Van Kirkland shares his journey from Louisiana roots to Texas transplant, including his career as a dental technician creating beautiful smiles and how his faith sustained him through profound personal tragedies. His story reveals how mentorship, community support, and a deep relationship with God provided resilience during life's most challenging seasons.

• Originally from Plaquemine, Louisiana, moved to Texas after marrying a Texan
• Built a career as a dental technician, recently opening a new high-tech dental lab
• Early spiritual formation through mentor Jim Boley helped develop deep faith
• Lost daughter Grace to spinal muscular atrophy, experienced multiple miscarriages
• Miraculously adopted daughter Hope just nine months after losing Grace
• Recently welcomed mother-in-law into their home at age 88
• Passionate about small groups and discipling young believers
• Lives by Isaiah 50:4, speaking words of encouragement to the weary

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Michael Walt shares his incredible journey from South Africa to Austin, Texas, where he and his family are preparing to join Shoreline Church in full-time ministry. His story reveals how God's divine timing and unexpected open doors have confirmed their calling to uproot their lives for ministry across continents.

• Grew up in a small South African town where his youth leader inspired his passion for ministry
• Built carbon fiber sailing catamarans in the coastal town of Knysna while developing his technical skills
• Received an unexpected text invitation to return to full-time ministry at Shoreline Church
• Now works remotely with Shoreline's online ministry team while awaiting permanent relocation
• Experienced miraculous visa approvals and confirmations that validated their decision to move
• Learned that God only illuminates the next step of faith—you must start walking to see what follows
• Currently preparing to relocate with his wife and twin 10-year-old sons to Austin by August

Keep the faith and join us for more sidewalk conversations as we explore the intersection of faith and life together.

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Mike Orenstein shares his journey from military kid to recovery ministry leader, revealing how his unique background prepared him to connect with people across different backgrounds and help them find healing. His candid discussion of personal struggles with addiction and family crisis demonstrates how vulnerability becomes strength when used to help others overcome similar challenges.

• Early life as a military child provided unique perspective on being an outsider and adapting to different cultures
• Ability to connect with diverse groups of people became foundation for ministry work
• Open discussion about overcoming pornography addiction and the importance of accountability
• Breaking the silence around addiction: "You're only as sick as your secrets"
• How the church community rallied when his son was incarcerated
• Navigating marriage during family crisis and being there for each other
• Perspectives on the church's strengths in ministry and challenges with structure
• Personal mission to "heal the brokenhearted and proclaim liberty for captives"
• Passing down protective nature and service mindset to his children
• The essential role of authentic community before crisis strikes

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