-from Pastor John Theisen, BBFI 1st VP Missions

This past month, I was reminded again of how God has blessed our collective missionary efforts through the BBFI.  During the recent Fellowship Meetings, we heard summary reports of thousands of conversions, followed by baptisms, leaders trained and over 100 churches started through the ministries of our collective missionaries.  Praise God! During the Missions Morning of our National Meeting, we witnessed the approval of several new career missionaries.  We also recognized those who have faithfully served for decades.   This is always a sweet time and even more so this year for me as one of the couples approved served their internship with us.  The Missions Morning carried over into an exciting building dedication for our new World Mission Service Center!   

Following lunch, and just before ribbon cutting, I reminded our guests of the service to the local church provided by our Mission Office.  While missionaries are sent from local churches, our Mission Office provides so much in the way of care and support for these servants.  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 family issues, counseling, emergency-related travel funds, and more.  Regional retreats provide refreshment and fellowship for those far from home.  East Africa hosted a regional gathering this year and the feedback from our missionaries was very encouraging.  I can attest to the need for, and 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, evacuation due to political unrest, post-traumatic counseling, funerals, etc.) that have been addressed bringing immediate relief to our brothers and sisters serving on the field.  Our collective participation in the Missionary Care Offering makes this possible.  If you have participated in this offering through the annual golf fund-raiser or direct support, 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 you will soon receive through the mail.  Any one-time or recurring gifts are greatly appreciated.  (Proverbs 11:25)

We Are Blessed.