Mike Duff, who has faithfully served with us in the Mission Office for the past 18 years, regularly provokes smiles and chuckles in employees and missionaries alike with his unique sense of humor.  Mike was kind enough to share with us what he enjoys doing on his own time.

I came to the Mission Office in 2002 during a transitional time in our lives. When I accepted the position, I told Dr. Baird that we only expected to be here about six months. That was 18 years ago. I think I read somewhere, “My plans are not your plans…”

Because everyone at the Mission Office wears more than one hat, I manage the Mail Room and the Medical Plan. An odd combination but they both start with M so it works!

Tell us about your family and their connection with missions.

I have been married to Debbie for 43 years. She is a very patient woman! We have three children and five grandchildren. I love being in the Grandpa business!

We have been blessed for most of our marriage to be involved in missions-minded churches. While working on staff at Park Street Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, FL, we had the opportunity to experience missions on a whole new level.

Working at the Mission Office has allowed me to be involved in the lives and ministries of missionaries around the world, and that has made missions personal for me. 

What is one thing that few people know about you?

Honestly, if you know me there is probably not much I haven’t told you :0)

What is your favorite indoor/outdoor activity?

Without question my favorite outdoor activity is backpacking!

My favorite indoor activities are making YouTube videos and blogging about… backpacking!

What are your personal goals?

My bucket list, as I near retirement (in 4 years), is a list that includes one item – hiking the Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada (3,100 miles).

What are some major accomplishments that the Mission Office has achieved during your tenure?

The transition of the Medical Plan in 2009 has been the biggest project for me. When Bro. Konnerup asked me if I would take the lead for the transition, the only thing I knew about insurance was that I had some!

Though it has been a challenge at times, it has been exciting and fulfilling to see the Medical Plan become what it is today.

What do you like most about working in the Mission Office?

I think what I have enjoyed the most through the years has been watching relationships with our missionaries make the transition from business / ministry acquaintances to personal friendships. I am blessed to have friends around the world.

For daily functions, I enjoy leading prayer time at the Mission Office each morning. We keep an active prayer list and meet daily at 9:00 to read a prayer letter and pray for our missionaries. There is a unity and connection at the daily prayer time.

Mike can always be reached at mduff@bbfimissions.com.