Beyond is a word that represents a time in the future or place on the other side of something else; farther than we can see and touch. No other word in English seems to more succinctly describe the unforeseen future than beyond. Beyond also suggests a long and distant journey. Those who know me well, including myself, will tell you that speaking about the future, as in vision and planning, is, well beyond my expertise. And the word journey, that’s when I have to get up to change the channel when I can’t find the clicker.

I try not to dwell in the past, but I am comfortable talking about some milestones in my family’s life. My wife Daisy and I currently live in Bolingbrook with our children, Hannah and Matthew, along with our oldest son Brandon who is currently fulfilling his internship requirement serving as a youth minister in New Albany, Indiana. Daisy and I were raised as believers in Christ and had been going to a Christian church that was steeped in tradition. God brought us to Westbrook Church over ten years ago where we immediately became involved in serving and participating in small groups. My family found and developed friendships – friends who have prayed with us and for us in our times of need.

One of the most important aspects of Westbrook is its influence on our children; teaching our kids who God is, and eventually challenging them to live like Christ daily. I watched, as Brandon became a man after God’s heart, mentored by another young man, Rick Marcum. Hannah, although like most girls faced with the daily pressures and influences of high school, is well grounded as she continues to help lead in youth worship and a small group. Matthew hangs around with Pastor Mont’s youngest son, so who knows what they’re up to.

To say that Westbrook Church is a part of our life would be an understatement. My family supports Westbrook Church’s beyond mission for the benefit of the families that will someday call Westbrook their home. It has been said time and time again that our kids are our future. The importance of the future of our children can sometimes become abstract. As I get older, and as I am about to vote again in the coming election, I can’t help but take note of how many candidates are younger than me. I wonder what influenced them to think they can lead us beyond. – Rando and Daisy Simeon Beyond Campaign Co-Chairs