For over a century, the Church of God of Prophecy has carried the torch of missions, sending laborers into the harvest fields and reaching the lost around the globe. From its earliest days, mission efforts have been woven into the fabric of our movement, driven by the Great Commission and the unwavering belief that every believer has a role in God’s plan. But missions is not just the work of those who go—it is the calling of the entire church.
The question is, How can local congregations truly champion missionaries? How do we cultivate a culture where mission support is not an afterthought but a central part of our church life?
The answer lies in three key areas: prayer, communication, and financial investment.
1. Establishing a Strong Prayer Network
The foundation of any missionary effort is prayer. Long before finances are raised or travel plans are made, spiritual battles must be fought and won through intercession. A strong missions-minded church is one that prioritizes prayer for those on the field.
How Churches Can Build a Prayer Network:
- Adopt a Missionary—Assign each small group, Sunday school class, or ministry team a missionary to pray for regularly.
- Monthly Missions Prayer Focus—Dedicate one Sunday a month to highlighting a specific missionary or mission field, sharing updates and specific prayer needs.
- Intercessory Teams—Form prayer groups specifically dedicated to interceding for missionaries, their families, and the people they serve.
- Virtual Prayer Gatherings—Use technology to host online prayer meetings where members can hear directly from missionaries and pray in real time.
Prayer not only strengthens missionaries but also deepens the congregation’s personal connection to their work. When a church prays, it partners in the victories and challenges of the mission field.
2. Strengthening Communication and Connection
One of the greatest struggles missionaries face is feeling disconnected from their home churches. They may be thousands of miles away. With today’s technology, there are more opportunities than ever to stay connected. Churches must make communication a priority.
Practical Communication Strategies:
- Missionary Spotlights—Feature updates in bulletins, on social media, and during services to keep the congregation informed and engaged.
- Video Messages—Encourage missionaries to send video messages sharing testimonies and updates, which can be played during services or posted online.
- Missionary Visits and Calls—Schedule live video calls during church services to allow missionaries to speak directly to the congregation.
- Mission Boards and Newsletters—Keep a dedicated space in the church (physical or digital) for ongoing updates about mission work.
When churches stay informed, missionaries feel supported, and congregations remain passionate about the work God is doing worldwide.
3. Developing a Sustainable Financial Plan for Missions
Supporting missions financially is more than just collecting a yearly offering—it’s about creating a consistent, sustainable system for investment in God’s work. Missions should be part of a church’s financial DNA, not just an occasional emphasis.
Ways Churches Can Give Generously to Missions:
- Faith Promise Giving—Encourage members to make faith commitments to missions giving, beyond their regular tithes and offerings.
- Creative Fundraising—Host mission-focused events like benefit dinners, auctions, or special projects that raise awareness and funds.
- Support Short-Term Mission Trips—Provide scholarships or financial assistance for members to participate in mission trips, helping them gain a firsthand vision for global outreach.
When financial giving becomes a core value of the church, missions flourish, and the gospel continues to spread.
A Legacy of Missions; A Future of Opportunity
The Church of God of Prophecy has a rich history of missions from its earliest days of sending missionaries with little more than a calling and a burden to the global impact we see today. This legacy is not just something to celebrate—it is something to continue. Every church, no matter its size, can play a part in equipping, sending, and sustaining missionaries.
The call is clear: We must pray. We must connect. We must give.
When churches champion missionaries, we partner with God in his great mission, moving from the pews to the fields and making disciples of all nations.
Will your church rise to the challenge? The mission field is waiting.
– Michelle Brooks-Young, Global Communications Advisory Board Member