Missions is Changing

Our world seems to be changing at a dizzying pace, including the face of Missions.  A few months ago our Field Leaders and also those from International Headquarters decided that because of the maturity of the National Church in Burkina Faso, they would be phasing-out the role of traditional church-planter.  Missionary activity will continue in Burkina Faso but there is a definite shift of focus, emphasizing work teams and short-term ministries.

Because of the changes taking place on our field, we have felt God’s leading to make a change in our status and have received permission from our leaders to switch from IM (International Ministries) to MM (Marketplace Ministries).  Some of you may recall the old name for MM, “IFAP”.   This transition will allow us to remain in Burkina Faso for several more years, continuing in our preferred ministries of teaching, preaching & evangelism.  Debbi will also be able to continue in her role as Regional Educational Consultant.  We also have the option of transitioning to another field but for the time being, we prefer to remain here.

The main difference is that we will no longer be supported by the Great Commission Fund.  We are still Alliance missionaries but we have become “tent-makers”, earning our own salaries through our secular jobs.  Debbi is the Librarian at the International School of Ouagadougou and I am working at the US Embassy.

We covet your prayers as we switch to this new model of ministry. 

Yours in Christ, 
Steve & Debbi