Mark and Shari Carpenter
Mark and Shari came on staff in 2001. Mark is the Director of Operations. Mark heads up all construction and maintenance, in addition to teaching the School Of Discipleship class on Servant Leadership. Shari enjoys managing the Buckboard store. She homeschooled all six of their children (now adults). God has graciously blessed them with 15 grandchildren. James is still at home, but engaged, and will be married next fall.
Carpenter Connection
2026 Edition 1
Greetings from the Carpenters!
I (Mark) had the opportunity again to teach a servant leadership class for the students. What a challenge to continue to grow and gain understanding into the biblical perspective of the privileges we have to serve the most high God; gaining wisdom and insight into how serving others is serving God. (Philippians 2:1-11) Verses 3-4 say, “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others as better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interest, but also for the interest of others.” This is perfectly modeled for us by Christ’s life. May we commit ourselves to serving and leading others; this being carried out by us displaying our service to and obedience of our loving and gracious Heavenly Father.
The Operations Department has been blessed by the addition of Tucker Smith. He is from Shinglehouse, PA. Tucker is a past student and the Lord has burdened his heart to work at MMR. His skillset is a perfect fit for the needs of the ministry. He’s continuing to raise support and he officially started in January. We also have been excited to have four SOD students joining our crew since Thanksgiving break. They are Micah Crain from Ulster, PA; Taeven Ives from Vestal, NY; Colton Irby from Lawrenceville, VA; and John Solomon from Edinboro, PA. These young men are with us at chore times, afternoon work times, and Saturdays when retreat schedules allow. Whatever work the operations crews are doing, they will be engaging in. Work has continued on staff housing renovations. When that is completed, Lord willing, by spring, six families will be in different housing than they started in last fall.
Mexico We were blessed to travel to Mexico in mid-December. A crew of six were able to get the drilling equipment moved into the remote mountain village of Tehuarichi. This is about 37 miles into the mountains from the nearest town. The Tarahumara people live throughout this area and Pastor Alex has been doing an outreach there. We had the privilege of being involved in a prayer meeting/Bible study/worship service with many of them one evening. How amazing it was to worship with them even though their native language is not Spanish, but Tarahumaran. Pastor Alex even must speak via a translator. Some of the younger do speak Spanish, but many of the older do not. Upon arrival, Pastor Alex had a general area that he desired the well to be drilled at. We selected a location and drilled 345’ but did not find water. We then moved the equipment approximately 2.5 miles to another location. The group had built this road by hand through the mountains; very narrow and steep. We got stuck many times, but God provided a way and we got moved and set up to drill again. We were only able to get drilled about 125’ before having to return home. Sadly, this location does not work with our Easter missions’ trip. Therefore, we are praying about return dates to continue the drilling. Please pray for wisdom and guidance in these things.
Family News: Lindsey and Zack are expecting their second baby in April! Pictured to the right is a very excited big brother, Talin! This will be grandchild #15! Wow! What a blessing!
Thank you for your continued prayers and financial support. We could not serve here without all of you. We feel so blessed to have your partnership in the work here and we pray God will continue to bless each of you.
In His Service,
Mark and Shari
Prayer Requests:
- Wisdom in the search for bus insurance
- Mexico trip 2026; continued well drilling
- James and Calista’s future financial plans and home after wedding
- Healthy pregnancy for Lindsey
- Stanley home remodel nearing completion
Praise:
- Tucker joining us on staff
- SOD guys in operations
- Finances for spring projects
- Summer staff/volunteer applications coming in
All gifts are tax deductible and can be made out to MMRM, designated for us, and sent to the Ranch at 101 Rodeo Drive, Spring Creek, PA 16436 or online using the ‘donate’ button below.