Personal Background

Brandon and Amy Smith joined the ministry of AFCI-USA in September of 2016. They both graduated from the University of North Dakota (Brandon B.A. in Business Management, Amy B.A. Elementary Education). Upon graduation they joined the ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru) in 2007. They served with Cru for nine years in various ministry and leadership roles, engaging in Evangelistic and Discipleship ministries on four different campuses. During those years they were also involved in short-term evangelistic international ministry.

They both received Cru Biblical and Theological training through the Institute of Biblical Studies, the 2-year New Staff Training curriculum, as well as a variety of specific training and areas of study. Additionally, Brandon serves as an Elder in their local church in Moorhead, MN. With their three sons, Brody, Beckett, and Bridger they reside in West Fargo, North Dakota.

Ministry Focus

Brandon serves the body of Christ by preaching and teaching locally at churches, university campus events, and online via zoom and other social media avenues. Additionally, he also has developed ministry retreat opportunities for men in general and fathers and sons in particular. These retreats involve Biblical teaching and training in the context of various outdoor retreat activities.

God has also given Brandon and Amy a very special calling with the gift of their middle son, Beckett, with special needs. Beckett has severe disabilities as a result of neurological damage. Through Beckett’s life and the trials that have accompanied their family, God led them to start a podcast called “The Bluestem Project.” The Bluestem Project exists to provide Biblical answers and practical advice for those suffering from health issues and disability. Together they point people to Jesus and the hope only he can offer. You can find “The Bluestem Project” on all major podcast platforms.

This unique chapter and calling has opened up many doors for Brandon. He has been given a powerful platform to show how a Biblical worldview fits reality and has serious ramifications for our lives. By contrasting the Bible’s views concerning the Sacredness of Humanity and Life to the many relativized and pluralistic worldviews around us, he has been able to communicate the glory of God and beauty of the gospel to our secular world. Beckett’s condition and their journey of suffering has opened many doors for the gospel to be proclaimed.

Together, Brandon and Amy are advocates for those with special needs and their families. They have been blessed to discover and communicate God’s plan in disability to those inside and outside of the church.

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