Originally published in the July 17, 2008 issue of The Evangel.
Long before they began dating one another, John and Kathy Nugent both knew they were called to cross-cultural work. After marriage they continued to prepare for and pursue that direction. In 1990 they were matched with an appropriate opportunity to work overseas.
John grew up in a Christian family and came to know Christ at a young age. His family was always active in the local church. John holds a music degree from Oklahoma Baptist University and an M.Div. from Golden Gate Seminary. John worked in the computer industry for 10 years prior to moving to Asia, first as a technical writer and eventually as a senior programmer/analyst.
Kathy grew up in a family where church and Christianity was for Sunday morning. Her father was in the Marine Corps and was away from home about half of her early life. The family moved every year or so. Even though Kathy knew the Bible stories and could say the verses, she did not come to a true place of repentance and Lordship of Christ until she was a senior in high school. Kathy graduated from California Baptist College (now University) with majors in biology and P.E. Kathy worked as a Xerox field technician and later as a registered nurse.
John and Kathy met at the Church on Brady (now known as Mosaic). Over several years their relationship developed from coworkers at church and friends to dating. They were married in November of 1986. While at Brady, John and Kathy served in various roles such as Sunday School teacher, choir member, choir director, small group leaders and singles small group director.
The Nugents left Los Angeles for Asia in May of 1991 with their 1-year-old son David and have called Asia home ever since. All grown up now, David plans to enter Belmont University in the fall. His passions are music and the internet.
The Nugents have two other children, Amy and Christopher, both born overseas. Amy will be a junior in high school this year. Christopher will be entering the 6th grade. Both Amy and Christopher are avid readers.
The Nugent family will be in our residence through December of this year. Join us in welcoming them to First Baptist Nashville.
