LAST WORD
HOW TO… DO MISSION IN A PANDEMIC As we gaze across the world during this turbulent time, we see CMS people in mission living out the community’s values: being pioneering, evangelistic, relational and faithful in many ways – some totally unexpected. Following are some lessons we’ve learned about being in mission when plans change.
1. PRAY AND BE AS PRESENT AS YOU CAN As the world locked down, CMS people in mission turned to God in prayer. Andrea and Andrew Young, who had to leave Nepal, said: “I (Andrea) remember as a child being carried from the car into the house after a long journey. The feeling of safety in my dad’s arms. I’ve reflected on the image of God as a parent carrying his children, especially when we feel helpless. All we can do is allow ourselves to be carried by him who will not let us go.” The Youngs remain in touch with their Nepali community and Andrea is encouraged that some of the young women she’s mentored have volunteered to help children who are currently suffering from anxiety. Also in Asia, A and L prayed about staying while many expat friends and colleagues left: “It may get a lot harder to be here, but we feel it’s the right thing to do. Much
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ministry is on hold yet we seek to be a light by remaining. We will give birth to our next child here. We feel like God is doing something through this; we can’t see it yet, but he is with us.”
2. ACCEPT THE LIMITATIONS While many people in mission have spoken of unexpected opportunities during this time, many have had to face the difficult reality of pausing/stopping some work and doing what they can. Heather Johnstone, who leads the Rehema Project, supporting vulnerable women in Tanzania, wrote: “The heartbreaking reality is we have no choice but to close the business at least until the end of June. When I told the women this news, they told me not to worry, God would provide. They humble me! Fortunately, we were able to pay wages for March and April. I hope to give
a small investment to each of them to enable them to somehow be resourceful in providing for themselves and their families.”
3. LISTEN TO PEOPLE’S NEEDS Mission partners in Pakistan, normally educators, are getting involved with local foodbanks: “More and more people here are unable to support themselves, meaning more people than ever are requesting supplies.” In Lima, Peru, Paul and Sarah Tester said, “Sarah aims to be in touch with friends who are alone during lockdown or single parents. She has brought mums together in a WhatsApp group to share ideas of how to keep kids fit and content. When a friend’s daughter had a birthday, with no party, other children sent birthday videos. Community is so needed now.”
THE C A LL – S UM M E R 2 0 2 0
Top left: Audrey Gibson is supporting parents and children with special needs remotely Top right: Visual aids are used by Derek and Jane Waller to educate people about coronavirus Bottom: Jimmy Rocks in Brazil has started leading church online
