Our call to Bozeman, Montana!

There are many reasons that We feel the call of God to Bozeman. “When Seth called me on that December night and asked me if we would prayerfully consider partnering with them to go, there was a deep feeling of God’s provision. When I prayed about it, I eventually came to the conclusion, as in anything new and unknown, ‘NO’.  We were at a church, and we were seeing growth, and seeing fruit for all the sweat and tears that we had shed the past three years. Why would I ever leave?” Corbin said, but as you probably already guessed, God had other plans. It was around Christmas, and we went home for the holidays. While we were there, Seth and Lacey asked if they could just share their heart for Montana. We agreed, and we were greatly astounded at what we saw. In the United States, to see such a need for, not just the Gospel, but the physical needs as well. 

Spiritual Needs

Montana is known for their diverse cultures, history, beautiful landscapes, and wildlife. Though it is one of the most scenic states in the United States of America, it has a low rating of being the 47th state in terms of religion. Percentage wise, the population comes out to be about 35% of which claim to be affiliated with religion. Seeing these results of just the state of Montana, made us question "why would a state that is seen as a masterpiece with its landscapes and wildlife have such a low ranking for religion?" You would think in a place like Montana you could just see and feel the Lord's work all around you, but the sad reality is that is not the case for the majority of residents in Montana. Bozeman ranks among the fastest-growing cities in Montana, thanks to its vibrant atmosphere fueled by Montana State University, its proximity to Yellowstone National Park attracting tourists, and its renowned recreational spots. Additionally, the city's natural beauty draws numerous nature enthusiasts. Religion wise, this city is placed in one of the counties with fewer than 1/3 of resident's who are faith affiliated according to the 2020 religion census. This city has all the amenities, but when it comes to knowing the Lord, this community is starving spiritually.

Physical Needs

Bozeman is not just starving spiritually, but physically as well. The average cost of living in Bozeman is $2,616/month, which is in the top 7% of the most expensive cities in the world. The average rent for an apartment is $2,600. The average home value is $733,965. These prices keep climbing as our economy climbs, which is causing a dangerous number of people who are struggling and homeless in Bozeman. You may think being homeless is cheaper compared to the prices listed above, but you are wrong.

"It's expensive being homeless." quoted from a resident living with his wife and 3 children in Bozeman, Montana in their camper.

The reason it's expensive is because the majority of these residents who are homeless are living within their vehicles, which in the harsh winters of Montana can be dangerous so these residents are just trying to find ways to be warm and survive, which can cost more than they have. There are warming centers, but the population of homelessness is outweighing the capacity for these centers causing sad situations to happen. The problem isn't a simple fix of getting a job, because the majority of these residents already have jobs. Bozeman's prices can make it difficult to live peacefully within this beautiful town surrounded by mountains. 

We have been moved by the spirit of God to go into this place to share the Gospel and plant a church. This is a huge step for our family as we will face attacks from our adversary the devil, as well as many other struggles associated with raising funds for this mission. We ask that you partner firstly with us in prayer. Pray that we would be filled with the spirit of God, and continue in His strength, not our own! Pray that we will reach our financial goal to be fully funded by May of 2026! And lastly, we ask that you consider partnering with us in monthly support. You may not be able to do much, but I promise you, no amount is too small when it comes to God! When you invest in this mission, you are investing in souls that desperately need Christ, and his church! Help us bring it to them! Thank you so much for your willingness to help us reach the people of Bozeman for the Lord!

Corbin & Erica Madden