For World Cultures Blog Question #9 your assignment is to find a Christian missionary that serves in any part of the world and interview them. Interviews may be done in person, on the phone, or via email.
You are responsible for asking them at least five questions. I have provided the first three questions for you and you are required to come up with the other two questions. You will then post the questions and their answers in the comments section of the blog question. Your blog answer should also include the missionary's name and location where they serve.
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
4. Student-created question
5. Student-created question
can u add felenis to the poll?
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
ReplyDeleteA- 1. In 1976 I was traveling through Guatemala after an earthquake struck the country and left one fifth of the population homeless. I was lead to volunteer with the Red Cross to reconstruct houses. In time I joined a mission called New Life League and helped found an orphanage and school and medical clinic. For three years I served as a missionary with New Life League overseeing the development of the campus, building the facilities and managing the school and orphanage.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
A-2. Thirty Five Years later New Life Children's Home in Guatemala serves hundreds of students and is recognized as the best private school in city of now 2 million people. Many hundreds of children have grown up in the orphanage and are serving the Lord throughout Guatemala. Many families have been healed and restored and lives transformed since we built the first 10 by 14 foot wooden house that is grown into a dynamic and vibrant community.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
A-3. Being steadfast and faithful in the midst of hopeless odds and believing that God's hands are truly at work in all we did regardless of the circumstance.
4. Why did you choose to be a missionary?
A-4. When I was twenty years old I considered myself an agnostic unable to believe in God sensing that I simply could not know enough to prove or disprove Gods existence. In an effort to face the grave uncertainty I made a decision to leave school and travel the world in search of The true God. So I simply asked God if He existed to reveal himself to me if indeed He was real and loved me enough to respond, ie. Pascal's wager. That single decision opened the door to God that once I passed through has made all the difference.
5.how did being a missionary chnage your views on life?
A-
5. Being a missionary opened my eyes to how God works in our lives and how we are all, regardless of circumstance, children of one Creator, one loving God.
missionary-rawson
country- Guatemala
-hannah haverty
I interviewed Mr. Bill Sandman
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
I ended up where I did by opportunity and a calling from the lord.
2. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Some of the greatest challenges that I have faced are language/culture diversity.
3. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
I have seen how big God is even in other cultures.
4. What advise do you have to somebody who is considering becoming a missionary?
Pray. Ask that god show you the way and where to go.
5. How many missions trips have you been on?
At least 20.
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
ReplyDeletethere was a couple that had a mission to mexico and they were asking for people to come and out reach to the area.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
i saw families and children who were in difficult financial, social and health situations. they were helped and their lives were uplifted by seeing that someone had came and cared for them.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
to be able to stay in touch and provide ongoing support and not just a single visit and give them continual uplift.
4.have you ever encountered someone that is unwilling to accept god because of the harships they have gone through?
yes, sometimes initially its difficult before but i am one who has gone through hard times and believe that if anyone cares i know god will, so you have to show them that you care and tell them that your caring is showing them that god does care?
5.Where is the most dangerous place youve ever went on a mission trip?
Haiti
I interviewed Bill Sandman (my youth pastor and close friend)
ReplyDelete1.Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you served?
*I ended up in Africa because of my church (church of the apostles), and because of god calling me to go and serve.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
* have seen many people accept jesus christ as their savior, even in other religions and cultures.
3.What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
*A big challenge that i faced was how different the cultures are and how different people are than we think, it is hard to relate to them and communicate with the other cultures.
4. ~ how has god impacted your life?~.......
*god changed my worldview and showed me how big he is.
5. ~was it dangerous to be in Africa?~.......
*i was in some dangerous situations, like crossing the boarders in Africa, it is not like the U.S.A. at all.
I interviewed Karoline Gober (my mom friend) She served in Costa Rica with her husband and two children. they have recently moved back to the US.
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you served?
First of all, we were sent by God. As we sought him through prayer and fasting He led us to Costa Rica. The need to teach pastors and lay men/women was very important for the growing Methodist church in CR.
2. How did you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
His provision! Many times as we returned back to the field after being home for furlough (that is when missionaries come back to the states to raise support), many times we didn't have the money to go back and serve. However, by faith we went because we knew He had called us. If he was leading, then He would supply all of our needs. He never failed us.There are many other ways He moved in our midst, by protecting us. Other ways were seeing His mighty hand move so others could come to Christ. That by itself is a miracle! I could tell you amazing stories of men/women being healed spirtually, emotionally, & physically. God's power is real. He is not limited by time, country, or language. Seek and you shall find.
3. What was the greatest challenge as a missionary?
For Steve and me it was having friends to lean on. I think our relationship with Christ grew even stronger because of that. The second challenge, is having people see the need to support the ministry in which you have been called. But then again, the ministry belongs to Him and we need to rely on Him to bring those people to stand in the gap for us in prayer, to give thier financial support to the mission, and to come and serve overseas so they can see what God is doing in His Kingdom.
4. What made you continue to be a missionary?
God. Moving back to the states has opened greater doors that we couldn't have ever imagined. Because of our presence now in FL. God is stirring in people's heart to want to serve in CR. As you know, Steve worked mainly in the seminary training, teaching, ad counseling. By being here, new doors have been opened and an important relationship has been given by one of the seminaries here in the states to help the Methodist Seminary in CR.!
5. Do you miss being a "full-time" missionary?
Sometimes. We miss the worship and the touch from our brothers and sisters in Christ. We served for 17 years overseas. However, being a missionary means to serve God right where you are! It begins in your home- living like Christ wants you to live. By what we think, dress, speak,...everything. We are His temple. If I can be a vessel for Him to use here at home with my kids... he will use me , and then reaching out to the neighbors, friends I make in church and outside the church... a missionary is spreading God's love. The more we spend time with Him in prayer and reading His word, His love will flow through us. He wants to have a close relationship with us & He is always ready to use us right where we are. :)
I interviewed my moms friend Alan.
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
I came to Brazil in 1970 to be a teacher of missionary childrenand to only stay for three years. However God had other plans and after my three years as a teacher I was asked by the mission to start a camping ministry at a camp that the mission had built in the eary 1960's. I came because I felt God's call to be involved in helping those who had been called to spread the Gospel message little did I know that it was God's way of getting me here in order to put into use the gifts and skills that He had given me over the years through my involvment in the Christian Camping Ministry in the USA. Why Brazil? It was the country that most needed a teacher at the time and it was God's plan.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
Hundreds of Brazilian young people and children have come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior through the camping ministry that God has permitted us to be involved in over the last 40 some years, not because of us but in spite of us. In the last few years God has allowed us to train Brazilian camp leaders to reach the next generations with the Gospel message through the camping ministry.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
The greatest challenge as a missionary for me has been to accept the differences and idiosyncrasies of the Brazilian people with understanding and humility and not try to change them knowing that God made them and loves them as they are.
4. Why did you become a missionary?
I became a missionary in obedience to God's calling which became very clear to me through circumstances that only He could have arranged.
5. What was the most amazing thing that you have seen during your time as a missionary?
The most amazing thing that I have seem during my 42 years as a missionay is how God works in the lives of people to bring them to an understanding of their need for Him and for Salvation that can only be had in Christ Jesus and how he uses insignificant circumstances and people to bring this all about.
Interview: Bill Holt (family friend)
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
I first became a minister when I was studying at Emory College and I was asked to go serve as a missionary in Cuba. I liked it so much that I went on to preach in Bolivia and Argentina.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
While I was in Bolivia I was in awe of how in such hard times people could be filled with such joy that Jesus gives every one of us. The people’s eagerness to be saved was also remarkable.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Learning the people’s language was definitely a challenge because most of them spoke Spanish. I had a very limited Spanish vocabulary so sometimes it was difficult to get my point across.
4. What are the biggest differences between your home and where you serve?
The standard of living was completely different. Since most of South America is in poverty it was a lot to adjust to. It was also difficult to understand their circumstances being so different than mine.
5. Do you have words to say to other considering being missionaries?
You have to have something to share and a real passion for Christ. A love of the people and empathy is also very important. You have to be willing to put yourself out there and tell others about Jesus Christ.
Felton...
ReplyDelete(Grandmothers friend) Helen Bergstrom served in the Congo
1. I was interested in being a missionary since I was young and wanted to be in the medical field and that was were that part was needed.
2. I think in my work was when the women wouldn't talk much and then how they began to speak up and run the church and have it spread.
3. Being able to communicate to the people because we had no English speakers. So from time to time we needed translators.
4.How has being a missionary changed your life?
We feel we were really blessed to be able to just help these people in need and help these women begin to start speaking up.
5.What was the most joyful part of being a missionary ?
Just seeing the changes in the people's spirits and the Congo women steping up in the church community.
5.What was the most joyful part of being a missionary?
Felton...
ReplyDeleteDid not mean to put that twice.
Yo soy estupido.
Kelley Eubanks
ReplyDeleteI interviewed: Robin Flanagan
Missionary to: Cambodia
(close friend)
1) Q: Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
A: My family and I ended up in Cambodia to serve the Lord because my husband, Todd, felt the Lord calling him to the mission field. We surrender our lives to God’s will and we went on a survey trip to Cambodia and felt that was where God would have us to serve. I must be honest, I never thought as a child or an adult that I would ever live in Asia, but God had different plans. It doesn’t matter where you live as long as Jesus lives in your heart!
2) Q: How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
A: The Lord has shown himself in our feeding ministry. When we were burdened to start this ministry over the Mekong River in the La Vi Em Province we just prayed for God to provide the resources to feed “His children.” He provided the money to build the kitchen through one individual that we had not seen in several years. He provided sponsors for those children within one day of us making the need known!! God is working in this village and we feed so many more children than we have the resources for, but God always finds a way for it to be more than enough. He is also working in the Bible college by giving the young nationals zeal to begin new works and church plants.
3) Q: What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
A: The greatest challenge as a missionary, in my opinion, is leaving home and all that is familiar to you. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do, yet the most rewarding. Many say missionaries sacrifice much to leave their home, but I must think of it this way: Jesus left all of glory to come to this earth and lay His life down for all of us. He made the greatest sacrifice for us all; therefore I feel it is not a sacrifice to serve Him. Is it easy? No, not at all, but He gives you strength and peace just as His Word says.
4) Q: What were the living conditions in your country?
A: Cambodia is a 3rd world country. Living conditions for most out of the city are destitute. Many villages have no running water and what water they do have is polluted. We use bottled water for cooking and brushing our teeth in order to prevent disease. There are also government induced power outages. They do this to conserve energy and many days this can be quite frustrating. In Phnom Penh, which is where we live, we had a nice home with running water. It is very hot year round and with electricity being so expensive, fans are your only relief from the heat. We are quite blessed to have lived in the development in Phnom Penh. It was guarded and the houses did keep us dry from the monsoon rains. Many of the Khmer’s live in tree houses or huts and when the rain comes their homes are flooded. Many may lose their homes. Living conditions have greatly improved in the city, but out in the provinces there is still much needed development to be done.
5) Q: How hard is it to get support from people or churches to support your ministry?
A: We spent over 3 years raising our support. It is a long hard process but God provides as He sees fit and in His timing. We traveled many miles and have met lifelong friends on deputation. It is not always enjoyable but makes some great memories!!
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
ReplyDeleteAnswer: I am serving in an English ministry of a Korean church. I am originally from China, yet I came to South Korea from South Africa. Before I made the decision to come to Korea, I prayed about it for about one year to ask the Lord for clear guidence. I came to Korea with the assurence that this is the will of God for me.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
God is always at work in our lives; if we have a willing heart, He is always happy to use us. When I prepare a sermon, when I preach the sermon, I believe the Lord is at work. There is peace and joy in my heart when the Lord is pleased with my work.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Remain a faithful heart to the Lord and His will for my life.
4. Have the people you have been teaching actually taught you anything in return?
Usually people don't like to be taught, especially with spiritual things. The Lord is our Teacher and our Counseller. When I lead a Bible study, I enjoy sharing what I have learned with others, and I also enjoy people's response in the group. It's muturally encouraging to all of us.
5. Have there been any funny or odd things that have happened while you have been serving? Like a funny story or experience.
Yes, there are many. We used to have Bible study and fellowship meeting in a Korean house every Friday evening; Koreans are very displined people and are always aware of proper social order and manners. Afer the Bible study meeting, we foreigners often feel like coming out of an army camp...
-This concludes the blog
Greg Clark leader and missionary at my church (interview done over phone)
ReplyDelete1)Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
A) I am originally from Little Rock and moved to Atlanta when I was third-teen because of my dad's job relocation. Ever since then I have lived in Atlanta. I have been traveling since i was 21. My first trip was in the U.S to visit less privileged kids thought the star of North Carolina. Its was a 2 month trip.When I am not traveling I live in Atlanta with my two kids and wife.
2). How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry
A) I have seen the work work in tremendous ways over my years traveling. I could go on and on taking about His miracles. The main I believe he has done for us, is providing money for us to do the trips. He constantly touches the hearts of the donators at my church.This has helped us serve others around the world and spread the gospel.
3)What is the greatest challenge of being a missionary
A)The hardest part of being a missionary would definitely be staying faithful and continuing to spread the gospel during adversity. When I am intimidated by these circumstances I think of the goal of spreading his word and the pain Jesus went through when he died on the cross for our sins.
4)What places have you traveled and how long have you been serving?
A) I have been a part of this missionary team for 16 years including this year. Now I haven't traveled everyone of these 16 years but have still been apart if this group for 16 years. During my years I have traveled to India, Turkey, Siberia,South Africa,Kentucky,North Carolina,Austria,Mexico,and Detroit.
5)What made you want to become a missionary?
Well spreading the word has always been something I loved to do. I went on three mission trips as a teen ager which got me interested in world missions. The thought of being able to travel to parts of the world that I have never been and spreading the gospel sounded great to me.
Name: Art Robin (youth pastor at church)
ReplyDeletePlace served: Cuba
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
To develop Relationships with people and churches so that we could help them by supporting them with prayers, on site work, and money.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
I have seen the joy that comes from being together as the body of Christ. I learned that we are not so different despite our different cultures and language. God has been the one constant in all of it.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
To grow to understand a culture and to not impose my way of doing things on them, but just to grow a relationship with no real agenda.
4. Was it ever hard to choose to be a missionary?
Sure. It is always hard to go someplace where you don’t know people, or culture, or customs. It’s like starting all over again. It can be tough.
5. How did being a missionary change your life?
I have a greater understanding of people, and have more patience. Also, I learn that everyone comes to their faith from a different perspective and history of experiences. It makes me thankful for what I have and grateful for the chance to share my journey of faith and life with others.
Connie Dunbar
ReplyDeleteWorked in India for 4.5 years
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
I felt called into missions when I was 16. I had run across a tract by a guy named Keith Green titled, "Why YOU Should Go to the Mission Field." I read it, it made sense to me, and the desire to go into missions settled in my heart. I didn't know much about missions and I didn't know any missionaries at that time. I just knew I wanted to be involved and that I was interested in medicine. So, in summary, I ended up in the part of the world where I served primarily because of God's leading through friendships and relationships. There are people who KNOW where they're called before they ever leave home, but there are a bunch of others of us whose callings are more general. There's more than one way to be a missionary, and there's more than one way to be called.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
This certainly didn't happen every day, but I've seen a deaf man receive his hearing and a blind man receive his sight. More often, though, I've seen people come to the beginning place of meeting Jesus, then watched in amazement and wonder as He slowly, relentlessly changes their hearts and minds.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Sometimes, the greatest challenge is helping people back home understand what you're doing and why. When where you're living and working is so different from home, it's hard for people to really understand and relate to what you're facing. It can be hard to communicate what your work is really like too.
4. Did you ever have to try anything weird or interesting on your travels?
There was the summer my team had to "go to the buffalo" every morning to get our milk for the day. (Literally -- we walked down the street to the local water buffalo.)
I've used just about every means of conveyance possible -- foot, ox cart, motor scooter, "3rd class" train, canoe...you name it.
I've eaten water buffalo (yummy!), spiders (totally gross!), and ALMOST ate fried grasshoppers...but couldn't quite get them down
5. What did you miss the most about home when you were traveling?
Mostly...my friends. I REALLY enjoyed living internationally and wouldn't trade it for anything. It can be a bit of a bummer, though, when some of your best friends are on the other side of the world.
I interviewed dr. shirley
ReplyDelete*1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you served?*
I was asked to replace a team leader for a mission trip for Carver Bible College students
to South Africa.
*2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?*
We have seen many people come to faith in Christ. We have trained over 300 pastor and
lay leaders in such things as How to Study the Bible, Christian Counseling; and how to
develop effective Marriage and Couples Ministries.
*3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?*
The greatest challenge is raising funds for travel and ministry activities.
*4. What is the most fun part of being a missionary?*
Developing life long relationships with people in other countries and seeing the positive
impact of ministry on their lives.
*5. How many mission trips have you been on?*
I have been going on mission trips for 12 years. Some years I have gone on three trips
and some one. I would guess that I have gone on more than thirty trips at this point to the
Republic of the Congo, Liberia, South Africa and Jamaica.
name: Randy Dodds
ReplyDeleteCountry he has served in as a missionary: About more than 60 countries.
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
He served in Norway in northern Europe. He chose that area because he wanted to go were there were few missionaries.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
Because of the short term mission trips he has led, he led many young people to be full-time missionaries.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Communication with the people, and adjusting to the foreign culture.
4. How has being a missionary changed your view on life?
It has helped him understand that a person cannot be mentally/spiritually healthy apart from knowing God.
5. How many missionary trips have you been on?
About more then 65 missionary trips.
I interviewed Dee Stones, someone who goes to my church.
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world you served.
shortly after communism fell and Russia became more accepting of foreigners I went on a mission trip to Russia and we handed out free translated bibles along the streets.
2. How have you seen the lord work and move in your ministry.
I was surprised in the amount of people that believed in Jesus. There were many small churches that we saw grow into bigger churches and it was amazing to see the amount of people who believed in Jesus. Also this one kid came up to one of us and said that he was Jewish but he didn’t understand why people hated him so that missionary told him why and told him the gospels. I thought it was amazing to see the impact the bible had on this kid.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary.
For me the greatest challenge was to wait and let God develop an opportunity to tell someone the gospel.
4. Why did you become a missionary
It was a new opportunity to help the people in Russia. Russia had now let us enter into their country and it was amazing to help others and preach the gospels.
5. What was regular life like for the people there.
Life was pretty normal. It was winter so it was cold but there was not heavy amounts of snow. I was really surprised at how friendly these people were. They were also very giving. One time they each donated some food and with the food we had a great meal.
Charlie
I interviewed my Uncle who is vice president of the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.
ReplyDelete1.Why or how did you end up in the part of the world you served?
I served in the country of Thailand. This country had the greatest need in that no missionaries had served here in five years. The main reason is the language is too hard to learn.
2.How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
This part of the world is a very different culture. They have a world view of God. Their language does not include a word that means God. They have no biblical truths or relationships. During our time there many new churches were formed. The belief in Christianity brought about much growth in faith. This enabled sharing the gospel with friends and neighbors.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
The language/ it is your tool to minister and communicate with the people. It is very hard to understand their culture, the way they think and their background. Their culture holds a different meaning of the word love.
4. How long did you serve overseas?
28 years.
5. How does being back in the United States feel?
I miss the missionary work. My colleagues, the missionary families, but it is good to be with our families we missed for so many years. It is good to be home in the USA.
allison fiveash
ReplyDeleteperson interviewed: Mr. Buz Amason
ministered: former Yugoslavia
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
A: I ended up going to the former Yugoslavia (current day countries of Croatia and Serbia was where I ministered) because the campus I was on at the time (U. of Alabama) was beginning a partnership with that country in helping to launch campus ministries in the major cities. I went a total of three different summers for about 7 weeks each time. When I first went there were very few known believers in the country and only one campus ministry that we knew about. Now there are many.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
A: I have seen the Lord do some things that only He can do. When you are in ministry and really listening to what God wants you to do, you also are more aware of the spiritual battle that is going on. It is so obvious when you clearly explain the gospel to someone, and they tell you they are just not interested or that they just don’t want to give up whatever lifestyle they are living. Then you share with another person, and they are so ready to receive the forgiveness that Christ offers when it is explained to them. Seeing God break through the hard heartedness of some people and see them embrace Christ is so encouraging. God has given me the privilege of seeing that take place in the lives of many college students (American and those from other countries) through the years.
3. What are the greatest challenges you have as a missionary?
A: I think my greatest current challenge is to remember that it is a spiritual battle that I’m involved in as a missionary. There are some times when the battle is obvious, but many times as someone who has been a missionary for many years, it is easy to just get familiar with doing ministry and forget that it is really a spiritual battle that I’m in. I have to remember to not just trust and depend on the ministry training that I’ve received (as helpful as it is) and constantly depend on God to work in and through me because I have no power on my own.
4. What would you tell a student who might be interested in part-time or full-time mission work?
A: It is NEVER boring or dull living for Christ and seeking to follow His will. Being involved in mission work where you can devote your full attention and best hours of the day to taking the gospel to others and ministering to their needs can be hard, frustrating, and even disappointing at times. Yet, it is also VERY rewarding and encouraging as you see the Lord work in and through you to accomplish His mission. There is a joy and encouragement knowing that what you are doing has eternal value. I would tell a student that if they have any interest at all, to trust the Lord and step out in faith and be involved in mission work.
5. Do you plan to go back to any other foreign countries for missionary work?
A: Yes. I currently work with professors and graduate students, and we are currently looking for ways to get professors involved in missions on other campuses around the world. Often professors are looked at with great respect and admiration in other countries, so I envision going with professors to other countries and helping them use the platform they have as a professor as a way to speak to others about Christ.
6. What did you like best about being a missionary in a foreign country?
A: I think that I enjoy seeing new places and being forced (so to speak) to have to trust God to minister to those that are different than me. While the challenges of sharing the gospel in a different culture can be hard and frustrating at times, it is also very exciting to have to trust God to open doors for both the sharing of the gospel and the receptivity of the hearers. I love being involved in seeing God work on the hearts of others. The memories of looking back on both the difficult and encouraging times in a foreign country are always fun.
Stephen Calhoun
ReplyDeleteServed in Greece and considering returning
Question 1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
Answer: In 2003 his church had several short term missionary trips to different countries. He prayed about it for a whole month and he said “my heart really just felt excited” about going on a mission trip. However, Greece was the last country he had in mind. He was opposed to going there completely and at one point told God that he was not going to Greece. Through further prayer he was reminded of Jonah running from God and repented. Stephen went to Greece on the short term trip and then returned later to serve for several years.
Question 2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
Answer: Stephen majored in business in college and he said that his experience helped him approach several difficulties practically while in Greece. Along with that convenience he also saw God’s help in several times of need. He gave an example of a time when they were distributing Bibles but weren’t informed until the day before that there was no way to get all the Bibles unloaded in the required four hour time period. But a blessing from God occurred, and a forklift and driver were miraculously provided. He said that only a blessing like that could come from God.
Question 3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Answer: Trusting in God through all the complications that come your way as a missionary. Mr. Calhoun gave another example, and it was about a large gathering tent that they use to centralize their organization for a period of time. They had originally measured the size of the field incorrectly so were left with a huge tent on its way and not big enough of a field. The miracle was that the gathering tent was delivered in three parts and the owners of the tent miraculously assembled it in a makeshift way to fit the field. Challenges like that is part of what makes being a missionary difficult, but God will always be with you.
Question 4. What led you to become a missionary?
Answer: Stephen said that one day in church “his eyes were opened”. He also had the perfect connection through his church. Mr. Calhoun said he wasn’t planning on going back to Greece after the first trip but God told him “He had more in store for me”. Step by step he said God led him to the final step of becoming a missionary with his wife.
Question 5. What was the most valuable lesson you have learned from being a missionary?
Answer: The ability to walk in obedience. Mr. Calhoun talked eagerly about how we have the privilege to “take on what God has called us to do”. Mr. Calhoun was part of a rather small organization, but he said that it was incredible to witness how God had rewarded them for being faithful. Because his group of missionaries was faithful by going to Greece, God provided for them.
Corey Johnson
ReplyDeleteInterview: Jocelyn Cash Hurst
Place: Dubois,Wyoming
1. We took the work because there were three older white ladies that were watching videos on Sunday. There was also an Indian Reservation approximately 65 miles from Dubois where both the Arapahoe and Shoshone tribes located in the area and it was our desire to outreach and teach Christ to them.
2. During the five years we lived there, we saw the work grow from 3 people to around 25 members being baptised. We were involved in the community and the overall, the people were very receptive. We learned that because of the cultural differences between the Indians and ourselves, we were not very successful in converting them to Christ but we made some wonderful friends. It would take lots of time and interaction among the tribes to garner the level of trust to teach Christianity. One prayer that we had was to get a full-time minister to take the work there in Dubois and that effort was realized.
3. We think the greatest challenge was getting people to attend Bible study and church services since they had not been in the habit of attendance and teaching and encouraging the people to study the Bible for themselves.
Q.) Who did you go on your trip with?
I accompanied my husband, Norman Hurst.
Q.) What were the conditions like on your trip?
It was the only Church of Christ in a 75-80 mile radius. There were only three (including my husband and I ) persons of color that lived in the area. It was a very remote area, there was no hospital, pharmacy, or Wal-Mart for nearly 80 miles. The winters were long and snowy and travel was treacherous on 2-lane highways especially because of the wild animals - deer, buffalo, moose, elk - that roamed freely.
Interviewed: Dara Hosch
ReplyDeletePlace: Roatan, Honduras
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
My mission work was in Roatan, Honduras. This was where my church was sending people. I didn’t have a choice in the place. I wanted to work where I could make a difference.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
I’ve seen ordinary people work very hard to help improve the lives of perfect strangers. I’ve seen many miracles. I’ve seen people accomplish things that shouldn’t have been possible. I’ve seen people have their faith strengthened, and I have seen people grow with the Lord.
3. What was the greatest challenge as a missionary?
The physical hardship like doing without things like electricity or water; things we take for granted.
4. How did you pay for your missionary work?
Half of the money came from church fundraisers and my family donated the rest.
5. How did this experience affect your life?
It strengthened my relationship with the Lord, and it helped me appreciate the many blessings I’ve been given. I also learned that you don’t have to have a lot of material things to be happy.
interviewed-Jesse Eggman
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
I am currently living in Guatemala as a missionary. I am in 2 Spanish language schools and a leadership school. I plan on moving from Guatemala City to the Peten (Northern jungle region of Guatemala) as soon as I graduate from language school.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
Following God’s call to become a Christian missionary is a great way to serve the Lord. However, there is more involved than just declaring that the person wants to be a missionary.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
For me personally, it was myself. My flesh, what I want to do, the kind of food I liked, my rights, even my cultural understandings, those ...
4. What is you plan for later in life ?
Once in the Peten I plan on doing community development work (Things like constructing schools, churches, water filters, teaching literacy, conducting medical clinics, etc.) in Mayan villages as well as helping Guatemalan pastors start new churches in unreached villages. My vision is to one day disciple a core group within a unreached ethne (Tribe or ethnic group) with the Gospel of Jesus until it becomes self sustaining and self replicating.
5. Why are you a missionary?
We are called to go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.
Tiffany Smith
ReplyDeleteinterviewed: Whitney
goes to my church
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
She grew up in the Philippines, and then moved to China because her parents were missionaries. Five years ago, at her Church, they were talking about a trip to Africa so she decided to call an orphanage, and see if they needed help. She moved to Kenya because she had always wanted to do work there before.
2. How have you seen the Lord’s work and move in your ministry?
She noticed that nothing was efficient and conditions in Kenya were hard. She helped create a network of agencies to help connect children. This vision was thought of by many people, and she said that not only one person could do this job. God had to bring these people together to do this work. God opened the doors for the government funding, and people to work with. The community said this work was impossible because of the conditions, but God made it happen. She went back two years later, and this program was still functioning, and had their own money so they were not borrowing from the government anymore.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
The hardest thing for her was adjusting to culture, and allowing herself to truly embrace another culture. Embracing another country can be hard because some of the things made her angry or sad. The culture is not as comfortable because it is not what people are used to in their country. She said there was a “honeymoon period” for missionaries too. This period, she said, was fun and being in another culture was exciting at first until she realized that she was living there and not going home, and that it was hard work. She also said that it was challenging because she was treated differently because she was not African. Once she overcame being treated differently, she said it got better.
4. What do you most enjoy about your work?
She enjoyed the relationships she developed with other people living in Africa and the missionaries. She also enjoyed that knowing whatever happened was God’s will for her. Feeling like she was a part of God’s work was also something she enjoyed.
5. What most encouraged you in your work?
The people around her encouraged her. They lifted her up, and helped her stay encouraged while the community thought that there was no hope for their project. She read the Bible every day so that she could communicate with God, and kept her faith strong. She surrounded herself with people that encouraged her so she could stay positive about the project.
Interviewd: Miss Carlina
ReplyDeleteServed:Guyana, South America.
She serves God through sign language.
1.Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
I had friends in Florida that asked me if I wanted to go to Guyana and teach down there so I saved up my money and went!
2.How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
When I was down in Guyana they had no education for deaf people, and they weren't Christians. I wanted to help these people so I signed the Gospel to the deaf people and they became Christians.
3.What was the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Definitly living below the standards your used to. There were mosquitoes so you had to live under a mosquito net, and no air-conditioning, and most definitly the food. I had to get used to the food.
4. Are you still continuing to be a missionary?
Yes most definitly. I'am continuing to spread the word of God.
5. Why are you a missionary?
To give an education of the Bible and of God's purposes.
1) I ended up here in Haiti after the hurricane came through and destroy this Island.
ReplyDelete2) I have seen the Lord work simply by all these great people from all over the world coming to the aid of these people no doubt the Lord sent us all.
3) the greatest challenge has been to spread the Christian ways, sometimes it is easy and wanted and other times they don't want to hear it.
4) What has moved you the most as a missionary?
The answer is simple, the children smiles and appreciation has touched my heart and soul you never forget their eyes.
5) what is this disturbed you the most?
Simple again, the living conditions, in the medical problems. all the day-to-day things that we take for granted are not here. clean water, a roof over house, schools, medicines. Day to day today necessities aren't here.
Rachael Lewis..
ReplyDeleteInterviewed:Meagan white
served:Niamey,Niger in Africa
1.why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve? I raided money to go by holding hole/bean bag tossing tournements. I had no.idea I was going to be able to comeup with the rest if the money.God made it happen.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
The Lord User this trip to draw me closer to Him. I was able to humble myself enough to hear his word abd spread it to others.
3.what was the greatest challenge as a missionary?
health and safety. Going to 4thworldwide countries it is very important to take care of yourself. We went to places where Christians weren't welcome,it put our safety at risk.
4.why did you want to be a missionary?
I felt that God wanted me to spread the gospel to people all over the world.
5.what makes it all worth it?
Seeing people come to Christ.
1)Why or how did you end up in the Philippines?
ReplyDeleteWe joined Wycliffe and they needed someone with Billy’s experience and training in Asia. The Asia Area office is located in Manila, Philippines. Manila is the logical place for the Asia hub because English is widely used and the Philippines provides Americans with a generous visa. The Philippines is also the only Christian country in Asia. (predominately Catholic)
2)How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
I teach English to non-native speakers. It has been very rewarding to help nationals who want to serve the Lord improve in this global language. I also lead a ladies Bible study in our office and have seen the ladies grow in their faith.
3)What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
Being away from my family and friends. Always being a foreigner. Looking different. Hard to buy clothes because at size 8 I am too big!
4)What is the most rewarding part about being a missionary?
Making friends with nationals. Connecting with the body of Christ in Asia. Traveling to countries to teach English. Everyone wants to improve their English skills because it is now the world’s language.
5)How much longer do you plan to serve?
I plan to return this summer, 2012.
I interviewed Josh Flaningan, a missionary who serves in Africa.
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in that part of the world you serve?
This question is not the easiest to explain. I guess the short answer is, this is where God has lead me to serve. Ten years ago I served in the village of Yaloke in the Central African Republic for one year. I felt the Lord leading me to pursue full time missions work but it has taken a lot to get to that point.
2.How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
Even though I will not deploy for Africa until the middle of May, the Lord has been working for me and through me. Ministry is sharing the love of Christ and helping others to grow in the knowledge of Him. As I have been preparing for the mission field I have been able to share my vision of what I feel called to do. In response to going it has encouraged others to get involved and take steps of faith to be a ministry partner with me.
3.What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
As a missionary to a foreign land, it's easy to think of all that you will be leaving behind, family, friends, the comforts of our culture and the things we think are safe. Satan will attack us and the Lord will grow us in these challenges. We have to be ready to fight and pray our way through them.
4.Do you have any regrets about being a missionary?
It's a blessing to be in full time service as a missionary to a foreign land. Being a missionary is sharing Christ with others and we are all called to figure out what that looks like in life. I have committed myself to sharing Jesus and helping the church grow wherever God wants us.
5.How were you influenced to become a missionary?
I have had the blessing of having others influence my life and that has lead to my service as a full time missionary. I think the one thing that is most key in serving is discipleship. I had men and women speaking truth into my life and sharing God's love and showing me who Jesus is and how to be like him.
6.When did you know that you wanted to become a missionary?
I knew after taking a trip to Mexico during my junior year of high school to build houses that I could see myself serving in another culture.
1. God has called me to this mission field because of my desire to lead others to Christ.
ReplyDelete2. I have seen people’s lives change and attitudes to circumstances change because of their acceptance to Jesus Christ.
3. Leading the lost to Christ and changing the perceptions of missionaries.
4. Why do u like being a missionary? I want people to experience the life I have and what Jesus offers.
5 What are your favorite mission trip u you have done? Feeding the people in New Orleans and Atlanta and helping the less fortunate with clothing.
Minister Ferrell
Atlatna
I interviewed James Jackson a missionary who served in many countries in Africa.
ReplyDeleteWhy did you end up in part of the world, where you served ?
1. Well Haiti , reason because our church has a commitment to a Haitian community , we provide teacher salary , school supplies , and this was a medical mission , over the counter drugs , a couple pediatricians , and we set up a drug store , I ran a drug store , we were there to help that certain community , that community also receives $30,000 every year.
How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
2. Well, the Lord was the cause of our mission. We were moved by Jesus commands to serve the least of all men, the lord moved us to do the work.
What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
3. The greatest challenge is to not be personally overwhelmed by the need and the poverty that you see, it can be hard not to get overwhelmed by emotions, and that’s the greatest challenge, in staying strong over the experience.
4. When did you know, you wanted to be a missionary?
4. Well, umm, my first mission trip was to Kenya and I’ve always known I wanted to be connected to the continent in sort of a mission way, to help and change the perspective of what’s possible in Africa, I’ve had one of my earliest friends in college was from Nigeria, he was like my inspiration to help in the continent of Africa, we have been chosen to witness for God.
How many people did you reach out to in your ministry?
5.Well , particularly when we went to Haiti , it was a village of people , 100s of people , five days , every day was full of activity , a school , kids , families , the whole community.
--> that blog up there is me , Carmyn Cosey , i interview James Jackson , but i don't see my name under it .
DeleteThe missionary that I interviewed has done many short-term missions, but over that short period of time he has learned to connect with the people in Kazakhstan, Asia. His name is Peter Armstrong, brother of David Armstrong who also goes on mission trips. Here are the questions and the answers:
ReplyDelete1. Q: Where have you served, or where do you serve currently?
A: As a short term missionary I have gone on many missionary trips, but my most recent mission trip was in Kazakhstan, Asia.
2. Q: Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you served?
A: I wanted to experience other cultures, especially in Asia. I also wanted to share the gospel to countries where Christianity is not very welcomed because I wanted myself to be challenged, and I wanted to face the fears of being a missionary in another country. I knew that in Asia, Christianity was not welcomed so I chose to be a preacher there, but I didn’t pick a place where Christianity was an outlaw or where they killed you if you were a Christian and spreading to Word of Jesus Christ.
3. Q: How have you seen the Lord work and move in the ministry?
A: He gave me and the people the ability to establish a relationship. We were able to answer the questions that they had concerning to Christianity. Many children and adults turned to Christ in the short period of time that we were in Kazakhstan. We were able to interact with the people there. We wanted to teach at a school, but at first the school wasn’t able to allow us to teach because of issues going on at the school. Thankfully, God was able to help us in the end where we were able to turn many people’s lives around. It was also neat to develop other small churches around the community, and we trained and developed new leaders in Kazakhstan.
4. Q: What was the greatest challenge as a missionary in Kazakhstan?
A: A big challenge there in Asia was that they didn’t have much “Green” space. They didn’t have a lot of trees and roads there. It was a big difference in Kazakhstan compared to America, considering the fact that there want a lot of freedom there. There were also safety issues there because: a) It wasn’t 100% open to the gospel and b) if you want to spread the Word, you can’t be very public about it.
5. Q: How has preaching and spreading God's word not only change the people's lives, but your life too?
A: I learned how to connect with the students, and since I’m not a long-term missionary I was able to connect them to the long-term missionaries. That way when I left, they would still be in touch with God. I was able to see that God really can work miracles. I knew that before, but since I’m a human, I like to see things for myself. And seeing all of those children turn to was like a miracle. There were some children and adults that didn’t become Christians, but I got a phone call a few days later after I left about how some of those people became Christians. It just took a long time because becoming a Christian isn’t an overnight thing.
6. Q: Do you enjoy teaching and spreading God’s Word to other people who aren’t Christians?
A: Yes, I do. In fact I love seeing God work in many people’s lives, and I love helping him accomplish that. I loved the challenges that God placed in my life when I became a short-term missionary. I like to overcome challenges, so I can become stronger in my faith. My goal there was to help God & match upon His heart. God calls us to spread the Word and be obedient. When I did that mission trip, I felt like I was obeying God’s command.
I interviewed Mr. David Cook. He serves in the U.S. for muslims.
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
In college, I got interested in working with Muslims. After graduation,
I moved to Saudi Arabia where I lived and worked for five years. After that,
I returned home to find a wife and then move back to the Middle East. But
God had different plans for me. He showed me in His word that we are
supposed to be missionaries to the internationals who have come from other
countries to the U.S. In fact, there are many Muslims who are living right
here in America. For 25 years I encouraged and trained people to reach out
to internationals in Atlanta. Every year I would ask the Lord if he wanted
me to go back to the Middle East or somewhere else in America, and the
answer was always "no". However, 4 years ago my mission agency approached
one of the members of my team in Atlanta about starting a team in NYC. He
said "no", but when I heard about the opportunity, I said "I could go
there." For the first time in over 20 years, I felt called to another place
than Atlanta. I talked about it with my wife and son and they were not
opposed to the idea. So that's how we ended up in New York City reaching
Muslims.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
The Lord has used me particularly to mobilize and train many others to
become missionaries and to reach out to internationals that have come to
America. I've organized and taught courses for many thousands of people
over the past 25 years. In addition, he has used me to start several new
ministries and train up people to take them over so that I could start
another one, like we're doing here in New York City.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
My greatest challenge as a missionary is to know how to balance my time
and priorities between my walk with God, my relationship with my family, and
my ministry. Oftentimes, the ministry takes more priority than it should.
The work seems never ending!
4. What is the hardest part about reaching out to muslims as a Christian?
The hardest part about reaching out to Muslims as a Christian is the
constant rejection that you experience. It takes a long time for a Muslim to
be convinced of the claims of Christ. If and when they do finally accept
Him as their Lord and Savior, they have to pay a high price in regards to
persecution from their family and other Muslims. This can be as severe as
being put to death. This is also painful to watch.
5. How do you spend a typical day?
My typical day involves answering emails, meeting with team members, and
scheduling meetings with or actually meeting with Muslims. Sometimes this
can be at a mosque, at a coffee shop, or at their home. I also spend time
studying Islamics and how to share my faith with Muslims. This helps me in
my outreach as well as when I have opportunities to train others in Muslim
ministry.
Mrs. Kang
ReplyDeleteserved : china and japan
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
she lived in Korea and was a regular student and she loved seeing people's smile on their faces so she helped many helpful kids and adults in Korea and she realized this was what she had to do so she became a missionary and traveled to help people with people she loved to Japan and China to help people to overcome their obstacles.And currently she came to Atlanta with her family and still serve people and share the gosple.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
she said people think kids or adults who are in depressing situations are always in bad moods ,which not false but during her mission whereever you are you can always find happinesses and the Lord told her to help them find the happenisses for them.she said she can still feel her heart pounding when she saw the kids smile and said thank you in chinese and japanese to her.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
she said the challenge would be not showing the fear becasue if you are scared then everyone will be scared too during the mission, so its hard to be a confident leader in front of people.
4. what did you sacrifice during your mission?
she dosent believe she sacrificed any because she chose to do it and nobody forced her to do something.however she said if she has to pick one it would be not spending time with her family.
5. what are some advises to young adults?
she said "there are many paths in this world and so many opportunities but to find the right one you need to be with the Lord because God knows everything about you and even your future."
she said" Do something that will make you cry and smile and make your heart beat and you care about the most and finally do it for the Lord.
Tiffany Johnson
ReplyDeleteShe served in Haiti
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
After the earthquake in Haiti She said she felt like God was calling her to help the people who aren’t as blessed as her. So she ended up in Haiti to help Haitians get medicine and to educate them. She decided to go to Haiti because they have a very low literacy rate, so she thought she could help educate as many Haitians as she could and make a difference their lives. She also went as a nurse. With her masters in nursing, she also stayed in a hospital and she had to help 13 ill people.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
She said the Lord was the reason why she went to Haiti. When she heard about the earthquake, and saw how devastating it was to Haiti, she felt like the Lord had called her to go and help the people of Haiti. While she was in Haiti she was educating a group of Haitians, when she finished one Haitian man who knew a little bit of English came up to her and told her “God bless you.” She said that was the best part of the trip.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
She said the hardest challenge of the missionary was not being scared, because with all of the riots and chaos it was very dangerous. She said being confident was in front of the other Haitians was the greatest challenge.
4. Are you planning on doing another missionary trip anytime soon?
She said she plans on going to South Africa sometime next year. She wants to go to Africa to go educate them because not everyone is allowed an education there. She says she believes that during her time in South Africa she will make a huge impact on the illiterate people of South Africa and make a long term change in their lives
Connor Caffrey
ReplyDeleteScott and Holly Holder, missionaries to Afghanistan and Belize.
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
We felt the Lord calling us into ministry. We dedicated our lives to whatever God wanted us to do. When you are called to missions you feel compelled to go. After we dedicated our lives, to the "Macedonian Call," God opened the doors to Afghanistan and Belize and gave us confirmation that was where we are to serve.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
There have been many salvations. We have been able to empower National Ministers in these two third world countries of Belize and Afghanistan to answer their call of ministry. We have been able to educate the deaf in Afghanistan and give them job skills as well as opportunities to work. We provide platforms of ministry to missionaries from around the world to minister in these countries. We train missionaries from multiple churches and dominations to work with our projects in Afghanistan and Belize.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
To rise above all the issues of life that pull at us and tie us down. Such as health, family, finances. You still have to rise above all the things in life. You have to trust God that his assistance to overcome the opposition of the enemy, who doesn't want to the work of God to go forth. You have to be determined to complete the call of God on your life and pray for His Holy Spirit to empower you so that you can persevere against our enemy, Satan and his forces of evil.
4. How do you raise funding for your trips?
We are "tent makers." God has provided both of us with jobs here in Georgia, so we pay for our own way to the field. We have been serving in Afghanistan and Belize for over 10 years. We began by presenting our call to friends and family. God blessed and from there we began presenting our call and work accomplished to many churches and organizations throughout the area. Our mission is now supported by many individuals, churches and organizations. Where God leads he provides, and we are able to support many outreaches in Afghanistan and two in Belize.
5. What is the greatest joy of being a missionary?
To know we have been obedient to the call God has put on our lives. It is a compelling call, like you have no choice but to answer. It is also a blessing to know that God through us has alleviated pain, suffering, hunger and spiritual blindness. Primarily, we look forward to being able to say at the end of our lives that we have fought the good fight, we have kept the course, we have finished the race.
Jerry Roberts,
ReplyDelete1.) why or how did you end up in Latvia? We felt a burden for the people of the former USSR even back in the 1980's and prayed for them while it was still a closed country. After God opened up the way, he moved on our hearts to go and led us to Latvia through the direction of leaders of AG World Missions.
2.) how have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry? He has been so good to us. He has helped us to develop relationships and given us opportunities to reach people in areas we would never expect. He has given us peace and grace to handle the challenges of living in a foreign context.
3.) what is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
I would say leaving family. We had to leave behind our parents and grandparents and friends at first. During our first term, two of my grandparents died. During the second term both of Terri's parents died. It was hard to not get to see them. Then later, our kids started to go back to the US to go to College.
4.) how has your ministry work affected your relationship with God?
I have learned a lot about depending on God and trusting in his grace. I have also learned more of how to stay close to him, even when there is not a church to go to that helps.
5.) what is usually your favorite part about going on mission trips? The answer to this would depend on what is meant by mission trips. If you are referring to short-term trips (2 weeks to 3 months) then my favorite part is working with a team and getting to experience all of the amazing new parts of cultures and countries. If you are talking about long term missions like we have done (4 years at a time) then my favorite part is developing close relationships and learning a language and culture.
Jerry Roberts was from Anna Reeves McCutcheon
ReplyDeleteName: Mrs. Qualls Where she served: Romania,Chile,Hungary
ReplyDelete1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
MMy church went on a mission trip and I felt called to go but not called to make it a full time job.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry? or how did you end People respond with gratitude and it seems as if the grace of the Lord is in them and He makes it so easy to love them even though they may be gypsies. They are no different to me.
3. What is the greatest challenge as a missionary?
In Romania, the people that we weren’t there to help didn’t understand why we were there.
4. What’s the best thing that has happened on a mission?
I feel blessed doing the Lord’s work.
5. How successful are you in helping others and yourself?
I feel very successful and comeback knowing I’ve done something good, so I feel very proud.the part of the world where you.
Alex Herden
ReplyDeleteMissionary: Wendell Robinson & Family
Missionary to Ponce, Puerto Rico
1. Why or how did you end up in the part of the world where you serve?
In 1998 I was serving in Portland Oregon as the youth pastor for a big church. I had sensed for some time that God was about to make a big move in my life. I wasn’t sure what. August of 1998 the Senior Pastor and I took a vision trip to Leon, Costa Rica to scout out a possible serving opportunity for our youth ministry. While down there I heard the Lord speak to my heart saying that I had been called to the nations to serve Him. I was caught off guard. I didn’t know how to react.
I returned home with fear and excitement. I had to talk to my wife. I sat her down, I didn’t want her to fall down from the shock of the news. Just as I began to tell her what happen to me in Costa Rica, she stopped me. She told me that the Lord had spoken to her while i was gone and told her we would be moving to serve the Lord in another country. A sense of relief flooded my soul and with great freedom I began to share the entire account of what I had experienced.
Fast forward to 2002, and a series of events later, my wife and three children land in Ponce Puerto Rico as full time missionaries.
2. How have you seen the Lord work and move in your ministry?
The Lord has worked/moved in our ministry in so many different ways. I can remember one incident that happened with a young struggling drug addict. This young man was brought to my house by a friend to be encouraged and receive prayer. As I spoke to the young man I realized he did not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I quickly prayed with him to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. The next week he was murdered in a drug related shooting. I was able to attend the funeral following his death. The family invited me to share of few words about the young man. I told them about our meeting in my house and his decision to accept the Lord in his heart. He was saved! The whole place went from mourning to cries of jubilation. They knew their son was in heaven. It was awesome! Another day on the mission field.
3. What is/was the greatest challenge as a missionary?
The greatest challenge of any missionary is learning a new language and culture.
4. What in your work has impacted you most?
God is working all over the world and doing great things that will never make the evening news.
5. What is the best thing about missionary work?
The best thing about being a missionary is meeting and serving people of different cultures. I love the people, their cultural, music, customs, traditions and the uniqueness found in that culture. Seeing our God through the lens of another culture is amazing.
I interviewed Beverly Mcdowell
ReplyDelete1.I always wanted to be a missionary ,but never got the chance to. When i retired ofcourse I realized that now i had the time. I immeaditely found a small church in Montana that neede help with ffeedind the hungry,helping the less fortunate,and praying with people in general.
2.through the people and from the stisfaction while working.It felt great to know that I had affectedd someone's life.The Holy Spirit gave me such joy!
3.Actally for ,e it was verbalizing God's word and putting it in to action.Going to food banksand homeless shelters is great,but actually going out and really talking to people is much harder!
4.What is your favorite memory while doing missionary work?
When I was in Montana i would do these things calle dprayer walks .I would walk with members of the church from 11-2 and pray with them(even in the snow).
Did you go alone?
YesI did and I enjoyed every minute of it.