Phil was born in Toronto but spent his first 18 years in Zambia as a missionary kid. Phil’s interest in mission aviation began while travelling to and from school on the mission plane.

Merilee grew up in a Christian family in Toronto and committed her life fully to Christ when she was 18 years old. After high school, Merilee attended university in London, ON, where she graduated with an Honours Degree in Kinesiology.

Phil and Merilee met in London and after they were married, they moved to Prairie Bible College in Three Hills, AB, where they trained to serve with Mission Aviation Fellowship.

Phil and Merilee, together with their three girls Kaitlyn, Lily, and Evelinne, served with MAF in N’Djaména, Chad, for 11 years. As a pilot, Phil transported missionaries and humanitarian aid workers. Merilee’s focus was caring for the family and practically living out God’s love to those around her, while also working as a debriefer and coach.

For a season, the Hendersons are serving on staff at Rift Valley Academy (RVA) in Kenya. RVA strives to educate and disciple students towards their potential in Christ thus enabling their families to serve on the mission field. Phil is the director of security and helps to manage the facility maintenance while Merilee is the high school girls’ chaplain and a member of the student spiritual life team.