Since 2018
Rusty and Kristin Russell first answered God's call to the Philippines in 2012. It was during this first term, with 9 of their 10 children working together in ministry, that God gave them a heart for the Ati people, a discriminated-against indigenous tribe living on Panay Island.
The Russells joined the New International family in 2018 to return to the work God has called them to among the Ati people for a third term. Today, this family oriented ministry is gradually transitioning to the next generations. Rusty and Kristin serve with their son Jonathan and his wife Nica, their son Levi and his wife Je-Ann, and the youngest, Matthew. Together they tackle discipleship ministry to youth and church leaders, agriculture and community development projects, and medical advocacy outreach.
In 2022 the Russells launched the Great Commission Bible Institute-Philippines, a one-year intensive Bible school founded by Dr. Randall D. Smith. GCBI-PH is a wonderful tool to further the Gospel among the Ati and the non-indigenous local community. Rusty serves as the Academic Director, Jonathan is the Discipleship and Evangelism Assistant and Kristin serves as Director of Public Relations. The goal of GCBI-PH is to make disciples, who make disciples. We've seen tremendous growth and ministry propolusion in just the first few years of this life transformation discipleship program!
Additionally, both Kristin and Jon host weekly radio programs on a local radio station, which is livestreamed across the world.
Whether demonstrating farming techniques, aiding those in need of medical care not available locally, teaching, building relationships, or hosting people in their home; the Russell family seeks to love people in the name of Jesus and proclaim His Gospel!
