, Doug Lucas, and Chris Bushnell

Table of Contents Preliminaries Chap. 1 - Making Good Decisions Chap. 2 - Scoping Out Your Path Chap. 3 - Networking with Others Chap. 4 - Finding Your Field of Service Chap. 5 - Thinking God's Thoughts Chap. 6 - Raising Support Chap. 7 - Being Strong in the Lord Chap. 8 - Being the Best You Can Be Chap. 9 - Taking That First Step Chap. 10 - Tentmaking -- Counting the Cost Chap. 11 - Q & A About Sending Churches Chap. 12 - Leading Youth to Serve in Missions Chap. 13 - From Donuts to Dufflebags: One Man's Perspective on Perspectives Appendix A - Emergency Response Procedures Appendix B - PreDeparture Checklist Appendix C - Writing Those in Sensitive Countries Preliminaries Acknowledgments Without the input of scores of individuals, this book would not have been possible. Special thanks goes to Wesley Paddock, who did extensive work during the revising and rewriting process. Wes' 26 years of teaching missions have taken him to locations such as Colorado, Kenya, and Cincinnati Bible College & Seminary, where he now serves as Chairman of the Department of Missions. Additional appreciation goes to Rondal Smith, Chris DeWelt, Wayne Shaw, Larry, Doggett, Glen Elliott, Chris Bushnell, David Cook, Sherman Pemberton, David Filbeck, Mark Huddleston, Eddie Elliston, Dana Eynon, Curt Nordhielm, and the many, many others who submitted reviews and suggestions. The authors would not have participated in this project had these professionals not contributed.

Finally, a special thanks goes to the Task Force on Missions, chaired by Rondal Smith, called into being by the Open Forum. By commissioning this work, they hope to provide some degree of assistance to new world-changers who venture abroad. About the Authors Doug Lucas and Chris Bushnell serve with Team Expansion, a cooperation of interdependent direct-support missionaries. Their role in the preparation of this handbook was that of creating, distributing, compiling suggestions (for revision), then rewriting. Marty Andry served with Team Expansion from 1986 through July, '97. Marty, currently planting a new church cross-culturally in New York, served with Team Expansion from 1985 through July '97. He graduated from Cincinnati Bible College with a degree in Bible and Missions. He has an MA from Cincinnati Bible Seminary in Practical Ministries. His responsibilities with the mission included recruitment, field research, personnel, discipleship and shepherding. He was involved in evangelism and discipleship in Venezuela, Colombia, Ireland, Ukraine, and Asia. Doug and his wife, Penny, have two sons, Christopher and Caleb. As Coordinator of International Services, Doug attempts to facilitate the growth and effectiveness of Team Expansion personnel worldwide. Doug's Bachelor's degree is from Kentucky Christian College, and his Master of Arts in Missions is from Cincinnati Bible Seminary. He is presently completing a Ph. D. in Management at California Coast University. The Lucases served as missionaries in Team Expansion's "flagship" field, Montevideo, Uruguay. Now they are heavily involved with initial field research and the development of additional opportunities for world evangelism, as well as training, recruitment, and local church relations for Team Expansion. The Lucases launched a new work in Ukraine before the fall of the Soviet government. Doug recently launched a missions network called "Brigada," available as a weekly email magazine (to subscribe, see Brigada's page on the worldwide web, point your browser to http://www.brigada.org. Chris and his wife, Diane, have two children and have another one on the way. Chris currently serves as Vice President of Personnel and

Treasurer of Team Expansion. He has led numerous short-term trips to Latin America, including a full summer project in Argentina. Chris is a traner at heart -- he focuses much of his time in International Services with Forwarding Agents, recruits, and missionaries on home service. He's also a very accomplished golfer, having achieved near "pro" status at several points in his life. Chris was involved in reviewing and rewriting much of the material for the Second Edition. He also contributed the entirety of Chapter 12. About the Second Edition This book is a dynamic document. We have tried to include any changes since the first edition in this current one. Please send any corrections, ideas, and additional notes to Team Expansion. New data will then be added to later editions. Thanks! Dedication This work is dedicated to the Lord of hosts, who guides world-changers into His harvest fields across the globe. Forward to the Second Edition The missionary message really hit home. You stepped out in faith and committed your life to mission work. "Anywhere God can use me," You say. People congratulate you for such a brave move in your life. Then, all of a sudden, you are standing there alone. The next thought that comes to you is, "Okay, where do I go from here?" "What field is God calling me to?" "How do I get the support I need?" "What is the will of God in my life?" These are all good questions and you need quick answers while you heart is so open to the direction God is leading. Help for you to answer many of these questions is in this book, which I highly recommend. This is one of the books that I use in teaching "Preparation for the Mission Field" at St. Louis Christian College. Doug Lucas has talked to many recruits who have asked these same questions on many occasions. He coordinates Team Expansion, a mission of the Christian churches/Churches of Christ. During the past decade, Team Expansion has grown from eight individuals to over one hundred missionaries, serving in South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. The Task Force on

Mission asked them to write such a book because they knew that many recruits are asking these questions may have no one to go to for help. Go through this easy-to-read book and many of your questions will be answered. Get together with others who are preparing to go to the mission field and ask a mission leader or missions professor to teach it to you in a class of students who are asking these very questions. It will be a very enriching time for you and God will keep you moving into a very fulfilling life of service for Him. Larry Doggett Professor of Missions St. Louis Christian College January 1994 Forward to the First Edition The DirectSupport missionary movement of the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ, in the final decade of this century, is approaching 75 years of age. Who would have thought in 1926 that by 1990 this movement would be sending and supporting hundreds of missionaries in over 50 nations around the world. Perhaps J. Russell Morse, who at this writing is more than 90 years of age, is the only one yet living from among those who served during the first days of independent, DirectSupport missions. The end of this century and the year 2000 have become symbolic for all of us. It is a time of reflection when we ask ourselves this question: As we approach the 21st Century, and should our Lord tarry, what direction should we take in order to be more effective stewards of the ministry that God has given us? It is good that we as a missionary movement are beginning to think about what our future course should be. However, any such discussion must take into account our own peculiar history, i. e. , how and what we have developed in order to carry out the Great Commission. In other words, we need out ask ourselves the question,"From where did we come?" as well as "Where do we go from here?"

The reason for this is twofold. First, we need to know our history in order to see where we have been strong and to build on that strength for the future. Second, we need to understand our past in order to correct weaknesses and deficiencies, especially in the light of what we see coming upon us in the 21st Century. In short, we must draw upon our experiences, successes, and yes, even our mistakes to meet the challenges of the future. What have been our successes and failures in the DirectSupport missionary movement? Several years ago, in writing about this, I characterized the successes and weaknesses of DirectSupport missions in terms of fission where there is an initial explosion and a good many particles are thrust outward. But they are only a mass of energy, and as the individual particles recede in time and space from the initial explosion, entropy sets in and the amount of energy contained in the mass actually decreases, eventually ceasing to be a force. (David Filbeck, "A Critical Look at Independent Missions," Christian Standard, Part I, August 18 (pp. 745-748), Part II, August 25 (pp. 771-772, Part III, September 1 (pp. 793-795), 1974.) Our main success has been our ability to recruit and send out a great number of missionaries. Christian Churches/Churches of Christ do have a good recruitment program. Its strength lies in the fact that it is direct (straight from the missionary to the prospective recruit), forceful and receives wide support and encouragement among churches, camps, colleges, and seminaries. But this success has unfortunately produced a number of weaknesses. There has been, for example, a high rate of returnees from the mission field, often due to lack of adequate preparation as to what to expect once on the mission field. There has also been a lack of consensus among sending churches and educational institutions regarding goals and what we as a missionary movement should be doing in the world. This has resulted in an inability on our part to discern what is actually mission work (i. e. , making disciples, baptizing and teaching) from what is only good works. The upshot is that everything and anything gets tagged and supported as mission work which in the end subtracts from our real commission to evangelize the non-Christian peoples of this world. Building on our past in order to improve our future performance as a missionary movement is

what authors Doug Lucas and Marty Andry have done in their well designed bookResources for Mission Recruits. They have, for example, built on my early writings on this subject, plus others such as Mark Maxey, Mission Services, their own work in Team Expansion and even Alexander Campbell. They have also brought in ideas from such wide sources as J. Herbert Kane, David Hesselgrave, MARC, and Intervarsity Press in order to present a picture of where we should go in the future. Such an integration is refreshing! Lucas and Andry address several topics in DirectSupport missions. But their discussion is never technical or mundane. Two such topics which they emphasize throughout their bookand which should be remembered throughout one's life as a missionaryare flexibility and persistence. There are too many times, while preparing to become a DirectSupport missionary, that one's resolve is tested. For example, after writing 500 letters and making 100 telephone calls to churches and missionary committees with little or no support to show for all the effort, discouragement can set in. Trying new strategies and persisting until the job is accomplished is the only way to win. And, of course, what is learned in flexibility and persistence while preparing for mission work will carry over into the mission field. And by being flexible and persistent, a missionary, even one newly arrived on the field, can survive. The printing of Resources for Mission Recruits is therefore a timely step in the preparation of new missionaries for the 21st Century. The recruits of the 1990s, the time in which this book will be used, will be our missionaries from the year 2000 onward. Moreover, when mission recruits are better prepared, especially along the lines outlined in this book, sending churches will feel more confident in sending them forth into the harvest. And finally, ministers will also feel better in recommending these recruits to churches and mission committees for financial support. I am encouraged by the continual interest in missions among the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ. This interest is producing a host of new missionaries for the future expansion of God's Kingdom around the world. Now the publication ofResources for Mission Recruits makes me even more optimistic that greater things are in store. All of which should

add up to an exciting 21st Century for missions of the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ.

David Filbeck, Ph. D. Chiang Mai, Thailand February 15, 1989 Go to the Table of Contents of Resources for Missionary Recruits Online Go to Chapter 1 of Resources for Missionary Recruits Online hapter 1 Making Good Decisions The "Will of God" Myth Decision making is serious business. From the beginning of time men have been trying to discover a means whereby they can be sure they are making the right decisions. Magic, sorcery, ritual prostitution, worship, and manipulation of the gods have been some of the ways chosen to try to force the divine powers to make decisions in the worshiper's favor. The ancient Greeks and Stoics of Rome believed that we were in the control of Fate. Happiness could only be found in accepting Fate. But one never knew exactly what Fate had in mind. Many Christians today operate the same way. A common misbelief is that God has a plan for each person. If that plan is not followed, then the person will be miserable and unfulfilled. The major problem in this concept is that we can never be sure if we are in the "perfect will of God" or "in the center of God's will." Various schemes are suggested to get God to either do what we want him to do or to find out exactly what he wants us to do. For people who hold this position it is acceptable to change location, occupation, move to a larger church or better paying position, or even choose a new life mate. All of this is credited to "the will of God." "God showed me that I was in the wrong place" or "God revealed to me that I should divorce my wife and marry this other woman because she was the one he intended for me to have all along."

First, let's look at God's personality for a moment. One veteran missionary explains it like this: God is a father, not a three year old child. Yet, so often, when it comes to discerning His will, Christians tend to forget this obvious truth. When our son was three years old, he came to me and said, "I want 'giguy.'" "Martha," I called, "What's a 'giguy'?" "What are you talking about? " she responded. "Well, Jeremy wants a 'giguy', and I don't know what he means." "Try giving him a glass of water and see if that satisfies him." And so the age old process began, a game known to every young parent which we will call, "Guess What Baby Wants." The water did not satisfy him, nor did the toy nor the cookie which I offered him. In fact I never did find out what 'giguy' was. So often a similar game takes place as Christians seek to discern the will of God. They seem to detect some obscure message from Him and become bogged down in the hopeless task of trying to figure out what it is He wants. As with the efforts to understand the three year old son, these Christians' efforts will more likely end in feelings of futility, frustration, and insecurity than in any real peace that they are walking in God's will. On the other hand, my communication with my earthly father followed a different pattern. If when I was a teen, my father asked me to take out the garbage, it was quite unlikely that I would turn to my brother and say, "You know, I have this feeling that my father is trying to tell me something, but I don't know what it is."I assure you, if my father wanted me to take out the garbage, he was more than capable of making his will clearly known. Of course there are other matters to consider. If I had my walkman on and the volume was on high, chances are I would never hear my father's orders to take out the garbage. Or if I was seldom at home, stayed out late at night, slept in late in the morning and rushed off too quickly to even have breakfast, I would have had a hard time knowing

what my father had to say to me. But as long as I was in a position to hear, I never had to guess what Dad wanted of me. So, in making good decisions, the question is not, "How do I know God's will?" The question is "How do I make good decisions?" Three areas are involved in making good decisions. Knowledge of the Scriptures Anyone who has built model airplanes or cars, run a computer, assembled a bicycle or an electric train will tell you one all important procedureBefore doing anything, read the directions. Christians have been given a master plan, a divinely inspired guidebook in which God provides the foundational directions for life. No Christian should make any decision that is going to affect the rest of his life, such as career or marriage, without first consulting the "directions." One veteran missionary, Timothy, was advised by the inspired master missionary, Paul, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of God." (2 Timothy 2:15) In the same book, Paul advises Timothy concerning the place of Scripture by telling him: "All Scripture is inspired by God (God breathed) and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:1617) Timothy had been involved in missionary work for more than 20 years. He was the closest friend and colleague of the Apostle Paul. Of all the men who traveled with Paul, Timothy was closest to his heart. After 20 years of faithful service, though, Paul uses his last letter to Timothy to call him back to the basics. "Be diligent"Keep your mind active, alert, and alive. Keep your focus where it needs to beon God's word and God's business. "To present yourself approved to God"presented to the One who must be allimportant in one's life, the only One from whom we need approval. It is His approval for which we are looking.

"As a workman . . . not ashamed" Recognize that we are workmen who are committed to a task which means we will give it our all. We do not want to be ashamed; thus we will give the task our very best. What is our work? "Handling accurately the word of God"Read all of 1 and 2 Timothy again to see the list of deceptive, false, and immoral practices that were in operation under the guise of religion, perhaps some even claiming to be Christian. Most of these false practices are still in operation today all around the world Only by diligent study of the word of God can we keep on the right track. The scriptures must be our standard, our criteria, our canon, for every decision we make. An emotional high or low is hardly a sufficient basis on which to make a lifeaffecting decision. "All Scripture is inspired by God"Scripture comes from God through his inspired writers, prophets, poets, kings, apostles and others. The high place of Scripture can never be overemphasized. God's instructions are clear. But we will have to study to tap this unending resource. Our concern is to determine how we will execute that will in our lives. "Profitable"Knowledge of God's inspired word brings great dividends to the believer. Some of these dividends are physical, but the most important are spiritual dividends. "That the man (or woman) of God may be adequate"Isn't that what we are striving forto be adequate? We attend school for 1220 years so that we can be adequate. We eat the right foods and exercise the right amount so that we can be adequate. Knowledge of the word of God is the only way we can ever hope to be adequate as workers in the Kingdom of God. "Equipped"Why are we Christians? Jesus said in his final declarations "Go, Make Disciples," and "You shall be my witnesses!" In the small community of Clifton, Colorado, in a rather insignificant building, some of the finest fire trucks in Colorado are built. There are not very many, though, because they are all hand built no assembly line. What makes them so special? These fire trucks are well equipped, designed by men who fight fires every week. They know what is needed on a good fire truck.

We are facing a major crisis, perhaps the greatest crisis that has faced the church through all of her history. Evolutionary thinking, materialism, existentialism, Eastern religions, pluralism, biblical criticism, situational ethics, and unrestrained immorality are threatening to devour the church. It is imperative that we are equipped with the word of God to meet this crisis. "For every good work"So you think you want to be a crosscultural worker or a missionary? Is that a good work? If it is, then a diligent study of God's word will have a major impact in preparing you for that work. The Holy Scriptures show us God's will. As relates to missionary work two famous passages need to be kept in mind: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believes on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) "The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) God did not love just 20% or 50% or even 80% of the world. John says he loved the WORLD. God showed how serious he was when He cared enough to send the most valuable person he had. No thing or person is as valuable as the Son of God. So we can ask, "Does God care? How serious is His commitment?" Then we must ask ourselves, "Do I care? How serious is my commitment?" God wishes that no one should perish. But He has left the responsibility in the hands of his Church of which you are a part. The apocryphal story is told of the day Jesus returned to heaven after his resurrection. He was met by the archangels Gabriel and Michael. They were concerned about how things had gone. When Jesus had finished elaborating on his years on earth and his victory over the devil, Gabriel asked, "What now, Lord?" Jesus answered, "I have left the rest of the world to be reached by 12 men." Michael was amazed and questioned Jesus, "What happens if they fail. After all they are only men?"

Jesus replied, "I have no other plan." Prayer Jesus, along with the writers of the New Testament, recommended, commanded and practiced prayer. Early in his ministry, Jesus told the disciples, "Ask and you shall be given; Seek and you shall find; Knock and the door shall be opened to you." (See Luke 11:913) James, the brother of the Lord, wrote in his epistle, "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5) As a prospective missionary, you need wisdom to make decisions correctly. James says to ask for such wisdom, having faith that God will provide such wisdom. Jesus also specifically commanded us to pray for workers for the Harvest (Matthew 9:3738). Sometimes we discover that we are the answer to our own prayers. In John 14:1314 and I John 5:1415 we are told that we will receive whatever we ask for, as long as we are obedient to Christ and seeking to do His will. Prayer is our communication with our heavenly Father. He will answer our prayers. Sometimes the answers may come in the lightning and the thunder. Martin Luther discovered that. More often though, the answers come as they did to Elijah, in a still small voice. Abraham was visited by angels and Jonah had a time of great soul searching while studying the inner anatomy of a fish's digestive tract. Be assured that God will give you the wisdom and guidance you need. Just remain open to that guidance. But He will not make the decision for you. That will be your responsibility. Good counselors Consultation is big business today. Schools, governments, industry, and projects spend millions of dollars in consultation fees. Whenever we

face a serious medical problem, we are advised to seek "a second opinion." An eminently wise man who lived almost a thousand years before Christ left several books with gems of wisdom. Concerning counseling and counselors, he had this to say: "Where there is no guidance, the people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is victory." (Proverbs 11:14) "Through presumption comes nothing but strife, but with those who receive counsel is wisdom." (Proverbs 13:10) "Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed." (Proverbs 15:22) "Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days." (Proverbs 19:20) "Prepare plans by consultation, and make war by wise guidance." (Proverbs 20:18) "For by wise guidance you will wage war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory." (Proverbs 24:6) "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel." (Proverbs 12:15) Summing up these proverbs we can say that failing to use counselors shows that we are presumptuous and fools. The results will be strife, frustration and failure. But using wise counselors provides wisdom, victory, and success. What does this mean to you? It means you need to talk to your minister, elders, and missionaries as well as other experts on the area you in which you are interested. From good friends and family members discover both your strengths and weaknesses. You may be in for some surprises in both areas. Don't let tunnelvision distort reality. Respect the wisdom of older people even when it seems to be contrary to what you thought to be true. Providence of God

Sometimes things happen that we cannot attribute to coincidence. A few years ago, a young lady walked into the office of the director of a mission agency. She held in her hand maps, pamphlets and demographic studies of her favorite country, Ireland. She said, "It's time you consider Ireland as a mission field. The director was in a hurry to leave for a speaking engagement at a Bible college, but he felt he could not put her off so he discussed it with her and prayed with her. But deep in his heart, he didnt think that Ireland qualified as a mission field. A few hours later he arrived at the college. One of the first people he met was a young man who wanted to be a missionary in Ireland. The mission director opened his eyes, did his research and found that Ireland was considered to be the least evangelical English-speaking nation in the world. Within a year, that mission agency's first missionaries arrived there to begin church-planting. Another young lady wanted to be a missionary in Latin America. When she returned to her college from summer recess, she found that she had been assigned a roommate from the People's Republic of China. They became close and soon, the young girl began to eat, sleep and breathe China. She decided to go to China as a missionary. There are times when God speaks to us through the circumstances that he sets up in our lives. One of the most vivid biblical examples of Providence is the story of Esther. We never read the name of God in the entire book. God does not speak to Esther audibly, but He put her in circumstances where she knew that she was the chosen one for the task of going to her husband, the king, on behalf of her people. She could have said,"Well, God hasn't really told me that he wants me to save his people, so maybe I shouldn't risk it. "Her uncle Mordecai said to her,"Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Who knows whether or not God orchestrated the housing officials at the school to put the Chinese girl with our friend or whether he caused those to people interested in Ireland to speak to the mission director on the same day. But in each case, God used the situations to bring good news to people in Ireland and China. The great missionary Praying Hyde was handed a note as he boarded ship for India. The very fact he was on his way to the mission field demonstrated how spiritual he was, or so he thought. The note said,

"You will be a good missionary when you are filled with the Holy Spirit." Hyde wadded up the note and threw it down, furious that anyone should question his spirituality. But soon he was overcome by the fact that he needed the Holy Spirit in his life. He fell to his knees and began to pray. The rest of the story is history. The rest of our lives is up to Him.
Questions to consider... What is God saying to you about His will for your life through His Word? Have you really, really asked Him to speak clearly to you? What are your Christian friends telling you you're good at? Where do "God's great hunger and your deepest gladness meet?" What circumstances seem to be guiding you these days? Instead of coincidence, could some of them be "God-incidents"?

Chapter 2 Scoping Out Your Path Preparing yourself In the past, missionaries have been regarded as superhuman spiritual giants able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Indeed, as we look back at the history of missions, we do find many great men and women of God who truly made an impact on their world. Yet those same people would be the first to say that they were by no means superhuman. Nor would they claim to have an extra special claim on spirituality. They were people like you and I who made themselves totally available to God for His purposes. The history of these successful missionaries has been recorded for us in volume after volume of biographies and journals. Yet we hear little about those who were not a success and precious little about first-termers dropping out. Of course there are dozens of valid reasons for missionaries to come home. But, sadly enough, a major cause of missionary failure has been lack of proper preparation. Stephen Neil has said,"Christian missionary work is the most difficult thing in the world. It is surprising that it should ever have been attempted." (Call to Mission, (Philadelphia: Fortress,

1970)). Missionary work could well be the most difficult occupation in the world and is certainly one of the most important. Many recruits face the field with naive expectations, and thus minimize the importance of preparation. In every professional occupation in the world intense preparation is required whether it be doctors, lawyers or engineers. Yet why do "professional soulwinners" all too often bow out of adequate preparation. Medical doctors spend years in preparation before they see their first patient. How much more do we "spiritual doctors" need to be prepared to minister to those who are lost. Your smartest first step, after affirming that missions is for you (see Chapter One, of course), is to scope out your path carefully. In You Can So Get There From Here, the authors help the reader plot out a strategy. According to their plan, you will need to take the following. Personal Spiritual Discipleship Are you learning to pray and are you growing in your prayer life? Prayer, communication with the Father, is central to a steadily growing spiritual life. All of the great revivals were results of prayer. You need to begin to pray specifically for the lost and for those missionaries who are out there serving. A good resource to help you pray specifically and to educate you on the world's great need is Operation World by Patrick Johnstone. Personal Bible Study Are you studying God's word on your own on a daily basis? Knowing God's Word is vital for any Christian and especially for one who will be teaching the Bible to others. But mere knowledge is not enough. Are you heeding what you're reading? Are you trying to follow what the Word calls you to do? Are you involved with others who are doing the same to whom you can be accountable? Part of the Body

Are you a part of a body of believers? When you became a Christian you became a part of the body of Christ, the church. You are a vital part of that body and each other part is vital for your well being. Furthermore, are you a part of a group that shares your same interest in missions. Find such a group to give you encouragement and strength carry out your goals. God gave the task of evangelizing the world to the church, identified as the local congregation of believers in Christ. The church is the primary means by which God plans to reconcile the world to Himself. God uses other means also, such as Bible colleges and mission organizations but He instituted the local church as the institution to send out workers. There are many opportunities for crosscultural exposure within the local church itself. Naturally, this crossroads is a crucial one in regard to supportraising. You need to be involved in many ways in a local congregation to gain experience in working in the church, learning from experienced workers and finding out how the church functions. Also the local church is the groundwork for the whole enterprise of world evangelization. From the local church come not only the people for the task, but the spiritual support and resources as well. Some mission organizations now require that a missionary be linked to a church, sometimes called a sending church. The "sending church" is usually a primary financial backer of the missionary and agrees to oversee the moral, ethical and spiritual realms of the missionaries life. When Paul and Barnabas set out from Antioch on that first missionary journey, they did not go on their own. They were not lone rangers. They went as a result of having been a part of a local congregation that in turn gave them the counsel, support and resources for the task.

Make your commitment known to your local church. Ask the leaders of the church to guide you in the process and to be your spiritual overseers. Use your enthusiasm for the task to ignite interest in others in the church so that the local church becomes a vital part of the task of winning the world. Actively Witnessing Finally, are you active in witnessing the reality of Christ in your life here and now? Sharing Christ effectively takes practice and if you are not doing it here, what makes you think you will do it there when the obstacles are even greater? But also, sharing your faith is vital in your spiritual growth. In Philemon, verse 6, Paul writes, "I pray that you may be active in sharing you faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." Begin to share your faith now with those around you. Education Not all missionaries have the same kind of education. Some have a broad, liberal arts education and then add in depth biblical, theological, and crosscultural communication on a graduate level. In the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ many missionaries have completed undergraduate degrees at Bible colleges and then gone to the mission field. Others have added graduate training in a seminary. A few have stepped out with little formal education. Your plans for the mission field will have a great deal of influence here. For example, if you are planning to enter the field of Bible translation you will need specialized training. Fortunately, missionaries with Pioneer Bible Translators have developed important contacts with Wycliffe's Summer Institute of Linguistics, based in the Dallas, Texas, area. By the way, this is a good example of the kind of learning opportunities that can result from networking.

Some missionary organizations have certain educational prerequisites. Finally, some missionaries prefer to visit the field, or stay for a term, and then determine educational needs. We would recommend that all potential missionaries have a basic understanding of the Bible and missions, including history, theology, philosophy, methodology, and cross-cultural communications. Beyond these a missionary recruit should think about the kinds of skills he will need in his field. Missionaries already on the field can advise as to what is needed in their area. In summary, too many cross-cultural workers have neglected to properly scope out their education. Perhaps they inevitably received an education nonetheless, but, if so, it probably had to come through the school of hard knocks. Many of them have become a sad statistic of the astounding missionary dropout rate. Be adequately prepared academically and professionally. Exposure to Other Cultures Since crosscultural experience cannot be obtained through books (though these will help prepare you for the "jump"), you could plan on an internship, a trip during spring break, a semester of study abroad or even a vacation overseas. Many missions offer shortterm opportunities. How do you find cross-cultural experiences? One of the best ways is to visit a missions conference such as the National Missionary Convention. For more information, contact the NMC office by emailing Walter Birney. There, you'll find hundreds of exhibits, side by side, many of which will offer mission opportunities to young and old alike. Perhaps the best advice is to study the question thoroughly with concerned elders and friends, especially among those who will be supporting you. Don't forget to pray together directly to the Lord for his guidance. Naturally family members should be made a part of the final decision. If there is strong opposition

from family members, take the time to listen to the reasons before making a final decision. Often no one knows you quite like your family does. If you have relatives who are not Christians, this can be a good time for you to share you faith in a deep way with your non-Christian family. Even if they do not fully understand or are not supportive of what you are doing, they need to know of your commitment to your Lord. If they oppose your going, they need to see how deep your commitment to Christ is. You can also explain that this will be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how well you can handle cross-cultural situations. In some cases you may be offered the chance to participate in an internship" prior to actual longterm commitment. In addition, onthejob experience here in the USA is an absolute necessity. If you aren't able to win people to Christ in your own culture, what makes you think you'll be able to do it overseas, where barriers are multiplied? But as Kane says, "There is no substitute for personal, practical experience on the mission field. It is one thing to read about missionary work; it is quite another to engage in it, even for a short time." (See J. Herbert Kane, Life and Work on the Mission Field (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1980), p. 75.) Unfortunately some interns head into their experience with unrealistic expectations. They are out to change their chosen country for Christ, and they only have one summer to do it! This is not to say that interns can't accomplish solid results while they are overseas. In 1986 during an internship program in Caracas, Venezuela, a group of 13 apprentices actually baptized three new believers in less than three weeks time. These were brand new contacts in a city where the Christian Churches had never carried out mission work and where the percentage of evangelicals in general is under 2%! By the fourth week, they had helped to kick off what became a new congregation. Within two years, the church was already averaging well over 50 in weekly attendance. In that particular case, it is not an exaggeration to say that a group of interns helped plant a new church!

Obviously, this is not always the case. Kane offers a more realistic set of objectives for a shortterm overseas:

"It affords an opportunity to discover what makes the missionary tick. It gives firsthand exposure to life and work in a completely different culture. It helps him understand how Christians, who are often a tiny minority, manage to live and witness in a predominantly nonChristian society."

Few would disagree with Kane when he points out that these are "no mean achievements." But many are surprised to read that 25% of all shorttermers eventually sign up as career missionaries. Some missions, including the one with which I am privileged to labor, have at times experienced percentages of over 50%. As a result, the PATHWAYS Internship Program has become the greatest source of personnel growth for our mission. Not surprisingly, internships seem especially appropriate for those who are evaluating a future career in missions. While abroad, they not only can learn their strengths, but they are also made painfully aware of weaknesses. As a result, they are then able to customtailor a preparation track that will help them maximize their eventual fulltime work overseas. On the other hand, many have argued that internships are least effective for the "eternal interns." They are characterized by a supreme longing to buy as much air fare as possible in the shortest amount of time! They can often be recognized by means of the number of mission fields stamped on the side of their suitcases. Their life is made up of a host of shallow acquaintances but little staying power for the long haul, where their new foreign friends will come face to face with the challenges of Christian living. Although becoming a tourist is perhaps one of the only ways to appropriately enter some creativeaccess countries, it would appear inadvisable in areas where career missionaries are the prime need. After all, stewardship of Kingdom resources must

eventually be considered.(Note: It is the authors' opinion that returning shorttermers should only be sought when they can fill a special need that national Christians cannot accomplish on their own.) Although such voyages might help us feel better about our service on behalf of the less fortunate, it would seem that some "work trips" might need to be re-evaluated in this light. In the face of jobless national believers, it could be illadvised to spend Kingdom dollars on air fare when locals might be able to perform a task equally well for less financial reimbursement. What is the ideal length for an internship? Many argue that a summer isn't long enough. Their reasoning stems from the fact that upon arrival in a foreign culture, most people experience a certain amount of fascination with the new sights and sounds. According to their way of thinking, this initial euphoria can masquerade as an overly bright beacon, calling the intern back to an unrealistic world of crosscultural ministry. Once he or she returns for a longer term, the real world suddenly becomes painfully obvious. Not all would agree, however. In a study completed for the Peace Corps, L. Robert Kohl examined "culture shock," which he defined as "the more pronounced reactions to the psychological disorientation most people experience when they move for an extended period of time into a culture markedly different than their own." (See Survival Kit for Overseas Living, 2nd Ed. (Yarmouth, Maine: Intercultural Press, Inc. ), p. 62.) He found that there were routinely "not one but two low points, and, even more interestingly, they will accommodate themselves to the amount of time you intend to spend in the host country! That is to say, they will spread themselves out if you're going to stay for a longer period or contract if your initial assignment is for a shorter time." Perhaps a longer internship (e. g., six months) can affect the degree of "reality". But if this research is true, one is at least justified in saying that a summer internship stands a good chance of giving one a true taste of crosscultural challenges.

Keep in mind, however, that certain regional restrictions may limit the variety of experiences you can enjoy. For example, summer internships to the Southern cone of South America can, in fact, give an unrealistic impression since the short termer sees only the coldest part of the year. As a result, such outreaches as backyard VBS, puppet shows in the park and other outdoor activities are extremely difficult to perform. In other areas, such as southern France, the intern may arrive in the chosen field just as the majority of the population have departed for their monthlong vacation! What's the bottom line? There are no bottom lines! Each prospective intern must study the field carefully and obtain as much information as possible before deciding on a set length. The truth is, until colleges change their tradition of "summer break," many student interns are going to be forced into considering a summer internship, if for no other reason than convenience and/or degree requirements. Kohl's comments show that they will certainly face their fair share of challenges! OntheJob Experience at Home The authors assert that any job, no matter how unrelated it may seem to the missionary task, can provide a wealth of experiences to help prepare a candidate for the future. Serving as an apprentice in a local church, especially under the wing of a qualified church planter or evangelist, just might be the best way to become equipped in general skills, such as personal evangelism, church administration, or the training of leadership. Advanced Training On the heels of all the above experiences, you will now be in the position to decide what further refining you may need. This advanced preparation will deal with the specific type work you'll be doing, or maybe with the particular region or people group. Once again, theological training should be thoroughly evaluated, especially for those who will be asked to assist in leadership training. Obviously, those who need other specific

skills, such as medical and relief workers, would have special tracks to consider as well.

Questions to consider... It has been said that one of the best preparations for mission is to take the Perspectives course. Where might you be able to link up with one in your area? With whom could you start a discipleship group or accountability Bible study? What could you do to become actively involved in evangelism now, while you're still in preparation? With whom could you begin gleaning cross-cultural experience while still living in your homeland?

Chapter 3 Networking With Others -- The Challenge of "Going it

Alone" Although it may sound surprising, many believe that the most important decision you will make is not where to serve or what to do, but rather, with whom you will work! In previous decades, some say we referred to direct-support missionaries as "independent" not only because of the structure of the churches that sent them, but also seemingly because of their lifestyle. Some were apparently very independent, and, in fact, unable to work side by side with others because of extremely well-defined personalities or views that were somehow different from others. Today, however, the choice is yours. If you decide to "solo" somewhere, you should be aware of the particular stresses that isolation can cause. Marjory Foyle broaches the issue in her helpful book, Overcoming Missionary Stress.[(Wheaton, IL, 60189: EMIS, 1987).] Some are able to build friendships with nationals so that even their social needs are met. Others, meanwhile, will "perish" before such bridges are fully constructed. In fact, in certain areas (especially where citizens

of the USA are unwelcome), such relationships can be literally years in formation. Remember that spouses and children must be taken into account as well. In fact, if one spouse is particularly gifted at making friends quickly, it may actually serve to draw attention to the other spouse's lack of friends, causing an inner retreat. This is not to imply that a family will never be able to serve in a particular mission field alone. It does suggest, however, that in such cases, clear communication and careful planning must be the rule. One Possibility: Being Sent Directly by a Local Congregation For several years now, many in the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ have argued that the most effective use of funds and the most biblical approach to mission oversight involves going out under the direct oversight of a local church or group of local churches. In actuality this means forming your own mission board, made up of leaders from your church or local area. Checks are sent directly to your congregation itself. All offerings to the mission work become a part of the church's own mission outreach, and are thus taxdeductible for the giver, since the IRS automatically allows any gift to a church to be considered taxdeductible. Advantages of this method include the fact that you can practically design your structure the way you want it and all money given for the cause goes directly to the work. Some argue that this method most closely resembles that of the church in Antioch when they sent out Paul and Barnabas. If the overseeing congregation has the benefit of a keen leadership, then a wonderful camaraderie can develop between the church, its elders, and the missionary family. However, this method is not without its risks. In most cases you will be "reinventing the wheel."Most likely, there will already have been dozens, if not hundreds, of missionaries who formed similar outreaches before. In each case, they will have learned incredibly important lessons about how to handle

international finances, visa applications, language school, children's schooling, retirement, overseas work, etc. If you decide to go this route, be sure to contact others who have been down the same road and "pick their brains" to avoid falling into common pitfalls. In addition, you will probably be on your own in other ways. If you succeed in opening an effective work and need more personnel, the leaders in your churches may not be equipped with adequate time or resources to recruit additional laborers for you. If you break your momentum and return to the USA for that purpose, your work may suffer and when you return to the field, your contacts will lose their direct communication link. Unless your church leaders are equipped and ready to spend lots of time on the phone, their only source of information will be youoverseas. Finally, there may be political issues to resolve. In his little manual, If You Want to be a Missionary, David Filbeck points out that today, "most governments require an organizational structure with which they can deal directly. To government functionaries, a formal missionary organization represents a more responsible way of allowing foreigners to enter in order to do missionary work."[(Joplin, MO: College Press, 1977), p. 25, now out of print.] Filbeck's conclusion is that this places a "heavy burden on the (directsupport) missionary recruit. For a missionary sponsored by a mission board, there are administrators to take care of such details. The directsupport missionary, however, must write to other missionaries on the field, to embassies and consulates, and to anyone else who might provide the needed information. Moreover, he may have to incorporate a missionary organization here in the USA first and go through a process of registering it in the foreign country he wishes to enter."[Ibid.] Once again, the decision must be yours, with input from your family and especially from your local church. If you do decide to follow this route, make sure your congregation understands the amount of responsibility such a decision entails. Begin contacting missionaries who are already working within the

country to find out what type of "sending agency," if any, the government requires. If incorporation is necessary, try asking the membership of the congregation for names of Christian lawyers that might already have experience with nonprofit incorporations. In some cases, the church itself may have already gone through the incorporation process. If the status is still good (Don't assume anything! ), it could save you a lot of time later. Joining a Team In contrast, some missionaries feel as if they will be able to maximize their effectiveness if they serve as a part of a "team" of workers, tracing their beliefs to such New Testament examples as Paul and Barnabas. Modern-day management principles seem to support such a view, with today's business world stocked full of talk about quality circles and work groups. What are the advantages of working together with a team?

Biblical precedent: It was God himself who suggested that Aaron serve as Moses' spokesman. And why do you suppose Moses sent twelve spies instead of just one? Jesus sent out the disciples two by two; one of Paul's trademarks was his unique "team ministry" approach in church planting. Mutual accountability: Team members can help each other remain steadfast in pursuing their stated goals. Mutual edification: When one falls, the other can help lift him/her up. Pooled strengths: Together, they provide a wellrounded synthesis of social networks, skills, and various other resources, allowing each team member to specialize in the area where he or she is most gifted. Strength in the "common mind": Brainstorming sessions come alive in a group and decisions are discussed much more objectively when third (and even "fourth") party observers are present. Motivation: On a more personal level, teams can develop a kind of "magical momentum" that is beyond description. If high levels of communication are achieved, and if "I, me, mine" attitudes change to a "we, us and

ours" level, then a noncompetitive spirit encourages innovation without struggle for identity. In such cases team members report a much higher level of job satisfaction. Although working closely with others may appear to be a panacea against a backdrop of cross-cultural challenges, the truth is that it is difficult enough to breed close cooperation in one's home culture, let alone overseas. In fact, remember that even Paul and Barnabas themselves eventually split over differences of opinion. Thus, prospective mission teams need to get all the training they can, especially in areas such as communication, interpersonal relationships, leadership, followership, motivation, creativity and group process. Some agencies offer special team-building seminars, based on material from the American Management Association's Extension Institute, various university studies and the experience of their own mission teams.[The Am. Mgt. Ext. Inst. is at 135 West 50th St. , New York, NY 10020.] Certain mission agencies have inserted team building modules into their normal start-up processes.[See, e. g. , Christian Missionary Fellowship, Box 26306, Indianapolis, IN. , Pioneer Bible Translators, PO Box 381030, Duncanville, TX 75138-1030 and Team Expansion, PO Box 4100, Cincinnati, OH 45204.] Team Building If you are forming a team, be prepared. Just because you may have decided to work with others, that does not mean that you will automatically be a team. Teamwork takes preparation and practice. Just as any athletic team would not be successful without preparation and practice, neither do mission teams. There are resources available to help you in building an effective team. One of the best sources of helps would be a public library. Business and industry have started learning the effectiveness of teamwork. We have been influenced greatly by the success of the Japanese. A large public library will be full of resources to help you with team building. Many of them will contain activities to help your team learn how to work

together. There are also organizations which can help you build your team. For those willing or able to work with an existing mission group, the North American Christian Conventions and "Envision" conventions (National Missionary Conventions) are virtual "shopping malls" full of opportunities. Those who wish to widen their search may want to contact Intercristo Computer Matching Service.[P. O. Box 9323, Seattle, Washington 98109; Tel. 1(800)4260507.] They will do a profile on your particular yearning, then try to match your skills with the needs of hundreds of missions (both denominational and interdenominational).[You may or may not be somewhat uncomfortable with several of the agencies Intercristo would recommend since vast doctrinal differences abound. Some such organizations will inevitably ask their recruits to sign doctrinal creeds in an attempt to unify their mission's teaching. Although doctrinal discussions are outside the scope of this handbook, prospective recruits with these mission organizations should certainly read statements of faith very carefully, since they may later be used to sanction or prohibit certain mission-wide policies and teachings. Keep in mind that the lack of a written statement may simply increase the difficulty of your task: the unwritten policies, hidden agendas, and doctrinal stances of the organization can sometimes be more important than that which is in black and white.] If you plan to join an existing mission group or a team on the field, John A. Gration, in a little brochure by IVP, suggests that you may want to ask:

What is the team's history? What doctrinal or philosophical distinctives make this group unique? What are the team's financial policies? Are there standing policies regarding the education of the "missionary kids," furloughs, daily work schedules, etc. ? In what manner does the team relate to the national church? What is the atmosphere or "culture" of the team?

Are there "standards of conduct" within the team or mission?[Steps to Getting Overseas, (Downers Grove: Intervarsity Press, 1986).]

Last, but certainly not least, remember that your stateside supporters are a part of your "extended team. "Relating to your sending church(es), as well as other family and friends, is part of your "job" as missionary. Regular communication cannot be over-stressed. Before your relationship with your sending base has a chance to sour, make sure you dedicate adequate time to the subject of reporting and communication. How often would they appreciate hearing from you? What type of report are they expecting? Likewise, make sure they are aware of your needs, though you yourself may not become conscious of these until you are well into your work abroad. Some churches send monthly cassettes, complete with sermons and/or devotionals, as well as magazine subscriptions and church bulletins. Every situation is different, so perhaps there is only one absolute:Make certain that expectations are as clear as possible, even if it means writing them down. For every hour spent with supporters in communication prior to departure, you will have saved weeks of misunderstandings down the road. Interdenominational Organizations Typically if you opt for an interdenominational mission agency, an organization which spans several denominational lines, there will be a Board of Directors which sets the mission policy. An Executive or General Director will be in charge of carrying out that policy on a daily basis. In larger organizations, a Personnel Department or Director of Recruitment might carry out most of the correspondence with prospective missionaries. Regardless of who replies to your inquiries, you should make sure you gather plenty of information about the organization, both from the mission itself, as well as from the mission's peers and others who may be informed. For example, let's suppose that Intercristo provides you with the name of a mission agency that places English teachers in China. If you are an English teacher who wants to go to China,

your first step is, of course, to write or call the mission and ask what kind of information they can provide you about their work. Always type your letter. Be sure your return address is on the letter as well as the envelope! You may want to request a copy of their:

Doctrinal statement and/or statement of purpose Constitution Previous year's financial report Application Current fields/projects (Do they work in an area in which you feel called to serve?) Personnel needs and policies regarding hiring/support Outside references from the field in which you are interested (e. g. , English teachers might seek out another similar agency and write for another opinion on the organization being considered. ) Status of the organization in the eyes of the IRS (If the organization has filed proper forms and was accepted by the IRS, then gifts to the organization are taxdeductible for all donors. This translates into a double blessing for your supporters, since it means they give more to your mission work and less is spent on taxes. The IRS permits a percentage of these gifts to be subtracted from the tax payer's income, almost as if it were given directly to the organization by the taxpayer's employer. This is to encourage charitable gifts on behalf of US citizens. )

Many jobs are salaried, but most missionary positions are supported by gifts that you will have to raise from churches and friends. Do try to keep in mind that the mission may not be able to afford to mail out all the above items to every inquirer. You'll have to be pretty serious, in their eyes, before they will invest this much time and effort. While waiting on the arrival of the above information, begin writing and/or calling others. Check the Mission Handbook, a list of a large number of North American Protestant mission agencies[Ed. by Samuel Wilson and John Siewert (Monrovia, CA: MARC, 1986).] Call local preachers and other church leaders and ask for their opinion of the mission. Contact a

nearby seminary or Bible college. Remember, these people are about to become your lifeline in more ways than one! It is your reputation that will be at stake if you later find out they have been accused of misappropriating funds or mishandling a doctrinal issue. In the end, only you, your family and your spiritual leaders can make the final choice of organizations. Keep in mind that if you hail from a fairly conservative Christian Church or Church of Christ congregation, it might be possible that no amount of persuasion would convince your local church leaders to support you financially or otherwise. During the mid1920s, severe tension among the Christian Churches brought about a church split that has, at times, made it somewhat difficult for some leaders to envision any mission work being effectively carried out through mission societies. Regardless of your opinion on this issue, remember that it will perhaps be a factor during your support-raising process. In general, if you are going to have to answer to a director or team leader who does not hold to "Restoration Movement tradition," you should know that some Christian Churches and Churches of Christ might question the advisability of serving with that particular organization. If you decide to pursue such a path, you will need to have carefully thought through your doctrinal stand and how you plan to interface with the organization and with Restoration churches that support you. Nearby Bible colleges might be able to help you sort through these issues, but the final decision must rest with you, your family and your spiritual overseers. Restoration Movement Cooperations More recently, several organizations have arisen from within the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ. Christian Missionary Fellowship, Taking Christ to the Millions (TCM), International, Pioneer Bible Translators, African Christian Mission, and Team Expansion, among others, have formed mission agencies related to or wholly within the Christian Church/Church of Christ. In some cases, funds are sent to a central office, where a general director, under the oversight of

a mission board, oversees their use. A certain percentage of the funds is used for administrative needs, but the bulk of the money raised goes directly to the respective missionary family. In others, funds are sent directly to individuals called "forwarding agents" who voluntarily handle and report on funds for their respective direct-support missionaries. The decision regarding which type of group to choose lies in your hands, as well as in the hands of those kind enough to support you and your project. Some of the organizations begin providing a portion of living expenses for accepted mission candidates long before they actually have their own individual support raised. This can be quite helpful in cases where the recruit has a family with a certain amount of financial needs that simply must be met during the deputation (supportraising) process. In all cases the benefits of being backed by a mission organization have attracted dozens of new recruits over the past few years. Filbeck explains that, "once accepted, a recruit has the prestige and the promotional backing of the organization which will dispose churches and individuals to pledge the financial support needed. In effect, acceptance by a missionary fellowship, or some similar organization, provides another recommendation for the missionary recruit. "[Ibid, p. 27.] Alexander Campbell addressed this very topic when he called for "a more rational and scriptural organization" for carrying out mission work.[Alexander Campbell, Millennial Harbinger (Nov. , 1842), p. 523.] He further wrote that

We can do comparatively nothing in distributing the Bible abroad without cooperation. We can do comparatively but little in the great missionary field of the world either at home or abroad without cooperation. We can do little or nothing to improve and elevate the Christian ministry without cooperation.[Ibid.]

Thus, regardless of the approach one takes in departing for overseas work, the one clear trend being seen today is the creation and nurture of networks of missions and missionaries

cooperating together. If you feel God calling you to a team approach, go back and reread Chapter 1 several times until you are satisfied that God will guide you in your search for the right career, place, mode and length of service (See Chapter 4). Then invest in some serious prayer time in this regard. It may take quite a number of months to correspond and/or meet with the people and organizations you're examining.

Questions to consider... Do you work more effectively alone or in groups? What expectations do your prospective supporters have when it comes to your work in the field? Can you find an organization which espouses beliefs and values similar to your own? Can you think of certain functions that a lone forwarding agent would not be able to perform as well for you?

Chapter 4 Finding Your Field Of Service . . . your career

From Genesis to Revelation it is plain to see God's concern for the whole world. As a prospective cross-cultural evangelist, we assume that you are already convicted of this important realization and that you are informed about the astounding physical and spiritual needs of our globe. In case you feel the need to expand your horizons, P. J. Johnstone's Operation World details the spiritual needs of every country on earth one by one.[(Waynesboro, GA 30830: WEC/STL Publications, 1986).] The Hidden Half, by Sam Wilson and Gordon Aeschliman, is a more digestible summary, complete with loads of statistics and chapters that describe the stages of sensitivity through which young adults often go when they encounter such awesome needs.[(919 W. Huntington Dr. , Monrovia, CA 91016: MARC, 1982).]

Naturally one's gifts and skills should play an important role in the decision of where to serve and what to do, since most feel that these are given by God. The "Clovernook Profile," authored by Glen Elliott, may help you get in touch with your spiritual gifts.[Privately published: 1373 W. Galbraith Rd. , Cincinnati, OH 45231.] With that as a base, you might be able to at least eliminate some career options that would have lured you into an extraneous vocation. Of course, in the case of a married couple, unless both partners are committed to the particular direction (honestly and deeply within), chances of a happy and successful ministry are greatly reduced. Laura Mae Gardner, has written, "It will be easy for the one who feels pulled along to sabotage the whole enterprise. In many missions this is the wife, because she feels unimportant, even unnecessary."["Proactive Care of Missionary Personnel", in Journal of Psychology and Theology, Winter, 1987, Vol. 15, No. 4, P. 311.] The bottom line: Make sure the motivations of both partners are pure and committed to the task, as well as to the spouse. The alternative is an invitation to disaster.

. . . your destination
Choosing a location in which to serve is often no easier than the original decision to enter missionary service. Many "world Christians" see abundant needs in a variety of areas and therefore feel pulled in a multitude of directions. Throughout the years recruits have been asking questions like these to narrow the choices:

Receptive/Resistant: Would you be able to work in a field that historically offers few, if any, results? Could God use you to find a "key" that would unlock their hearts' doors? If it is important to you, how will you personally identify and define receptivity? Population density: Could you serve in an urban area or does God seem to be calling you to a rural people? Spirit's leading: Do you feel a "tugging" for a particular people group? Physical needs: Is God calling you to reach out to people with physical, as well as spiritual needs?

Spiritual needs: What will be your definition of "unreached" (e. g. , . . . less than 5%? . . . less than 20%)? Your own expertise: Do you have any special skills that allow you to do something few others could do (e. g. , a gift in Hebrew, Greek and/or modern language learning might suggest a translation ministry)? Strategic importance of area, group, city: Does it matter to you whether or not this group's conversion will affect and possibly help in the conversion of others around them? Desire or yearning for a certain area: Have you "always dreamed" of working in . . . ? Desire or yearning to work with a certain missionary or mission: Do you feel a "Paul and Silas" relationship with this person or this group of people? Degree of similarity or difference as compared with "homeland": For example, are you convinced that your upbringing in the city merits special consideration of urban areas? The interest of potential co-workers: If you are convinced you'd rather work in a team, are there others who would work with you if you went to this particular place? Guidance of sponsoring church or mission: Where does your home church think you would serve most effectively? Fear of language learning: Are you absolutely sure God could not enable you to learn a foreign language? (WARNING: Most of the remaining unreached people on the globe today do not speak English. ) Political stability: Do your circumstances seem to prohibit your deployment in an area where uprising might take place? Visas available/unavailable for vocational missionaries: Are you particularly interested in serving as a "tentmaker" (in which case you might want to enter a land where a vocational missionary would be restricted)? Degree of difficulty in working there: For example, if you are considering Bible translation, are you a determined individual with staying-power?

Granted, some of the above questions might cause you to have to dig out your World Book Encyclopedia. Also, don't forget Operation World (mentioned above), along with David Barrett's World Christian Encyclopedia, a "comparative survey of churches and religions in the modern world".[(Nairobi: Oxford University Press, 1982).] World-Class Cities and World Evangelization will help you if you're searching for data on cities.[David Barrett, (Birmingham, AL: New Hope, 1986).] MARC's Unreached Peoples series contain a wealth of case studies and indices listing the unreached peoples of the world. [(Elgin, IL: David C. Cook, 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1982), (919 West Huntington Dr. , Monrovia, CA 91016: MARC, 1983, 1984, and 1987).] In addition, their World Christianity Series offers close-ups of particular regions of the world.[Volumes 1-5 cover the Middle East, Eastern Asia, South Asia, Central America & the Caribbean, and Oceania, respectively.] Wycliffe's Ethnologue offers the best information available on the languages of the world in detail.[Bookstore, International Linguistics Center, 7500 West Camp Wisdom Rd. , Dallas, TX 75236.] Feeling overwhelmed by all the information? The Peoplesfile Index endeavors to be an all-in-one listing of tribes, ethnic groups and peoples all over the globe.[Ed. by Allan Starling, Global Mapping Project, 1605 Elizabeth St. , Pasadena, CA 91104.] Fortunately, it cross-references nearly all the above resources. The cartographic studies that its compilers have been producing may, by themselves, be a perfect resource to help you "zero in" on your chosen field. Finally, there are always public libraries. Some stock Area Handbooks for each of dozens of the countries of the world. [Available directly from the Superintendent of Documents, U. S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.] They contain a wealth of cultural and geographic data, though many are now seriously in need of revision. Regarding the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ in particular, Mission Services Association periodically publishes the Missionary Directory, listing all the missionaries that they could uncover within the movement, complete with names and

addresses of forwarding agents, those who receive the missionaries stateside funds. [Published by Mission Services Association, PO Box 2427, Knoxville, TN 37901-2427; Phone-(615) 5779740] The bottom line: Make sure the motivation are pursuing the kind of work in which you hope to engage. Ask questions about the ups and downs of the given outreach and find out what further training is suggested. For a good case study in learning about interviewing and research techniques in ministry, see MARC's video series, The City for God's Sake.[(919 West Huntington Dr. , Monrovia, CA 91016: MARC, 1986).] In it, Ray Bakke suggests 10 questions that are useful in getting a good education about a particular ministry or mission. Naturally if your emphasis is urban ministry, you will particularly like these studies.

. . . your term
In the days of William Carey, traveling from one's homeland to a mission station often necessitated 6 months or more. Today we're blessed with air transportation that is so rapid, one can arrive in some locations within a matter of hours! It isn't cheap to fly around the world, but with deregulation in the airline industry, many fares can be purchased at significant discounts. Because of the fact that travel is easier and relatively cheaper, many missionaries are coming home more often. It would appear that fewer and fewer missionaries are choosing the once-popular four-year term. Although definitive studies are not available, two year terms are currently becoming the more popular. Obviously such frequent furloughs are also usually much shorter in duration than the traditional 12 months that were required in the past. Some workers are home and gone again within a three-month period. Perhaps the best advice is to study the question thoroughly with concerned team members, elders and friends, especially those who are to support you. Don't forget to pray together directly to the Lord for his guidance. Naturally family members should be made a part of the final decision. (For information on

short-term missions, you may want to reread Section Seven, "Exposure to Other Cultures", in Chapter 2.)
Questions to consider... Ask a couple of close friends what gifts and skills they identify in you. Make a list of the criteria that you want to use to determine your destination field. When you lie awake at night and imagine yourself working full-time, what do you dream of doing? Talk with your supporters about the kind of furlough schedule that might work for you.

Go to Chapter 5 of Re

Chapter 5 Thinking God's Thoughts

"Sale on Souls--$1 each!" We live in a day of cost efficiency studies. Industries complete time studies to determine the exact number of minutes (or seconds!) required to perform various mechanical tasks, then explain to their employees just how rapidly they should be laboring. Often, an individual's salary is paid in proportion to the product he or she is able to produce. Although today's professional athletes receive a salary regardless of whether or not they win, we are all well aware of the fact that the victors are paid higher premiums than the losers. It is, unfortunately, a fact of life. Into the midst of this "dog eat dog" working environment comes the furloughing missionary, spouting off sentences like, "Who knows when God will bring harvest from the seeds I've planted. The point is, I'm out there planting."Another, who might be laboring in a different part of the world, might return with glowing reports of hundreds, and maybe thousands baptized. And surprisingly, sometimes the latter worker may be managing a ministry for 1/5 the cost of the former! It is not surprising, then, that church boards across the country are uncertain how they should react. Some of the missionaries they've been supporting may write them once per year, and even then, the elders may have trouble understanding just what it is that the particular missionary is trying to accomplish. Sooner or later, the elder that manages a local assembly plant is

going to begin questioning the "cost efficiency" of the "investment" in that particular ministry. Like it or not, most of us look at the bottom line and try to measure "souls per dollar." Take a Look at Your Principles Perhaps Stephen Covey, more than any other modern-day author, has been able to communicate to us the value of living by principles. Get a copy of his The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People and read it thoroughly. Covey has managed to top the best-seller lists by asserting that we need to "restore the character ethic!" Isn't it incredible that a book could be a best-seller today by asking people to actually carry through with what they say they're going to do? But that's only part of Covey's magic. His seven principles are indeed succinct and wise. Covey asserts that we need to:

Be Proactive Begin with the End in Mind Put First Things First Think Win/Win Seek First to Understand, then to be Understood Synergize Sharpen the Saw

He says that only when these principles become habits with us will we really find happiness. He quotes David Starr Jordan as saying, "There is no real excellence in all this world which can be separated from right living." Almost sounds like something from Sunday School, doesn't it?! Well, although Seven Habits is by no means Sunday School, it does voice some modern-day principles that would seem consistent with those that Christians would want to develop to live in the 1990s and beyond. Would-be missionaries would do well to not only read the book, but put it into practice. The Quest for a Direction Is it fair? Should we cut back our support of a particular project that isn't "churning out the numbers"? Should we demand that our missionaries only serve in "receptive countries," leaving the "resistant people groups" for later generations? Do principles which are apparently quite sound in the business world automatically transfer into the spiritual realm?

Obviously, the answers to these questions and others like them do not come easily. Yet they cannot be ignored, both for ethical, as well as practical, reasons. However, it is impossible to enter such a study from a purely secular vantage point. If we are going to be successful at figuring out where we're going--i.e., if we're to learn to "think God's thoughts"--we must make the entire matter the subject of many serious prayers to the Father. We assume that only through God's direction will our work be truly blessed. We can therefore conclude that it is through prayer and the reading of His word that we will portray His message most effectively to the people to whom He has called us. After prayer, it behooves us to study the works of other successful missionaries. By successful, we don't necessarily mean that the worker starts four churches per week!One definition of success might read, instead, "how well the missionary performed in relation to his or her stated objectives for that particular time period." A particular congregation might well decide to "drop" their monthly gift to a certain missionary because of the fact that he or she is only reporting two or three evangelistic calls per week. Upon further investigation, one might learn that the missionary indeed, only made two calls per week because of a very intensive language study program. True--two years passed without a single baptism. But achieving fluency in the local dialect was without a doubt the most important task at that point in the missionary's career. When was the last time your congregation awarded bonus pay to a missionary who worked especially hard at language learning? The conclusion of the matter is as follows: Once a missionary has set up carefully stated goals that are both challenging and realistic, his or her supporting congregations are then able to provide some degree of accountability and oversight for the work. (Make sure those goals have measurable "pegs", including dates, times, who is responsible, and how you'll know the goal is completed.) The same is true for a missionary working with a team or mission organization. "If you don't know where you're going, how will you know when you get there?" We might add that when you do "arrive," will you wonder if it's the right place? The Chase is On! I'm convinced that some missionaries have made mission work look like hot air ballooning. Their object is to get enough hot air going so they launch into the sky. They're not sure where they'll end up, but no matter what, they're out to have a good time.

Not long ago I took my son to a balloonfest in a nearby town. He was impressed by the dozens of giant, multicolored balloons but I'm not sure I was very effective at teaching him the principles involved in "lighter than air" flight (he was just 15 months old at the time). I, however, was the one who learned the lesson. Successful ballooning is a lot more than just luck. The particular event we watched was called "The Hare and the Hounds." One balloon was set free to fly at will, while the others, released some five minutes later, were to mount the chase. Several minutes later, the "hare" would land, proceeding to circumscribe (with ribbon) a circle having a diameter of only twenty feet. The winning "hound" was the balloon that dropped a sandbag closest to the center of the circle! I was quite surprised! To be able to drop the sandbag into that circle, the balloonist had to be near expert in a lot of skills, not the least of which were 1) altitude and its effect on wind direction and velocity, 2) propane burner valve settings and their effect on altitude, 3) weight, 4) timing, and 5) plain old luck! Although mission work is far from dependent on luck, some believe that timing, direction, velocity, and "valve settings" are quite significant! The Best Direction It was interesting to note that the balloon which "hit the mark" that day was sort of a renegade. It was flown by a professional balloonist from several states away. it was plain to see that, from the beginning, she was navigating in a different direction from the others. In fact, at first it looked as though she were tracking some mirage. Instead, she had actually calculated changing wind velocities and had estimated that the pace balloon would be blown to a different course. To everyone's surprise, she was absolutely right!When all was said and done, she was within a few hundred feet of a perfect rendezvous, and her balloon was far ahead of the others. There must be some lesson here for today's force of missionaries. If a balloon pilot can make calculations and estimates for something as unpredictable as the wind, can we as missionaries not learn to plot courses for Christian missions? With our chief navigator occupying the ultimate "high ground",it would appear that we are in a very enviable position. After intensive prayer for God's guidance, what track can we follow to bring some form of reason to the chaos that is sometimes called "missionary work"? Every missionary will be called upon to juggle a multitude of distinct challenges. In addition to learning to manage oneself, the effective crosscultural worker must plan, organize, lead, and follow through.

Planning To appreciate the importance of effective planning, one need only look as far as Romans 15. There, Paul makes it clear that he had one primary objective (vs. 16), a primary operating goal (vs. 20), and a host of sub-goals (vs. 23, 24, 24, 25, 28). In fact, Joseph, Daniel, and Nehemiah were actually planning and carrying out their plans centuries earlier. To be good stewards, all Christian workers must carefully chart their paths to reduce duplication, retrograde motion, and subsequent waste of the Lord's resources. This is not to say that we "box in" the Spirit. Proverbs 16:9 says, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Remember, prayer precedes and permeates every single step of the way. Plans are really nothing more than "statements of faith"--it is God who must inspire both the thinking and the doing. Let's also remember that while purpose statements, goals, objectives along with plans and strategies are important, let's not make the mistake of being missiological engineers for God. Jesus himself was quite clear that costs must first be counted, prior to the start of building a tower. In the same passage, the smart king was the one who took careful stock of his forces before waging war with an enemy. The truth is, unless we plan, we may not know our resources and we may concentrate on the wrong purpose. Those without game plans can often be seen battling the multitudinous small tasks but never finding time or resources to concentrate on the big picture. How does one plan? Once again, only after intensive prayer can one trust that God will answer and direct. But prayer must be seen as more than just the "necessary conditioning."In our prayers we seek the guidance of the Spirit. It is a part of our over all relationship to the Father. We must be sure that we are always in tune with Him and that we do not only seek Him for determining our future plans. The next step is to determine objectives. Until a clear set of aims is established, the plan will have no foundation. It will wander in various directions, urging people to do lots of "good things," but in the end, it will accomplish no major feat. Next, after stating what needs to be done, one is in the position to ask how it should be accomplished. The goal in this step is to lay out all the sub-goals that are necessary to go from where you are now to where you want to be.

In some cases, the next step will include the preparation of a budget, including both financial and personnel resources. Time budgets (schedules) are seldom written down, even though they may be some of the more crucial factors in accomplishing the plan. Naturally, flexibility must be built into the plan. This is particularly important in mission work, where countries and governments can change literally over night. (The very morning I was writing this section, I woke up to the news that the national leaders of two small nations were overthrown last evening!) But planning gives one a tentative path--a best case scenario, if you will. By the way, some say that effective plans should also program in the worst case scenario as well. Knowing a possible reaction in case of failure can save time and money. When those changes do occur, it is important to ask oneself exactly what caused the differing results, so that future planning can include just compensation. The writer of Proverbs is only one of several well known authors who has emphasized the importance of checking your plan with others. "For waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers." Good brainstorming sessions with well-informed friends--placed side by side with fervent prayer meetings--are the closest "guarantee of success" that one can muster. Finally, plans should include actual milestones where evaluation takes place. Many of us have drawn up schedules, placed them in a significant spot in our notebooks, then proceeded with life (forgetting to look at our plan). Perhaps the effectiveness of a plan depends as much on good implementation as it does on quality creation! For more information on goal-setting and the planning process, obtain a copy of a book like Dayton and Engstrom's Strategy for Living.[Dayton, Edward R. and Ted W. Engstrom, (Ventura, CA: Regal Books, 1976).] This book is available with a notebook/workbook that can be completed by the reader. If one is careful about follow-through, these little self-help volumes can literally revolutionize a person's life, not only increasing output, but uncovering more time and resources for personal and family life. A Strategy for Personal Effectiveness The story is told that a top executive in a Pennsylvania steel mill once offered $25,000 to the man that could introduce him to the most effective principles for personal management. I understand that a line worker came by the office a day or two later and managed to walk out with the signed check just five minutes

later. What was the magic formula?It was actually very simple: 1) List all activities, 2) Ask if they are assignable (to someone else), 3) Assess priorities for and rearrange (in priority) the remaining items, 4) Schedule and block out time for each line (in order of priority). Although it may not sound like a $25,000 idea, it does actually work. The authors of The Ministry of Management do a good job at describing these simple yet near--magical directives.[Douglass, Stephen, Bruce Cook and Dr. Howard Hendricks (San Bernardino: Campus Crusade for Christ Int'l, 1981).] They analyze the secret of several plans for organizing one's future and even supply a host of worksheets that the reader can complete. For example, they list the following ideas to help you Managing time keep your schedule:

Each evening, look to see what you have planned to do the next day. If new potential activities for the next day have arisen, displace planned activities only if the new activities are higher priority. Pray for motivation, and constantly review why you have planned the activities on your list. Keep your schedule in front of you and refer to it frequently. Always be sensitive to God's particular leading. If someone cancels an appointment, be ready to redeem the time with other items. If you do not complete an item, transfer it to tomorrow's list, weighting its priority with tomorrow's schedule. Pray and constantly trust God for His peace that He will use you to accomplish the tasks He has given you.[Ibid, p. 6-23, 6-24.

Planning Strategies for Outreach I will never forget the first night in our chosen mission field. The plane touched down on the runway of what seemed like another world. We had prayed and prepared for four years. I had even obtained a Bachelor of Arts and a Master's degree in Missions. Yet there was a gnawing feeling in the pit of my stomach. I pretended to at least be comfortable when my team members asked me questions. We had designed several operating plans. But in spite of that, inside me this little voice was whispering, "What do we do now?" My point is that some of the those "gnawing feelings" are inevitable. But drawing up a slate of tentative plans can do wonders for one's sanity on those long lonely nights, to say nothing of the impression they make on tentative supporters. One word of caution: avoid publishing a plan that "boxes you into a corner." Once again, the missionary byword, "flexibility," cannot be overstated. Not only for the sake of supporters, but also for your own self-esteem, make sure

you give equal time to "worst case" scenarios, explaining how you'll redeem yourself in case "all else fails." Under a pattern such as the one offered in these writings, the missionary will be creating operating plans and objectives by which his or her work will be judged. It is tempting to let this solemn thought virtually neutralize the effectiveness of planning, thus creating only the goals that we know we'll be able to accomplish. However, there is an element of the Christian faith that must be considered. If we believe the words we speak--that we worship the God of the impossible--then we have good justification for attempting tasks of extreme difficulty. In effect, our goals might sometimes inform us about our very theology of faith! Suppose one is ready to "reach for the stars."Where do we begin? Once again, we cannot say enough about prayer. There is something paradoxical about the destiny of the Christian who plans. In prayer, we plan our steps, believing that God will guide us--even if it means He'll guide us in an entirely different direction! Having established that foundation of prayer, I know of no better source for the strategic planning process than Ed Dayton and David Fraser's, Planning Strategies for World Evangelization.[(Grand Rapids: Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1980).] Instead of trying to offer a a quick-fix formula for success in any culture, the authors wisely deal with the process by which one might design approaches. Their outline is quite universal, since it simply guides the prospective worker through the required thought processes for creating new mission strategies. With the addition of That Everyone May Hear, the reader can now consult the former as a text, and the latter as a workbook.[Dayton, Edward R., (Monrovia: MARC, 1983).] They leave no Planning;Questions to ask planning stone unturned, as they thoughtfully probe the reader for answers to the following questions:

What people does God want us to reach? What is this people group like? Who should reach them? How should they be reached? What will be the results?

The more detailed outlines in Planning Strategies approach the task as follows:

Defining the mission The people to be reached The force for evangelization Means and methods

Analyzing the strategy Anticipated outcomes Your role Planning Act Evaluation[Planning Strategies, p. 43.

Regardless of the particular culture, regardless of the specific mission, and regardless of the exact job description, Planning Strategies and That Everyone May Hear are important books if one is focused on designing a strategy that will address the "big picture" involving an unreached people group. Prior to the development of a support-raising plan, each prospective missionary should obtain both books and work completely through them. Through such a study, some would-be missionaries may conclude that the job of reaching a particular group is better left in someone else's hands. Or, an entire project might shift to a slightly different orientation as a result of the study. If one's emphasis is in development, MARC's new manual, Getting It There, will go a long way toward developing specific ideas.[Boyd, Ben, (Monrovia: World Vision Int'l, 1987).] On the other hand, if church planting is the major focus, Hesselgrave's Planting Churches Cross--Culturally is a virtual "Bible" for the evangelist.[Hesselgrave, David, Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1980.]If tentmaking or secular employment overseas is expected, one should consult, The Tentmaker's Resource Guide.[Privately published by Tentmakers International, P.O. Box 33836, Seattle, Washington 98133.] These references establish the fact that there may be specific handbooks geared toward your particular field or method of service. One of the purposes in the Planning Strategies study is to discover as many helpful resources as possible for the carrying out of an effective mission. With God's blessing, a heart full of concern, a mind bursting with ideas, the primary strategies will begin to take shape. Don't forget, as Dayton mentions repeatedly, to be sensitive to the evaluative process that must work concurrently with your strategizing. Planning Strategies, p. 478. Then and only then will you be sensitive to the Spirit's leading throughout your project. One must always "plan to make time to plan."
Questions to consider... In what ways do you imply that "souls are on sale" and how can you avoid the trap of viewing people as "projects?" How are you going to define success on your field?

Write a plan for your next 12 months; keep it fairly simple at first (the front side of one page), then expand later. In what ways do you revolt at the idea of planning? Does it seem "unspiritual" to you? Talk with a couple of supporters about planning and get their input and compare with your own. You just might be surprised!

Go to C

Chapter 6 Raising Support The Ministry of Support-Raising

Missionaries do not go it alone. They have people at home who pray for them, send them money, and nurture them. We often call them supporters. Supportraising is not merely the means to an end but should be considered a part of the overall task of world evangelism. When we say support-raising, we are not speaking of mere fund-raising, although the terms are often used synonymously. But it is much more than that. Support-raising, in the broad sense of the term, is the ministry of sharing with others the burden you have for a people in spiritual poverty. The people to whom you go for support are being asked to share in a ministry of serving the people who are called to serve. Supporters shouldn't be merely people who give money, but who give time, advice, encouragement and who support with their prayers. Support can be defined as those things we need to carry out our mission. And it takes more than money; it takes the cooperation of many people. First of all let's get away from the attitude the we're only out there to get the money to make it to the field. We will discuss fund-raising later in this chapter. Right now we want to focus on your ministry to the people in the churches where you will go. Before you ask where the money will come from, ask yourself, "To whom can I minister?" Ask yourself who needs the information, motivation, and vision that you can share. Who needs you as their arms and legs in taking the Gospel to the world? Here is the point. Do you really care about the local church and the mission awareness of its members? You need to be there to work with the

churches, to answer their questions and to raise their awareness even after the funds have been raised. As you think about raising the awareness of the local church and ministering to them with your knowledge and enthusiasm for world evangelism, think about how you will do it. Take time to assess yourself, your talents, your gifts and your personality. What are your strengths and weaknesses in dealing with and communicating with people? Now you can determine what method of ministering to the people is best for you. Usually missionaries are asked to preach or show slides. But perhaps that is not where your abilities are. Some mission recruits should not preach on Sunday morning for it is not their most effective way of ministering to the people. Some should not even attempt to show slides. A slide program is not easy to present as not everyone can do it effectively. Consider the most effective means of communication with them. The better you know your audience, the better you will be able to appropriately communicate with them. This will require that you do some research to get acquainted with your audience. For instance, are they already sold on world evangelism? Do they just need to be informed? Does a particular audience have something for you or against you? In other words, you need to discover a way to make use of the particular traits of a group to help them focus on the task of world missions. You want to"scratch where they itch." Be sure to listen to the audience to find out their likes, dislikes and concerns. Keep your presentations short and simple. Be direct and to the point. Also consider carefully the words you will use. Don't assume that everyone will know what certain technical words mean and that they will mean the same to everyone. Be personal, direct and always record the interests and concerns of supporters so that you can address them in your communication with them. Support raising is a wonderful blessing. It is a special opportunity that God has given you to meet some of His precious saints, to share your excitement about world missions, to open their eyes, and to share a vision. As you do it you change lives. Many missionaries would not be on the field today if it had not been for the missionaries who shared the vision with them. As you tell them of your dreams, your vision, and your calling, you give them the opportunity to carry the Lord's great commission out through you.

Discovering God's Resources for Your Work

A Biblical Perspective

Now let's talk about raising funds, a sub-area of"support raising."To many recruits these words are frightening. It is important to note again that support raising is ministry, even in the financial sense."If God wants me to go, then the money will come!" I've heard countless recruits speak these very words as they consider going overseas on a mission experience. While their trust in God is certainly admirable, anyone who has successfully raised funds will agree that it never"just comes" without effort. It is true that God does provide. But He requires some effort out of His servants. Fund-raising is one of the biggest hurdles that a missionary recruit must overcome. This is often due to a lack of understanding of the support-raising task. In order to have a clear understanding of fund-raising, one must understand that fundraising is biblical. In the Old Testament the priests were supported with gifts from the people. That was their only source of income.[Numbers 8] Moses was commanded by God to collect an offering from the people in order to finance the building of the tabernacle.[Exodous 25: 1-9] The Apostle Paul often worked as a tentmaker to support his ministry.[Philippians 4: 14-18] He did not always receive funds for his own ministry but he did teach the believers to give to needy causes and that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.[I Corinthians 9: 14] John urged the believers to financially support those who were going out on behalf of the gospel because that made them"fellow workers in the truth."[III John 8] The recruit who puts forth no effort and says,"If God wants me to go, then the money will come," will probably end up believing that God did not want him to go. While it is important to trust God to provide and to acknowledge Him as the source, that does not mean that there is no effort involved. Fund raising is work. The recruit might be wise to consider the old saying,"Pray like everything depends on God and work like everything depends on you."As was mentioned above, being a missionary takes the cooperation of dozens of people in the congregations at home.
Where do I begin?

When you begin the fund-raising phase of your ministry, you must be able to define clearly what you plan to do. A clear job description is necessary so that those who might support you can understand what their time, money and effort will accomplish. To say that you want to be a missionary to Mali may sound noble. But the fact is that the word missionary is too broad. You need to be more specific. To say that you will translate the New Testament into the

language of the Fulanka people is more specific and will give potential supporters a better idea of what it is you hope to do. The more they understand, the more willing they will be to join in the ministry with you. When asked to spell out financial requirements, you must be able to explain it clearly, concisely and knowledgeably. This will require knowing what you need and why you need it. The size of your budget will depend on several things. Will you be working as an independent missionary or through an agency? Do you have a family? What kinds of insurance do you need? What will you need on your furlough? What will your travel expenses be? What kinds of administrative costs will you have? And how much salary will you need to cover the living expenses for you and your family? Some of these questions will be hard to answer especially if you have never been to the country where you will minister. If that is the case, you will have to do some research. Perhaps you will have to contact a missionary already serving in that field. Usually the budget should be broken down into a monthly amount. This helps supporters to commit monthly gifts and also takes away the shock of seeing the amount of a large yearly budget. To help you get a better understanding of how a budget works, try to obtain a budget sheet from several other missionaries. A budget not only helps in support-raising but also serves as a tool toward good steward as well. One of the best sources about designing a budget and specifically raising funds for Christian service is The Support-Raising Handbook.[Brian Rust and Barry McLeish, The Support-Raising Handbook (Downers Grove, Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 1984)] It is full of examples, charts and records that will become invaluable to you if you are going to effectively raise the necessary support and keep up good communication with your supporters.
What next?

After you have determined an adequate budget, you must begin to think about all of those people who are potential supporters. Do not assume that someone will certainly support you and therefore you do not need to list him. Neither assume that for some reason a person will not support you. List everyone you know under categories such as churches, family, (immediate and distant), personal friends, church friends, past school friends, ministers you know, teachers, and service organizations.[See sample on page 34 of The SupportRaising Handbook.]

Be sure to list as many as you can. After you have made a list ask close friends and relatives to make additions. Be sure to get the approval of friends and family before adding any of their friends to the list. _List no less than 200 people or organizations on your list. Now that you have a list of potential supporters, begin to break the list down into segments. There are a variety of ways to do this and it will depend largely upon the individual. The most important thing is to break the list down so that you can see your relationship with the potential supporters to make each contact as personal as possible. You need to think of what information the person will need, whether in great detail or general overview.

How well do you know the person? Why might the person support your ministry? Because they care about you personally or because they care about your mission field. What would the person's motivation be for supporting you? Is the potential supporter Christian or non-Christian?

The most obvious divisions in your list will be churches, family, friends, and ministers. Another important consideration is geographic. Where is the potential supporter located in relation to you and other potential supporters? The important concept is to communicate with each contact at his or her level of understanding of your ministry.
Communicating Effectively

Communication with supporters cannot be over-stressed. Misunderstandings are all too common, especially when money is involved. Therefore, every person raising support must keep detailed records of each contact with every potential supporter. It is wise to keep a page of information about each contact. [See example in The Support-Raising Handbook, p. 37.] It is also helpful to have a page listing all of your contacts.[There is an example page in The Support-Raising Handbook, p. 39.] You need to keep track of how much each person has pledged and when you last communicated with that person. Any information that you need to make your contacts with potential supporters as personal as possible should be written down in a way to make it easily accessible, for example, birthdays, children's names, church and special interests. If you are using a sheet for every person, put the sheets in alphabetical order in a three ring binder for quick reference.

As you communicate well with your supporters, they will know that you care about them. Here the use of a computer or computer service would be very helpful. Now that you have done research to make a budget, drawn up a job description, and have made a list of all your potential supporters, you need to decide how you will approach each contact. Because you have already segmented your list into categories you can begin to think about how you will appeal to the people of each segment. For example, your family and friends are probably sold on you. Therefore they will back you because of you. But a church group may not know you well. You will need to convince them of the need to support your ministry. Asking for money can be a humbling experience. But it need not be a shameful one. Realize that we all have a need to give. People give for different reasons. God made us with the need to feel needed and therefore, to give. By asking people to give, you are joining your need with other people's need to give. Don't ask for money only. Ask for prayers also. When people pray for you they will want to do things to aid your ministry. Be sure to always thank your supporters. In many of Paul's epistles we find him thanking people for support. Finally, pray for your supporters. Remember their specific needs. Imagine their faces. Pray that the Lord will help you give something to them.
The Case Statement

There are questions that always need to be answered when raising support. All of the above mentioned topics need to be combined to form a clear concise explanation of your ministry, your need and your request from potential supporters. We will call this description a case statement. There are many types of case statements but we will deal with the personal case statement and the team case statement. The personal case statement should be presented in clear language adapted for the specific audience. Always answer these seven basic questions in the personal case statement:[ The SupportRaising Handbook, pp. 46-47.]

What need exists for your ministry? (Briefly explain where and among what people. )

Why should I support you or your organization? (What will you do that someone else is not already doing there? Be careful in comparing. ) What do you hope to achieve in your mission? (Enthusiastically tell your greatest ambitions. Don't be shy! ) What is your total ministry cost? (Not just money! Let them know prayer needs specifically and other opportunities you may be passing up. ) How soon do you need to raise all of your support? (Be specific. ) What are you asking of me? (Be specific. Let each individual know what exactly for what it is you are asking. ) What will (or will not) happen if you aren't able to go? (This lends greater urgency to your mission. )

If you are writing a team case statement, that is if support is being raised for a group venture, start generally with the broad purposes of the mission and move to specific goals. The whole team should be involved in the writing of it. The team case statement should cover all of these nine topics:[The Support-Raising Handbook, pp. 48-49.]

The Theme. A brief statement that captures the idea of the team effort. The Mission: What is the purpose of the organization? The Goals: How is the mission going to be accomplished? What does the organization want to see happen? The Program: What are the objectives for a specific period of time? The Impact or Accomplishments: How has the organization succeeded in accomplishing its goals so far? Be brief. The Vision for the Future: What does the team specifically plan to accomplish and how in the next few years? The Development Plan: Present the total need of the team and the time frame it covers. Support Opportunities: Divide the total budget into categories such as: salaries, travel, overhead, publications, etc. Also suggest different ways to give. Agency Profile: List the most pertinent characteristics of your team or agency; the number and location of staff, where people are serving and so on.

Be sure to be well prepared to present your case statement and any surprise questions. Present your case statement in role play situations among other members of the team. The team case statement should be in print and easy to read.

Getting the Message Through

Only now are you ready to actually make a request to an individual or a group. You must choose a channel to present your need. What method will you use to actually make your request? There are three common methods used for requesting financial support: face-toface, by phone, and in writing. By far the most effective method is face to face. People can see your excitement about the proposed ministry. They can hear you express your desire to do this ministry. It also shows that this ministry is important enough for you to take time to talk about it. When a face to face talk is out of the question, the phone is the next best means of communication. These days the phone is a great tool and at times may be more practical and less expensive than a visit. The most common but least effective channel is the letter. Although letters may be personal, many times you will have to write so many that they will not be. Most mission groups and churches groups receive so much mail that they don't read it all carefully. The letter is a great way to begin and to announce appointments but you should never ask for money in a letter unless a visit or phone conversation is completely impossible.[The Support-Raising Handbook, , p. 52.] Perhaps the best method is a mixture of these three methods. First, send a letter of introduction, explaining what you hope to do and express a desire to meet with the person or group. In the letter promise to contact them to make an appointment. Of course make the call and set up an appointment. Next comes the appointment and the request. Finally send a thank-you note and a restatement of what was discussed or decided. Brochures and leaflets are very impersonal and ineffective as a means to be used alone. They may be effective as a supplement to personal contacts and case statements.
Getting the Appointment

The goal here is to get appointments. Get a calendar to mark off days that you can do presentations and plot it out so that you will be finished with all presentations a month before all support must be raised. Set goals as to how many churches or groups you will have to contact. Remember you will

probably contact more than will actually allow you to make a presentation. For example you may have to contact 100 churches to get appointments with ten. Call prospective churches and individuals before a meeting to answer questions and always make a follow up call after the appointment. If a church says"no" to regular support, ask if they might make a one-time gift.
Using the Phone

To make the most of your time and your potential supporters' time learn to use the phone productively. It is inexpensive and effective and more people can be contacted in a shorter period of time. However, many people do not enjoy using the phone. For some there is a fear of speaking on the phone. If you are in this category of people, you can learn to be more comfortable on the phone. If possible, practice your conversation with a friend in a role play situation. Write out what you want to say. Be clear and concise and don't be afraid of not being able to answer all questions. If someone asks a question that you cannot answer, tell him honestly that you do not know and promise to get back to him with an answer. Then do it. Always begin by identifying yourself and tell why you have called. Ask if they have received your letter and if they have any questions. Let them determine a meeting time. Be to the point and at some time during the conversation ask if they are interested in supporting you. Give them time to answer; you may have to make another call. No matter what the answer is be sure to be courteous and appreciative. Always follow a call with a note of thanks.
Presenting the Need

As you get appointments you will be concerned with how to present your need. Remember that your fund-raising is not a business adventure but a spiritual adventure. When presenting your need to potential supporters, you'll want to emphasize prayer and your trust in God for your daily life. But begin by making sure you've genuinely applied prayer and trust personally. Be conscious of how you dress when making a presentation. Dress on the high end of your audience. Never wear jeans. All of us make certain judgements

based totally on appearance. How you dress says something about how you feel about your potential supporters. Remember the cliche: You never have a second chance to make a first impression. Do everything possible to make presentations flow smoothly with no confusion. Here are some things to remember:[Support-Raising Handbook, pp. 57-58.]

Set up appointments and presentations well in advance to insure ample preparation. Make a check list of things to be done before every presentation. Know exactly what is expected of you and how much time you have. If possible, practice what you will say with a friend to make sure your message fits the allotted time frame. Arrive on time. (If meeting at a home, don't arrive early. ) Let the host take initiatives. Don't assume anything. Stay within the time limit. No matter how comfortable the audience may seem, respect their time. Summarize and request support at the end. Always follow up, especially if a decision was left hanging. Remember always to thank your audience in writing. Record pertinent information for future communication.

While we have already mentioned that letters are not practical by themselves as a means of support-raising, they do have an important place in communicating effectively. People will feel that you care if you send follow up letters from phone conversations and appointments. Letters can clarify and confirm decisions made. Always be brief in letters and try to be creative, interesting and personal. Letters should be typewritten if possible. After you have written a letter, put it aside for a day or two and then read it again to make any revisions. Also have a friend critique it. [Support-Raising Handbook, pp. 59-66.
Church Support

God has given the task of world evangelization to the church. The church is the place to begin. When dealing specifically with church support as opposed to civic organizations and individuals, there are several important aspects to take into consideration. You must find out what types of missions the church supports currently. For example, do they support mostly modern, high tech mission agencies or more traditional independent missionaries.

Remember that most churches set up their budgets by December 1, so you should concentrate on churches from September to November. Try to find out when a particular church prepares its budget. Always find a"key contact" in the church, whether it be the minister or the chairman of the missions committee. Be sure to refer to the list above as you prepare presentations for churches and always follow up with a letter and thank-you note.
Have a Plan!

Since you probably have a definite time frame in which to raise the necessary support, a well planned strategy is a must. Having a well defined plan keeps you from putting things off until it may be too late. Remember it takes time for decisions to be made, especially when dealing with churches. Keep a calendar that you can carry with you at all times. Make a "Time Frame" calendar to insure that your strategies develop at the proper times. Here is an example of a"time frame" calendar:

By __/__/__ (date) I will have contacted a missionary on the field to inquire about all unanswered questions. By __/__/__ (date) I will have obtained enough information about the mission to allow me to state its objectives and the goals for my particular involvement. By __/__/__ (date) I will have projected possible scenarios for each of my particular objectives/goals. By __/__/__ (date) I will have obtained information that will allow me to understand the philosophy, the history, and the structure of the mission or group with which I will work. By __/__/__ (date) I will have composed a tentative job description. By __/__/__ (date) I will have written a proposed budget. By __/__/__ (date) I will have listed at least 200 potential supporters. By __/__/__ (date) I will have transferred the names on my list to separate sheets/note cards, one name for each card/sheet. By __/__/__ (date) I will have separated the list into categories or target groups. By __/__/__ (date) I will have identified key traits about each target group. By __/__/__ I will have developed a method to keep accurate records of each contact with potential supporters. By __/__/__ I will have contacted ten churches to set up an appointment time.

By __/__/__ I will have completed a support plan.[Support- Raising Handbook, pp. 82-89.

This list is definitely not exhaustive. It is only an example. The point is that you need to have a definite schedule of when you will have to complete even the smallest tasks. Nothing is too insignificant to include. Included in your strategy should be how you will acknowledge gifts and support from supporters. It is wise to make a calendar of communications with supporters so that you are continually in contact with your supporters and so that they know how you are doing. As you plan a strategy, you must also decide what to do with incoming support. Will you need a forwarding agent? What kinds of bank accounts will you need? It would be helpful to talk to other missionaries and perhaps a forwarding agent to clarify what you might need. For more information on forwarding agents see The Forwarding Agent, by Neal and Dorothy Clapp. It is a practical guide and can be ordered from Mission Services Association in Knoxville, Tennessee.[Missions Services Association, PO Box 2427, Knoxville, TN 37901-2427.]
Caring for Supporters

You have worked hard and you are now beginning to receive money. It seems to be coming in faster than you can handle. You are busy with even more appointments and it seems that you are falling behind in correspondence. It would be easy to forget about it all together. But supporters need to be thanked and more than that, need to feel that they are a part of your ministry. You must think of creative ways to maximize your time and still let each supporter know your appreciation of him. Some of your supporters may be able to get involved in your ministry in a more direct way. If you have a friend who is an accountant, maybe that person would be willing to help you with your finances. Remember that money is not all there is to support-raising. A prayer letter can be an effective means of communicating with supporters, but a word of caution is in order. Far too many prayer letters end up being a day to day diary of what the missionary or recruit has been doing. Few people can take the time to read such a letter. Be creative and make a prayer letter show your supporters your work in an interesting way. Ask friends to read the letter

and make suggestions. Ask yourself if you would want to read what you have written. The purpose of the prayer letter is to generate prayers for your work. Never make your supporters wonder if their support is worthwhile. Be as personal as you can. Each supporter is a vital part of your ministry and they need to know that their gifts are having a lasting effect. You must establish a means of financial accountability to the supporters, not only for the benefit of supporters but to keep your own stewardship of the money in check also. Supporters need to know where their support is going. Therefore, you should develop an effective financial report. Although some missionaries send a financial report quarterly, a monthly report is more acceptable. A financial statement for supporters should be detailed and broken down into specific categories. You can get a better idea of where your priorities are if you can see clearly where your money is going. You are not only accountable for money but also for your time. It is wise to give your supporters an idea of how you spend your time in a time report. You will benefit from this time study as well. One missionary did not realize how much time he spent on menial tasks and how little time he was spending in evangelism (his purpose for being there), until he made a study of his time. The point is that you need to be accountable for God's time and let supporters know that you care about how you spend it. As you receive funds, you are also accountable to the U. S. Government. How you handle this will depend on whether you are working independently or with an organization. The requirements will differ for both. Find out what will be required of you. Fortunately there are still certain benefits for you so that if you plan correctly, not all you receive will be taxable. For instance you may be able to channel your funds so that only what you receive for personal purposes will be taxed, whereas funds for work expenses will be tax-free. For information on how to make the most of these procedures, see If You Want to Be a Missionary by David Filbeck.[(Joplin, MO: College Press, 1977), p. 39-49, now out of print. Check a Bible college library.] Remember that tax laws are constantly changing. Find out if you must be a part of a non-profit incorporation. If so, a good place to start is at a local church level. Most churches have already gone through that process. Also contact missionaries and perhaps a lawyer to give you needed advice. As you serve the Lord's people in this ministry that you have been given, remember that it is a ministry with far reaching effects. People who otherwise

would not be involved in a ministry will participate because you helped them to see and to reach to the uttermost parts of the earth with you.
You can do it!

You have been called to minister to a people somewhere. Many of your supporters are not called to go and may not be able to go. Some may be and eventually go because of you. As you minister in your particular field, your supporters become fellow-workers in your mission. God has called you to a mission and has called supporters to help you fulfill His mission together. Go to Chapter 7 of Reso

Chapter 7 Being Strong in the Lord

"Put on the full armor of God" The importance of knowing God has already been discussed. It is often assumed that because a person is a missionary, he has all the keys to the Christian life. Hopefully the senders have seen to it that the candidate is spiritually mature enough to face the rigorous life of ministering crossculturally. We do not need to send out babes in the faith. For this reason it may seem strange to include this chapter. The truth is that all of us must work hard to keep our walk with God fresh. It is not easy to do anywhere, especially on the mission field. Hopefully this chapter will give some hints into how to keep our spiritual lives in order. I had always envisioned life overseas as a slower-paced life where I would have the time to do all the things that get rushed through in the hustle and bustle of life in the U. S. A. I would have time to really get into the Word more than I ever had before. Here in the States it always seemed to get pushed aside for more "urgent" business. Unfortunately, that is a lie that Satan wants us to believe: That we will have more time someday. The fact is when I got overseas, I found my life-style even more packed with activity. Something always gets cut out to make room for more appointments. I never cut out breakfast. After all, I had to keep my body fit. What I failed to realize was that I wasn't keeping my spirit fit. You've probably never said to yourself, "Someday I'm going to take time out to eat a

good meal." Yet if we are honest with ourselves, all too often we say to ourselves, "When I'm not so busy, I'll improve my devotional life." All too many missions recruits have deceived themselves into thinking that they would be able to "get it together" once they got overseas. After all, they've been busy with finishing an education and raising support. What they often find out is that life even in the most primitive place is still filled with activity and often the very fact that life is simpler and moves at a slower pace makes it harder to keep up with a consistent spiritual life. For instance, in many places waiting in line is a way of life. While working as a missionary in South America, it regularly took one of the authors an average of three hours to go through the process of simply paying the rent! The difficulty of keeping spiritually fit is multiplied dozens of times overseas. Most of us do not realize how much we rely on other people and resources for spiritual nourishment. We hear at least two sermons a week, not to mention Bible classes, prayer meetings, retreats, conventions and programs via radio and television. In many malls you can find a Christian bookstore, and Christian records and tapes can be purchased in any music store. One will quickly find that overseas these conveniences are few and far between. We haven't even spoken of the many opportunities for Christian fellowship on this side. Some missionaries may find that they are the only Christians for hundreds of miles. Thus, a newcomer to the field will soon find that it us totally up to him or her to keep a spiritual walk constant and fresh. The spiritual warfare overseas is often more fierce than a person has ever faced. The bottom line is that if you wait to cultivate your spiritual life until you make it to the field, you may be too late. If a missionary's spiritual life fizzles out, what good will he accomplish among those who don't know God? It will be up to you to initiate a deep, lasting relationship with the Father. There is no time like the present to begin building this relationship. Chances are, you are not as busy today as you will be down the road. Remember that you will need just as much spiritual strength and encouragement as you raise support as you will when you get on the field. If you need improvements in your walk with the Lord, begin today. Growing in Christ does not come by a magical formula. It comes by steady commitment and hard work. Neither does it happen overnight. There is no set of rules to follow and since we are all different, no one method of sustaining a good devotional life will work for everyone. But there are some principles that should be helpful to us all.

"Be still and know that I am God" We have become accustomed to noise. Not long ago some friends from overseas were visiting in one of the authors' homes. Eventually, the missionary guest asked who was watching television. As a matter of fact, the author hadn't even noticed that it was blaring to an empty family room. No one was watching it and yet it sounded perfectly normal for it to be playing. Most of us go everywhere with noise. The radio alarm wakes us. We listen to the radio or television as we get ready for school or work. . How many of us have a car without a radio? We need to go "off the air" to communicate with God every day. Most of us are uncomfortable with silence. Remember that God did not appear to Elijah in the powerful wind, nor in the earthquake, nor in the fire, but in a gentle whisper. There is no substitute for a daily quiet time. Neither is there anything harder to maintain. Experiment and be creative to find a method that works for you. "Thy word have I hid" Almost every Christian worker knows the danger and still almost all of us fall into the snare at one time or another. Our lives and work are so filled with using the Bible that we begin to use it as we would use a dictionary or an encyclopedia. There are two forms of Bible study: preparation for classes and sermons or devotional study. We all need both at one time or another. Of course what happens more often than not is that we are required to study in preparation for classes, sermons, and studies. However, only you can require yourself to keep your flame burning by devotional study. Again be creative in your approach to devotional Bible study. There are countless helps and plans at every Christian bookstore. Get into the habit of reading the Bible as God's personal letter to you and not as a reference book. Keep Bible reading fresh by trying out different versions. Each time you may get different insights. Set goals for Bible reading such as going through the whole Bible and memorizing certain passages and books. Find a plan that will take you through the Bible every year. "Pray that you will not fall. . ." "Prayer is what gives power to missions!" [Schmidt, John, dir. , The Wait of the World, Gospel Films, 1986.] And yet, all too often what is the first thing to go amid trying to reach the lost? I fear it is prayer. Prayer should be the beginning

and end of a missionary's work. A decision to commit yourself to being a missionary should be steeped in prayer. Prayer is the key tool in supportraising. Prayer is what gives success to a mission endeavor. As important as prayer may be, some of us need to say, "Lord, teach us to pray." Here are some guidelines for a daily time of prayer:

Praise, singing and praying aloud whatever is in your heart. Read Scripture, especially Psalms and Proverbs. Praise, specifically about the things you gleaned from the Scripture. Confess things of which the Scripture has convicted you and for sin in your own personal life in. Thanksgiving for what the Scripture has shown you and for other blessings. Petition the Lord for needs and cares of your life and ministry. Intercede for co-workers, fellow-Christians, prospective contacts, those back at home, missionaries in other fields, and the lost of the world.

As you pray, remember that you are only a small part of God's worldwide plan for reaching the lost. There are thousands out there going through the same experiences you are facing, whether you are on the field or raising support. Be informed about other missionaries. Subscribe to Horizons, a magazine from Missions Services Association detailing news about missionaries of the Restoration Movement. [Write MSA, P. O. Box 2427, Knoxville, TN 37901 or call 1-615-577-9740.] Get a copy of Operation World by Patrick Johnstone which lists every country in the world with detailed information and prayer requests that God would move in a mighty way worldwide. Pray for harvesters and senders. "Sing to the Lord" Music is a more vital part of our spiritual well being than we usually realize. Think of how important Christian music is to corporate worship. You may not realize how important hymns, choruses, and contemporary Christian music are until you are isolated from them. When you leave for your field, take a hymnal and a chorus book. Take tapes and records of your favorite Christian music and ask a friend or relative to keep you updated by sending you the latest releases from your favorite artists. Remember to take along music that is special during certain times of the year such as Christmas music. "And the Books"

It is often an assumption among the people back home that the missionary is out of touch. In many cases that is true. But the missionary must be on guard to keep his mind current and alive. No one ever reaches the point where he can stop learning. It has been said that leaders who have plateaued are the biggest cork in the bottle of the church. The missionary must continue to be a learner. He must find ways to keep up-to-date on current thought and findings in his field. That is not easy to do but it is vital. To stay on the cutting edge of the field, the missionary should read a good balance of journals and books. Keep up with the latest releases from the major Christian publishers such as, InterVarsity Press, Multnomah, and Zondervan as well as those from Restoration Movement publishers such as College Press, Christian Standard, and Missions Services. Be sure to subscribe to Christian Standard, Lookout, and Horizons. Keep yourself and your ministry fresh and alive by reading. Both Christian Standard and Lookout are available without charge to any missionary who requests them. [Write to Standard Publishing, 8121 Hamilton Av. , Cincinnati, OH 45231 or call (in the USA) 1-800-5431301 (in Ohio call 1-800-582-1385).] "As for me and my house" Being overseas can be an extra difficult challenge for families. A family worship time helps to give strength to each family member and instills these values into the lives of children. Children will see what their priorities in life should be if parents make worshipping God and praying of utmost importance. Sing, pray, and read and memorize Scripture as a family. There are a number of excellent devotional books available you can use. Also you can get Our Daily Bread from Standard Publishing and Every Day With Jesus, produced in Great Britain, but sold all over the world. [CWR, 10 Brooklands Close, Sunbury-onThames, Middx. TW16 7DX, UK] "And I will give you rest" More than once in the Gospels we find Jesus going by himself into the hills to pray. Especially when He had been teaching for extended periods of time to large groups of people. Jesus knew the importance of "getting away from it all." The day in and day out routine of ministry and the same scenery every day tends to cause us to fall in a rut. Whether your work is growing rapidly or if it is slow and perhaps discouraging, you need to get away from your surroundings for a time of rest and refreshment. At least once a year it is vital that you enjoy a vacation - absolutely no work allowed.

It is also important when you are on furlough to take advantage of seminars, conventions and retreats to keep up-to-date on current topics of interest and to be fed and enriched from the experiences of fellow-Christians. Cultivating a Close Walk It is no surprise to any of us that this area of consistently walking closely with the Father is difficult. Yet it is ironic that this area, which is at the top of the list in importance, is so hard for us. When it comes right down to it, the bottom line is commitment. It has been said, "If you feel far from God, guess who moved?" You must make it a priority to put Him first even when the bubbly feeling may not be there. Myron Loss, in his classic work, Culture Shock, , talks about things that you can do on the mission field to help make the whole journey more positive. [(Winona Lake, IN 46590: Light and Life Press), pp. 85-101.]

Set reasonable goals. Most first term missionaries plan too much to do and expect too much of themselves. One of your primary goals should be to learn the language and the culture. So relax a little and allow yourself to observe and learn what is happening. Don't be too serious about your job description. Be ready to do things you had not planned to do. Be people-, not program-oriented. As a missionary you are in the people business. Use programs to help people, not people to enhance programs. Make an effort to always be filled with joy. There is much in this world to be sad about, but in the midst of the greatest sadness, a Christian can make a difference by being filled with joy. Maintain good emotional health. Have friends and personal interests that provide you with a measure of satisfaction. "Roll with the punches." Be prepared with alternatives when problems arise. Be truly humble. Accept your limitations and assets. Take care of yourself physically. Have a regular exercise program walking, running, aerobics, bicycling. People who regularly exercise seem better able to cope with life's difficult situations. Have regular physical check-ups. Read at least one good book a month. Keep up your spiritual nourishment with regular Bible studies and devotional times. Don't be afraid of being a little eccentric. You are who you are. Enjoy yourself as you let Christ fill your unique personality.

Don't take yourself too seriously. Develop a good sense of humor and especially the ability to laugh at yourself. The following poem expresses it well:

"If I had my life to live over again I'd try to make more mistakes next time. I would relax, I would limber up, I would be sillier than I have been on this trip. I know of very few things I would take seriously. I would take more trips; I would be crazier. I would climb more mountains, swim more rivers, and watch more sunsets. I would do more walking and looking. I would eat more ice cream and less beans. I would have more actual troubles and few imaginary ones. You see, I'm one of those people who lives life prophylactically and sensibly hour after hour and day after day. Oh, I've had my moments and if I had to do it over again, I'd have more of them. In fact, I'd try to have nothing else just moments one after another instead of living so many years ahead each day. I've been one of those people who never go anywhere without a thermometer, a hot-water bottle, a gargle, a raincoat, aspirin and a parachute. If I had to do it over again I would go places, do things and travel lighter than I have. If I had my life to live over again I would start barefooted earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall. I would play hookey more often. I wouldn't make such good grades except by accident.

I would ride on more merry-go-rounds. I'd pick more daisies." [Tim Hansel, When I Relax I Feel Guilty (Elgin, Illinois: David C. Cook, 1979), pp. 44-45.]

Learn to say "NO" when you know that you can successfully handle no more. When the Lord's work seems to be a curse on you, then you are probably overloaded. When stress or pressure seem to be too great, take a break. . . Go on a vacation. . . Get away for at least a day. . . Get involved in some vigorous activity. . . Enjoy lunch or supper at a quiet restaurant with a special person or just by yourself. . . Take a long hot bath. . . Go shopping. Curl up with a good book. Forgive yourself and others. Establish some close friendships with nationals. Be an encourager. Be thankful. Finally, remember you are not alone!

Lest you forget . . . The Fine Art of Journaling Have you ever wondered how great writers can produce such exciting books? Do they just sit down and capture a flow of ideas from beginning to end? Or do they do years of research and then begin to write? One tool that they, as well as missionaries, have used for generations is the journal. A journal could be described as the living record of both the dates, times and events as well as the emotional and interactional impact of those events upon the writer of the journal. Keeping a journal becomes a daily exercise in personal dialogue between the right side and the left side of the brain. One side is experiencing and recording all the events, dates, times and places. The other side is experiencing emotional and interactional impact. Both aspects are vital parts of our mental makeup. In the journal we attempt to record both aspects. Many people do not keep journals because they are certain they will never forget either the technical or emotional data, somewhat like students who never take notes in class, but assure themselves they will pass any and all exams. Unfortunately few of us are so blessed. Growing up in an information society

which focuses on written notes as memory keys, we tend to remember things better when we write them down. What do you need beside a pen and notebook? During the day and especially at the close of the day listen to both sides of your mind. Get down the facts and mix in the emotions and interaction. Result: A Journal. Value? First, you have a record of what happened. Next, you have something you can share with friends and loved ones. One missionary who travels extensively keeps a journal so that his wife can know what was happening each day he was gone as well as know all about his journey. The journal provides a valuable link between the couple. Finally, the journal can provide an excellent source of information for newsletters, reports to supporters, published articles, and who knows, maybe someday, a best seller book! Go to Chapte

Chapter 8

Being the Best You Can Be Who are you?

Missionaries come in all shapes and sizes. Contrary to what many average churchgoers think, the missionary is not some higher form of life or any more special than anyone else. Although it may be true that he is called to a special task, a missionary is a human being, which is a great thing to be. But we are not flawless. We all have our "little quirks." Some of these idiosyncrasies are not too important and some, if not kept in check, may be the factor that makes or breaks a missionary's ministry. As it has been said, "You never have a second chance to make a first impression." Making good impressions will be a major factor in the success of a potential missionary from the first day that the recruit begins to raise support and continues on as an important factor as the missionary begins to work in evangelism. At a glance this area of personal characteristics may seem insignificant. But think about the job of a missionary. It is always a relational job. Dealing with people is at the very heart of reaching the lost. Yet if people don't like the missionary, he will not be able to build relationships with them. It is important

to remember that we all relate to people differently and we won't always naturally get along perfectly. It will take work. Perhaps Paul gave us a deep insight that gets to the heart of the issue of relating to people personally: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." In other words, be considerate! Philippians 2: 3. I know a young man who could be described in one word: obnoxious. He is one of the most talented men I have ever met but thus far his talent has been virtually wasted because he has problems relating to people. He is inconsiderate. Once when I was at the end of my rope with him I confronted him about it. His answer (as always) was, "That's just the way I am." What a novel excuse. But don't we all rationalize it this way? I wonder what Nathan the prophet would have said to King David if David had responded to the accusation about his adulterous relationship with Bathsheba with a nonchalant, "Sorry, that's just the way I am." Poor Judas, that was just the "way he was." It is a problem being the way we are,but we can change and learn to be considerate of other people. Paul didn't say, "If you're the kind of person who can do it, consider others better than yourselves." Being considerate and relating well to people really manifests itself in very small things. Here are a few suggestions:

Be all you are

What is integrity? The word comes from the mathematical term integer. An integer is a whole number. A person with integrity is a person who is not divided. A person of integrity does the things he says he will do. He strives to always fulfill the tasks he will perform. If he does not have time or knows it is beyond his abilities to do something, he will refuse to take on the responsibility. A person of integrity always does his best. He is honorable; he is true to himself. A person with integrity listens to his conscience. Martin Luther said as he was faced with persecution, "It is neither safe nor prudent to do aught against conscience. Here I stand; God help me, I cannot do otherwise." Integrity means "being faithful in the small things." It is doing what is right whether or not anyone will notice and not doing what is wrong even if you

know that you will never be caught. [Arthur Gordon, A Touch of Wonder (Old Tappan, New Jersey: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1972), 201-205.] How often missionaries are faced with decisions of these kinds in countries where ethical standards are not the same as ours or where ethical standards are non-biblical. In Shakespeare's Hamlet, as Laertes was leaving for college in far away Paris, his father, Polonius, advised him about being a man of integrity. His words still speak to us today." This above all: to thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day. Thou canst not then be false to any man." The bottom line of integrity is trustworthiness. Building trust between you and others is vital in being a successful missionary. You must learn to build trust with every one from potential supporters to potential converts. You can start doing this by asking "the prior question of trust." [Marvin K. Mayers, Christianity Confronts Culture, (Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1974), 32.] In other words, is what I am about to do going to build trust or tear down any trust that is already built? Put yourself in the other person's shoes and remember that we all have a different perspective. Few things are black and white. When potential supporters trust you, they will be a real encouragement. When you have built trust with nationals, they will begin to open their lives to you.

Always be prompt
What is more frustrating than having to wait on someone, especially a speaker. When you have an appointment, take measures to insure that you will appear on time. Allow time for surprises such as breakdowns and traffic jams. Respect the time of others. (This includes not taking unnecessary amounts of time in appointments. )

Write things down

Few people can remember everything without a jog to the memory. Get attached to a pocket calendar or date book that works for you. When someone asks you for information and you promise to send it, write it down. Then do it. You send a signal to the person that he is important enough for you to make a note to remember him. If you aren't dependable, people will soon know it. [Remeber that in some cultures, however, writing down the appointment in

front of the person might be an insult." Am I so unimportant to him that he needs a note to remember our meeting?"]

Acknowledge all gifts and contributions

I am a loyal reader of Ann Landers. It is amazing how often people write in to complain about never receiving acknowledgment for a gift. It may seem vain for a person to expect a note of thanks for a gift, but it is actually very natural. Sending a thank-you note first of all says, "I received what you sent me, and it is appreciated." It's very simple. Imagine a grandmother sending a gift across the country to a grandchild. If the child fails to acknowledge it, the poor lady may wonder if it got lost in the mail. A thank-you says, "I appreciate what you did for me." Remember that contributions are more than money and things. People may have contributed time and hard work for you. Always thank people in writing. Although a simple "Thank you" spoken is nice, a written note tells the person that you appreciated the gift enough to take the time to write a note. A note of appreciation need not be long and flowery. Sometimes it is better to be short and to the point. Again, write down every contribution and contributor so that you will remember to thank the right people for the right gift.

Have a sense of humor

"A merry heart is like a medicine," says Proverbs. No one is in more need of a good sense of humor than the missionary. Remember that you are a stranger in a strange land. But to the nationals you are "stranger." You will be laughed at every day. When you are trying to learn the language, the nationals will laugh and you won't be amused in the least. An old timer gave me some helpful advice: "Remember they're not laughing with you; they're laughing at you." You will have to learn to laugh at yourself as well. You are in a serious business but don't take yourself so seriously. Have at least one good "belly laugh" every day. Read humorous material. Laughter has been proven to be beneficial to the health. Have a friend at home send comics, jokes, and anecdotes through the mail. Keep smiling! L. Robert Kohls, in his book, Survival Kit for Overseas Living identifies the ability to laugh as the "ultimate weapon against despair." [L. Robert Kohls, Survival Kit for Overseas Living (Yarmouth, Maine: Intercultural Press, 1984), 73.] This book is a must for your preparation.

Be flexible
A missionary's life is full of surprises. It seems that he lives from one unexpected event to another, from the very first day of support-raising to furlough time. He may have to wait several months to receive a visa before he even leaves the homeland. Once he gets to the field, he may find that arrangements for housing had not gone as planned. In fact sometimes nothing goes as planned. It is imperative that the missionary recruit learns to be flexible at all times. Perhaps that is what Paul was telling us when he said, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." If a missionary does not learn to "go with the flow" and be flexible, he will break. Americans hardly ever completely blend in with their new culture. They can be picked out of a crowd from a mile away. This does not mean that we should not try to blend in more. Many times it is the small things that make a difference, things that you will probably have to learn on your own through careful observation. You can learn to be a good observer. Here are some do's and don'ts in adjusting to a new culture: [Virginia McKay, Moving Abroad: A Guide to International Living (VLM Enterprises, 1982), 94-95.]

Be slow to judge. Maybe you don't understand yet. Never complain about the host country. Remember you are the visitor. It is you who must adapt. Be sensitive to cultural and social standards of behavior. Be careful not to "go native." You won't be. Don't call the nationals "natives." Don't compare your host country to your homeland. Try new things: food, activities, etc. Recognize and share frustrations about the new culture. Don't let them build up inside.

We have all developed certain habits of behavior. Some are good and some are not. Take a look at your personality for a moment. Or if possible have a close friend tell you your good qualities, so that you can maximize them, and some negative qualities, so that you can improve them. Do you have integrity? Remember that it is the small things that often show who you really are. Do people trust you? Do you give them reason to put confidence in you?

Do you take yourself too seriously? Are you flexible or do you fold when things don't go as planned? To be the best servant you can be, you need to be the best you that you can be. According to the Bible, that means putting the interests of others first.

Getting physically prepared

One of the greatest fears of people here at home are fears about living situations overseas. In some ways these fears are blown out of proportion and in others they are valid. Regardless of the situation in a particular country, the missionary must take care to be in top physical condition. In fact some mission agencies will require a physical examination before accepting an applicant. Of course by visiting your field before actually going on a full-time basis, you will know better what to expect. If a survey trip is not possible, contact missionaries currently in the field to find out. A good guide for preparing to travel and live overseas is Passport's Health Guide for International Travelers [Thomas P. Sanker, et. al . (Lincolnwood, IL: Passport Books, 1986. )] It discusses common diseases in detail, immunizations required for certain countries, traveling, medical problems, and returning home. Of course you will want to keep in top physical condition. The best way to keep from getting sick is to stay physically fit. That means getting enough exercise, rest, and recreation. The rigors of living overseas often require one to be in better physical condition than if he stayed in the States. Being a missionary is not an easy occupation. It requires a person to be more well rounded with a wider scope of talents and abilities, while at the same time be specialized in certain areas. With over half of the world's population in need of evangelizing, it is vital that we send out missionaries not only in quantity, but even more importantly in quality, prepared spiritually, emotionally, personally, academically and physically to be the best servants they can be.

Chapter 9

Taking that First Step Hints For Short-termers

It would be difficult to estimate the number of believers from all over the world who give from a few weeks to three years as

short-term missionaries. Some believe that the number may equal our entire missionary force throughout the world! [Patrick Johnstone, Operation World, 4th ed. (Kent, England: WEC Publications, 1987), p. 475.] There is not a small amount of criticism concerning short-term missions and no doubt, some of it is valid. However, many see short-term missions as the gateway to career missions for many people. As such, short-term missions offer a way for hundreds of people to "test the waters" of the mission field. And as a result of short-term missions, hundreds of people have become "World Christians." This chapter is specifically written with short-termers in mind. This does not mean that short-termers should not read the rest of the book. They definitely should read it from cover to cover. This chapter is designed only to address the special issues of short-term as opposed to full-time. There are some dangers involved in short-term missions and in this chapter we want to help you avoid some of the pitfalls. Due to the fact that so many are going on short-term missions and so many resources are being spent on the adventures, short-term mission trips should be not only meaningful for the short-termer, but beneficial for the Kingdom of God as well. This book is not the definitive guide to short-term missions, but we do want to give you some tips. If you're serious about doing a short-term, pick up Stepping Out, a guide to short-term missions [(PO Box 6018, Evanston, IL: SMS Publication, Inc. ).] Chapter 2 discussed at length the validity of short-term missions. If needed, go back to that chapter and refresh your memory.

"It's just a tropical vacation!"

Before deciding to go on a short-term mission trip, think about your motives. Are you going for a vacation? Are you going to get experience on the mission field? Maybe you're going to see how the other half lives. No doubt all of us would have several different motives for going. Some would be personal. There is

nothing wrong with wanting to see exotic lands. However, if that is your only motive, maybe you should just take a vacation on your own time. But perhaps your motives are mixed. You want to see a new place and you want to serve the Lord. Maybe your friends are going and you know there is a great need. Whatever your motives are, it is important to sort them out before making a decision. If you don't you may be disappointed when you get to the field. Stepping Out offers a long list of reasons many go on a short-term mission. It helps you discover your strongest motivation for going. Be sure to talk it over with friends, family, church leaders, and most of all, God. Just be sure that your reasoning is well balanced. Remember, you don't have to be going "for all the right reasons", but you do need reasonable expectations.

Where to go and with whom?

There are hundreds of organizations that offer a variety of short-term ministries. Stepping Out lists nearly a hundred different organizations with short-term projects of one kind or another. Many of these are denominational or interdenominational agencies. Many are "faith-only" in doctrine. There are several organizations within the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ that offer short-term missions projects. They are all different in length of service and type of ministry. Adventures In Missions (AIM) conducts several short-term experiences during the summer, at Christmas and at other times during the year. They accept people from 13 to 22 years of age and have experiences ranging from two to thirteen weeks. Their projects are usually either construction or evangelism in different places around the globe. Contact them at Adventures in Missions, RR 5, Box 106, Bloomfield, IN 47424. (812)825-7770. African Christian Mission sponsors an internship program for people interested in missionary service in Africa. They have a well-structured program for interns to work under veteran

missionaries during the summertime. Contact them at Africa Christian Mission, 414 Brown St. , Kansas, IL 61933. (217)9485486. Amor Ministries, based in Southern California, works in evangelism, Bible distribution, training, medical relief and construction of needed facilities in the inner cities of Southern California and in Mexico. They offer short-term experiences among the urban poor and the unreached all along the Mexican border and in the inner cities of Southern California. Short-termers can serve in evangelism and in service projects, such as building homes or church buildings. Their short-term opportunities last anywhere from one week to several months. Contact them at Amor Ministries, 1664 Precision Park Ln. , San Diego, CA 92173. (619)662-1200. Christian Missionary Fellowship (CMF) offers REACH, a shortterm summer internship program each summer. Teams of interns spend the summer in one of CMF's fields working with at least one missionary family. Each team is accompanied by a CMF staff member or a trained coach. Contact them at Christian Missionary Fellowship, PO Box 26306, Indianapolis, IN 46226-0306. (317)542-9256. Christ in Youth (CIY) sponsors a variety of shorter terms all over the world. They offer experiences from two weeks to one month. Their program is geared toward high school and college students, though they will accept others also. They focus on giving youth a vision of what is happening throughout the world in missions by working with existing missionaries who are doing great works and who are willing to share that vision with young people. CIY short-termers get involved in some evangelism as well as in aiding the missionaries in special service projects. For information write CIY, Box B, Joplin, MO 64802. Tel. 417-781-2273. HIM Ministries offers a variety of experiences such as inner city work, overseas tips and work on Indian reservations. They aim for teams of teens from 14 years of age up to senior citizens. Their trips are offered in the summer, at Thanksgiving and

during Christmas break. Contact Alan and Shari Morris at HIM Ministries, PO Box 37, Onward, IN 46967. (219)626-2684. New Life conducts short-term experiences for college students, youth groups and adults. They do disaster relief work, inner city ministry and work among the poor in Mexico. New Life is currently building a children's home and a medical clinic in Piedras Negras, Mexico in coordination with full-time workers there. Contact Rob Minton at PO Box 202, Milligan College, TN 37682. (615)461-8986. Pioneer Bible Translators (PBT) has a short-term program for people interested in translation related work. Each summer short-termers serve in a field where Bible translators are in process of translating portions of the Scriptures. For information contact Pioneer Bible Translators, PO Box 381030, Duncanville, TX 75138. (214)709-2460. Team Expansion offers short-term ministries from three months up to a year. The focus of their PATHWAYS Program is on proper training, experience and ministry. Their goal is to recruit full-time missionaries to work among unreached people groups. This program focuses on building relationships with nationals. Team Expansion works in fields where the Evangelical population is less than 5% and where there are no other Christian Church/Church of Christ missionaries. Opportunities are available on nearly every continent. For more information contact Mark Miller at PO Box 4100, Cincinnati, OH 45204-4100. Toll Free 1-800-447-0800 or locally (513)244-8149. Teen Mission, USA takes as many as a dozen mission work trips for youth and adults each summer. Since 1970 Ken Henderson has been speaking in high schools, colleges, churches, conventions and gatherings of all types, using a unique blend of music, humor and fascinating topics. In 1985, Teen Mission, USA got deeply involved in taking young people and adults on mission work trips to places such as Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana, Venezuela, England and Ukraine along with stateside trips to children's homes and Indian reservations. Most of these experiences are heavily involved with

construction and work projecst by day and Vacation Bible Schools in the afternoon and evening. A few trips focus on evangelism and helping missionaries with church-planting efforts. Most trips last about 2 weeks and are open to both youth and adults. For more information contact Teen Mission, USA, Ken Henderson, Executive Director, PO Box 24336, Lexington, KY 40524, (606)278-3202. There are dozens of other missionaries and missions who will accept short-termers. Just be sure that our expectations match those of the missionary or organization you are contacting. One valid concern that many critics of short-term missions often have is that the short-termers are doing jobs that nationals could do as well. For example, a couple of years ago in a country where unemployment was pushing 40%, I met a summer team from a very large short-term mission agency in the USA. The young people were doing nothing more than building a brick wall. One young lady complained to me that she had been in the country for two weeks and had yet to meet a national! Be sure that wyat you will be doing is a necessary service and not just busy work. When deciding with what organization you will go, think about what kind of experience you want.

Are you interested in or concerned for a particular part of the world? Do you want to work in an urban setting? What kind of team do you want to work with, large or small? What kinds of talents and abilities do you have that you will be able to use in a given opportunity? How long will you serve? What is the cost of the entire trip, from preparation to return? Will there be any training or orientation? Be careful! Sometimes there is little or no training offered.

Get as much information as you can. Do research and ask questions. If possible, talk to someone who has had a previous

experience with a particular group. But be carefule here. Just because someone may have had a negative experience with a group, doesn't mean that it was the fault of the organization or mission. It may have been improper expectations on the part of the participant. Whatever you do, don't go it alone. You need the support and advice of others including church leaders, friends and family. Once again, Stepping Out will be a good resource to help you sort out some of these issues. It will give you ideas of how to choose the right short-term experience for you and what kinds of questions to ask. Remember that if you go with an interdenominational mission, you might have to agree on certain theological statements or creeds. In some cases you might be restricted from certain types of ministry because of your beliefs. One girl I talked to was barred from counseling people who had made decisions for Christ because of her view that baptism was part of the salvation process.

Raising support
One major on the part of a prospective short-termer is the money. At this point go back and read Chapter 5 on supportraising. All of the rules in that chapter still apply. But there are some differences. Unless you will be going for more than a few months, you will not necessarily need monthly support. This means that you can go about it a little differently, especially if you are going for only a few weeks. You can ask for more one time gifts, which for some givers is a plus. First, of course, go to your home church. The people there will probably want to help you and might underwrite your whole experience. Make a list of people who might support you. List no less than 200. Don't assume anything. List everyone, even people that you are sure will not support you. You may be surprised.

Here are a few reminders from Chapter 5:

Letters are the least effective means to request support. Although letters do have their place, they are not a good method in and of themselves. Personal visits are best. Always call first. Don't show up unexpectedly. Look sharp! Keep it short. Phone calls are second to personal visits. Be sure to always follow up a phone call with more information, written if possible. Thank people. Show appreciation even if they decide not to support you and even more so if they do. Always thank in writing!

Supporters are great people. Have fun meeting them and sharing your life and ministry with them. Be sure to ask to share your experiences with them when you return. Making the most if your experience

Be a learner
First of all, be a learner. Be a learner both from your leaders and the host missionaries and possibly more importantly, from the nationals. Don't think that you are going to teach them something important without realizing that they may be able to teach you important lessons about life. Proverbs says that wisdom cries out in the streets. You can learn something from every situation. Don't be afraid to ask questions. When you put yourself in a learning position with the nationals, you automatically set up a potential trust-filled relationship with that person. And since we're on the subject of learning, while you're on the field, try to learn some of the language from the nationals. Sure, you may not learn much if your term is short. But you will make some wonderful friends and by trying to learn the language, you will win respect and acceptance. As you've probably heard, Parisians are infamous for snubbing Americans, especially when it comes to their French. But I have a feeling I know why. A few years ago when I was in Paris with

some friends I conducted my own little experiment. I spoke enough French to get by and my friends didn't. Every once in awhile I would let my friends walk up to people to ask a question. Their first question would be, "Do you speak English?" Inevitably the French would say that they didn't if they said anything at all. On the other hand, when I asked them a question, I would try in French first. When they saw that I did not speak their language, they would usually be very helpful. It breaks down barriers to use the language of the nationals instead of having a "the whole world should speak English attitude." Learn to observe. We generally are not very observant. Try to see things you've never seen before and ask yourself what you are seeing. Make a game of trying to figure out what's going on. Sometimes you will guess and be wrong. When that happens, try again.

Culture shock is real

Upon arrival, there will always a lot of things that you don't understand. This place is confusing! You tried to use a few phrases of the language and a whole room full of nationals laughed at you! Not only that but they went around telling everyone what you said and it must have been hysterical. You find yourself becoming tense and wishing you had stayed at home where people love you. You are experiencing culture shock. But don't despair. You can overcome it. You will inevitably feel frustration, tension, embarrassment and confusion. But what you do about it only you can decide. You can decide to take the negative road. Judge the people, criticize them, rationalize your own behavior and withdraw from the culture. But by doing so, you alienate yourself and destroy trust. On the other hand you can decide to make the best of it. And remember that you have decided to be a learner. You decide you will observe what is happening. Listen to what is going on. Ask questions. You will gain understanding and build rapport with the nationals.

Keeping yourself in perspective

It would be easy for missionaries to become self-righteous. After all, they have given up living in their own country among their family and friends to live in a place where they may not exactly be welcomed with open arms. Short-termers are no different. Many times they feel that they are making a great sacrifice for the kingdom; hence they may feel special. It is wise to remember that you are not taking God with you to the country that you have chosen. He is taking you. In fact, he has gone on before you and prepared the way. Let Him take you. He has a lot to teach you about the culture that you could never have imagined. Let Him mold you. He's the one who will bring about change. You just need to be willing to let Him.

"That's cool!"
Living overseas is full of unexpected events, especially on a short-term mission. One of the most helpful things for your own well-being is to learn to be flexible. A friend of mine learned to say, "That's cool!" every time something didn't go as planned on the field. Even though there were many times that in fact, things weren't all that "cool," just hearing him say it helped us all relax.

Talk about it
You will experience a wide spectrum of new ideas, sights, and people. You will have some bad experiences, some frightening experiences, and some lovely memorable experiences. Talk about them. Hopefully your leaders will have built in some "debriefing" time for each person to share what's happening. But if they don't, talk about the things you are seeing with those around you, you will learn about yourself, others, and your new culture.

Get to know the nationals

We have already discussed how important it is to learn about the new culture and have suggested some ways you could do that. The tendency for most of us, when thrust into a radically different setting, is to cling to those things with which we are comfortable. Too many times for short-termers that means spending every waking hour with your American friends. What a shame! There is so much out there for you to learn about. As we said, learning the language is a pivotal point in making new friends and winning trust and respect. But there are other ways. One important way is to eat the national food with the nationals. In many places the nationals have never seen a North American eat some of their national food. You might become a legend! But more than that, there is something about eating with people that builds a special bond. Is it any wonder that we see Jesus eating with sinners and taxcollectors! If you're lucky, you may be invited to join nationals for a special event. Take advantage of the opportunity. Whether it be a game of soccer or a birthday party, you will learn so much more and make some great friends. And just a final note, don't go places in large groups of your American friends. It will draw attention to you that you don't need. If you must go to the same location, go in smaller groups of three and four and try to be discreet.

Keep a journal
You will be changed by what you will see and do. It would be a shame for those feelings to slowly fade away as they become dimmer in your memory. Write down what you do, see and feel. You need not spend a great amount of time on your journal, but you should do it daily. When pursued effectively, the process can actually become fun! Read more about journaling in Chapter 7.

Coming back home

No doubt you will be excited to be coming back home. You will want to make a beeline for your favorite fast food restaurant. Then you will want to share everything that you have seen and done with your loved ones. Get prepared for a let down called "reentry shock". You have been changed drastically, especially if you have been out of your homeland for more than a few months. Unfortunately, your family and friends cannot relate to your experiences unless they have been in your shoes before. You may get the impression that they don't care. Every time you try to tell something that happened to you, it seems that they want to tell you what happened to them while you were away. It is important to understand what is happening here. It's hard to take but it's true, life at home went on without you. Your family and friends have had new experiences too! Granted, they may not have been as radical has yours but they are important to them. Try to talk to them. Ask them what happened while you were away and even if they don't ask you about your experiences, be determined that you are going to understand what they have done while you were away. Hopefully you will find someone who understands what you have done enough for you to just sit down and tell them all about it. If you get really frustrated, grab a close friend and say, "I'm going to tell you about my experience overseas, and you're going to listen!" For many people reentry shock is harder than is culture shock.

What does it all mean?

For many people that first short-term experience is a turning point in their lives. They have been changed forever in one way or another. That doesn't mean that all short-termers make decisions to return to the field (though many indeed do). In fact, some of those who have gone back have had terrible experiences. Why would someone who has had a bad experience want to return to the field? Chances are they were able to sort it all out.

Many mission organizations offer a debriefing time for you to vent your feelings and frustrations and to help you decide what it all meant for you and your future. Don't rely on yourself to do this. You need the help of others to give you insights into what has happened and what your next step should be. It may well be that you are considering missions as a career due to your short-term experience. If so, talk with others about it, preferably someone who has made the same type of experience. Also talk to leaders in your church, family, and friends. Perhaps you will decide that a career in missions is not for you. That's fine as long as you realize that you can be a catalyst in helping others to see the big picture. You have become a world Christian and you need to share that vision.

Short-terms in the big picture

Short-terms definitely have a place in the world of missions and it may be that we have yet to discover how to make them as effective as they can be. More than anything, now they are a stepping stone to career missions and to a better perspective of God's concern for the whole world. Still, short-terms are certainly not the end of the story. True change (in the lives of the nationals you've come to love) takes place over a long period of years through much trust in God, hard work, and God adding daily to the kingdom. Pray for full-timers to follow up on what you've done. You might be surprised just how quickly He answers your prayer. Whether or not that answer includes your return is secondary; if you go into the short-term with an open mind, and open heart, and a strong willingness to learn, you will be blessed and so will the people to whom you gave yourself!

How to Ruin a Short-term Experience

[Reprinted with permission from World Christian, Aug. , 1983.]

Go it alone; refuse to work as a team with any organization or colleagues. Remember that your purpose is spiritual; refuse to cooperate with any task that seems menial or

unimportant; go with the expectation that you're going to win the entire country to Christ. Abandon daily prayer and Bible study time. Be rigid in your organization; refuse to roll with the flow. Avoid delays at all costs. Help the missionaries by pointing out the mistakes; they can be stubborn, so win the nationals over to your side if necessary. Get involved in a romantic relationship; it's a good way to expose the nationals to progressive dating patterns in the USA. Never try to pick up the local language: it's too embarrassing! Be sure to point out everyone's faults right away. Especially focus criticism on the leadership. Take care not to get dirty or eat the local food; you may miss a few friendship opportunities with the "natives" but you will avoid any chance of getting sick. Watch out for team members who couldn't raise their entire budget. They may try to "mooch" off of you. NEVER SHARE! When you get home castigate your congregation and friends for their lack of commitment. You deserve their respect now that you're an expert. Remember that as an overseas veteran, you have an "honorable discharge" deferment from attempts to draft you into more missions work. RESIST the urge to go long term! . A person like you is probably most valuable at home speaking to groups on Christian commitment.

Go to Chap

Chapter 10 Tentmaking--Counting the Cost

[Note: Chapter 10 was originally published privately under the title," EVALUATING INTERNATIONAL EMPLOYMENT POTENTIALS". It is included here in its entirety through the courtesy of its author, Ron K. Miller. At the time of this book's first publishing date, Mr. Miller was Director of Tentmakers International, a Seattle based research agency which provides the Christian community with information about restricted access nations while equipping the local church to send missionaries to unreached peoples. At that time, for more information, one could contact him at PO Box 30727, Seattle, WA 98103-0727; Tel. (206)789-2806. The authors wish to thank Mr. Miller for his willingness to share his work.]

One cannot talk about tentmaking missions without carefully considering the twentieth century counterpart of making tents. It is the employment opportunity that makes possible [the] support for the ministry and provides the basis for visa status in the host country. There are two ways tentmakers support themselves overseas. The first, and that which most tentmakers do, is to find secular employment working for someone else. The second is the entrepreneurial method of developing, investing and growing one's own business. The entrepreneurial method has some advantages. The owners set the agenda for the business and exercise control. The business can hire Christian nationals, encourage the church, bring a team of people together and provide on-field accountability bases. Most people who would be tentmakers lack the basic qualities and resources necessary for success as entrepreneurs. The entrepreneur can do nothing without funding, and funding is not always readily available. Many entrepreneurial types lack the business and administrative skills necessary for success. The door is wide open in most countries for the entrepreneur who can establish a business that will enhance the economy of the host country and employ nationals. What is needed are Christian businessmen who are willing to invest dollars without expectation of great monetary return. Some agency or clearing house could put together the entrepreneurial types and those with business skills and investment capital. At this point in time, most tentmakers are not using this method. They are working for someone. The remainder of this paper will deal with evaluating those employment potentials. The rules of thumb Every rule has its exception, but several principles dictate direction in the international market place. Jobs first go to qualified nationals

Very few countries will permit expatriates to take a job that can be done by a national. As a rule of thumb, in order to secure international employment one must possess a skill that is not plentiful in the host country. Of course, expatriates have been employed overseas as nannies and musicians, but they are the exceptions. Most western countries do have qualified nationals. The job prospects in Europe and Australia are not as great as in Asia and the Middle East. It is also true that many third world laborers are brought into wealthy Middle Eastern countries to perform work and provide services that the nationals do not want to do. A college degree and experience There are very few opportunities for non college grads and entry level employment. It is expensive to support an expatriate overseas, and employers want individuals in whom they have confidence for success. The employer types The thousands of jobs that exist overseas fall into three general employer types: Employment as teachers Most international employment has the dimension of teaching. Nurses hired on a cardiac floor in a hospital in Turkey will be expected to share their expertise with national nurses, while Western lawyers are hired to teach business law to graduate students in China. In formal teaching environments, three categories show up: The English language teacher Without question, more opportunities exist today for native English speakers than any other single group. Native English language teachers are not available in many countries, making the expatriate welcome in Asia, the Middle East and other parts of the world. In some cases, native English and a college degree is sufficient to secure employment, but that trend is changing. The demand is growing for those who have

completed graduate programs in teaching English as a second language and have some teaching experience in their passport country as well. It appears that the employment potential in this area will remain strong for the next ten years. The international school teacher There are hundreds of international schools where grades K-12 are taught in English. Both the British and American systems hire expatriates in almost every country of the globe. They all require credentials of the equivalent of a teaching certificate, and prefer experience. Teaching couples are often in demand in smaller schools, where support moneys go further when husband and wife both teach. The university professor The Fullbright Scholarship represents just one of the opportunities for visiting professors to teach in overseas universities. It is usually in the sciences that openings exist, but there are some in the arts as well. Such positions require a Ph. D. and recognition in the field. These positions are usually shorter term duration. Employed by Governments Host country governments often seek highly skilled experts to enter the country as project leaders and developers. Passport countries are often asked to send development workers who can improve the quality of life in the host country. Host governments Many host countries give permission to relief and development agencies to enter and do everything from refugee work to water improvement projects. Some of these agencies are Christian in their makeup, others are purely humanitarian. A number of career skills are in demand from medicine to social work. In some cases, Saudi Arabia being one, many education and business services are nationalized. The government hires for teaching positions and energy related industry.

Passport governments It is often the tentmaker's home country that can provide overseas employment. The Peace Corps in the United States is a good example of entry level government employment. Not only does it provide close contact with nationals, it also provides a reference base for further employment with the US government. The US government and other passport governments, provide embassy related employment in host countries. Often the passport country is concerned about exports and controls. One individual was sent to a Caribbean country to study and report on better ways to control disease in mango imports to the US Opportunities are often available in a contract relationship with passport governments. Projects in drug enforcement and criminal investigation are often handled on a contract basis. The Private Sector There is no limit to the variety of private sector employment. From engineering to marketing of products, many businesses have entered the international arena. The best scenario is to begin employment with a multi-national company in the passport country, and use the position and experience to network one's way into an overseas assignment. Employers prefer to send people they know, whose performance is guaranteed. It also proves beneficial for the employee who is able to continue his or her career if it is necessary to return home. It is also possible, however, that the cutting edge can be lost in a high tech career during an overseas employment contract. One engineer spent five years in a remote site in the Middle East, and had to re-enter the US job market without the advantages of the changes that had occurred in his career field in relation to computer technology. Many of the multinational companies are looking for individuals who have language abilities. The three languages most sought are Japanese, Arabic and Chinese. As the private sector moves

into other countries, the desire for career skills is coupled with the desires for language abilities. There are openings for those experienced in international trade. Backgrounds in law, management and accounting are in demand. As the multi-national companies begin doing business overseas, experts in the fields of tariffs and importing are in demand. The computer industry continues to look for qualified people abroad. The trend seems to be toward the personal computer. The demand in this area is for individuals who have the skills to convert overseas companies to modern standards and procedures. The private sector entering new sales markets shows a demand for those with cross cultural sales experience. In electronic and consumer goods, representatives are needed who can take Japanese and US products into new markets. There are opportunities in international banking and stock brokering. Those who understand monetary systems and can handle transactions in multiple stock markets are sought after. Evaluating the employment fields There are pros and cons in each employment field. These considerations are not exhaustive, but do provide a starting point for evaluating the potential of the employment opportunity. Teaching The teacher is met with an audience which is ready to receive. Often the teacher is placed on a pedestal. Teaching loads can be light enough so that opportunities exist for interpersonal relationships. Usually teachers are housed near schools and can interact with students. There are drawbacks in the teaching fields. Teachers are easily observed and monitored. In some middle eastern countries it is against the law to speak to young people about counter cultural religious beliefs, of which Christianity is one.

Governments Employees working on government projects are in the circles of the most influential in the host country. These contacts can change the course of their countrymen, and such leaders ought to be a primary target group for the Gospel of the Lord Jesus. But governments can place burdensome restrictions on Christians concerning the propagation of their faith. The Peace Corps in the United States screens carefully to assure themselves that an individual is not accepting a Peace Corps position as a platform for their religious beliefs. That is not to say that there are no effective tentmakers in the Peace Corps. They are free to worship with nationals and answer questions about their own beliefs. The Private Sector Multinational companies can put burdens of time and production expectations on the tentmaker. Exhausted after a 60 hour week, the Christian is not in an advantageous position for ministry. But management positions do place the tentmaker at an advantage with the employee. There is respect and authority that comes with the job. Another advantage is the base of contacts for ministry. One traditional missionary stated, "That tentmaker has been in more nonChristian homes in two years than I have been in ten." The hospitality was just work related. It takes effort to find employment overseas. Jobs don't fall out of the sky. Contacts, study, evaluation and preparation are all part of the employment process. In many cases, jobs are more readily available to those expatriates already living overseas. Tentmaking is not the easy way to do missions work. The tentmaker needs to evaluate his or her background and abilities in addition to the many employment possibilities. While the mid-career, highly skilled college graduate is the most marketable in the international job market, tentmaking considerations must begin early so that preparations are adequately and targeted based not only on abilities, but the

potential for employment in the restricted access countries, the focus of the tentmaker missionary. Go to Chapter

Chapter 11 Questions and Answers About Sending Churches

What does the term "sending church" imply? It can mean different things among different organizations and is probably different for each sending church. Here we define "sending church" as a church that provides the majority of the emotional, spiritual, and perhaps even ministry and financial supply for a cross-cultural missionary. Although a sending church can provide most or all of one's financial support, this does not necessarily have to be the case. What kinds of churches can become sending churches? All kinds! At one time, it was thought that only large churches could perform these functions. However, experience has shown that even a church of 100 people and perhaps less can rally behind a missionary sufficiently to provide not only the emotional and spiritual support but, in fact, most if not all of his or her financial needs as well. Of course, larger churches can muster even more resources for these needs. What are some of the qualifications for a sending church? Most of all, a sending church must be committed to the cause of world wide evangelism enough to be solidly involved in the oversight of their missionary. Note that this does not imply that the church must have "arrived" in every facet of world evangelism, but rather that they are "anxious" to participate in a larger way than simply writing checks. Name some of the major areas of involvement for sending churches. Sending churches need to be involved in at least three areas: growth, love, and trust. If the sending church invests heavily in laying a strong foundation in these three areas, it is possible that every other detail will fall into place.

What do you mean by providing "growth" for the missionary? Each sending church should be sending "growth messages" to its missionary on a monthly basis. These messages need not simply be written notes. For example, inviting the prospective mission candidate to spend three months with the senior minister at the sending church can send a strong signal to a would be cross-cultural worker. It communicates a desire for partnership and shows that the church is taking responsibility. Furthermore, if the church elects to send a missionary to a conference on evangelism and church planting or even to an entire year of graduate school during furlough, the missionary will not only be involved in advanced stages of growth but will also sense the shepherding hand of the congregation that is serving as his sending church. What is meant by "love messages?" These don't necessarily try to teach the missionary anything. Instead, they simply communicate the church's care and concern. For example, the church might send the missionary a box of chocolate chip cookies during a long cold winter. Or the elders might call him on the telephone and patch him into the board meeting or, better yet, to the entire Sunday morning service. In doing so, the church communicates a very pronounced love that goes beyond check writing or reading a financial report. What do you mean by "trust messages?" Unlike the two forms of communication mentioned above, trust messages seek to establish a covenant of affirmation between the sender and the missionary. A trust message says, "We believe in you no matter what and we will stand by you regardless of the circumstances." For example, a church might set up a schedule whereby a different elder responds to each monthly report. In this way, the missionary can see broad support from throughout the entire eldership. A trust message might be as simple as placing the missionaries name on the church letterhead. By doing so the church is saying, "We are willing to step out on a limb and claim this missionary as one of our very own staff. We recognize that someday he might make mistakes but he is still ours, we still believe in him, and even when he makes mistakes we will stand by him (especially then) and help him through the mistake toward a higher level of service." What are some of the ways that churches can communicate with their missionaries?

Churches can use letters, audio and videotapes, small packages which often go directly to the missionaries door instead of being held up in customs, prayer support, financial support, and actual visits on the field. These are just some of the many ways in which a church can be involved. How can a church make sure that it fulfills its role as a sending church? A church could set up an actual calendar with all of the months in the year listed down the left hand side of the paper and the three major communication areas across the top as columns. This "communication matrix" can help a church see its weak points and strong points. After a church graphs the types of communication it has sent over the past year, it will sometimes be awakened to its responsibility to send more than simple requests for additional financial reports. If a church becomes intentional about this process, it will actually set up a schedule in advance. For example, one elder might be asked to be responsible to prepare an audio tape in July to serve as a growth message for the missionary. As such, he might decide to use a tape from the morning message and simply add an addendum to it. Another member of the congregation, perhaps a Sunday School teacher, might be asked to prepare a video in November to serve as a love message. She might travel to different homes where families are putting up their Christmas trees and ask them for messages (on video) to the missionary family. Still another member of the congregation, perhaps one of the high-schoolers, could be asked to prepare a poster with a collage of pictures of the various teens together with a paragraph of prayer support for the missionary. If the congregation fills in every slot, there will be 36 messages per year to the congregation's missionary. In some cases, this will be up to 36 times the number of letters that the missionary receives from any church in any one year, unfortunately. In other cases, it will simply serve to help the congregation make sure it is covering the breadth of communication types, and not just zeroing in on one area, such as is often the case, when a congregation simply requests financial reports. Does this system have to be done exactly this way for the church to qualify as a sending church?

Not at all. But these kinds of activities characterize the kind of oversight that a sending church must provide. The secret is not to be involved in "busy work" but to be involved in real in-depth communication. Must the forwarding agent come from the sending church? No. But it is often the case that the missionary will want the forwarding agent to be from the sending church so that he or she may serve as a communication liaison with the church. Who should begin the communication process? It isn't as important to figure out who should begin as it is to clarify the expectation. In some cases, the missionary might wait for months thinking that the church will be contacting him or her first. Meanwhile, the church might be waiting for the missionary to make the first step. The bottom line is that expectations need to be clarified. How can a congregation make sure it plans according to the ideas mentioned above? Someone in the church needs to take responsibility for insuring that the planning process continues on a regular basis. This person, who could be called a communication coordinator, should also jot down reminder notes to those who have agreed to take responsibility for certain month's communication. In addition, the communication coordinator should also call together annual meetings for reviewing and planning the communication process. You've talked a lot about what the sending church needs to do for the missionary, but what does the missionary do for the sending church? Almost exactly the same kind of communication. The problem is, the missionary is only one individual, or in the case of a married couple, two. By contrast, the church should be able to muster the resources of all the membership in order to show this important relationship. As a result, the church leadership must remember that the missionary at times will be unable to respond in the same quantity of communication as the church sends out to the missionary. However, by contrast, the missionary is typically full-time at his or her job. Church members must do all the above communicating in their spare time after

work, in most cases. Therefore, it is to be expected that the missionary should make special effort to set aside time for correspondence and communication duties. Perhaps an hour a day could be used to communicate and do administrative office functions. Or perhaps one morning a week could be set aside for these activities. What specifically will the missionary send? We believe that missionary should grow to the point where he or she is sending exactly the same kind of communication back to the church, that is, growth, love, and trust messages. But what kind of messages could the missionary send that would help the congregation to grow? The missionary might write back and ask the congregation to be involved in a concentrated prayer emphasis for an entire unreached apartment building. He or she could request that the church set up a 24 hour prayer chain and give them specific names and specific apartments to pray for. Many churches would profit greatly from such an expansion of their prayer involvement. They would, in a sense, be growing as a result of the missionary's request. Or a missionary could write up a worksheet to help each class in the Sunday School become more informed about his or her outreach. By preparing these sheets in conjunction with someone who has training in Christian education, the missionary could be providing a substantial expansion to the church's Christian Education Department. How could the missionaries send love messages back to the church? This is an easy one. For example, the missionary could get together some new national believers and cooperatively prepare a special banner or wall hanging to post on the wall of the church during an upcoming mission emphases Sunday. Nationals could write their own personal testimony and by doing so, the church back home who is doing the sending will be able to see results of their involvement and appreciation for their sacrificial giving and care. The missionary could send back a cassette once a month or once a quarter to play during worship or during prayer time. In it, the missionary could offer genuine prayer on behalf of those who are giving and praying back home. The

missionary could take testimonies on tape and send them back to the church so that these testimonies could be played during worship. What are some ways to communicate between the field and the church? Communications have revolutionized in the past decade. In the early 80s, few churches or missionaries had access to fax machines. Now, the fax is obsolete! The Internet has changed forever the way missionaries and their supporters communicate. Finally, daily communication between supporters and missionaries is easy and quick. Most major universities use the Internet and with enough research, youll be able to get set up. Other Internet Service Providers (like AOL, Compuserve, and Microsoft Network) are rapidly globalizing as well. How does the missionary send back messages of trust? This is one of the most important areas of all. Because the missionary is using the congregation's financial resources, he or she can become the target for lots of complaints, unless initiative is taken in this area. Members who see constant checks going out to a missionary can assume that the missionary is receiving these same levels of funding from many other churches across the land. Only by sending honest and accurate reports can the missionary head off these kinds of suspicions. Likewise, members of a sending congregation can wonder exactly how the missionary is spending these funds, unless they are getting back a categorical expense report in each monthly report. By sending this report, the missionary is not "defending himself" but rather he is reporting back in much the same way that Paul and Barnabas reported back in Acts 14:27. Furthermore, by including a personal letter and prayer requests, even if the personal letter is photocopied to all, the missionary insures that at least once per month, the members of the sending church and all other supporters can hear back regarding the progress of the work and the needs of the work in the future. Each special gift should be answered with an equally special thank you. If someone sends a box of chocolate cookies, the missionary is sending a trust message if he or she responds "in kind" and sends back a book mark with a specially prepared "thank you message" inscribed upon it. This is not to create a burden for the missionary but rather to communicate a trusting appreciation that should exist between points which are sometimes oceans away.

How can the missionary make sure that he or she is able to remember to communicate in these ways? Once again, the missionary needs to take responsibility for planning out this kind of communication on an intentional basis. If these communication activities are not planned they will soon be shoved aside by the demands of field work. Missionaries need a communication schedule too. How someone find out more about a sending church relationship? The best way would be to find a church who has a successful sending ministry with a missionary. There are dozens of these churches giving full-time care to missionaries. They are large, medium size, and even small churches which have excelled in sending missionaries and caring for all of their needs. Check with churches in your area to find out if they are sending churches for missionaries. Also, churches other than Christian Churches/Churches of Christ may be sending churches. They could be excellent resources. Go to Chapter 12 o

Chapter 12 Leading Youth To Serve in Missions: A Personal Testimony

By Chris Bushnell It really wasn't until 1986, after I had been in youth ministry for several years, that I truly discovered the benefits of leading youth to serve. We were having a Starv-a-thon, spending the week-end going without food, and learning some of the plight of the world's hungry. During the weekend, the kids came to a decision totally on their own. They decided they would rather go to Mexico on a mission trip than go skiing in Colorado. My life was dramatically changed by this, my first cross-cultural experience, and I know many of the youth had a similar experience. I began growing in my love for God as I began seeing the world the way he sees it, and I began increasing in my compassion for suffering people. I am using the phrases, "began seeing, began growing. . ." because it is a lifelong journey. I have a tremendously powerful sinful nature within me that would much rather selfishly ignore the needs of others and pretend that they don't exist. That is why we need to be involved with service. That is why it is so life-changing.

Why do a service project?

The Bible tells me so.

Service is a necessary and integral part of the Christian life. Someone has said, "You can serve and not be a follower of Christ, but you can't be a follower of Christ and not serve". It is true that as Christians and the Body of Christ - we are the Hands and feet of Jesus. If Jesus were here today, how would he respond to the suffering around us? Would he look the other way and pretend it doesn't exist? Of course not! There is a myth that many Christians have accepted. The myth says, "Jesus was only interested in taking people to heaven when they die". Wrong. He was also intensely interested in helping the poor, the afflicted, the downcast. For most of us, the trials of life consist of our favorite teams losing, or our car breaking down, or we catch a cold. But for many others life is much more cruel. Approximately 10,000 people starved to death last night. Which upsets us the most? Kingdom of God is still being build on earth. It continues to be built by God through our efforts in the lives and hearts of men. "Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" It is God's will that we serve those who are in need, for the sake of the kingdom.

The educational value

Much of the education that takes place in the Church consists of someone talking, or someone reading. Yet educational psychologists have known for years that these are two of the least effective ways of teaching people. Direct personal experience is best. In my experiences with service projects I have seen young people's perceptions of themselves and their purpose in life radically changed! There is nothing that makes one appreciate his lot in life more than living with those in poverty for a while. Those who have gone on service projects will almost always tell you they themselves were impacted more than the ones they went to serve! The adobe church building my group built in San Juan, a tiny village in the Mexican Sierra Madres was wiped out by hurricane Gilbert in 1988. The benches and tables we built for the Sunday school kids at Saltillo, Mexico were all stolen by vandals 2 years after we built them, the roof that we put on the church building in Hedionda in Mexico began falling down a year later because the wood supports that the Mexican men installed before we arrived were still green. Yet we consider all of these projects smashing successes because of the eternal changes that took place in many lives. A life brought into the power of the mission of Christ and given a sense of direction will never be the same.

Service projects develop a powerful sense of community .

For three summers I have taken a group to work with our Team Expansion missionaries in Caracas, Venezuela. These trips were sponsored by Teen Mission, USA and consisted of people from all over the country. Each fall we would me meet again to share about our experience. Looking at slides and each others' photos, we would sit around and laugh for hours. In just 2 short weeks we had grown to love one another deeply as together we endured culture shock, a strange language, heat, cold, physical exhaustion, diarrhea, lost passports, lost lunches (air sickness). Together we laughed, loved, cried and worked. I know of no greater way to build togetherness in any group than service.

Service projects provide genuine aid to people in need.

In spite of what was said earlier about the greatest benefit often being to those who serve, . there are tremendous blessings that come to the recipients of our service. There are many orphanages, children's homes, church camps, inner-city projects, rural poor ministries, retirement homes, nursing homes, small churches & of course mission works that would be hard pressed to continue their ministry without the help of service projects volunteers. I can tell you personally of Elias, Gorge, Jessica, Juan Carlos, Jose Garcia and countless others who know Christ today because of some bold, crazy, Spirit-filled Americans who reached out to them with Christ' love. I can tell you of a church that is growing & strong today after our group canvassed the city and passed out 15,000 invitations to its first church service. When caring, sensitive, & willing workers serve others in the name of Jesus, God always blesses! Both those who go, and those who are served. Youth Ministry Service Organizations

Amor Ministries
1664 Precision Park Ln. San Diego, CA 92173 (619)662-1200

Christ in Youth, Inc.

Box B Joplin, MO 64802 (417) 781-2273

Compassion International
PO Box 7000 Colorado Springs, CO 80933 (303) 594-9900

Crossroads Missions
See Team Expansion website -- grab the link from there: http://www.teamexpansion.org

Group Magazine Workcamps

PO Box 431 Loveland, CO 80539

Ninos de Mexico
Box 309 Union, MO 63084 (314) 583-2000

Teen Missions USA

PO Box 24336 Lexington, KY 40524 (606) 278-3202

World Vision
Box O Monrovia, CA 91016 (800) 423-3366

Go to Chap. 13 of Resources for Missionary Recruits Online Go to the Ta

Chapter 13

From Donuts to Duffel Bags: One Man's

Perspective on the Perspectives Course
by David Cook

"Donuts! Donuts! Two dollars-a-box! Take some to work; they'll love you for it! A little coffee, a little donut, mm-mm just right! So good, so fresh! Two dollars-a-box . . ."

The sales to raise funds for the approaching Junior-Senior banquet had been going better than expected. The early, January mornings, spent between lanes of stopped traffic at a rush hour street corner, were paying off. On each occasion, my partner and I managed to sell out of these warm, glazed treats in time to make it to our morning classes. So, determined to multiply our profits, we gathered extra money and extra volunteers. We bought extra donuts and covered extra locations. The weather, however, was not carried along by our enthusiasm. Warm and rainy conditions prevailed over our ambition, dampening our market and dissolving our profits. The street-corner sale was a soggy flop. Determined not to accept defeat, we formulated "Plan B." First, we canvassed the campus, successfully selling even to the cafeteria director. Then we proceeded off campus from one mall to the next until all the donuts were sold. By late afternoon the sale was complete. Our work was done. But God was just beginning to do a new work in me. I had no idea that the Great Donut Sale, was to be the window through which God would shine a life changing light. I was a Junior in Bible College and a weekend youth minister at a church 85 miles away. Sometimes it seemed I was standing with a foot in each of two canoes, and they weren't always going the same direction. I knew that the life I lived through the week needed to match the life I lived on the weekend, but it was a constant struggle to reconcile the two, because the roles were so different. At the same time, I was burdened with doubts, because slowly and subtlely I had begun to allow academic exercise to replace an active and personal relationship with God. I needed something to bring my doubting mind and my divided heart together in an all-encompassing and powerful faith. While selling donuts, I had made two new friends who worked in a nearby mall. Both were Christians (attending two different denominational churches), and both seemed thrilled to meet us Bible college students. But they both also seemed to have something that I didn't have, so I set out to discover what that something was. Every time I went to the mall, I made sure that I stopped to talk with each one before I left. Sometimes I went just to talk. During one of these visits they invited me to a class being offered cooperatively by their churches; a class called "Perspectives on the World Christian

Movement." I figured that any class that could bring these two denominations together was worth checking out, so I accepted the invitation. When the night of the class came, I met them at the mall, rode with them to the church and sat between them at the front table. The guest speaker for the evening was Dr. Ian North, President of Ambassadors for Christ International. His lecture on world-Christian discipleship. (Dr. Ian North's lecture was based on material from Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, Ralph D. Winter and Stephen C. Hawthorne editors.) gripped my heart, for in it he confronted me with the kind of life I knew I needed to live: a life of integrity, reconciled to a singular faith and purpose. It seemed as if He were speaking directly to me as he called for all Christians to recommit themselves to a spiritual life focus and to reconsecrate themselves to a wartime lifestyle: one which gives up nonessentials in order to maximize potential for reaching the single goal of winning the war. He told the story of the HMS Queen Mary, a ship the length of three football fields, which is now open to the public as a floating museum at Long Beach, CA. A partition down the center of each room divides the ornate from the simple: on one side a full bedroom suite, on the other, bunks stacked eight high; on one side a richly ornamented dining area filled with the finest of accessories, on the other a no-frills mess hall, where one metal tray with indentations replaces a dazzling array of silver, china and crystal. This ship was at one time the finest of all luxury liners. But World War II changed it forever. The ornate and extravagant vessel was stripped down and transformed into a troopcarrying warship. Its transformation was a difficult one, but the survival of a nation depended on it. (Ralph D. Winter, "Reconsecration to a Wartime, Not a Peacetime, Lifestyle" in Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, ed. Ralph D. Winter and Stephen C. Hawthorne (Pasadena, CA: William Carey Library, 1981) .) It was then that Dr. North drew to a close with these words that shot straight through my heart, "People, it's time to clear the decks for war! Stop rearranging furniture on the Titanic!" It became clear to me that the spiritual survival of millions of people depended upon my willingness to cut away my distractions and focus myself entirely upon God's singular purpose displayed throughout history: the reconciliation of His beloved but rebellious creation to Himself.

That night I sat alone in my dorm room and poured over the stack of material I had gathered up from the literature table. I wept. I cried . . . not only for myself, my sin, and my ignorance but, for the first time, I wept for a lost and dying world. As I look back upon that night, I can see that God, in His marvelous grace, had touched my heart with His sorrow. As I read and prayed, it was as if scales were removed from my eyes and I began to see my place and purpose in history. My life began to make more sense than it ever had before. The following year, "Perspectives" was offered again and I enrolled. It provided me with a foundational understanding of the Biblical, historical, cultural and strategic issues of Christian missions and helped prepare me for both short-term experience on the field and further graduate study in missions; both of which have been privileges too great to measure.
If you would like more information on Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, call the US Center for World Mission at (818) 398-2125.

Go to the Appendix A Emergency Response Procedures: How to Prepare for Emergencies Overseas Objectives
The purpose of this chapter is not to scare anyone. On the contrary, it is designed to prepare everyone in the event that there is any kind of emergency. It is rare that this kind of information will be needed by every missionary. Yet, the world is in a continuous state of flux. In the early 1980's, who would have guessed that Sarajevo, Yugoslavia would ten years later be torn apart by civil war.

This is to provide a guideline to be employed on the field in the case of crisis. It presents some principles, values, steps and approaches for responding to emergencies. This document will serve as a guideline on the field in case a crisis occurs.

Naturally, no precise plan can be composed in advance for every type of emergency in every field location. But these guidelines should facilitate the process for reacting properly should emergencies arise.
The objective in this set of guidelines is to envision what might occur in a worst case scenario and to propose necessary steps that might be necessary to respond effectively, then take whatever steps necessary to adequately prepare for a readiness level insuring the comfort and security of our families abroad.

Values that Affect Our Planning

Missionaries are a most precious resource. An Emergency Response Procedure should maximize the likelihood that missionaries would be kept safe from harm. No plan is acceptable unless it allows for complete and holistic survival. Because missionaries are more valuable than finances, long or short range goals, preset agenda, and equipment, nothing should be spared to protect them from danger.

In situations where missionaries are in potential targets for terrorism, kidnapping, or other forms of violent threats, our priority value requires us to play it safe. We do not have the flexibility to take liberties by placing our workers in fields where the level of danger is high enough to warrant great degrees of anxiety about personal security. We will use as our standard the State Department's travel advisories. We are committed to being at least as conservative as their advisory. In certain cases our own data might force us to be reluctant to place workers in a particular location.
In all cases, these worksheets should be viewed as indications and suggestions. They are meant to arouse our level of awareness, not set our actions in stone. Also, they are designed to prepare us, not to scare us. Although it is true that international traveler's should be as informed as possible about the risks that of travelling abroad, the few horror stories that are circulated sometimes tend to stick in our minds more than the hundreds of missionaries who have served faithfully for years without a single incident. We hope to avoid foolish errors, organize our thoughts in advance, and to be prepared.

Safety Begins in the Heart

The inspired psalmist penned the phrase, "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, Thou art with me." Matthew continued recording the Lord's thoughts along these lines when he wrote in Matthew 28:20, "For lo I am with you always even unto the end of the world." It is interesting that this "with" was coupled so closely with those who would choose to go and make disciples of all nations.

He is truly our protector. Countless stories can be reported reinforcing the fact that God does indeed protect us from harm. Even though our battle is "against principalities and powers of darkness" (Ephesians 6:12), God's power is greater (1 John 4:4).
As a result of all of the above, we recommend the following courses of action:

Spouses and co-workers should pray constantly for each other's safety during travel, and request that their supporters do likewise. Team leaders may want to plan a special Bible study examining the nature of God's providence and the evidences of Divine and angelic protection. During periods of exceptionally high tension, missionaries could and should inform their stateside supporters regarding any suspected potential for problematic circumstances.

Safety Continues in the Home

Thieves, vandals, and others could often have been stopped cold at the entrance to the house if some simple precautions were to have been taken. Locks are useless unless they are engaged. Especially in areas where crime is a possibilitywhich is just about everywheregood locks should be purchased and used. On doorways, this normally means a dead bolt which extends at least an inch into the door frame. Where glass is found within four feet of the lock set, double cylinder dead bolts should be used (these require a key on both sides). The key should be stored at a height within reach of the smallest child in the home but out of reach of any criminal who would break glass to enter. Children should know how to use the dead bolt in case of fire. Above all, don't open the door without knowing who is on the other side.

For windows, this means wellbuilt bars in high risk areas. Items small enough to fit through the bars should be kept well away from reach of the window especially where windows open up to sidewalks or streets.

In many countries, perhaps the best defense is a trustworthy maid who can occupy the house while others are away. In the absence of such help, a loud watchdog (that really barks when intruders knock or enter) is a consolation. Some missionaries may want to look into home security devices. A visit to a local company which specializes in such devices will bring to light an entire array of door alarms, intercom systems, special locks, etc. Once again, all the security devices in the world are useless if they are not latched or turned on. Perhaps one of our worse enemies is the apathy that develops through timethe status quo. The best enemy against such apathy is a good perusing of the morning paper and all the events described therein. As much as we might like to disbelieve it, it could have happened to us! This is true whether we live in the USA or abroad.
As a result of all of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Each team should appoint a special committee on security that is invited into each missionary's home, one by one. Let's continue to inspect the level of security in light of these guidelines. Where possible, the mission team should investigate the possibility of forming a "neighborhood watch" program similar to those in the U. S. For information about this type of program, please contact a local police officer or ask Int'l Services for a packet from a U. S. police department.

Five Steps to Becoming Street Smart Step OneFind the embassy

The day after you arrive, one of your first priorities should be to visit the US Embassy in your host country. This is true whether you are staying for short term or long, but especially true in the latter. Even if you are staying in temporary housing, such as with a family or in a hotel, the embassy will still take down your temporary address and phone number. In case of a problem, believe it or not, they will actually contact you there. If a serious problem is "in the works" they will probably even dispatch a courier in person. As soon as you move into more permanent housing, make sure you stop again to update them and to strike your previous address to save them time later.

In addition, you will probably want to ask for a list of doctors who speak English, a list of any special materials that the embassy has prepared for the host country, along with names and phone numbers of emergency personnel. All embassies maintain armed guardsusually United States Marine Corps specialistsnot only for protection of embassy staff, but also to handle emergencies during non-business hours. Regardless of what time of day you have a problem, your first call should be to the United States Embassy. For example, suppose you are inadvertently caught downtown at midnight during a New Year's Eve celebration that has turned into a near riot. Duck into the nearest cafe and dial the embassy. They will probably already be apprised of the situation and have emergency instructions for you to consider. Depending upon the seriousness of the matter, they might even dispatch an embassy vehicle to pick you up! Do keep in mind the fact that you are one of severalperhaps one of thousandsof United States citizens who live in your host country. In spite of this, our experience with embassies has so far been relatively good. They do make mistakes, so if you are left off of a notification list and all your friends get phone calls, don't immediately contact the president. Do however, call the embassy and let them know that you were not advised. Odds are your name, for some reason, did not make the list, and they will happily add you if you but let them know. Some embassies have prepared special instructions regarding parts of town that may not be safe for foreign visitors. Others might be able to point you to books and other resources which have been prepared by a local Chambers of Commerce to promote foreign investment. Many women's clubs and other civic groups have prepared books with titles such as <M>Living in Venezuela, <M>Moving to St. Croix,<M>Living in Montevideo, etc. They will be invaluable to your ability to learn about safety in your area. Embassies can often recommend good librariesmany with hundreds if not thousands of English volumes. Some countries operate special "alliance libraries" to promote cultural and

commercial interchange between the two entities. Such libraries will often carry English newspapers, some from the states. In fact, many have made arrangements with airlines to allow for newspapers such as <M>The Miami Herald and <M>New York Times to arrive with just one day delay. During periods of unrest, make it a point to read these newspapers on a daily basis so that you won't have to rely on local sources for all information. Perhaps the above is only a beginning. Perhaps you embassy will have much more to offer you. When and if they do render service, be sure to let them know how much you appreciate their work. In cases where they have been extremely helpful, don't hesitate to write them a letter and send a copy to the State Department in the United States. Then don't be surprised if service toward you and your family improves in the future! Everyone likes to be encouraged, and we are naturally a little more willing to help those who seem to appreciate it the most.
As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Team leaders should obtain lists of all family members, addresses, telephone numbers, alternate telephone numbers, addresses of next of kin in the U. S. , and passport numbers (along with other important documents, such as local residence card numbers). Then file these with the nearest U. S. embassy. While there, the team leaders should obtain reading lists, doctors lists, and other documents designed to help United States residents living in your host country.

Step TwoGet a shortwave radio receiver

Regardless of the number of precautionary steps a team might take, preparing for the worse case scenario means that group members are ready, even if the electricity goes off and the phones are out. This means that each family should have a small, battery operated, shortwave radio receiver as a minimum link to the outside world in such cases.

On a regular basis, voice of America, BBC, and several other stations can be tuned in for daily news reports. In emergency situations, regardless whether or not they are as drastic as mentioned above, these stations will still be broadcasting the

dependable and authentic news about the particular host country. Local television stations, radio stations, and local newspapers may slant the news reports one way or another. Expect to pay $3050 for a good shortwave receiver. Models with direct access digital tuning, PLL circuitry, and other enhancements can cost $300+. Sony has a good compromise unit for around $90.
As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action: Each missionary on the team should make arrangements to obtain a quality short wave receiver. As this document goes to press, one new story carried reports that V. O. A. was beaming special instructions to over a thousand hostages held captive in a Middle Eastern conflict. Residents isolated without a short wave are unfortunately without these special instructions at this time.

The team leader should appoint a committee or at least a conduct person who orients each family regarding the usage of the receiver. As needed, this person or committee should supply frequencies and times of any special transmissions, especially those of the V. O. A. and other U. S. broadcasts.

Step ThreeFind local informants.

Of course, some of the best news about the country doesn't travel over the airwaves, but rather directly to your ears through the news network on the street. Finding a set of local informants who will keep you apprised of relevant local events will go a long way toward making you streetwise. These local helpers are much more likely to be able to answer your questions about what part of town to stay away from at night, what's the best way to make friends, etc. As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Each team member should be encouraged to find local informants and ascertain to the best of his or her ability this kind of information. The team leader should set up special times of sharing during the first six months on the field (to be repeated with new arrivals) so that team members can each offer new insights gained through his or her contacts. The team leader should appoint a secretary, if one is not already appointed, to keep track of these insights and compile them into

a fact sheet format that can then be distributed to all team members especially those who are new to the field.

Step FourStay in touch with the homeland.

In spite of the fact that our goal as missionaries is to build such strong relationships that even our social needs are met by nationals, one still should not cut off all relationships with the homeland. In the case of an evacuation, having some friends in high places might make all the difference in the world as to how quickly you and your family are given extra options. Needless to say, don't wait until an emergency arises to start building such relationships. Stay in touch with North American groups like ministers' meetings, missionaries' meetings, women's groups, ambassadors' groups, etc. Don't hesitate to visit their Fourth of July parties and the like since you might make significant contacts who could later help you. As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Team leaders should appoint a secretary (such as the one mentioned above) who can compile lists of key contact persons, in case an emergency should arise. This list should be distributed to all team members. Included on the roster should be important phone numbers and addresses, along with directions to the person's residence. (This is especially important for individuals such as the ambassador. )

Step FiveMake personal security and safety a habit

Making a public display of material possessions in a third world country is poor judgement. Obviously, nothing we do will convince the locals that we aren't really rich. How else could we fly to their country, pay for all the expenses of our ministry, and fly back! However, there's no sense in constantly showing them what we brought over from the States! To do so would just serve to perhaps create temptation for those who feel a passion to acquire part of the USA or part of us. This would, in turn, tend to put you on the spot. As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Each team member should approach his/her home as if he/she were a national and try to see through a national's eyes. Look at the home, materials visible from windows, open garage doors, unlocked sheds, materials left in the yard, etc. Walk through the front door and scan the entry way and living room and all areas that would be visible to national visitors. Look for such obvious

mistakes as money left lying in plain view, computers in the front room, jewelry left on the dining room table, etc. Each team member should make a commitment to do his/her best to keep track of these potential trouble spots. Each team member should make a commitment to keep track of his/her personal belongings while traveling through crowded areas. In some areas purses will need to made of heavy material complete with shoulder strap and held firmly against one's side. They should always be fastened closed. Passports, credit cards, cash and travelers' checks should be carried in money pouches or waist packs whenever possible. Avoid carrying your wallet in your rear pocket, especially on public transportation.

Crisis Procedures Formation of a CMT

In the event of a significant threat to any of its missionaries, the children of its missionaries, or its facilities, a Crisis Management Team (CMT) will be formed to handle all procedures throughout resolution and follow up.

The team leader (who will also be the CMT leader unless a family member or extremely close friend is involved). Note: The team leader should also be the CMT leader because he is responsible for personnel in his "team entity," and he knows the cultural language better than a person coming in from the outside. In case of personal close emotional involvement, he can delegate another administrator to do the job. Team memberto be appointed by the team leader and/or local leader. Regional Services Consultant or nearest available leader Contingency Plan Officer Recorder (secretary) to be appointed by the team leader. Note: A recorder is needed to keep all pertinent facts and sequence of events. This can be a very important position in negotiations and later in evaluations of performance.

All other members of the organization shall refer any information, suggestions, or other data relating to the crisis to the committee. All members of the organization are to refrain from taking steps or conducting any action relating to the crisis without specific direction from the Crisis Management Team.
As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action

Each team should hold a mock up drill of a potentially viable emergency. This drill should include the request from the team on the field of the establishment of a mock-up CMT. During a follow up evaluation of the drill, all team members should participate in the effectiveness of the establishment of the CMT, along with suggested improvements.

Function of the CMT

The CMT is responsible for handling all aspects of resolution of the crisis in cooperation with local authorities . This may include protection for members and their families, protection of facilities, information gathering, negotiations, coordination and assignment of resources, press relations, and both internal and external communication regarding the crisis and its resolution. The CMT leader will serve as crisis coordinator and will appoint the following officers as deemed necessary due to the nature of the crisis:

Press Liaison Officer appointed from among the CMT members, Negotiation Leader appointed from among the CMT must undertake negotiations with hostage takers, terrorists, guerrillas, or criminals. Negotiator--will <M>not be a member of the CMT and should have experience or training. Note: The negotiator must not be a decision maker. He should be a specialist, trained in negotiating probably from outside the team. He should have to report back to the CMT in order to avoid the dangers of making quick decisions.

The CMT shall assemble at a location as close to the scene of the crisis as possible while still maintaining reliable communications Members assigned to the committee are to be relieved of their normal responsibilities for the period. The CMT will advise regarding the need to call in outside resource people such as Contingency Preparation Consultants, counseling facilities or other specialists. Contingency Preparation Consultants , PO Box 4792, Ventura, California 93004: Tel (805)655<+> 61061 (24 hours). This is a team of specialists in the area of crisis management. They are all committed Christians and have had experience in dealing with terrorists in hostage situations. As a ministry, they have made themselves available as consultants to mission agencies

free of charge except whatever cost they may incur if we should ask them to travel and negotiate for us. Missionaries should consider an emergency fund to be used to facilitate the CMT toward a resolution of the crisis.
As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

All team members should study the above procedure and understand how the CMT will come to assistance in case of emergency. During a team meeting, the team leader should make sure that all team members agree to follow the direction of the CMT in case of a crisis. During the mock-up emergency drill mentioned above, the above procedures should be implemented so that all the team members will be able to see the nature of the CMT.

Hostage Situations Hostage Taking

No one likes to consider the possibility that he/she might be kidnapped. However for that one-in-million chance, here are some guidelines. There are three parties to consider carefully during a hostage taking crisis: the hostage, his/her family, and sending churches and supporters as a whole. The objective would obviously be to gain the release of the hostage at the earliest possible time with the least disruption of his/her life, the life of his/ her family.

As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Prior to any crisis having occurred, team members should have agreed that in the event of a hostage seizure involving missionaries, the family of the hostage will be evacuated to the his or her home country as soon as possible. (This requirement may be waived by the CMT if it determines that an evacuation of the family is not in the best interest of the family. ) If such an evacuation occurs, someone in the States should be assigned to work with the family on a daily basis. This member will obtain official news and

information for the family, and will take whatever steps are possible to minimize the stress and consequences of the crisis on the family. The team leader should make sure that every team member and family member knows that in the unlikely event of a hostage seizure, the hostage can be confident that negotiators are swiftly working for his/her release. (In past case studies, kidnappers have managed to convince victims that his/her family members and/or sponsoring organizations did not appear to care since the negotiation process was lagging. All team members and family members should be schooled in advance that this technique is merely a manipulative attempt to bring emotional duress upon the victim. Victims who had been informed of this technique and were cognizant of the fact that their sponsoring organizations had made prior agreement to work toward their swift release report much less stress since they rest on that confidence.
At the same time, however, team members should agree that no ransom will ever be paid to a kidnapper. Once again, certain terrorists have tried to coerce victims into mistrust and even hatred toward their former employer or organization, merely by pointing out that the organization would not pay a ransom. Victims in previous case studies report a lesser degree of stress of the hostage if they were aware of a company policy which prevented such ransom payments. It has been shown again and again that such ransoms only lead to more terrorism, and sometimes that terrorism can be taken out on family members themselves. If a missionary is ever taken hostage, when and if the kidnapper should report to the victim that the organization refused to pay ransom and therefore does not care for the health and welfare of the victim, the missionary will at least be able to understand the real reasoning behind non-payment.

Communication During A Crisis

Information flow during a crisis must be precisely directed. Incoming information must be monitored and controlled to prevent the release of confidential information and to limit the spread of rumors.

As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

All information and suggestions relating to the crisis should be directed to the CMT at the earliest possible time. Any member receiving information or suggestions for the CMT, should forward them immediately to the CMT. Missionaries should designate a person in the States to be a liason between the field and supporters. During a crisis, all information released to the news media will be done through the CMT. . Only the Press Liaison Officer will serve as spokesperson for the CMT.

Evacuation
The authority and responsibility for evacuation of a particular area should be fixed and understood by all members. As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

During the crisis the decision to evacuate a particular area shall be made by the appropriate team leader in consultation with supporters and sending churches, if available. If the emergency is sudden and normal communication is not possible, the team leader or individual member may make the decision to evacuate.

Counseling
Individuals who undergo traumatic events, their families, and others associated with the event may suffer emotional reactions that may become destructive if not addressed. Those involved in traumatic events should receive counseling and evaluation along with, if necessary, assistance from mental health professionals. This should take place during and after the traumatic events. This evaluation and assistance should be conducted confidentially with the objective being the treatment of existing trauma and the prevention of additional trauma associated with the crisis. As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Personnel who are directly involved in a crisis should receive immediate counseling attention, along with a follow up evaluation from a qualified counselor. This attention shall occur during and immediately following a crisis. Another evaluation follow up no more than six months later. These evaluations shall occur immediately following a crisis and again no more than six months later. The communications between the counselor and

the member are strictly confidential. Cost of any treatment recommended by these evaluations will be the responsibility of the individuals and their supporting churches. Although the number of individuals who should receive evaluation as described in this policy will vary from incident to incident, as a minimum the victim, any spouse and children who live with him or her, the negotiator (if any) and the Crisis Coordinator shall receive this evaluation.

POSTCRISIS EVALUATION
Every opportunity must be taken to improve the response of missionaries and supporters to crisis situations. Each crisis should be reviewed so that the strengths of the management response can be identified, built upon and repeated, and that areas of weakness can be identified and remedied through allocation of resources, training, policy changes, or some combination thereof. The overall purpose is to be better prepared each time there is a crisis so the crisis can be resolved as rapidly as possible with minimum impact on those involved and the organization.

Team members should agree in advance to a crisis that within sixty days of a resolution of a crisis, an evaluation of the incident must be conducted. It should be evaluated by team members and by stateside supporters and others who may be able to give helpful input.

Field Specific Evacuation and Emergency Preparation

In emergencies, preparation isn't just convenient, it is absolutely essential. Team members need to know exactly how other personnel are going to react in any given situation. This will only occur if advance thought and specificity have been the rule of the day. As a result of the above, we recommend the following course of action:

Team members should meet to prepare a detailed Emergency Response Procedure for their particular field. Such procedure can be drafted out in advance, then revised as needed during meetings. Each team's Emergency Response Procedures include exact evacuation plans, complete with hotels, emergency phone numbers, and procedures for quarterly evacuation drills. The Emergency Response Procedures should be copied and distributed to each team member and kept in a location where all family members can get to it.

Each Emergency Response Procedures should be reviewed annually and updated as necessary.

Go to the Append Appendix B Predeparture Checklist The following checklist has been prepared to aid a prospective full-time missionaries in his/her efforts to "cover the bases" for preparation and deployment.

Has a sending church been chosen? Does the sending church have a clear picture of its role? Does the sending church have clear picture of the missionary's role? Are there "common funds" or team project funds, to which the prospective field worker might be expected to contribute? What are the maximum amounts per month that would be asked or expected? Has the worker set up an emergency fund (to leave immediately in case of a crisis on the field or within the family)? Projected budget in place for first year of ministry (please attach). Prayer support in place Forwarding agent appointed and trained (see chapter on fund raising does the forwarding agent have a clear picture of his/her role? Is a meeting with the forwarding agent necessary? Clear understanding of how accounts function? accounts set up and operating Decision made regarding opting out of social security Health insurance coverage (Note: Please do not neglect to have medical insurance coverage) Life insurance coverage (Note: It is suggested that all missionaries carry minimal life insurance for each member of the family) Retirement plan and/or disability coverage (Note: It is suggested that all missionaries have some form of retirement plan)

Is support in place that will allow the prospective field worker to meet his/her budget? Has the reporting process begun? All financial reports up-to-date as of the present? Is there a clear understanding of the role of the sending church? If the field worker is to work in a restricted access country has the missionary taken steps to advise his/her friends and supporters regarding letter writing guidelines? If applicable, are field personnel advised of arrival details? Is there a clear expectation of when the first communication with supporters and the sending church will occur, once the prospective worker has arrived on the field? (Especially significant for major supporting churches and individuals). Do supporters have a clear picture of the prospective field worker's role in the field. Are (tentative) dates set for the first furlough? Does the field worker have a clear picture of how the field team has been functioning (if applicable)? For example, are there weekly team meetings? Are decisions made by vote or consensus? Are wives involved in normal missionary business meetings? Should the prospective field worker obtain an International Drivers License (e. g. , at AAA, with passport, pictures, and current driver's license for approximate $10). Has the prospective field worker inquired as to what should be taken or shipped? Are there visa/resident status steps that the prospective field worker needs to take prior to departure from the states? For example, should s/he obtain a police record of good conduct for the last five years? A letter of reference from a bank? Others? Has a person or persons been left with power of attorney? Is the prospective field worker already a CompuServe or other electronic mail user?

Go to the Appendix C of Resources for Missionary Recruits Online Go to t

Appendix C Writing to Christian Workers in Creative Access Countries

Creative Access Countries, sometimes called "closed" or "restricted access" include countries where it is illegal to do evangelistic work. Some of these nations may have Communist or Marxist governments, or maybe ruled by a religious group hostile to Christianity. It is important for Christian missionaries to receive communication from home. Of all missionaries, these are perhaps the ones who most need encouragement from home. This creates a difficulty. Those who go to these restricted nations often give up many "rights" among them, the right to privacy in correspondence. When writing people in these nations, keep in mind that it is very likely that your letters will be read by others. Here are some guidelines for writing people in these kinds of situations.

Don't criticize the government in any way. Don't mention missions, missionary activity, evangelism, witnessing, Bible distributions, the national church, support raising, etc. Don't send missionary prayer letters, tracts, church bulletins, missions magazines, etc. Don't send letters on church stationery or send support information into China. Any sermon tapes mailed should be labeled only with the speaker's first and last name, for example, Sam Smith, not Rev. Sam Smith. Don't mention by name any national friends of the missionary or in any way identify national people who might be interested in Christianity. Limit our use of Christian language to talking about your own spiritual life and growth. You may be able to quote Scripture and to tell them that you are praying for them. Just remember, moderation is the key. Do write letters to the missionary. It will be cherished and bring needed encouragement. Even if you can't say everything you would like to say, please do write. It isa good idea to tape letters closed after sealing them.

You're done! You've completed the course! Bravo! Three cheers!!! Good job!

Go to the Table of