Shepherds - Every Community for Christ (ECC)

Missionaries with OMS International since 1974, the Hochhalters first served in Ecuador for 16 years. In Guayaquil, Ecuador, Willie ministered initially as business manager. He then served as field director from 1982 through 1988, with Joani serving as secretary for the field office. Also involved with the Guayaquil “Encounter with God” church, Joani directed the English program while Willie conducted English classes and taught in the seminary. In 1989 the Hochhalters stepped in as dorm parents at The Alliance Academy in Quito—a school for missionary children. They served as administrators at Camp Pallatanga, as well.

Willie and Joani were among the first OMS missionaries to enter Mexico in 1990. They were involved in church planting and leading Bible studies as part of the first evangelistic outreach for OMS. Willie and Joani were also the Every Community for Christ (ECC) coordinators in Mexico. This involved working closely with the teams in evangelism, church planting, training. Joani was involved in Christian Education, training teachers, teaching in Sunday Schools, VBS, and helping in the administration of the ECC Mexico. Eleven churches were established using ECC teams from 1990-2000.

While serving in Mexico, they joined the ECC International Team, serving as Latin American Directors. This involved visiting the ECC teams in Latin America and the Caribbean to encourage and mentor. Willie and Joani have expanded their involvement as they work with ECC teams worldwide. They are currently serving as shepherds (mentors) with ECC teams in Colombia, Ecuador, the Caribbean, and Spain. They are also the statistical reporters and directing the prayer department of ECC.

Willie attended the University of Montana studying Business Administration. In Great Falls, Montana, Willie held positions in government and the business community before joining OMS.

The Hochhalters have four married children: Brandon in Louisville, Kentucky, with two children; Brett in Pocatello, Idaho, with two children; Brenda living in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, with three children; and Brock living in Cancun, Mexico, with two children.

Missionary ID #801165