fbpx
News Articles

Missionaries thank Southern Baptists for ‘holding the rope’


RICHMOND, Va. (BP)–The following “thank-you” notes were written by International Mission Board missionaries to express gratitude for Southern Baptists’ faithful giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, which set a record in 2005 with $137,939,677.59.

— “Dear Southern Baptist friends,

“Your gifts to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering make our ministry possible. Because we were able to build a house in a Fulani village and live among the people, we have been able to share Jesus with Fulani who consider us ‘one of them,’ not outsiders who come for short visits. Young men like Yakuba* have heard the Gospel and now struggle to follow Jesus in this predominately Muslim area of West Africa. Those with little-to-no access to medical care receive treatment through mobile bush clinics and are introduced to the Great Physician, Jesus…. You are truly making a difference for God’s kingdom.

“Blessings,

“Neal and Darlene Atchley

“West Africa”

(The Atchley’s completed their two-year term of service in April and now reside in the United States.)

— “Dear folks,

“Our family wanted to take time to tell you how much we appreciate your giving. Each day we go about our work, we are reminded how blessed we are to be able to share Christ and not have the burden of finances preoccupying our thoughts. We feel so fortunate to serve with folks like you who not only have a heart for the lost of the world, but also reveal your heart in the form of your generous giving. We know the Father will bless you…. Thanks again and we appreciate your continued prayer for the people of East Asia.

“A family in East Asia”

— “Dear SBC family,

“I am a health care provider working alongside my Muslim counterparts in remote villages in the Middle East…. Thank you for praying for Muslims to know Jesus as the crucified and resurrected Savior…. Your prayers are the key. Thank you for giving through the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering so we can live among these precious people -– loving, healing and telling the story of salvation by grace, not works. Many of my [non-Southern Baptist] colleagues struggle to raise their support. I am so grateful that because of you I don’t have to do that, but am free to dream, plan budget and have my needs met.

“Blessings,

“N.P.

“Northern Africa and the Middle East”

— Dear Southern Baptist friends,

“The past several years your love, prayer and financial gifts have made our ministry in South Asia possible. During that time, we’ve been able to participate in forming a new church in our home…. More importantly, our church members have trained national partners to start churches that have now multiplied into more than 70 daughter and granddaughter churches…. Today, literally hundreds of South Asians are worshiping our Lord [and] only a few years ago [they] were walking in darkness. We would not be able to do what we do without the sacrifices you make to keep us on the field.

“Blessings,

“David and Sonia Garrison

“South Asia”

— “Dear Southern Baptists,

“We would not be here if it were not for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Every aspect of our work is affected by your giving, not just our everyday living…. We are so grateful. We have been able to translate some of the Bible in our people’s language and give it to new believers. This is incredibly helpful as they have no other access [to the Gospel]. They are hungry for God’s Word and want as much as we can provide! Please know your giving is having an impact for the Kingdom. Thank you for holding the ropes for us. We appreciate it more than you will ever know!

“Sincerely,

“Workers in East Asia”
–30–
*Name changed for security reasons.

    About the Author

  • Staff