The Story Behind "The One"
Every name has a story. Ours comes from a boy, a beach, and the belief that one life matters.
The Story That Named Us
One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it back into the ocean.
Approaching the boy, he asked, "What are you doing?" The boy replied, "Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them back, they'll die."
"Son," the man said, "don't you realise there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can't make a difference!"
After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then smiling at the man, he said:
"I made a difference for that one."- Loren Eisley
Why "For The One"?
We can't reach everyone. But we can reach one. One child who needs medical care. One teen girl who needs a mentor. One family rebuilding after a cyclone. One community that needs hope.
This story reminds us every day that the work isn't about scale, it's about significance. Every person we serve, every life we touch, every community we walk alongside, we do it for the one.
Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying
"Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?"
Then I said, "Here am I! Send me."
Isaiah 6:8
From Brisbane to Vanuatu
Years before we were married, each of us knew we had hearts to serve overseas in ministry. Soon after we got married, we began talking more seriously about our heart for missions. However, raising little ones and climbing the corporate ladder became our norm. But this God-given dream continued to live in our hearts.
When our daughter Lavinia was 18 months old, after a lot of fasting and prayer, we visited Vanuatu. In our hearts, we knew that this is where God was leading us. We said Yes to God's calling to come back and serve as full-time missionaries.
Twelve months later we took a bold step of faith. We prepared our house for sale, wrapped up our business and our lives in Australia. Our house sold at the first Open Home inspection. God's favour was evident. Everything fell into place with ease.
We moved to Vanuatu on August 5th, 2019.
Long-Term. Locally Led. For The One.
We have a long-term vision of serving the people here in Northern Vanuatu. With God's strength, peace and provision, we give all we have For The One.
This isn't a short-term mission trip. We live here. Our children grow up here. We serve alongside Ni-Vanuatu communities, supporting local facilitators, coaches, churches and community leaders to build something that lasts beyond us.
Hear It From Us
Lucian and Jaylyne share the full story of how God called their family to leave everything behind and serve in the Pacific.
Help us make a difference for the one.
Your generosity enables us to continue serving the communities of Northern Vanuatu. Every gift, every prayer, every partnership matters.