John J. Norton is co-founder and director of the Around-the-World (ATW) Semester program at Concordia University Irvine. The goal of the ATW Semester is to introduce students to global mission work, as well as to instruct them in thoughtful cultural engagement. John also serves the university as Professor of English and department chair. John and his wife Erica run a nonprofit organization called Bose Road Ministries that designs and leads high-impact educational experiences for churches and schools. With their three kids, Jack, Naomi, and Sheffield, John and Erica have led over 100 university students on international academic and missionary adventures all around the world.
John Norton is a man of faith and action. He and his very special family joined with handpicked undergraduates for international travel all over the world...Professor Norton and his team combined scholarship, service and faith into all they did..the byproduct cannot be measured but know for sure that the trips deeply enhanced his student's vision, knowledge and compassion. His book captures those very qualities which will continue to inspire all of us. --Kevin DavenportSenior Pastor, Saddleback Covenant Church Too many of us settle for a college experience that is ordinary. John Norton discovered that a journey is often a better venue for learning than a single classroom. His stories wonderfully illustrate how one intrepid family and a class of students can combine global adventure with academic purpose. -- Seth Barnes Founder, Adventures in Missions Reading this book reminded me of how God can use ordinary people to produce extraordinary results for His kingdom throughout the world. When students and teachers truly seek to love their neighbors as themselves, lives are impacted in profound ways. The experiences shared in this story book prove that time and time again. -- Steven J. Buuck, PhDCEO, Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School (Las Vegas, NV) John Norton is a great story teller and he has plenty of stories to tell! He tells stories of human interaction that express the goodness of God. John explores the spiritual realities faced by missionaries around the world. His many experiences highlight the power of kindness and friendship to refresh the soul. -- Mark Puttick