It is a joy to see how God brings new individuals to the Mission Office staff who are uniquely gifted and have a heart for ministry through missions. Recently, Mary Copeland joined us in the important first-impression role as Receptionist. Please help us make her feel welcome either when you call in or by emailing her at mcopeland@bbfimissions.com!

Tell how and when you came to the Mission Office and what your role is.

I had inquired a year ago to see if there would be any openings when the new building opened.  At the time, the answer was no. I was happy at my current job and went on with life, forgetting all about that inquiry.  One day, while at work, I received a phone call asking if I would like to apply for the job and the answer was a resounding yes.

Tell us about your family and your connection to missions.

I am a second-generation missionary kid through the BBFI.  My family is the Stampers, missionaries in Kenya.  I have been around the Mission Office my whole life.

What did you do before coming to work at the Mission Office?

I was the Customer Service Manager at Hobby Lobby for a little over three years but worked there for six months before taking that position.  It was like another family there and was the hardest part about leaving.  My coworkers there were all very excited to see me leaving to work in the Mission Office.

Outside the Bible, do you have a favorite book?

I am a bookworm at heart and cannot easily pick one favorite.  My favorite authors are Jill Eileen Smith and Francine Rivers.  They both have multiple books that I reread on a regular basis.

What indoor/outdoor activities bring you the most enjoyment?

I really enjoy hiking and photography.  I am also a second-degree blackbelt in Taekwondo.  Even though I have not been able to attend classes since COVID, I still love practicing it as I have the opportunity, as well as teach women’s self-defense. I am also an avid crafter!

What is your favorite restaurant and what do you order?

Ethiopian food!  My favorite is Doro but I will usually order a sampler plate to get as much variety as possible.  Since that is not available in Springfield, it depends on my mood as to what my favorite is.   I love eating food from all different countries of the world. (I am sure being an MK has a little something to do with that!)  I do love Indian food and will usually get curry.  When I am in the mood for Chinese food, I will get General’s chicken. In other words, I love spicy food!

If you could travel anywhere, where would it be and why?

Kenya!  This one did not take any thought as Kenya is still home, even after living in the States for 20 years.  My heart has always been and will always be in Kenya and I fervently pray that one day the Lord will allow me to go back as a third-generation missionary and minister to the people I love.

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

I just really love being in a position where I can help missionaries.  Having grown up as an MK, I have seen some of the things missionaries deal with and it is nice knowing that the Lord has put me in a position where I can help them further the spread of the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the world!