(by Pastor Jon Haley, BBFI Vice President over Missions)

I honestly believe the BBFI has some of the greatest missionaries in the world.  I grew up believing missionaries were heroes. They have done nothing to change my mind.  Missionaries live lives of sacrifice, surrender, and struggle.  They live away from family, familiarity, and FOOD.  I do not have to tell you missionaries need rest, relaxation, and renewal.  Pastor, you know how difficult it is to minister and you are aware of how difficult it is for our missionaries to serve in a different culture. I believe you, more than the average church member, understand the need for renewal. 

Every summer, missionary families that are home on furlough are encouraged to attend the Missionary Reunion held in Branson, MO.  The Mission Office strives to make this a time of renewal.  Wonderful accommodations and meals are arranged, as well as, activities for every member of each family.  Our support of the Missionary Care offering helps underwrite much of the costs of this highly beneficial retreat. Due to Covid-19, the missionary reunion was put on hold the last two years.  This June, the reunion is back and better (and because of the Missionary Care Offering, more affordable) than ever. 

On occasion, regional Missionary Retreats are organized in various places around the world.  Missionary families gather together at these events for fellowship, worship, teaching, and rest. Drawing strength and encouragement from moments like these are certainly an essential element for long term effectiveness. Our support of the Missionary Care offering helps with these efforts.

The funds are also used to help families in time of crisis with evacuation and special expenses incurred when tragedy hits their families. Failing to plan is planning to fail. The Missions Office has a plan, and this was evident and impactful in 2020 and 2021. COVID-19 brought unprecedented challenges, obstacles, and realities that have not been experienced in my lifetime. I am thankful the Missions Office was able to come along side our missionaries with money from the Missionary Care Funds. We were able to use money from the Missionary Care Fund this year to offset the medical plan for all our missionaries.  The premium increase was scheduled to be nearly 40% this coming year. The Missionary Care fund pitched in and lowered the increase to 5%. Your generosity was a tremendous blessing to our missionaries during this global pandemic.

I encourage you to join me in giving to this important offering.  Undoubtedly, you have already seen the commitment card that was mailed along with this letter.  Please don’t simply push this aside. Take the time to fill it out and help our Missions Office help our missionaries.

Thank you for caring,

Rev. Jon Haley