Michele Annibal

Michele Annibal on Mount Washington, NH, USA, which she summited in 70-plus mph winds and minus-50 windchill.

Nationality: American. Occupation: Health care industry consultant. Missions with C4C: Malawi 2014 and 2016.

How long have you climbed? Since 2010. Type of climbing you do: Trekking, backpacking, learning ice climbing. Highlight of climbing career: Summiting Kilimanjaro (highest I’ve done) and Mount Washington (summited in the worst weather I’ve experienced!).

How long have you been a Christian? Since 1993. Type of ministry you are blessed to serve in: Children’s ministry, home group host/co-leader.

Favorite Scripture verse (and why): Micah 6:8. “…And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”   Because I think it simply and truly outlines how we are to live out our faith in the face of the incredible grace and forgiveness bestowed upon us, and is a call to action – more so than just agreeing with and appreciated justice and mercy, we are to pursue them as the very hands and feet of Christ.  And all this, in the context of a humble and obedient walk – moving forward – alongside God.

Special “God moment” you'd like to share: In September 2012, I visited a dear friend, her mother and her sister, who was battling cancer at 34 years old and on hospice. This was a painful and dark time for this incredibly strong and faithful family, and together we prayed and cried. And yet in these dark moments I felt the unwavering love of God Who loves us no matter what – and the certainty that He somehow redeems all things for the good of those who love Him.

What does Climbing For Christ mean to you? It means taking the verse above – Micah 6:8 – to heart and actually acting on the need to pursue justice in this broken world. It means being challenged physically and emotionally, and sacrificing when called to do so, to reach those that might not other know how loved they are.