Mark & Trudee Barfield

How many years have you been in the ministry and what is your ministry experience?
We have been in the ministry serving at ALCC for quite a while now.  We have served in the Children’s department, Orting Summerfest, and where ever the Lord calls us. 10 years ago, together, we started a Down Syndrome Support group where entire families come together and share life.  Gathering adults with special needs and having “Fun Nights” is also a passion of ours. Formally through P.A.V.E and informally on our own we have support groups for parents and care givers that have children with unique needs.

What is your current position?
Together we serve as Community Outreach Directors for ALCC. We are team leaders for The Life Center, Community Group Leaders and Mark leads as Head Usher, Pit Crew Leader and Driver.

What else have you done besides ministry?
Mark: I have worked for the City of Issaquah for 20 years and currently work for the City of Orting as Public Works Supervisor. One of my favorite times was when I was a Volunteer Firefighter. I have been coach for almost all 10 of our children in almost all sports.  I enjoy volunteering at the schools and was even a WATCH D.O.G. at one time. I currently hold the position of Principal at "The Barfiled Home School Academy."

Trudee: I hav served in church since I was little and always loved working in the Nursery, Vacation Bible Schools, Wednesday night Children’s Church and so much more. Many times I was promoted to director and leader during various times in the nursery, children's summer programs and as a volunteer youth group leader.  I love starting up groups such as: Praying Moms groups, Praying Wives groups, Bible Studies, Play groups, Women with Eating Disorders and Parents of Special Needs Support Groups.  Currently I serve on the City of Orting Parks Board. When I was young I worked for The Oregon Department Of Children Services as Community Support Assistant where I worked with children and their biological parents in reuniting and regaining custody.

How long have you been at Abundant Life?
We have been at Abundant Life since 2013.

Tell us a little about your family...
We have been married since 2008 when we blended our families that includes 6 children and have went on to have 4 more together.  Family is huge for them and we are very proud of each of our 5 girls and 5 boys.  Grandpa and Grandma is a title we cherish, and so far we have 6 grand children and can not wait to have many more.

What are you passionate about?
We both love for people and want everyone to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, which always draws us out into our community.

Share some fun information with us...
Fun Facts:

• Mark loves trying new recipes and loves using his Traeger
• Diet Coke is a daily staple and they have a whole garage shelf full at all times of Diet Coke
• Mark sings Karaoke
• They love long walks on the beach and trips to Costco just the 2 of them