, I thought it was merely just some good words of exhortation. I remember telling him after the conversation as we headed off to bed "Thanks Loren for the encouragement". And Loren had a smile one his face saying "I think that was a little more than an encouragement." Those words have continued to mark my journey on! | Loren - Happy Birthday, and thank you for how you have given off of yourself to the nations. The North East of India continues to be indebted towards you for coming to exhort us towards fulfilling the great commission! May you spend today revelling in the Father's pleasure over you. - Kima |
43 | Kevin and Sue Prins | 1999 in Barbados | Loren I remember you visiting Sue and I and our family as we were pioneering the YWAM ministry in Trinidad and Tobago. One Sunday you shared in Tobago in a number of churches with part of our team while I did another group. When I came back to pick you and the others up there you were sitting under a tree with my two sons Brian and Jason. That is something they will never forget. | Loren thank you for your example to so many of us of seeking after God. Praying that you have an awesome birthday!! Love from Kevin, and Sue Prins as well as Brian, Jason, ALyssa and Shawn (all grown up and out of the house now). |
44 | Kerry Olson | DTS / SOE Kona 1977 | 1. During the Japan '79 Outreach, you took me aside and thanked me for playing with David - Something I did often when I finished DTS at king's Mansion and moved to the Kona base, which has just opened. 2. In 2010, having Loren speak at 2 of our 3 church (Amistad Cristiana) services in Mexico City, where I reside. 3. Seeing him at Wedge Alman's (One of my spiritual mentors) funeral in Texas. | Thank you for your example of passion, vision, and humility. |
45 | Fay Williams | Kona Hawaii 1975 | During a weekly Love feast in the old Pavilion. My son Samuel and David Cunningham were sitiing beside Loren and as Loren. He was sharing with the group and the boys were messing around with the candle on the table. The decoration caught fire and Loren never even looked down he merely put the fire out not missing a moment as he was speaking. Ha Ha! | Happy birthday Loren. So grateful for your many years of serving God in YWAM and the way you made for our Williams family to be a part. Thank you for your faithfulness and obedience to God. Thankj you for imparting faith and vision. |
46 | Mark B | Turkey in 1999 at the Central Asian Conference (2 days after the earthquake) | Besides the vision of the waves, the most impactful word in my life was one Loren gave in 1999 in Turkey, two days after the earthquake. We were focused on CP and other outreach, but we were not multiplying ourselves. Loren reminded us of the unique call God had given our YWAM family. I understood from his word, that if we did not embrace the training and multiplication of indigenous YWAM staff, the kingdom of God and the church in Central Asia would not be all that God intended. This word dramatically changed my focus over the last two decades. | Happy Birthday, Loren. Thank you for being obedient to God and sharing the revelations that God has given you. We have been blessed because of them, Proverbs 29:18. |
47 | MIKE OMAN | Leaders' Conference in South Africa in 1979 | In the early 1980s I was taking Loren on a mini-tour of Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. I had always been impressed with his ability to remember people's names so I asked him, as we were driving along, how he did it. His reply: You remember what's important. I didn't know whether I was convicted, challenged or both! | Praying God's richest blessings for you on your 85th, Loren. We have not had many encounters with each other over the years, but each one has been rich in fellowship, wisdom and encouragement. Thank you for your investment in me as in so many others. May this coming season see the fulfilment of all that you carry in your heart for our Awesome God and His Kingdom. |
48 | Janet Potter | Kona, Hawaii in September 1985, although probably earlier somewhere in the world since I joined YWAM in Europe in 1978. | Loren called me one eve at my home in the Washington, D.C. area. He was in Hawaii and after greeting me, he said there were a couple of people that wanted to say hello. They turned out to be two people that worked with us in the Senate and Justice Department. It was thrilling to realize they were working on something with Loren, who mentored and led me part of my 17 years in YWAM. Two significant parts of my career came together in that moment and I couldn’t have been more blessed. | Please know my life was forever altered by yours, Loren. Jesus used you and continues to use you powerfully in my life. Hope your birthday Is full of joy and celebration. Love, Janet Potter |
49 | Linda Hilton Palmer | I met you and Darlene, In Hayward, California, at Bethel Temple, when he and Dar interviewed me to be part of the very first YWAM Summer of Service team to the Bahama Islands, 1964. That summer brought me into a closer relationship with my Lord Jesus Christ....I'll never forget it, even though it has been 56 years ago, this month, when we left for the Bahamas.....a summer I'll never forget ! | I have know you, Loren, since 1964 - Bahama Island Summer of Service Outreach. I think a memory that really stuck in my mind, and showed me your humbleness, was the day when, as a staff member in Kona, Hawaii, we had a work day. I was busy cleaning, in the GO Center, there at the YWAM Base/University of the Nations ( 1985), and I came upon you, Loren, working very hard, sweeping the floors. This sight really amazed me........the Founder of YWAM, sweeping the floors, there at the GO Center. How I thank God that you are my friend, Loren .... and such an example of the humility of Christ! My prayers will always be with you, Darlene, and YWAM! One other memory goes with the picture of you giving Darlene the first cupcake at the YWAM 50th Anniversary celebration in Kona, Hawaii, and the ensuing deluge of rain, and of course who could forget the cupcake fight! .... LOL....SO FUNNY! | HAPPY 85th BIRTHDAY, LOREN ! .... I know this is a bit late, but I trust you had a wonderful, blessed, and joyful 85th Birthday! My prayers will always be with you, Darlene, and the YWAM family, all over the world, until our Lord Jesus Christ returns! |
50 | Carol Mather Jackson | Chalet-a-Gobet, Switzerland - April 1970 | The Israel Trip. We were visiting Ephesus. A few of us were walking out as Loren was walking toward us. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a scorpion come toward my sandal-clad foot. Loren in wingback leather shoes came forward and stepped on the scorpion quoting scripture, “ “Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you.” Luke 10:19 NASB | Loren, I am so very grateful to you for choosing to obey The Lord! YWAM was foundational in my walk with The Lord. I wish you a most delightful 75th celebration and continued success as a spiritual father to so many. My love to Dar as well!! 🥳🎂🎉🎈 |
51 | Lori Schierer | At the 50th Jubilee celebrations in Tauranga, New Zealand | I have not had much personal interaction with Loren - a couple of handshakes here and there - but I feel privileged to have heard Loren speak on several occasions at a DNA conference, YWAM Together in Townsville, and also YWAM Together in Thailand. He signed some of his books for me at the Townsville DNA - an event where I was tremendously encouraged and re-fired! His visionary faith and passion for knowing God and making Him known are so inspiring. I entered YWAM at 18 years of age, knowing I had a call to missions. 15 years later I'm still in the mission, now married with 2 children, having discovered my own passion for studying and teaching the Word of God. I became one of the young people in Loren's vision of the waves and through his obedience I have found calling and purpose! | Thank you Loren for your humble leadership and your obedience to God! Your legacy is truly astounding. Happiest of birthdays to you :-) |
52 | Chris and Wolfgang Jani | Kona, around 1990 | Quite a few memories and they all have one common thread: as much as you care for the whole world, you care for and see the individual. So... in 1992 at the Barcelona Olympics, we ran into each other on a staircase. You immediately greeted me with ‘Wolfi, good to see you!’ I was surprised that you remembered my name. It’s one of your marks: knowing others by name. Another memory was in 1993 when you came to teach at the first full DTS in Anapa, Russia. You flew in on a small private jet, because your friend had invited you to join him on a trip to various countries. You made such an effort to visit; it was such an encouragement to our small team of pioneers. In 1998, when Benjamin was born in Moudon, we were living just above you and Dar, as you had graciously given us that space. You came to visit Chris and Benjamin in the hospital and a few weeks later dedicated him during a community meeting. You took the time to welcome Benjamin. That season (as well working with you and Dar in 1995) was formative for our calling to remain in Central/Eastern Europe. Thank you, Loren, for always being personable, seeing the individual, making a heartfelt connection. It’s one of the ways in which you reflect how Jesus dwelt among us. | Dear Loren, Happy 85th! We wish you God’s abundant blessings and favor, a load of fun, and continued strength and health. With love, Chris, Wolfgang, with Benjamin, Rachel and Katherine |
53 | David Lawrence | First time over Genesis in 1997 at Y Bangalore n at UofN workshop Nairobi in 2000 | I was surprised when I met him at uofn workshop in Nairobi he still remembered me n said we met over Genesis 😢. | Wish you a happy 85th b'day to you. May the rain of God fall on your life even more greater this year. Blessings👐 |
54 | Anthony Mangipano | Ywam tyler Texas | Just being able to be apart of this calling that’s on my heart, to see those waves of young people pouring in , and being able to live at ywam woodcrest which once upon ago get to see the sketches of the waves of young people from when Loren was young, it’s always been a honer, | GOD bless you loren, you have done great thongs, the lord is well pleased. It is a honer to go to ywam kona, and be able to see you speak and be apart of this commission in ywam, happy birthday |
55 | Jurg Meister | I first met Loren in Lausanne in September 1998. | I vividly remember Loren coming by the reception area at YWAM Lausanne where I was working and speaking with me for a couple of minutes, honoring this young Swiss guy for his involvement. I felt much appreciated. | Dear Loren. Happy Birthday to you on your 85th! I am so grateful that your obedience to Jesus not only opened the door for young people, natives, and women to go into missions, but also for physically handicapped people like me! You are a champion for everyone! |
56 | Fely Roustan Santini | Didn't met Loren Yet, but through video | Inspired and encouraged, everytime i saw a video of him teaching, preaching, or sharing testimony The last one i remember is in Switzerland when he talked about "baptizing" So simple but true and easy to understand and catch up Bless you Loren Hope i can meet you one day. | More blessing and vision fro God Loren |
57 | Yolanda Olson | San Jose, California...He was teaching on evangelism at a conference at about 1966. Attended the first Big Island school in 1974 where Loren and Darlene were the leaders. | The Call...Montreal, 1976..The Dunham House. Loren and Darlene conferring together the last day of Olympic Games outreach and looking at me seated on the grass with my two young children. They walked over to me and said, "We believe God has a call on your life as well as your (died that year) husband. We want to invite you to come to Kona, and know that you and your children will always have a place and a home to serve God in our Ywam family. I was Ywam's first widow with children and God had given me the scripture..."Take your two young kids and pasture them by the tents of the shepherds." and "If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the midst of the sea, there will thy hand be to lead and guide me." The Laughter...One of my greatest laugh times was participating in the Christmas Day night celebration of the Hilarious Gift Exchange with Loren and other witty leaders such as, Gary Stephens, Peter Jordan, Dick Bartsch, Paul Hawkins,etc. Loren was the best and funniest of all and the gifts were super. And...he always started with a carol and prayer!!! The Work...Loren led the entire campus on Saturday morning work and worship days! He should up with his machete and work duds and he worked as hard as any of us with his shoulder to the plow!. The Meaningful Traditions...Giving Thanks to God for His Miracles of Provision...The Amazing Thanksgiving Day marches around the campus...Declaring the Faithfulness of God!!! We made family and roomate banners. I remember Loren made a very long thin one that he waved on a stick. He had written all the things he was thankful for. The Islander way of placing our homemade leis on the rugged cross at the campus entrance on Easter Sunday. Such a wonderful family tradition that exists even till today. Wise Counselor...As a young widow In the 80's, I found myself facing at least 8 young men who thought they heard from God that they were to marry me. Awk!!! My Ywam dept.leader, also concerned, requested an audience with our campus leaders. After explaining my situation at Elders meeting, one of the men suggested that what I needed was a "bouncer" or "body guard" to fend off advancing bachelors. Different ones began joking and volunteering to step in and defend and protect me from any of these misguided suitors. I was embarrassed, but amist the laughter and innocent merry making, all turned to see Loren sitting at his desk thinking quietly. Someone, asked, "Uh, what do YOU think Loren?...What do you think we should do to help Yolanda?" Loren then, looked up and said, "The Bible says, "Let your widows trust in Me!" We do not want to rob Yolanda or Roxanne and Jeremy by becoming a surrogate husband to Yolanda or surrogate father to her kids. We will definitely intervene if she requires our assist, but Yolanda needs to walk through this time knowing that God is her husband and protector!" We all immediately received this word knowing it was TRUTH. We all believed and were assured that God had spoken through Loren with great wisdom. They all then, prayed for me (even to find a husband) and I left that meeting and skipped home with great peace, trust and joy in my heart! Thank You Loren. Loren...the heart of a servant. Would you believe that in the early days of Ywam, Loren did a humble thing of delivering letters, cards, greetings, gifts to our fellow missionaries abroad? YES!! He Did!! Most of the time the mail got through!! In 1980 Olympic outreach to Moscow...the King's Kids were invited to perform on the 700 club in Virginia Beach. One of the songs the Kids were to perform required them to wave palm branches singing, "Sing Hosanna Sing!" After travelling and performing across the USA in various venues..our prop palm branches were not t.v. camera worthy. So,..as Loren was coming to share also on the program, he carried with his luggage, a huge box of freshly cut Hawaiian palms for our performance. We had joy unspeakable when we opened the box and the smell of tropic aroma wafted out to us. Thank you Loren for doing this!!! A Holy Man of Prayer. My children were supposed to meet me at the pavilion where I would find a place for them before our weekly night meeting at the Kona campus...they inevidably arrived late, and one day I found out why. They, and a few other Ywam kids would wait for the "elders" to finish prayer time held before every community meeting in Loren's apt. in building #3. Somehow, our kids got a big thrill of seeing the "expressions or aura" on the faces of these men as they came walking down the hallway to the pavilion. Jeremy told me, "Mom, they are holy men. They have holy faces." Visual memories of Loren...#Los Angeles harbor standing with Darlene in her blue dress watching the M.V. Anastasis sail in to berth to the sound of "Holy. Holy. Holy." #Loren holding our children in his arms and dedicating them to God in the pavilion. Loren asking parents, "..and do you promise not to be angry with God if He should take them home earlier?" #Loren standing on the stage addressing a huge crowd at Ywam's 25th anniversary with Howard Malmstadt and Graham Kerr. Behind them facing the Plaza of Nations was a choir of 125 voices. #Loren sharing his vision..."Solo los deshonestos temen la verdad" to the Bibles for Mexico outreach team in Cabo San Lucas, Baja Mexico. #Loren singing, "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God." #Loren handing the microphone to his mom during staff meeting. Many, many more wonderful scenes and memories... | When Ralph and I and Bang joined Ywam Hawaii in 1974 in Hilo Hawaii, little did we know where this journey would take us. Our entry was unique...first as staff to set up the first base on the Big Island, then a summer of service, and then in the fall, the Hilo Mansion in Keaukaha. Our son Jeremy born there. Pioneering was our call. Curriculum writing with Howard Malmstadt and Merton and Zella Mary Osbourne and 1976 with Ralph graduating to glory in March 26, 1976. Thank You establishing such a wonderful DNA for this precious mission. We know you have been a faithful man obeying the call of God on your life. Thank you for catching the wave and lettiing us all ride with you! Keep singing that Love Song! Hauoli La Hanau!!! |
58 | Melanie Weaver | In Kona in 2009 during my School of Event Management. He came and shared with only our school for one morning. | I’ve been in YWAM for 15 years now and met Loren more than half a dozen times. My most memorable moment with Loren was actually not in YWAM but at my church when he came to speak. My parents got to meet him and I got to take a picture with him while I was wearing a University of the Nations hoodie and when the picture was taken, in the background was my grandmother. It was as if God was saying to me, “Look, I have given you a grandfather figure in your life that you never had and always wanted.” I cherish that picture to this day. Loren is like a grandfather to me. That was 9 years ago when I was very young in the mission. | A blessed and most joyous birthday to a celebrated and faithful steward of God's word and vision. May you continue to rise up with strength like the lion and soar like the eagle, to walk with God as in the cool of the garden and enjoy sweet fellowship with Him, with your family, and with this tribe called YWAM for many more seasons. May the peace of God be yours always. Thank you for your faithfulness to God and to us and your steadfastness in the faith and in the vision. God bless you more and more. |
59 | John Dawson | Auckland, mid-1960's | Lovingkindness expressed during difficult leadership dynamics. Scrupulous loyalty to all parties on your part yet comfort, wisdom and confidence in my own calling was expressed. Thank you. Several times you gave me grace to go on. | Dear Loren, I have lived the past 50 years with a profound sense of gratitude to you. My Mom and Dad had a reverence for you which I soon understood as I experienced my own journey. You opened doors, you believed in Jesus in us and you became the connector between potential allies like no others. I have also pondered what your obedience to Jesus cost you. Thank you for your courage. Thank you for the extra mile in taking initiative. Thank you for forgiving us, your children, friends and allies when at times, we caused you pain. I love you deeply and speak for my whole family in celebrating your legacy with respect and joy. Aroha Nui! John Dawson |
60 | Bryan Bishop | I remember at the final meeting of a GLT gathering in Hawaii all the people there were tired and wanting to wrap up so they could head home. All the people except for Loren and Darlene. I remember how Loren and Darlene each eagerly spoke up about various points and initiated discussion. I was struck by their enthusiasm and passion and unflagging energy. | Happy birthday, Loren. I'm glad to know you and I'm grateful for your passion for God and for God's plans for the world. May the dreams you are dreaming come to pass. | |
61 | Gary McKinney | At SOE in Lausanne, Switzerland when he came to minister for two weeks in the school. I was never the same again. | There are several wonderful memories to do with your amazing humility. One I remember well was written in your book "Making Jesus Lord". While you were visiting me in Spain, I shared my testimony about my encounter with some Jehovah's witnesses. I never knew until years later when I read your book, how God used my testimony to convict you. Typical of your humility, you published it for all to know. Then in the Argentina outreach in 1978 when you came to visit our team in Cordoba, several of us reproached you for various things. Instead of defending yourself, you asked forgiveness for things that were not your fault. I have several such memories, but I don't want to be too long. Be sure that you have a set a standard for humility for Deanna and me that challenges us to this day. Thank you so much. | May God grant you the mountains you have on your mountain list. You have set the bar very high and we are grateful to you for your obedience to God and perseverance of the high call of God. |
62 | Doug Worner | Have not met him yet | I have no personal memory. Just the memories of reading his books during our DTS training. | Happy Birthday Loren! |
63 | Mike and Paulette King | 1975... Denver, Colorado... Loren was the speaker for a Missions evening at Calvary Temple. | I printed the YWAM 50th Anniversary Study Bible for YWAM Publishing, I had a bonded leather version and asked Loren if he would sign it for me. He replied apologetically that he could not sign it as he did not write the Bible. I did mention that he wrote a "Message to the Reader" ... he agreed and signed my Bible and with the contagious warm smile that only Loren can give you. | Happy Birthday Loren! Your heart and love for life and most of all Christ is evident to all who know you and who meet you. Thank you for your wonderful and inspiring love for missions. Your impact on our lives personally has been incredible! Serving 6 years with YWAM Germany under David Boyd, 8 years serving at YWAM Hong Kong under Gary Stephens, and 5 years in Nanjing, China working to establish the Amity Printing Press as the production manager helping print the first 10 million Bibles legally in China. To date the Amity Press has printed 200 million Bibles + blessing nations around the world. Now working closely with the End Bible Poverty Now efforts world wide. WOW... we are thankful to God for you. Many blessings to you! |
64 | Rev Dr K R Stephen | 1991 in Trivandrum, kerala, India | Touched my heart to train and equip young people to reach India with Gospel Jesus Christ. | Happy birthday with blessings to Man of Vision and blessings. |
65 | Steve Wells | Sydney Australia. You came to speak on a DTS I was staffing | I had the privilege of driving you from Sydney to Newcastle just before the Sydney Olympics. Much to my surprise you said Steve, pull in here (a McDonalds) and I will buy you a McFlurry!! So normal and my first ever McFlurry! We continued our journey to Newcastle and I noticed you were looking tired so mentioned that you could sleep if you wanted to, but you said you would not. Shortly after you feel asleep as we were on the outskirts of Sydney and woke up just as we were arriving in Newcastle. You commented that I must be a good driver because since the accident with Darlene in the desert you don't sleep when in the car and this was one of the first times you'd slept. | Happy birthday Loren. You are such an inspiration to not give up, to keep going, to believe the best in others, to open doors for others, champion young people and not settle for mediocrity and take the easy road. Above all else, your passion for Jesus at 85 is inspirational. Wendy & I pray God's continued blessings upon you and that you may have many more fruitful years ahead. We love you Loren. Steve & Wendy |
66 | Mark Waseem | I never meet with him personally! | I am from YWAM Pakistan. If I were to say that what I have learned from Sir Loren life so maybe I am not able to write in the words. Because if I am serving today or working for Lord's kingdom this credit goes to the Sir Loren. For the first time in my life I heard about Sir Loren in 2012 and I able to read his book called Is that You Really God? This book has changed my life and I really felt that I need to do Lord's kingdom work in any situation. In addition, I am also able to know more about Sir Loren in different ways sometimes from videos and sometimes from books. Lastly, I would like to say that Sir, you are a great example for youth and we will see the reward in heaven. Because we have seen that how you are passionate for the nation's and kingdom works. Sir, your personal life has changed the lives of many people and they have brought a lot of fruits. And we are also on that list. May God bless you and use you for his kingdom. | Dear sir! You are a wonderful person who deserves the best of all life has to offer. The show of love and warm greetings can only be a reflection of your personality, your dedication and humility to seeing the best in everyone around you. Happy Birthday 85th! Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. Daniel 12:3 |
67 | James and Judy Isom | When I was Pastoring at Halpine Baptist Church in Rockville, Maryland USA | Loren, you came to speak at our very first Missions Conference at Halpine Baptist Church in Rockville, Maryland. We were sending many of our people into YWAM and you helped in this process. Many of these people are still in Missions now more than 25 years. Thank you so much!! | Happy and Blessed Birthday to you Loren. Judy and I are so Blessed to be part of YWAM and you have made a real difference in what God had for our lives. |
68 | Dawn Masucci | Hong Kong | My first memory of meeting Loren was when I gave his son David a haircut in Hong Kong. He came by and was teasing his son. The next time he came through he remembered my name. What I have admired about Loren through the years is that he has been able to create this large mission and yet remain very personable to the individual. | Happy Birthday Loren!!! Thank you for your years of staying true to call of God on your life! Your 'yes' has made a difference in the lives of many. Dawn Masucci |
69 | Paula Brander | Mobilized to Serve conference somewhere in NY state around 1985 | Loren came to Mali several times and it was always an event for our team. In 2007 he came with a team for a DNA conference and I had the pleasure of making 2 big birthday cakes (since there were so many participants from all of West Africa YWAM) for his 72nd birthday. (Mango cakes, of course!) It was always amazing how he could remember people's names with the many that he met. | Loren, you have been an inspiration to so many and myself included! I pray the Lord will continue to speak through you to this amazing God-inspired ministry that you and Darlene had the courage to start and continue to run with these many years later. I wish I could send you another delicious mango cake but I no longer live in Mali and the mangoes here (SC) aren't nice... with love, Paula |
70 | Gordy and Renee McDonald | 1977 in Bozeman, Montana | Happy Birthday Loren. Our first encounter with you was when I (Gordy) was serving as a youth pastor with John Weaver in Bozeman, MT. I had become good friends with both Dean Sheneman and Dean Sherman (the leaders of YWAM Montana at the time) who were hosting you for a few days; during which time you spoke at Christian Center. I accompanied you to your hotel after you spoke on a Sunday night and in a 5 minute conversation you messed up our lives forever. I asked you this one question: "Loren, how would you know if you are called to be a missionary?" Your answer: "When you think and dream, how do you think and dream; do you think Bozeman, Gallatin Valley or do you think about the world?" At that time in my life I had been no further than Vancouver B.C and having been raised in Seattle, that wasn't very far. However, when I dreamed, I dreamed about the world. Shortly after that we did our DTS at Kings Mansion in Kona and we have never looked back. All these years later we still love this Mission, it's amazing leaders and we are still doing our best to follow Jesus wherever He may lead us. You are an amazing example to follow. Blessings! | Happy Birthday Loren! Thanks for messing our lives up so many years ago. The McDonalds have been places and done things we would have never dreamed possible. Your words to us in Bozeman, MT in 1977 set the course for a journey that has been amazing. God's richest blessings on you today and in the years ahead. |
71 | Christine Stellina Ojih | YWAM San Francisco | I once visited you in your home in Kona when another YWAMer had business with you. You were warm and friendly even though I didn't need to be there and you didn't need me to do anything in particular. I appreciated that! You have so much integrity. The same in public as in private! | Loren, you have inspired us to serve God with all our hearts. Thank you for your tireless and faithful leadership and for being an example of continuously listening to God's voice and stepping out in answer to His call in even radical and costly ways. Your 85 years on earth have made such a difference in the Kingdom and to me personally. With love, admiration and respect, I wish you a VERY Happy and Blessed 85th Birthday! |
72 | Pierre LeBel | In St. Sauveur-des-Laurentides, QC, Canada, in 1974, | Uli Kortsch, at that time YWAM Canada leader preparing for the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games outreach, came to St-Sauveur with Loren so he ccould see the Burning Bush coffee house ministry I was involved with. We then had lunch at a nearby restaurant. It was a short but meaningful meeting. My wife and I joined YWAM in 1976, After doing a Community Training Program with Dilaram at Heidebeek, Holland, we went to Lausanne, Switzerland, for their fall French SOE. Our first son was born ithere n early January 1977. Don Stephen's, Daniel Schaerer (first leader of YWAM France) and Loren came with flowers to see Alice and Joseph at the hospital and to pray for them. As soon as he came into the room and saw me, Loren remembered our meeting more than 2 years earlier in another country. What struck me and has remained with me is that Loren remembered me, although he continued travelling around the world and meeting thousands of people, I was more than just a face lost in the crowd. That spoke to me enormously about the very nature and character of God and his being so personal. . | Dear Loren, In the same way you remembered me in Lausanne, God remembers and knows you personally, primarily because he also dwells in you. To know God intimately and to be inhabited by him has been the central experience of my own growth but also that of hundreds of thousands other people throughout the 60 years of YWAM. I thannk you and bless you on this, your 85th birthday. |
73 | Belinda Van de Loo - Kuhn | Amsterdam, The Netherlands | Floyd McClung was the Amsterdam YWAM leader and hosted Loren at the base. The way they loved and honored one another was a wonderful example for us to follow into servant leadership | May the LORD answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion. May he remember all your sacrifices and accept your burnt offerings. May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your requests. Psalm 20:1-5 |
74 | Paul Martinson | !976 at Bethany Fellowship Mission Conference | I received a call after you were preaching. Working with tribal peoples in transition-mostly working with the YWAM tribe now as an elder. :) | Bless your coming ins and going outs! |
75 | Garry n Anke Tissingh | Philadelphia 1976 | The amazing timing of your presence in Heidebeek, NL after the release of Paul from prison in Morocco and you debriefed him long before we know about debriefing. A wonderful blessing to us as young leaders at the time, 1982. | Happy Birthday from us! May you continue to be the example of faith and action in this and the years to come to many around the globe. We bless your 85th! |
76 | Ah Kie Lim | Manila, 1985 at YWAM 25th Anniversary | Your openness and willingness to listen and talk things over bless me. You are a wonderful example of a leader who is humble and caring. I have learned so much from you being in the GLT/GLF. I remember the few incidents where you would come back to me to clarify things or just listen to what I have to share. Thank you for showing me how to be a servant leader. | Happy Birthday to you Loren. Your love for the Lord and energy to continue to serve Him inspires me to keep going. You made turning 85 a piece of cake! I pray the Lord will grant you many more years. |
77 | Angela Andreas Fresz | With Loren on Trumpet Tour through East Germany in the nineties | Loren saw the iron curtain removed long before anybody else could imagine. | Dear Loren, we thank God for your live, the example you have set, your obedience to God, your impact on the nations, the way you keep mobilizing people... What a rich inheritance! You mobilized us, joining YWAM in 1987 and pioneering the YWAM base in Hainichen, Eastgermany 1993. May God continue to bless you and use you. Happy Birthday! Angela & Andreas |
78 | Julie Sinke | Mexico | Always enjoyed hearing from you and Darlene! It felt like mom and dad were talking to us! | Happy Birthday, Loren. Thank you for tirelessly serving the Lord all these years. It has been a privilege to serve in this mission since 1977. You have always had a huge capacity for people and even when we had not seen you in many years you remembered me and my late husband Ed. Blessings to you and Darlene! |
79 | Elin Frøitland | Via Genisis connection betweeen Latvia and Hawaii 2000 | I remember the impression you made back then. You were very attentive. | Dear Loren Happy 85th Birthday. I hope, trust, and pray you will have a very special day! You are one of my heroes of faith. When I think of you I get inspired to keep going, trusting God in all areas in life. Your attentiveness toward others, your joy in the Lord, humility, and steadfastness are some characteristics that inspire me. AND since you still are in YWAM, I feel I can be too :) I serve in Norway YWAM Kristiansand. |
80 | Philip Cunningham | Seattle | Met you in Seattle in the early 2000’s. Was amazed at your ability to remember names so well | Loren, thanks for being obedient and leading the way. Thanks for leading us towards Jesus. Thanks for keeping the Cunningham name good :) Happy birthday |
81 | Andy Beach | I first met Loren in Portsmouth, Virginia, on Monday, May 26, 1975. Loren was taping the "Life in the Spirit" television teaching series at the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) where I worked at the time. | It was my great honor to serve as Loren's executive assistant for 11 years from 1985 to 1996. There are so many wonderful memories from that time it is very hard to choose ... but certainly one highlight was traveling with Loren for his first visit to Bhutan. When it comes to visiting countries, there are no more "firsts" for Loren. I had arranged his travel to many countries over those years, but that time I was able to travel with him along with three other dear friends. It was a trip I will never forget. | Wilma and I send our love and greetings in celebration of your 85th! We thank God for you and are deeply grateful for your friendship. |
82 | Paul Hawkins | Lausanne August Grateful we are still 1971 | Grateful we are still friends...remember when Oeg abd I were in bed and you would yell from next four, “Paul, we need to pray!” And I would get up and we would pray...sometimes to midnight...and we still are... | ...blessed 85! I am right behind you...see you in the nineties... |
83 | April De Pretis | 1989 at Pacific & Asia Christian University, now University of the Nations | Isaiah 43:18-19 - "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." I gave you this passage when I prayed over you in 1997 at the UofN Workshop in Korea; and I give it to you again now, as I believe this is still God's word for you. | HAPPY 85th BIRTHDAY LOREN!! Thank you for stepping out in faith and saying yes to the LORD back in 1960 when He said, GO. Because you said yes to forming YWAM and sending youth to the nations, I was able to say yes, and GO to do my DTS at Kings Mansion in 1989. I have been GOing and serving in YWAM ever since. You have inspired me to follow Jesus wherever He leads. Thank you for your example, for your leadership, for your obedience. This birthday and always, may, "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26 HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Love, April |
84 | Robyn Mulligan | On my DTS in Honolulu in 1984 | I have many memories of times with Loren. My favourite is times are laughs and conversations around the meal table especially one time he told stories and I laughed so so much. | Congratulations Loren on this birthday milestone. May God strengthen you and give you grace, health and tremendous peace of mind. We are so grateful to you and appreciate you. Thank you for your obedience to God, following him and making a way for so many. Love and Hugs from Ken and Robyn. |
85 | Terje and Eva Konradsen | Eva in 1973 (Grimstad, Norway) and Terje in 1985 (Randers, Denmark) | I will never forget a trip we had to North Cape in a military belt wagon in 1991. Loren had just been operated but wanted to go to all the ends of the earth to prepare for the Cardinal Points Prayer Day in September that same year. As we were praying at North Cape, (I think fasting was part of the mission), Loren suddenly comes up with a large plate of chocolate which he shared with us as a reward for our efforts. I think all of us younger guys, including my three children will remember that special moment. | Dear Loren, you came to visit us at “the ends of the earth” in 1989 and gave us a place on the YWAM map. Since that moment in our living room we became the northernmost YWAM location in all the world. We are grateful that you included us and that you always have loved the extreme places and locations. As you like Caleb go for “the high mountains”, for the Bible to be translated and distributed to all the smaller tribes and languages, we can ensure you that our indigenous tribes are included in the efforts of YWAM Arctic. May God bless you and keep you healthy through your eighties. Yours in Jesus, Terje & Eva Konradsen |
86 | Dennis and Korinne Holt | We first briefly met Loren and Darlene in 1990 in Kona on our DTS. Then later in our LTS in Tonga, and being in Lauzanne at the same time as them. | I remember back in 1998 when you and Darlene blessed Korinne and I and our kids as we set off for Russia to help start the first SBS there. It really gave us the encouragement we needed for such a venture! From there we drove across Eastern Europe to Rostov and ended up being there for 7 years before moving to Tbilisi Georgia to pioneer YWAM there. I remember the response of joy when we presented you with the first copy of "Is that Really You God" in Georgian! Still to this day in Georgian those times bring encouragement and blessing to us! Thank you and happy birthday! Dennis and Korinne and all our staff. | May this Lord be close to your heart on this special day and remind you of all the past times with him and the times to come! |
87 | Gøran Andersen | I saw you first in Norway when you preached at a church in Kristiansand in 2013 | When one time he talked about a season in his life when he couldn't walk, talk, eat by himself, bedridden and didn't understand much, he was crying much and needed help with everything. And it was the first 6 month of his Life.😂😂 | Thank you for paving a way and opening up through the walls of high prestige and schooling expectency a way for thousands and thousands of young people to go into missions just because they are called, not because of their degrees. |
88 | David Cole | 1982 El Rancho Camp, Waikanae near Wellington, NZ | Loren called me August 2018 when I was in a taxi in Seoul, Korea with Sue & some Korean friends. When I saw his name come up on my mobile I said to my Korean friends - this man is a dangerous man, should I answer this. He doesn’t call you to say hi and chat about the weather. Loren asked me if I was willing to coordinate a national bible distribution in a nearby nation in the coming year out of an office in Korea. I told him I was over my head with coordinating the YWAM Together 2018 Gathering that was coming up in 3 wks time. He replied but Dave, we don’t want you unemployed after that. I said I would pray and get back to him & God said yes. | May this birthday be the best Loren and you see more and more some of the fruit of your obedience over the decades. May you be empowered with might and strength daily in your latter years and have such deep times with the Lord that cause your love for Him to increase even more. |
89 | Kimberly Cook | YWAM Guyana South America | Happy 85th Loren! I remember when you came to Guyana approximately 17 years ago. Alex and Ruth Dondorp from YWAM Suriname came to join in the festivities and pastors breakfast we had planned. We all went to the airport to get you and on our way to the hotel, we were chatting and having a nice visit. In our excitement we drove through a red light... suddenly things were quiet as we realized the mistake. Loren broke the embarrassed silence and said "I'm sure I saw some green around that red!'. We all laughed. I'm thankful for your heart and how down to earth and approachable you are. Your ministry blessed the nation of Guyana. Thanks! | Happy birthday from the staff at YWAM Guyana! We celebrate you and your obedience to the Lord and to His calling all these years! We pray for God's continued blessing, strength and health over your life. Blessings! |
90 | BillandVal Landis | Bill & Val - first met Loren in Grenada early 1987 | Bill- I remember traveling with Loren for a month visiting many Caribbean Nations- I think it was 1999. At that time, Loren was speaking on the four foundations stones of the Bible / Biblical world view. God of the Bible is Personal & Eternal / Infinite, Man is made in His Image, Truth is absolute and does not change, God Himself lives by it and that all of us will give an account some day. They registered deeply and I live these truths and teach them today in any DTS or church that I share at. Thank you for investing in my life! Val - I remember Loren, his son, David, Wick Nease, Leland Paris, Bob Ogle visited our new YWAM Centre in Sauteurs, Grenada in Feb 1987. Our pioneering team of 8 had just moved there a month earlier and were adjusting to a new culture. I remember Loren shared Hab 2 “write the vision down so the one who reads it can run.” I remember Loren encouraging us to start our DTS as soon as possible so that we could begin discipling new believers. Don’t worry about not owning a property, just start with you have and grow it”. We were so honored to have Loren and others visit our little town and spend time with us. | Happy 85 Birthday Loren! We are so grateful for your life and your love for the Heavenly Father which has been evident to me whenever I have been with you. We love our Ywam family and are thankful for your faith & perseverance in the call of God on your life. May you and Darlene enjoy these years as you observe the fruit of your faithfulness. Many Blessings, Bill & Val Landis YWAM Caribbean / YWAM Lancaster |
91 | Bill Landis | Birthday greeting from Norm Kurtz, Michael Berg, Luke & Julie Weaver, Bill Landis at the YWAM Lancaster Twin Pine Campus dedication, June 25,26,27th. | Birthday greeting from Norm Kurtz, Michael Berg, Luke & Julie Weaver, Bill Landis at the YWAM Lancaster Twin Pine Campus dedication, June 25,26,27th. | |
92 | RENE and CHRISTIANE LAFRAMBOISE | 1975, LAUSANNE SOE | In Summer 1978, Christiane and I drove Loren from Lausanne to the Geneva airport. We had a deep conversation about the idea that "If the local churches would do their job, there would be no need of YWAM". After we left Loren, Christiane and I were so much in deep reflections about leaving YWAM to start a local church in Quebec that I hit a car while backing up in the airport parking... A few weeks later, we heard Loren speaking at the Edmonton Commonwealth Games in Canada, teaching from the book of Acts about the mobile arm of the Church, and declaring that he had made a mistake thinking that YWAM would not be necessary if the local churches would do their job. That stelled it: we have been in YWAM ever since!! | Thank you for your example of perseverance and passion. May you continue to be led by the Spirit of God and influence all of the big YWAM family to pursue with integrity its common mandate to GO until He returns. |
93 | Scott Tompkins | 1979 at Jesus West Coast in Chico CA | My journey with Loren Cunningham By Scott Tompkins Loren Cunningham is a man worthy of the highest honor. Because of his vision and faithfulness, millions of lives have been touched by the love of Jesus over the last sixty years as YWAM has become the largest missionary movement in world history. I am one of those millions. I am also one who has had the privilege of having a personal relationship with him over the 30 years I have served in YWAM. I have enormous respect for Loren, but it hasn’t always been an easy road of relationship. His visionary leadership has often overwhelmed me. Even so, I am deeply grateful for all the times he has touched my life. Here are a few notable examples: • When God called us to full-time missions in 1990, my wife Sandi’s parents were still not supportive. However, one Sunday when they were visiting, we had a surprise guest at our church. Loren “just happened” to be in Fresno. When he spoke, God touched her parents’ hearts. • After I went to Iraq in 1991, Loren approached me for information about how to go there. It was one of only a handful of countries that he had not yet visited. • When I became editor of the YWAM publication Online, I interviewed Loren about a new YWAM campus getting started in the South Pacific nation of Tonga. In my article, I wrote about the new campus just as he described it. The problem was it didn’t exist yet. It certainly did in Loren’s heart, but in my embarrassment, I learned to be careful to press for more detail. • After assisting with his book about faith and finances, I had a tough conversation with Loren about the topic. I had seen God provide for me and my family, but it wasn’t happening in the team I was leading. He was undaunted in his belief that God would provide for all who fully put their trust in him. His confidence gave me confidence. • In 2004, a financial crisis nearly took down our Kona campus. Months later, I suggested to Darlene that we do an article about the redemption God had brought out of that crisis. She was open, and I started writing. But Loren and I had different views of what had happened, and as we worked through that, I thought I knew better than he did. It was just my ugly pride, and the Lord rebuked me from 1 Corinthians 13:12 which says, “Now I know in part, but then I will know fully even as I am fully known.” True, Loren didn’t know everything, but I didn’t either. I repented, and he graciously accepted. • Another time, I was at the dedication of a home owned by a fellow YWAMer. Unexpectedly, Loren and Darlene showed up. I had been asked to lead the dedication, but afterwards I realized I should have deferred to Loren. Nothing was said, but I learned from his humility that day. • During an interview with him, I shared a concern about my 94-year-old father, whose health was failing. Loren is more an apostle than a pastor, but that day he gave me great encouragement. He said that when his mom and dad were nearing death, God opened a window in his super busy schedule so he could attend to them. “God will do that for you too,” he said. And the Lord did later that year. • At one of our staff meetings, Loren prayed over us individually. When he prayed for me, he spoke out Jeremiah 33:3, which says, “Call to me, and I will answer you and tell you great and might things that you do not know.” God has since told me many great things I did not know. • I had the privilege of compiling a Shutterfly picture book about Loren and Darlene’s year-long global travels during the YWAM 50th anniversary celebration. He was deeply grateful, and he gave me a copy with a wonderful personal affirmation of our ministry written inside. • When God called us to leave Kona in 2011 and serve with YWAM Woodcrest in Texas, Loren prayed over Sandi and me twice—once at a staff meeting and then at our farewell party. A great parting gift for our 21 years in Kona, he presented us with a koa wood oar, engraved with strong affirmations! • In Texas, he came to a reception at our home along with his sister Janice Rogers and John and Elizabeth Sherrill. That foursome created the best-selling YWAM book, Is That Really You, God? They all signed my yellowed first edition, which is a treasured possession. • Over the last fifteen years, I have written the receipt (thank you) letters to those whose donations are processed through the YWAM Kona campus. They bear Loren’s name, but he doesn’t review them. He has fully trusted me because as Darlene once said to me, “You know our heart.” I think I do after these thirty years, and it’s a good heart. I am honored beyond words by his trust, but also by the associations I’ve had in this incredible tribe we call YWAM. Within it are the most godly, adventurous, servant-hearted people I’ve ever known. Because of what Loren has imparted, none of us will ever be the same. Scott Tompkins YWAM Creative Communications Link Lindale, Texas | Happy Birthday Loren! For the last 30 years, Sandi and I have loved being part of the YWAM ohana. I want to bless you with a word in Ecclesiastes 5;20 (NASB). It is given to the man who has received godly riches, and you certainly have. It says, For he will not often consider the years of his life, because the Lord keeps him occupied with the gladness of his heart." May your life always be occupied with gladness of heart. -- Scott Tompkins |
94 | Kevin Sutter | At the Santa Rosa Fairgrounds JESUS WEST COAST. Probably 1980. | Our YWAM outreach team at JESUS WEST COAST in Santa Rosa, California had a big problem. A local pastor we were associated with had been caught in adultery. We needed help! It seemed overwhelming to us. One of our team leaders suggested we go talk to Loren Cunningham, one of the keynote speakers. We felt nervous, but felt like you could help. Without help we all just wanted to go home to YWAM Salem. You graciously took time with us. You gave brief, wise counsel. We went away relieved and hopeful. It all worked out. | Dear Loren, To me, a birthday is a perfect time to look back, look up and look forward. I suspect you do the same. In fact it is partly your influence (and the influence of the movement you and Darlene birthed) that Jesus is so central to who I am and what I do. As I look back, there is a long list of how you’ve impacted my life Loren, but I chose one. God gave you the Christian Magna Carta and you faithfully passed on the vision to us. You have shared the Christian Magna Carta with 10s of thousands of people for nearly 40 years. Thank you. I have pursued it with passion, especially with a focus upon unreached peoples. I love passing vision on to others. (I added simple icons to help people remember the six points. I'm sending you a link to it) What I love most is hearing the stories of YWAMers across the world working to see the 6 points of the Christian Magna Carta become reality where they were not before. Just this week I heard two wonderfully inspiring stories: 1) An African YWAM team distributing food (#5 in the Christian Magna Carta) during “lockdown” to a Masai village. They shared the Gospel (#1 in the Christian Magna Carta) and about 50 came to Jesus. 2) A YWAM team working among Muslim people visited 3 communities lacking food during lockdown. They gave them bags of food, prayed, shared the Gospel and 60 came to Jesus. They are starting new fellowships now. (#3 in the Christian Magna Carta) We look up and THANK JESUS for what He is doing NOW. And I look forward to what God has for you and for our YWAM Tribe as we move into the future—especially what He can do to help us end Bible Poverty (#2 in the Christian Magna Carta) and spread the Good News to those who have never heard. Happy Birthday. With love, Kevin Sutter |
95 | Michael Berg | In 1985 at Fishnet Jesus Festival in Virginia | See attached video LOREN-BDAY.mp4 | Happy 85th Birthday from Michael & Darla Berg and YWAM Orlando LOREN-BDAY.mp4 |
97 | Rebeckah Donehey | We’ve never met but your book Is That Really You God has Changed my life. | Your book was so anointed - Is that really you God. I have felt the thickest anointing from God every time I have read it. I have shared it every opportunity I have had over the last 28 years. I donated a copy to every member of my church and put it in the town library. Who knows how far these seeds have grown and what a harvest Jesus will have because you! Thank you for changing my life and giving me the Kingdom of Heaven. | Have the happiest of Birthdays and I am praying you be satisfied with long life! |
98 | Camille Bishop | YWAM Maui 1989 | Loren was speaking at the community meeting at YWAM Maui. Toward the end of his message, he asked everyone to close their eyes and focus on Jesus. I did that and suddenly a Fijian guy in front of me was slain in the Spirit. He fell backwards and knocked me to the floor. It caused a commotion but Loren didn't miss a beat. He just kept on preaching! | Happy birthday, Loren. You exemplify the faith and courage of Joshua and Caleb, who entered the Promised Land and went after their inheritance. Thank you for continuing to follow hard after Jesus and inviting us to follow after you. Being in YWAM has changed my life. It has been an honor to learn from you and be part of your vision to see waves of young people washing up on the shores of the nations. May the Lord bless you richly on your 85th birthday with joy and peace and fresh strength for the days ahead. |
99 | Steven Baldwin | Call2All Long Beach California 2011 | During the conference I suddenly found myself in the position of being Loren's person guide from one part of the center to another. What a gentlemen! | Many happy returns of your birthday, Loren! And thank you and Darlene for your obedience unto the Lord. |
100 | Allana Hiha | Waikanae Christian Leaders conference, 1982, New Zealand | When we were introduced it was with the tag “Allana needs to be in YWAM.” Your response (Loren) was: “Allana will join YWAM when God tells her to!” Such an affirming word of your acceptance of my relationship with God, and a mark of your confidence that His plans and purposes are best for each of us. Many thanks! Much love to you for your examples of godliness in word and deed! | Birthday greetings.... ra whanau ki a koe! |
101 | Richard Won | Singapore at the Ywam International Synergy in Singapore in 2003 | A man with a big heart, big smile and big vision. Loren is a very friendly and humble leader. | Wishing you many more good and healthy years to come. May you stay strong, steady and resilient. The Lord Jesus bless you and enable you to finish well and strong. May your passion and dream come true and fulfilled that is to eradicate bible poverty. God bless you. |
102 | Peter Warren | I first met Loren in Canberra Australia in 1977 during an outreach to the Pacifc Games. | It was Loren's life and message, along with other YWAM leaders in attendance, that changed the direction of my life. I've been in YWAM ever since | Happy Birthday Loren. Thinking of you reminds me of Ray Boltz' song entitled "Thank You." The chorus says, "Thank you for giving to the Lord, I am a life that was changed." You have impacted so many of us to follow the call of God in our lives and I am one of them. May you enjoy this special day and my heartfelt prayer is that you would continue strong in the Lord for many years to come, Peter |
103 | Sven Stuhrmann | YWAM South Eastern Conference, Orlando FL | Loren was signing books at the end of the evening and I felt I had an impression for him. So I waited til everyone else had gone and asked if I could pray for Loren. His humility as a global leader of the body of Christ as well as our mission impressed me. | Loren, I’m wishing you a happy birthday and God’s wonderful blessings on this special day! I am so very grateful for you, your life and example in your trust & obedience to the Lord. |
104 | Michal Swann | While I haven’t met Loren personally yet, my parents Dave & Ali Swann and other YWAMers have shared many wonderful stories with me. | Dear Loren, wishing you a very happy birthday and much joy for your 85th year. Thank you for many years of faithful service and perseverance. I am so grateful, happy birthday. | |
105 | Sarah Lanier | Lausanne, Switzerland | Loren, at the LTS's we had all over the world, you supported what Darlene was doing with her leadership team, by basing your ministry out of the school for the full three months. You didn't let people make you the school leader when you visited, as many cultures tried to do. You deferred to and honored the leader who is a woman and your wife. You lived the values God gave our mission. You didn't just preach them. I was always watching, and was never disappointed in your example. Jesus was and is your Center. | Loren, You exemplify the youthful heart contained in a seasoned body. I rejoice in this milestone birthday with you! Happy Birthday! love Sarah Lanier |
106 | Mary Beth Maifeld | 1992 at a YWAM Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico Regional Conference | When I met Loren I explained that I was at the YWAM Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico Regional Conference as a "friend of YWAM'. He laughed and said "Really?" with a glint in his eyes. That struck me at the time and I wondered if maybe YWAM was in my future. That was 28 years ago. I have now served in YWAM 26 years. | Happy Birthday Loren!!! Thank you for your faithfulness in listening, obeying, and never giving up!!! You have made the way for each one of us - YWAMers around the world - to do the same!!! May God bless you abundantly as you celebrate Hs wonderful blessings in your life! |
107 | Andy and Susie Huddleston | Loren I remember when we meet you at the Spirit in 76 in N.J. It was our first message on missions and we was checking out this "Youth With A Missiona". Glad we did. | I remember the night of the offering at the Southern Baptist Conference camp in New Mexico around 1985. I think its called Glorietta. It was Leland Paris taking up an offering to buy your building lot in Kona. It was a great conference full of faith and vision. I said, "yes in my spirit to give and to give big. You need a house to call home and I know this was fertile ground to plant a faith seed". I was so stirred to give I left the conference building and went to phone booth and called Susie. Susie, "I want to empty the bank account and give all our money to invest in Loren's and Darlene's building lot. They deserve a house to call home". I understood you could not give this lot or house away..ha ha. She said, "we'll give all we have". We gave all and we had knew God would provide for us as we gave to someone else's need. Loren you and Darlene had invested in our youth or lives to be able to learn, grow and go so now was the time to bless back. We also gave the second time a few weeks later. Still rejoicing in God's faithfulness. Little did we know then in about 10 years we would be buying a home in Kona and joining staff in 2003. Funny the way God does things. Neighbors in Kona. Thanks for the many many years of faith and leadership to a generation. You're not done yet....many many more 100 years plus. P.S. As I write this letter Susie and I have just purchased a home in Spring Hill, TN next door to our daughter and 4 of our 17 grand children. God is faithful. | Susie and I pray you'll have a blessed 85th birthday and a closer walk with the Lord in the year to come. May your health and prosperity be the best ever. Also your time with family will be rich and fulfilling to you soul. Praying for all your kingdom concerns and burdens. His best |
108 | Kings kids Lome | ... | happy birthday Loren from the king's kids in Lomé, Togo. we love you ! | |
109 | Christy Wall | Almaty, Kazachstan for the 50th Y Birthday | A moment I will never forget would me spring of 98.I did my DTS in Barbados fall of 97.I went to Tyler for my SOE.I was walking to the Kitchen for work duty and This very kind man held the door for me and said something kind to me.A few days later I realized Loren was on campus and that kind man was Loren. | Happy Birthday, Loren! Thank you, for kicking us out into the nations |
110 | Dawn Gausin | I first met Loren at "Wilkerson Outreach Week" at Melodyland Christian Center in Anaheim, CA at the height of the Jesus Movement - I believe it was 1968. And I met him the second time when he came to speak at the chapel service at Oral Roberts University in the spring of 1972. I told him I had applied to go to YWAM Summer of Service in Denmark and Munich Olympics Outreach that summer, and he told me I'd meet his sister Janice and husband Jim Rogers in Copenhagen. I did, and became a lifelong YWAMer. My one Summer of Service turned into the "Endless Summer" of 48 years now! | Too many memories! So little space!! But Loren's 70th birthday at the Leadership Training Course we ran in Cairo, Egypt in 2005 is one of the most picturesque. When Loren arrived, the roof of our conference center was transformed into the open-air hall for a Middle Eastern birthday celebration with our 140 adults and 30 children from 32 nations. The distinctive sounds of Egyptian horns and drums beckoned to the guests of honor: Loren and Darlene were ushered up the stairs by young Egyptian men waving long sticks in the air. They emerged on the rooftop to a festive scene with Persian carpets and elaborate Egyptian fabric serving as the backdrop, and the flags of all our 32 nations flying freely in the afterglow of sunset. The pyramids were off on the horizon in the distance. Love and humor flowed, as the people of the nations brought their gifts of traditional dances, songs and poetry. The delicacy of the Korean fan dance was contrasted with the rousing war dance of the Sudanese. We had a melodious Bach violin solo from Germany, a contagious worship chant from Fiji, and original songs of honor written by Jamaicans, Eyptians and Lebanese. The festivities were wonderfully laced together with Upper-Egyptian humor. making for a delightful and memorable 70th birthday celebration of Loren, the father of our mission. | Happy, happy birthday, Loren! Caleb was 85 when he said "Give me this mountain!" I believe God has many mountains on your "mountain list" (no bucket list!!) that He will allow you to participate in the fulfilling. Believing with you especially for His and your dream to END BIBLE POVERTY NOW. So grateful for your life, leadership and friendship throughout these 50+ years! |
111 | Tracy and Jeff Van Veen | Kona Hawaii 2004. | So many good memories it is hard to narrow down to just a few. This man has poured so much into our lives over these past years. Our first "real" one-on-one meeting with Loren was in January 2007 on a short Kona visit -- and it ended with him handing us a piece of paper with his cell number and a comment to call him when we were ready to move in to King's Mansion and get going on the project. To our complete surprise, we packed up our lives in Canada and were doing so about 2 weeks later. That began a beautiful season where Loren & later Darlene challenged, encouraged, exhorted and blessed us as we served with them in various capacities. It was (and is) such a privilege to learn from and grow with this powerful couple of faith and action. They genuinely are the same people up close as from a distance: and they operate with integrity and faithfulness to the Lord in all they do. Still very much human... but even in tired, frustrated or challenging circumstances, their perspective on the Kingdom and their love for God, each other, and others around them remains steadfast. The most emotional memories for me are actually ones of (generally) gracious correction or challenge ;) I didn't grow up with a dad around to champion and encourage me so Loren's input means even more. He also was the first to invest in us whenever we felt God was leading us on a particular ministry trip or to other parts of the world. He shared story after story of incredible miracles and breakthroughs as he continued pressing in and being obedient to God's voice. I remember Darlene saying once that in working with Loren and herself, that Jeff and I had been thrown into the deep end of the pool of faith and we'd better learn how to swim! And that was so very true. But we also were able to witness up close and personal the absolutely extraordinary spiritual authority and favour that are extended to those who are whole-heartedly committed to the Lord and His purposes. What a privilege! Many of my other favourite memories involve food (Mexican, anyone?!) ice cream (even delaying arrival at a stadium event because "isn't there still time for a Wendy's drive through?") and watching a hero of the faith graciously interact with thousands of people even when tired or after traveling long distances in a day. His book-signing prowess is legendary (turning the lights off means nothing... that's what cell-phone flashlights are for, right?!). He is a faithful husband (your moral standards are exemplary, Loren -- thanks for always treating me, a younger female, with dignity and respect) and father/grandfather (to far more than his biological family). Thanks for opening your heart to allow so many more of us to learn from and grow due to your input and care. Other favourite memories include Hong Kong, India, PNG, Australia, Europe (especially touring through Corrie Ten Boom's house in Amsterdam) and many more. Projects, projects and more projects!!! You still love seeing what people can pull together when under a time pressure -- and it so often brings out far beyond what we could ever anticipate of ourselves or the teams we work with that are constantly shifting. Thank you for your creativity and visionary leadership. Through battles and victories... whether seemingly significant events or small day-to-day life moments... we treasure knowing you. | I wish we were able to be present in person for your 85th as planned. We've been looking forward to this day for so long... when you repeat the Caleb declaration and take on the hill countries. You already certainly do!!! Our hearts all these years later remain committed to helping support you and your battles for as long as the sun is still above the horizon... and it is our great privilege to do so. Thank you for your faithfulness and love. Happy 85th Birthday!!! We love you!!! |
112 | Giacomo Coghi | Costa Rica, Continental Explotion 😅1995. | What a great joy its being to share so many moments serving together and have an insight on your key messages when interpreting its being quiet and importation! I remember the morning you and Dar to Mar and I for breakfast during YWAM’s 50th celebration in San Jose, CR and the question came up.... do you have space for more vision you asked! We said yes! You took a napkin and you drew on it“ the word of the Lord leads to an action/event in a community that carries out a project, then this community does the same several times with more actions/events/projects... this leads to more communities.. the cycle keeps multiplying...then you have a movement! That morning we embraced the challenge with great faith resulting in End Bible Poverty Now and a visit with the Pope! Friend, thank you for this and many other opportunities and for sharing your live with us. Have a blessed birthday and keep going strong! (Even when I get to push you in a wheel chair at SaddleBack Church👍🏻) Giacomo & Marjolein! | https://share.icloud.com/photos/0NX_s4eAeujTxgR2Qv0WwwoFw#Rome_-_Quartiere_Portuense https://share.icloud.com/photos/0SYGPMB6M04AMreLB9JGXxNtQ#Goicoechea https://share.icloud.com/photos/0hrkI8bREJGjcAju6w3ul5UDg#South_Townsville |
113 | YWAM Perth | We are so grateful for your leadership. | Happy birthday, Loren! | |
114 | Ron Boehme | Auckland, New Zealand--1972 | I am eternally grateful that in October of 1972, following the exciting but sobering Munich Olympics outreach, you came to New Zealand on a missions recruiting tour. Speaking one night at the Auckland YMCA and showing the film, "To Munich With Love," you challenged those present to join the cause of the Great Commission. I was one of the first to come forward and chat with you after the service.That encounter changed my life. I came to New Zealand that year to "find God"--and not only found him through Valley Road Baptist, WEC, and Open-Air Campaigners, but found my calling to world evangelism through Youth With A Mission. It was a joy to attend the second Hurlach SOE in 1974 and then launch my life as a revival-evangelist. Thanks for believing in me during the 133 Ct. years in Washington, D.C. and also allowing me to work as an assistant in Kona during 1986-87. Your example of leadership greatly impacted my life and I will always remember that "the number one quality of a leader is self control." I continue to pray for you and Darlene and thank God for the many lives you have touched during your faith-filled lifetime. And the best is yet to come. | Happy Birthday, Loren. Thanks for the faithful example of a life sold out to Christ and advancing His Kingdom. You are deeply loved and appreciated. |
115 | Julio Balbuena | Lo conocí en la celebración de los 50 años en Buenos aires en la base de ituzaingo | A Loren solo lo he visto dos veces y en solo una ocasión pude tomarme una foto con el y fue en Tailandia, yo salia de la playa y me lo cruce, fue un lindo momento pero no fue ahi cuando impacto mi vida sino al saber, escuchar, leer y ver su testimonio de vida, el poder ser parte de este movimiento de vida que es Jucum, tener el privilegio de servir junto con el y muchos mas es de mucha bendicion para mi vida, ver su obediencia y amor por el Señor y su obra, el ser fiel al llamado que el Señor le hizo va a ser una inspiracion para siempre ene mi! | Loren quiero agradecer a Dios por su vida, gracias por mostrarnos con su testimonio como amar, buscar, obedecer y permanecer en Jesús, gracias por seguir luchando con todas sus fuerzas por seguir llevando el mensaje de Jesús y seguir encendiendo muchas mas antorchas con la suya, lo amamos y bendecimos en este cumpleaños, por muchos años mas y toda la bendicion del Señor para su vida! Muy Feliz cumpleaños!!! |
116 | Ruel Dio | At 2010 in Dhaka, Bangladesh during 25th Bangladesh & 50th International Celebration I met with Loren. | https://drive.google.com/file/d/10mdQmrXUutJEiwYz9YcYy3UBYTX03MGu/view?usp=sharing Flame goes forward...........................And it was such a joy & happy moment for me & YWAM Khulna team to come close with Loren & Darlene....... Who carry that flame for God's kingdom.................& that flame going forward till now.......................................... | Happy 85th Birthday Dear Loren from YWAM Khulna (Bangladesh) Family...........We wish you a blessed Birthday & want to praise God for your life. Because of you & your obedience to God we are here standing in the mission field as a YWAMers & also celebrating with you. Thank you so much & May God bless you abundantly.................................................. |
117 | Martha McComb - Sundmyhr | My DTS, Lausanne, Switzerland, January 1996 | My first memory of Loren was meeting him (you) in a prayer meeting in Lausanne when I was doing my DTS. It was a community prayer meeting and all the leaders were present and you said to us as DTS students, "we believe the Word of the Lord can come from anyone among us - especially our new DTS students". I was so struck by the humility and respect for us "newbies" and the chance for us to take our place at the table of leadership - it spoke deeply to my heart. A memory that I will never forget and one that built into me and into my own leadership. | Loren!!! Happy Happy Birthday young man! I loved getting to see you and sit with you in Egypt at the DNA last year. It was so fun to be able to tell you stories of what God was doing in the Middle East and have you feed into our lives here. I love your sense of humor, your humility, your walk with Jesus, your leadership, your love of history and stories and the man that you are. You are a gift to me and to so many. Thank you for your leadership over the years and your sweet friendship that I feel every-time we are in the same place. You are a treasure. |
118 | YWAM Harbour City Hong Kong | N/A | N/A | Hello Loren, Your family at YWAM Harbour City, Hong Kong wants to wish you an amazing 85th birthday! We have all been touched by your faithfulness to follow God's voice in obedience and we wish you many blessings on your birthday. Love, YHC Hong Kong |
119 | Anima Baroi Dio | I met with Loren in Kanya 2001 in a UofN worshop. | I was so joyful when I saw firs time Loren in Kanye. Evan I can't express in my Language. And Also I got opportunity to hospitality Loren & Darlene during their visit in Bangladesh in 2010 in 25th YWAM Bangladesh & 50th YWAM International celebration. Thank you Lord for Brother Loren &f or his life. | Happy 85th Birthday to Dear Brother Loren...............Remembering my time with you & thanking God for your life...............Praying for you & Isaiah 40:31 for you. May God bless you............................... |
120 | Steve and Marie Goode | Loren was the leader of our SOE in Lausanne, Switzerland January 1974 where he spent 9 out of 12 weeks leading us in this SOE. | While on the Middle East Field Trip, Loren invited us to come back to Lausanne to be a camera man and logistical person for the Billy Graham Congress on World Evangelism. There were 3,000 women and men of God spending almost two weeks together praying about how to fulfill the Great Commission in this generation. The lives of these two 24 year olds would never be the same. Thank you Loren for opening up the door for the Goode's to "do justice, love mercy and to walk humbly with God" like you have with millions of other young people. We want to be like you when we grow up.......smile. | We celebrate you on this 85th Loren and it has been great being on this journey together with you and Dar. |
121 | Dmitri Chernov | Audio Tapes from Rick Joyner’s Morning Star Tape Club | What a shift of worldview for me & the urgency of the Great Commission of our Lord I felt in your message all the way back in 1995 when I heard you in that tape. Soon followed by reading “Is that Really You, God?” really cemented the call to missions in mine & my fiancée’s heart. Still with YWAM after joining in 2001. Thank you. | Happy 85th, dear Loren! |
122 | Katherine Loo | I met you Loren at a YWAM Singapore fund raising dinner event in 1992 or 1993. I was there with one of my local pastor representing from Kum Yan Methodist Church. That was also how I remembered your generosity of blessing those who can't pay for books which you were promoting then. I had my copy signed by you with the scripture reference from Mark 16:17 !! In God's appointed time, I did my DTS in Jan 2000 at Vancouver BC Canada. | Having the privilege to have met you at least four times in my life time so far in this world .. thrice in Singapore and the last was in Egypt Jun 2019 !! .. I never forget your passion and call to bring the Word of God, the Bible to every household in all locations where there's the presence of YWAMers; known or unknown. To eradicate 'Bible Poverty' ... and you shared the vision of proclaiming that '2020 will be the Year of The Bible" | Happy Blessed 85th Birthday Loren. I hope to see you in Jerusalem,Judea and Samaria some day IF God willing and with His help. May His Spirit rest upon you and take delight in making His HOME in you more than ever before till Jesus Christ returns or when you return to Him ... May His presence, power and purpose continue to be manifested through you with His Mighty Voice to the XYZ Generations!! Amen. Amen. Amen. |
123 | YWAM Erdenet Mongolia | Mongoila | (See video) | We love you Loren! Happy Birthday |
124 | John Wason | YWAM Cambridge (ON, Canada) 1992? | Warm smiles | Thank you for modeling grace and truth! |
125 | Sharon Danziger | Barbados | When I first met Loren in Barbados, I saw his heart for people and always giving people his undivided attention. When I spoke to him, he just zoned everybody else out and really just focused on me - I think that really gives us the heart of the Father. | Please see the video below |
126 | Donna Briggs | Polson, Montana 1984. | Our first meeting with Loren was a divine appointment from God, as He used it to confirm our call to missions and to bring us into YWAM. We were already helping with the logistics of purchasing the air force base in Lakeside when Loren came to speak at our local church, and not long after we signed up for DTS. | Happy Birthday Loren! We are so grateful for you and for the life of adventures with God you led us into with your invitation to join YWAM. Although we thought we were just helping the Montana location get started and we would soon be off to Asia when we first joined YWAM, God had different plans and we have based out of Lakeside since the beginning of the campus. In 2000 when we transitioned into Mission Builders International, instead of taking us to the Colorado headquarters, God led us to bring those offices to Montana. So for a couple who love to move, we became very stationary in this mobile mission and instead became a family that got to travel and help YWAM ministries around the globe, getting to know people and cultures in a large number of nations instead of being called to just one specific nation. In living the core values of the mission we learned to lean into God, to listen, obey and not quit, no matter what He asked us to do. Our lives have had many surprises and unexpected turns, but we can attest to the faithfulness of God in all things. Thank you for your willingness to say YES to God and for inviting millions to join you in this great YWAM adventure. God has indeed blessed us and our lives have been and continue to be very rich. We look forward to the future, trusting God and thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the YWAM tribe. May your special day be abundantly blessed with the goodness of God, and may God continue to give your strength and energy to continue in the journey He has planned for you! THANK YOU and HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Donna Briggs |
127 | Ty Thurman | At the 50th Celebration in Guadalajara Mexico | Loren, when I saw you in at YWAM Together in Kansas City you took time to talk with me even though I am sure you were exhausted. It meant alot to me that you were willing to chat quickly and that you remembered our Children's Home (Rancho Los Amigos) in Juarez, Mexico and took time to encourage and teach new things you were learning about orphan care. Your life and obedience to the Lord is an example for all of to follow. Your apostolic and pioneering spirit has opened pathways for so many to enter into God's calling for their lives and I count myself lucky as one of those. | I bless you and your family with God mighty protection and provision. I bless you with clarity of vision and continued humility to lead out in all God has shared with you. Bless you and Darlene and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! |
128 | Machelle Burroughs | Gathering in Tijuana | I met you at Gathering in SBD base. You had the softest hands! Was the first time I heard you speak about BAM. I was SO excited because I had been receiving so much push back from other leaders and there you were talking about selling coffee to support new bases! | God blesses the nations from your life! Thanks! |
129 | Reidar Sundmyhr | The last memory; dna Alexandria, Egypt | Wish you a Happy and a Blessed Birthday. Thanks for being a forerunner as well as a mobilizer making sure people are following. You are a great leader, example and model. From Reidar, (Martha’s husband). | |
130 | Myrna Jimenez | YWAM El Paso-Juarez | I pick you up at the airport and felt very intimidated because of who you are. It was the first time meeting you. To muy suprise you started speaking in Spanish and right away all the wall that were up in my mind fel down. I am not sure if you were laughing with me or at me. | It is an honor to celebrate your life! You have been a huge blessing to my life and ministry. Your obedience to the Lord inspires and challenges me. Happy Birthday! |
131 | Gwen Conrad | When he was sharing at Countryside Christian Center (now CC Church) in Clearwater, FL, late 80’s and early 90’s; planted some of the seeds that eventually led to joining YWAM, DTS ‘96, full time since ‘97!!!! | At YWAM El Paso-Juárez we are grateful that you spoke to us about building a wall and establishing our foundations all those years ago!!! First “met”: When he was sharing at Countryside Christian Center (now CC Church) in Clearwater, FL, late 80’s and early 90’s; planted some of the seeds that eventually led to joining YWAM, DTS ‘96, full time since ‘97!!!! | Happy Birthday Loren!! And many more!!!! Love and hugs, Gwen The cupcake food fight story sounds like a fun memory!!! Thanks for sharing with all of us!!! |
132 | Silvana Rosário | I din't Know Loren personally. But I have been at YWAM since July-2001. And we my husband and i were pioneers in the work of YWAM Chimoio MOZAMBIQUE and we have finaly bee here since March 2007 | The danger of Sucess The Lord leads us to victories, but sucess itself is on of the most dangerous obstacles to discerning God's Voice. Excerpt from the book You, God? | Loren is a man who inspires others to follow Christ and to obey the missionary call, living totally by faith in God. Having the confidence that HE called, HE maintains. Happy Birthday! May God bless you mightily. And keep strengthening you on this journey A Hug Family Rosário Alexandro, Silvana e Gabriel YWAM Chimoio MOZAMBIQUE |
133 | Barb Johnson | University of Valdosta Georgia... YWAM 1976. and later Jesus Fest | I heard you sharing about missions while a senior in college. That summer, I attended a Jesus Festival with friends in Charlotte, NC. I already had MY plans to attend Law School and had a summer job with a Congressional Candidate. (who won) When I realized you were speaking I said, "Oh no, Loren Cunningham is speaking. He will convince me to go to YWAM." So, I went to hear Larry Tomzack way across the other side of the stadium. But I could still hear you speaking, saying "GO INTO ALL THE WORLD AND PREACH THE GOSPEL!" Haha. I couldn't escape you or the Holy Spirit. So glad I obeyed the Lord and heard the call. My husband Don and have been in YWAM almost 45 years! We pioneered YWAM ministry in Nicaragua and we are still there along with many other amazing Latinos! | May this be a year of amazing joyful reaping the fruits of your life work! Happy Birthday, we are so grateful to the Lord for you and your family! I pray you will know how loved you are and rejoice in these days more than you have ever rejoiced! Thanks for caring for us all and for pouring out your life into those things which have made for eternal differences in so many lives! |
134 | Rhoda Martin | Decades ago:) | Thank you for your joy in the journey. | Thank you Loren for your obedience to God. It has created a space for me and my family to obey the call of God on our lives. Ywam has opened doors and created space for us to create with God. Thank you. |
135 | Jose Maria Liste | 1991, LTS in Santiago Chile | During the LTS we had amazing fun times, with staff and students, but something remarkable was the fact that he asked me permission to write our testimony about God provision in pioneer our base in the North of Argentina and he put it in his book "Daring to live on the Edge" | Love you Loren, you always has been an inspiration to Rosana and me, and we will continue in YWAM because of your vision and commitment with the Kingdom of God. Blessing Jose & Rosana Liste |
136 | Bob N Kathy Butcher | YWAM Salem CDTS 1987 | Kathy: My first memory of you Loren was in 1987 when you came to teach in our Crossroads DTS in Salem, OR. Everyone was excited because you were coming. As you drove on the property there was a lightning strike and thunder like I never have never heard in Oregon. I grew up in Oregon. I looked around and there you were arriving!! It has been a lasting memory for me. Have a great day celebrating your 85th birthday. Bob: There are lots of precious memories beyond Kathy's for me Loren. Maybe my favorites involve being Pete Iliyins's go-too driver for picking YWAM North America Leader Conferences speakers. Those were wonderful times I enjoyed with you; ...the special "meals out" on the way, sitting in the car in Colorado witing for the Elk to move and let us by to your cabin, among the many. Probably the best other was maybe best put under the "category" of "racing you" around Europe during our YWAM Salem CDTS Outreaches when one of us would arrive only to find the other already there at the same place, or have the other pull in right behind; ...all unknowingly! Maybe that was the forerunner to Kathy and my NASCAR ministry for over 24 years now. (That is if this Govt. protocol stuff for the Corona19 allows us to come back to the tracks again as normal. Another of my being well over 65 (74, but healthy) stinks! Hope 84 is mellowed out better this year. | I guess my "traditional" Birthday Greeting ..."HBD LOREN!" ...will suffice along with our love & hugs to you and Dar also of course. |
137 | Marianne and Staale Braseth | As DTS students in Norway in 1992 | So much appreciates how you see people and give your full attention and focus to the person you speak to. | We are grateful to have met you in different places across the world. You have inspired and challenged us through our 27 years in this mission. Your vision and passion is contagious and godgiven. This earth is a better place because of your life, and heaven will be more populated because of your yes. We wish you all the abundant blessings of heaven over your 85th birthday |
138 | Ywam ARGENTINA | Thanks You! | We love you! | |
139 | Robert and Elizabeth Lumkes | YWAM 50th Celebration in Chiang Mai Thailand | On the few times we have met you Loren, you and Darlene have always taken time to address the YWAM children, given them attention and taken pictures with them. We appreciate your love and input into the next generation, as well as your many inspiring faith stories and your faithfulness to the Lord. | Happy 85th birthday Loren! We have been in YWAM for over 20 years. For the last 20 years, we have been ministering amongst the Shan people of Eastern Myanmar, with DTS and SBS and many other things. Out of that came a request from local pastors for Bible study resources. We have just launched our website, and are thankful for your endorsement of the project. Our gift to you, on behalf of Inductive Bible Study Book by Book and YWAM Shan Project is that we dedicated the workbook for Acts to you. You will find it at the link below. We will also be posting you a paper copy. Thank you for living out the message of Acts in our generation. May God bless you today! ibsbookbybook.org shanproject.org |
140 | Andrae Braun | On my DTS outreach in Pokhara, Nepal | It was January of 1997. I was on my DTS outreach in Pokhara Nepal. My team and I were in a restaurant near the lake when one of our team members spotted someone they thought was 'Loren Cunningham.' We all laughed. "Are you kidding? We are in the middle of nowhere. Do you think Loren Cunningham is going to be out here?" (Little did we know of YWAM or the Cunninghams). The team voted me to be the one to go over to the stranger and out of the blue ask him if he was Mr. Cunningham. So I went over. "Hi, my name is Andrae. I'm in a group called Youth With A Mission and I was wondering if your name is Loren Cunningham?" "Yes, that's me!" I was stunned, absolutely stunned. Loren, then, insisted that we get a picture together as a group. As an 18-year old, it was this detail that stuck out to me. Wouldn't we be the ones who would request a picture with the co-founder...nope. His humility shone in that it was him who wanted a picture with our lowly team. The second remarkable story connected with this is that I would meet up with Loren again about fifteen years later. I referenced this story and retold it to him. When I was finished telling the story, he said, "Yes, that's all correct except you missed... [this and that detail]. What actually happened was... [such and such]" His memory was phenomenal but fact that he remembered such a chance happening showed me the kind of value he placed on individual YWAM'ers. Really cool. I've been happy to serve the Lord in YWAM since that time! | Happy birthday Loren from YWAM Turner Valley, Canada! |