Adopt-A-Missionary

At Austin City Life, mission is not merely what we do; it is who we are. As a missional church, we seek to live out the implications of a whole gospel for the whole person and city. This happens locally and globally as we redemptively engage peoples and cultures. One way for our city groups to get and remain involved in global mission is through supporting foreign missionaries. That’s what this program is all about.

This program is not just about providing financial support to missionaries (though it very well could lead to that). This program is about providing all types of support: emotional, spiritual/prayerful, and financial.

Emotional Support

Being a missionary is exciting and fun. It’s also challenging, discouraging, and at times very lonely. Let your city group brainstorm creative ways to encourage your missionary. Here are a few ideas, but don’t limit yourself to these:

• Email. When you receive a prayer letter, take the time to read it and respond immediately via email. Mention things that were said in the letter so the missionary knows you actually read it. It seems simple, but it means a lot!

• Telephone or Skype. We always suggest that you launch your partnership with your missionary through a skype video chat. However, consider also calling or video chatting with your missionary on special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

• Snail Mail. Don’t forget this method of communication; it’s still valuable! In addition to personal letters and cards on special occasions, consider sending a care package. Use the Getting to Know You questionnaire to help fill the package with meaningful things.You may want to send packages to celebrate birthdays and Christmas. If you are supporting a married couple, consider sending a date-in-a-box (for example: an Italian dinner date, complete with everything to make a tasty meal, candles, tablecloth, and music).

As always, if your missionary lives in a Creative Access Nation, please write as if your letter will be read by government officials who do not desire Christian workers in their country. Follow the Austin City Life Security Guidelines.

Spiritual/Prayerful Support

Missionaries need your prayers. The people with whom they work need your prayers, too. Informed prayers are powerful. Pray through scripture and pray through the letters you receive from your missionary.

Financial Support

Contact your missionary if you feel led to financially support their work and ministry. This could be done on an individual or group basis. There are different types of financial support. Consider a one-time gift or a monthly commitment.