Mission Partners

Introduction

Greyfriars has a long tradition as a missionary sending church. In an ever changing world there are still needs for people to go overseas usually working alongside the indigenous church as partners in God’s Mission to share the gospel with all people. Mission Partners may be evangelists or church planters, but they are more likely to work in church or mission sponsored projects as doctors, nurses, agriculturalists etc. In some cases where the church is under pressure mission partners may have to supplement their role by secular employment. Greyfriars supports over 25 mission partners in more than 15 locations through prayer, finances and pastoral care.

The links below will take you to the websites of some of our Mission Partners.

Why support International Mission?

Jesus commanded his disciples to go into all the world. If we really believe the gospel is Good News surely it follows that we will want to share it with those who may not have the opportunity to hear it. Secondly, we are to love our neighbours and in the Bible we read of materially richer churches sending skilled people or gifts to less advantaged ones.

How can I be involved in International Mission?

Most of us will not have a desire to go ourselves but we can support those who do. In order to do this we need to be informed so our prayers are accurate and effective. Up to date information can be found in Mission Matters in the church magazine and the monthly prayer paper. Greyfriars also tries to promote interest through the International Mission Weekend, Mission Partners Sunday and in interviews and talks whenever our mission partners are in church when on leave. If you are not sure where to start, each home group is linked to mission partner. On a more general level you can give financially to the Greyfriars’ Missionary Trust.

What is the Greyfriars Missionary Trust?

At Greyfriars we have a separate Trust to which we give if we wish to support overseas mission. General giving to the Church will not reach a mission partner. You can give to the Trust in all the usual ways and remember to fill in a gift aid declaration to enable us to reclaim tax. The majority of the Trust money goes to Greyfriars Mission Partner support with a smaller amount going to certain mission agencies.

What if I feel called to go Overseas?

You need to get your call affirmed so first approach the Vicar or International Mission Committee chairman. If you have not been at the church long and have not been involved in activities you will be encouraged to develop your skills, possibly short term service. If you have a proven track record in Greyfriars you will go before a panel that will then recommend the trust to support you. This process may in some cases move in tandem with an application to a mission-sending agency.