Fewer but Deeper Missionary Support Relationships: A Step by Step Approach
0 comments
706 views
Recently a survey revealed that CRC pastors’ third most valued item for helping their churches be more effective in international missions is moving toward fewer but deeper missionary partnerships. Pastors sensed a need to move from a larger number of rather superficial relationships with missionaries and missions causes, to a smaller number of more intimate and engaged relationships. However, they also indicated that they weren’t sure how to get from here to there. Often some congregation members are excited to connect with many missionaries doing various types of ministry in different parts of the world, while pastors see that most church members are not aware of the congregation’s international mission work partly because there are too many ministries to keep track of.
Here are a few steps that your church might use to move in this direction.
A priority list could then be established for which ministries should continue receiving support with a goal for increasing support and interaction with the ones who continue.
Once the committee has identified ministries that will not receive continued support, and gotten that judgment affirmed by the council, it is time to begin a transition. Attrition may be a key part of the transition: checking with missionaries on their intended longevity and deciding how to use that information. If you are going to conclude support, missionaries should get 12 months notice, if at all possible, of the impending change. This will give them time to understand why things are changing, seek other avenues of support, adjust to the new reality, and say goodbye well.
Meanwhile, you will want to work hard at the “deeper” portion of fewer but deeper by developing a plan for
Concluding some of your missionary partnerships will probably be difficult, especially if the relationship has been long, if there are personal connections/relatives in the church, etc. It will be important to anticipate who will be most affected by the change and address their concerns, among other things by providing a transition period.
Note: The most strategic work your congregation is currently supporting may be done by someone without deep connections or effective communication abilities in North America. Take the time to investigate the ministries you support before making decisions.
You may decide that an outside facilitator would be helpful for making this transition. We are available to help. Check for options at www.crwm.org/meet and www.worldrenew.net/mpp.
Global Mission
Global Mission
Global Mission
Connect to The Network and add your own question, blog, resource, or job.
Add Your Post
Let's Discuss
We love your comments! Thank you for helping us uphold the Community Guidelines to make this an encouraging and respectful community for everyone.