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Update (3/30/08): A new website has been set up for information about Nicholas Francisco. http://www.findnicholasfrancisco.com/ Please change your links to there for any updates and information. Comments are now closed on this post.

We are deeply saddened about the disappearance of former Mars Hill member, Nicholas Francisco. Nicholas went missing on February 13, 2008 at approximately 6:00 p.m., shortly after telephoning his wife, Christine, to let her know that he was on his way home. He left his place of employment in Lower Queen Anne, and is assumed to have driven his red, 1992 Toyota Paseo, license number 601RHX, south toward the Southcenter/SeaTac area. Unfortunately, that is the last news of Nicholas.

Said Lead Pastor, Jamie Munson,

“Although, the Francisco family recently left Mars Hill Church, as Christians we love them and are profoundly concerned for Nicholas’ safety and the well being of the family.”

Mars Hill members have been involved in organized searches of the Seattle area and have provided support to Christine and the Francisco’s two children. Mars Hill elders and deacons have been notified and all information on Nicholas’ disappearance has been posted on our members’ site. Most importantly, we have been in prayer for Nicholas’ safety, the comfort of his family, the police’s due diligence and a swift resolution to this troubling situation.

Pastor Adam Sinnett, the West Seattle Campus Pastor, has spoken with the Francisco family and friends, who have gathered for prayer and search strategy. Pastor Sinnett reiterated,

“For most of us it’s difficult to imagine how Christine is feeling, alone with two children with another on the way. Please keep them in your prayers during this difficult time. There is much we can do for our brother and sister in Christ by rallying together in prayer for a quick and positive resolution.”

We’re asking the members of Mars Hill Church to continue to pray for the Francisco family. For those of you who are able to help with practical needs, please direct inquiries through Pastor Adam to not overwhelm the family. Additionally, there will be an account set up at Washington Mutual in Christine Francisco’s name for monetary donations. The family asks that you donate to the fund for search efforts and reward monies in lieu of sending meals. As well, if you or members of your family are in need of pastoral assistance or guidance in response to these events, you may contact your campus pastor or Pastor Adam Sinnett at adam@marshillchurch.org or 206.706.6641.

Earlier Pastor Mark Driscoll commented,

“My family and I have been in fervent prayer that (Nicholas) would return home safely and that God would comfort and strengthen (Christine) in this difficult season. I am grateful for the many people at Mars Hill who are praying and encourage them to continue to pray that he would return home safely soon. A husband and daddy are missing, so prayer and loving support are greatly appreciated.”

We are committed to serving this family in its time of dire need. Please continue to watch the members’ site for further information and please do pray for Nicholas’ safe return.

WEST SEATTLE CAMPUS UPDATES
02.20.08 @ 7:19PM: No news today. Reward bumped up to $15k for information leading to his finding.

Also, the following are directions for making donations to the Francisco family:

1. Go to any Washington Mutual Branch and make a donation to the “Nicholas Francisco Family Fund.” Funds will be deposited to a benevolent account and made available to the family.
2. If you are not able to get to a Washington Mutual Bank, you can go to any bank and have them wire money to the family’s fund. Provide your bank with the following information:
• Name of Account: “Nicholas Francisco Family Fund”
• Bank Address: Washington Mutual; 359 Strander Blvd.; Tukwila, WA 98188

02.18.08 @ 2:41PM: There is a search party meeting Jon Holland of the King County Sheriffs office at the Park and Ride at 901 S 348th St, Federal Way tonight at 6:30p. He will provide instructions on how to help with the search. our safety is being considered. Please bring a flashlight if you can.

02.18.08 @ 12:07PM: Search canceled.

02.18.08 @ 12:07PM: CANCELED – CHANGE OF PLANS. MEET AT 2PM TO CONTINUE SEARCH IN THE AREA OF THE HERITAGE CONDO’S WHERE THE CAR WAS FOUND. Meet at rear of parking lot of the nearby COSTCO….35100 Enchanted Parkway South, Federal Way, Washington 98003

02.18.08 @ 11:45AM: Nic’s car was found in Federal Way. 2:00PM search cancelled. More info to follow.

02.18.08 @ 10:12AM: CANCELED – This afternoon there will be another search at 2pm meeting at the Ballard Mars Hill Campus (1401 NW Leary Way, Seattle, WA 98107) at the East entry (family entrance) sweeping the Ballard/Interbay/Lake Union/Ballard Locks/Fremont areas. The plan is to break off into groups to sweep the largest area possible. Flyers will be available, but feel free to print off some and bring some. Tape and staples are helpful as well for posting them on poles. The official site for the search is: http://www.mailpen.net.

02.16.08 @ 9:30PM: For those who would like to to search and distribute fliers, there is a group meeting at 2:00PM tomorrow (Sunday) at the Queen Anne QFC on 1st & Republican – in the parking lot.