In May, I was reminded again of how God has blessed our collective missionary efforts through the BBFI.  During the Missions morning of our national meeting, we witnessed the approval of several new career missionaries.  On the other end of the spectrum, we saw recognition of those who have served for decades.  I returned home and opened the Bridge digital newsletter with the 2022 Harvest Report.  Through the collective ministries of BBFI missionaries, thousands of people have trusted Christ for salvation and followed through with believer’s baptism.  Thousands more are being trained as leaders, and over 150 new churches were established.

The words of 2 Corinthians 4:15 came to mind how Paul explained that God’s grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving, and God will receive more glory.  I am humbled at what God allows us to be a part of in the sending of servants and the harvest of souls around the world.  We are blessed with congregations that love and serve missionaries well.  We are quick to respond to the needs we are made aware of from missionaries we partner with (Philippians 4:15-16).  

The Missionary Care Offering is a means to meet many needs we might not be aware of or be able to address as individual churches.  Because of your generous participation, missionaries have received security training, assistance with missionary child issues, counseling, emergency-related travel funds, and more.  Regional International Retreats provide refreshment and fellowship for those far from home.  This year, East Africa is on the calendar as a regional retreat location.  Having visited numerous missionaries in their context, I can attest to the need for and the value of these life-giving experiences.  

The ability for the Mission Office to respond to needs in a timely manner is of great value.  I am aware of many circumstances (robberies, complicated legal issues, evacuations due to political unrest, post-traumatic counseling sessions, funerals) that have been addressed, bringing immediate relief to our brothers and sisters serving on the mission field.  Your participation in the Missionary Care Offering makes this possible.  If you have given to this offering, I want to express my gratitude.

I encourage you to join me in demonstrating love and care for the missionaries of the BBFI.  Please take time to fill out and return the commitment card which was sent to your office.  Any one-time or recurring gifts are greatly appreciated.(Proverbs 11:25)

We are blessed,

Rev. John Henry Theisen

BBFI 1^st VP Missions