Emmanuel and Kree’s missionary story began in New York City, where their paths crossed while serving separate ministries. Following their marriage, they deepened their vocation by working alongside the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal.

As their family expanded with the births of Juan Diego and Kolbe, they relocated to Kree’s hometown in Kansas. There, their family grew further with Augustino, Avila, and Teresita. Though blessed in Kansas, they felt a persistent call to foreign missions. After clearing the hurdle of long-standing student loan debts, they attended a Discernment Week with Family Missions Company in March 2020, fully embracing the Gospel call: “Come, follow me.” (Matthew 19:21).

Their first mission took them to the jungles of Peru, in that season that included the birth of their sixth child, Damiano. Today, the family’s adventures have taken them to a new mission post in Comayagua, Honduras, where they are primarily serving at a home for children along with other ministries. This chapter has also brought double the joy with the arrival of their twin daughters, Mercy Rose and Siena!

Living out radical faith and trusting completely in divine providence, the Peñas invite you to partner with them in proclaiming the Good News and serving those in greatest need.

Get in touch with the family by emailing ekpena@familymissionscompany.com