Marking an Important Day for the Voice of A3 & Our Chief Prayer Warrior
Today, Ellen Hale wraps up 41 years of work at A3. She is retiring from her job, but something tells me she'll keep on interceding.
Ellen started in 1983 by answering the phones, saying: "Thank you for calling Language Institute For Evangelism! How may I help you?" In 1987, that shifted to "LIFE Ministries" and then "Asian Access" in 2002. Last year, she began saying...
"Thank you for calling A3. How may I direct your call?"
Regardless of the organization's name—and she's been with us for all 4!—Ellen always ended the call with...
"God bless you. Have a wonderful day!"
And she has always genuinely believed in our mission, vision, and values. She supported A3 in myriad ways.
Work Tasks & Real Work
Answering the phones and handling the mail may have been her official tasks, but her real work—Ellen's true contribution to A3—has been serving as A3's Chief Prayer Warrior. There is little doubt that Ellen has prayed for the work of A3 more than any other human being. Her faith in God and her consistency in the work of prayer, are the hallmarks of this unknown saint. To bolster her prayers, Ellen has also consistently given financially to the work. Throughout her tenure, she has wholeheartedly given of herself to help expand the Kingdom of God.
Whenever you talk to Ellen to share things going on in your life, you will be sure to hear these phrases at least once each conversation:
"Oh my goodness. Praise the Lord!"
Ellen always carefully listens to others, always takes notes on what to pray for, always shares a Bible verse, and always praises the Lord. Always.
Ellen could not care less about recognition, instead treating people above herself. Last November, when we gathered to celebrate her co-worker, Elliott Snuggs' 40th work anniversary, Ellen said, "It's so wonderful to celebrate Elliott and all that he has contributed over these last four decades." All this while silently observing her own 40th anniversary. She didn't tell anyone. This illustrates who Ellen is. We remembered and figured out a way to also honor her at the gathering. Watch the video below...
I could go on and on about Ellen. All of her co-workers could! But to get a glimpse of her substance, I think using her words from her bio might be more effective...
Background Information
My mom & dad were Christians. I have one older brother. I married and raised four children. Even though I was Christian, I didn't really know God. It wasn't until I was born again that I had a hunger in my heart to know, love, and serve God. My life has never been the same. Praise the Lord!
Ministry Assignment
I have served as the receptionist for A3 since 1983.
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Why is Ellen serving with A3?
"I am serving with A3 because I have the God-given opportunity to use my skills as A3's receptionist to help people fulfill the plan He has for them—whether it's to explore options to serve as a missionary... or to invest financially and prayerfully to expand God's kingdom throughout the world!" |
Words of wisdom...
To obey and trust God's leading. (Proverbs 3:4-5)
When you're in Japan, be sure to...
Pack light, but remember your Bible and journal. Wear good walking shoes and bring an umbrella. Don't forget gifts for those new friends you will meet and possibly stay with. Be ready for God to do a mighty work through you.
Hoping for "ultimate contributions"...
That I pray and trust my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to accomplish His will. (1 Timothy 2:4)
How to usher in the kingdom...
Prayer, worship, and thanksgiving as we train and commission missionaries for the field.
Meaningful ministry memories...
Seeing missionaries encouraged in their courageous obedience to God’s call in their lives. Praying for and with our Missional Partners.
Lessons I've learned...
The importance of prayer and being a light to shine for our Lord Jesus Christ … Praise the Lord!
This is quintessential Ellen. We are so grateful for her faith and faithful presence. And we love her dearly. My adult children grew up watching Ellen be Ellen—she's one of a kind. What a testimony!
I selfishly asked Ellen ahead of time if I could be the last phone call of her career. Four minutes before the end of her final workday, I phoned her and thanked her for her tireless service, she said:
"Who am I that God would bless me this way for 41 years? Every day that I came to work, I felt I was coming home to work alongside my family."
This reflects both Ellen's humility and her commitment to live in community. And that final official phone conversation went on for another 35 minutes!
Ellen Hale is retiring? Oh my goodness. Praise the Lord. But we will miss her greatly.
Just another fan of Ellen,
Jeff Johnston
More Information
- See Ellen Hale's staff profile
- Find Ellen on Facebook
- Celebrating Elliott Snuggs' 40th anniversary with A3 (full event video + individual clips)
Jeffrey S. Johnston began his journey with A3 in 1987 as a short-term missionary in Tokyo. Now based in Los Angeles, Jeff serves as VP for Advancement & Communications, helping tell the A3 story through writing, video, web, and print. He has also contributed to establishing the A3 leader development program in North India and Bangladesh, as well as launching A3's global online e-learning network. Jeff and his wife Nozomi have two adult children both reflecting the Father's love to their world.
staff profile
Watch video of Ellen on Vimeo here...
