The Inside Story - November Edition

An inside look at the stories of those behind Aglow Australia.   

The Inside Story takes an inside look at the lives we love, perhaps only heard about, or may not even know at all. Mentors, leaders, valued Kingdom partners, and most of all you, of whom, together, are forming the wider, magnificent story of Aglow Australia today.  

Surprise! Since December’s newsletter will take on a different format for Christmas, we felt it fitting for our last traditional newsletter of the year to feature Nancy McDaniel, Aglow International’s President and CEO.

We all recognised that when Nancy stepped into the role of President and CEO, there was a resounding “yes” in the Spirit. While Aglow International was established and built on the deep, lasting legacy of Jane Hansen-Hoyt, we’ve also seen that in this new era, Nancy has been clearly appointed by God to lead Aglow forward globally.

In fact, as Australia has been transitioning to a new level, it has been in direct response to what the Lord is doing corporately in Aglow through its leadership and purposes for this time.

Q1: Prior to becoming President and CEO, you were Aglow’s International Prayer Director for 26 years. What did you love about that role, and how did it equip you for the position you hold today?

A: It was an amazing honor and joy to serve as the International Prayer Director. When I first stepped into that role, I asked the Lord what I could possibly contribute to such a vast, mature army of intercessors around the world. His answer was simple: “Just get them to all march the same direction.” We have learned to do that over the years — just follow Him.

Serving as Prayer Director opened up a view of the world to me and helped me understand and appreciate more about the purpose God has for each unique nation and people group. While every nation has unique challenges, each one also carries a unique purpose and expression of Who God is in the earth. Without this understanding, we have a limited, one-sided perspective of “God so loved the world.”

On a personal note, it has been such a joy to get acquainted with our Aglow family as I’ve travelled through about 50 nations. When I think of a nation, I picture the people — those I’ve prayed with, eaten with, laughed with, cried with. What a beautiful family we have.

Q2: You are also a visionary and apostolic leader. This was evident in your recent “Dawn to Destiny” virtual conference, where your message carried prophetic decrees. (A PDF of this message is attached in this article.)

Statements such as: “A people marked by fearlessness in this era… Kingdom influencers… Destiny is dawning upon every promise and every prophecy… Now is your appointed time, Aglow… God is wearing you on His hand as His signet ring…”

Being so apostolic, how does this drive you, and what are you most passionate about?

A: With the apostolic mantle of Aglow, I am very Kingdom focused and motivated. I’m constantly stirred by the big picture of how God is building His people and His Kingdom from Genesis to Revelation. Every revelation in the Word that uncovers God’s plan and helps us understand how He works brings me such joy.

This Kingdom focus shapes how I respond to world events, crises, and even the darkness we see. When something happens, I ask, “What is God doing in this, and how does it fit in His redemptive plan?” When I see darkness, I actually get excited, because the Light of God uncovers darkness — which means that is where His Light is about to shine.

I’m deeply passionate about the strategies of the Holy Spirit to fulfill the Kingdom call of the ecclesia: to disciple people and nations into transformation, and to partner with Jesus in His mission to destroy the works of darkness (1 Corinthians 15:24–26).

Q3: Quick rapid-fires!

Where do you and your husband Dave live?

We live in Maricopa, Arizona, just south of Phoenix. We moved here in March 2025 after living in California all our lives. It’s a desert, and we love the desert and the warm climate. It’s a quick flight to Seattle for monthly trips to Aglow headquarters. Good news — beginning January, we will also have a small apartment in Edmonds as our “home away from home.”

Favourite thing to do for down-time?

Dave and I enjoy very simple pleasures — wandering through shops, taking long walks, and dreaming together. Most of what we do started as a dream on a long walk.I also enjoy cooking (creatively, not by the recipe!). Sometimes my creations are wonderful; sometimes they teach me which ingredients should never meet. When I travel, I love recreating meals from different nations. Baking is not my thing — too much measuring.

Latest book or film?

I stay stimulated by current Christian writings, and when I have time, I enjoy a good novel. Some of my go-to authors are John Grisham and Maeve Binchy.

Favourite food?

I enjoy a wide variety of food! One of our favourite traditions is our “Taco Tour” — visiting several taco spots in one day. Our favourite location is downtown San Diego.

What are you looking forward to most this Christmas?

I love Christmas music — all varieties. I also enjoy the lights and decorations. There’s something peaceful and joyful about it all. Dave handles most of the decorating, and he does a beautiful job.

Favourite national leader?

Ha! I know a trick question when I hear one!