by Jon Konnerup
A topic being widely discussed today is how younger generations are more interested in participating in tangible mission projects than in giving a fixed monthly amount of money. Well, the BBFI has the answer to these interests — the Missionary Projects Offering. Many have given for over 20 years through their churches to assist in the tangible projects of church buildings and missionary homes.
Church buildings give the local churches credibility in their communities. Through evangelistic efforts, people are saved. In these facilities, national leaders are trained to reach their own people with the gospel. Through social efforts, children are fed and/ or educated and orphans find refuge. Hundreds of these facilities have been built around the world through the Missionary Projects Offering. The number of lives that have been changed as a result is astounding and God honoring.
Supplying homes for missionaries on the field is another tangible project of the Missionary Project Offering. A BBFI home gives the missionary security and stability by not having to deal with a landlord that raises rent without warning or removes the missionary with little notice. The maintenance fee that the missionary pays is almost always lower than what rent would be for a house of equal value, and it covers any taxes, insurance, and major repairs on the house. Ultimately, those who live in these homes save ministry funds which, in turn, can be used for the ministry instead of being lost in rent.
Career missionaries supported on a monthly basis make it possible to accomplish all sorts of projects on the mission field. They know the needs, how to make things happen, and usually have the national leaders trained to take over these projects once the visiting team is gone. Our missionaries bring the stability and accountability needed to make sure the projects are completed and self sustained. It is through these missionaries that evangelism is initiated, churches are started, leaders are trained, and social efforts are accomplished.
Whichever way one chooses to be involved — church buildings or missionary homes — the mission efforts of the BBFI are strengthened and sustained. Both types of projects are a blessing to missionaries and to those in our churches who desire to give to projects. We encourage every church to select the projects with which you would like to participate. You can get a list of the projects from the Mission Office. You may want to consider one of the missionaries on the list whom you support and contact them about what you and your church can do to assist them. By doing so, you can impact the lives of the people they have gone to tell about Jesus. Already so many meaningful things have been done for people because many churches have participated in the Missionary Projects Offering.
We look forward to working with your church in furthering the work of the Lord around the world. Thank you for the part you have had through the years. Together we can do much for the glory of God!