Candidate

MINISTRY FOCUS

Richard and Sharon are in the process of applying to be full-time missionaries with Cadence International. They will go through a week of Candidacy, seeking God’s continued confirmation to serve with Cadence.

The Yons desire to minister to young adults, offering their home and hearts for hospitality so that they can share the gospel, encourage and disciple believers, and offer a reprieve from life on a military base.

FAITH

Rich’s mother raised him in the church, and he accepted the Lord as his Savior at nine years old while attending a Bible camp. He became truly interested in knowing more about God and desiring to obey Him at the age of 14, and he has been seeking to know Him more and make Him known throughout his Christian walk. It is Rich’s desire to be changed into the image of Christ as he learns what it means to love and serve God and others.

Sharon accepted Christ as her Savior at the tender age of eight. When she heard the bad news at a revival meeting that the wages of sin is death, she was frightened because she knew she was naughty. When the preacher explained the good news, she was ready! Sharon grabbed onto her Rescuer and never let go. It took another five years before the Holy Spirit worked in her life through a Bible camp speaker and counselor to guide her in the way of discipleship. It was at that point that Sharon learned how to make Jesus her Lord through Bible reading, prayer, and obedience. Through the years, God has faithfully guided her while she strives to be ever more like Him.

FAMILY

Rich was raised in South Carolina, and Sharon grew up near Kansas City, Missouri. The Lord directed them to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs so they could meet. The Lord blessed them with six children, three girls and three boys, throughout their Air Force career of over twenty years. Rich retired from active duty in 2020. They currently reside in North Pole, Alaska, and enjoy many outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, fishing, and biking. During the long winters, they relax with puzzles, games, and movies. They also love spending lots of time with their church family, worshipping and fellowshipping through summer softball and annual church camp.