Why Missions and Mobilization Weekend?
Joe DeLozier / Missions & Mobilization Pastor
It’s hard to believe that this is going to be my fourth Missions Festival. As we are preparing for this weekend, it occurred to me that there may be some people who are wondering why we set aside a weekend just for Missions and Mobilization. Since I came into this role, I have gained a tremendous appreciation for the ongoing work our ministry partners and missionaries are doing in Western New York and around the world. Some of the people we support have experienced emotional and physical hardships as they have responded to God’s call to minister to those who have never known the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Others have faced persecution because they have chosen to stand with God and not yield to local culture’s anti-Christian beliefs. I could go on with many other stories of challenges God’s servants have faced as they respond to His call. So, this weekend is about raising awareness and celebrating the work our ministry partners and missionaries are doing. It is also about providing encouragement as we sit and break bread with them. It’s about committing to pray regularly for them. It’s about financially supporting them and the work they are doing. And lastly, but no less important, it’s about helping our church family see how we can join in the mission, by volunteering to serve with one of our partners, or begin to regularly correspond with one of our overseas missionaries to bring them words of encouragement.
Therefore, I want to extend a personal invitation for each person who reads this to join me this Saturday, October 10, at 6pm to enjoy a time with our partners and missionaries. To laugh with them, pray with them, and maybe even weep a little as you get to know them. We’ll also have an amazing taco bar, as well as desserts and beverages. This will be a family-friendly event, with special activities to engage our children to learn about life in another part of the world. The cost will be $10 per adult, and $5 for children (ages 5 to 16). Click here to register.