Two astronauts are finally back on Earth after an unexpected nine month stint at the International Space Station (ISS). Sunita ‘Suni’ Williams, 59, and Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore, 62, were supposed to spend only eight days at the ISS when technical issues with their return capsule left them stranded for 286 days. During a press conference from space, Wilmore, however, pointed back to his faith. “I can tell you honestly my feeling on all of this goes back to my faith. It’s bound in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” he said. “He is working out his plan and his purposes for his glory throughout all of humanity, and how that plays into our lives is significant and important. And however that plays out, I am content because I understand that. I understand that he’s at work in all things. Some things are for the good. Some things to us look not so good. But it’s all working for his good for those that will believe. And that’s the answer.” Williams and Wilmore were finally rescued by one of Elon Musk’s Space X return capsules.

During his time stranded, Wilmore was able to stay connected to his local church, Providence Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas, which celebrated his return on Sunday. “He watched every Sunday. So having that, being able to hear the word of God, having the Word of God to read—like that—the Lord’s the one that sustained him through it all,” said Pastor Corey Johnson. Readjusting to Earth’s gravity will require 45 days of rehabilitation. “It’s going to take a while. He hasn’t driven yet. I asked if he had mowed his yard yet. He laughed and said, ‘Not yet,’” said Johnson.

Answers in Genesis (AIG), which calls Wilmore a “friend” of the ministry, also celebrated his return. “He’s kept in touch with us during his unexpectedly long stay aboard the International Space Station. We’re thrilled that he and Williams have returned to our planet safely and have begun their rehabilitation as they adjust to the effects of gravity on their bodies. Please be in prayer for that process that there would not be any long-term health consequences due to the length of their stay,” wrote AIG founder Ken Ham. Wilmore will be speaking at AIG’s Ark Encounter on June 12, 2025 to celebrate the program’s first “Astronaut Encounter.”