It's Right to Write

It is the right time and the right blessing to correspond with Central's missionaries at Christmas. Most of them are away from family at the season when past memories of family fellowship fill the mind. Messages from friends are welcomed and meaningful. Addresses, both geographic and e-mail, are available in the Missions Directory and through the church office.

A few weeks ago worshippers completed the sentence, "In response to God's call to bring people to Jesus, I give Him ..." Many pledged to give time toward building relationships to encourage missionaries. Communication at this time of year is a priority. Why not add missionaries to your list?

There is need for caution in writing to people in areas where Muslims are the dominant population. One or our missionaries lists some "do's and don'ts."

DO:

• write about yourself, church situations, personal relationships with family and friends

DON'T:

• use organization names or mention specific ministries
• use corporate or company terminology
• refer to mission officers by their titles
• Mention or use the words "evangelism," "missionary," "convert," etc.
• mention Islam, Muslims, politics, Israel
• write anything derogatory about Muslim countries or people

Overseas Missionary Fellowship (OMF) has some advice also. Cards and letters can be sent directly to your missionary at his/her field address. Packages should only be sent after consulting your missionary about duty required by customs. Gifts of money, marked personal (thus not tax deductible) can be sent to the mission agency.

Before and after you create your communication to missionaries, continue to lift them up in prayer. You can reach around the world this December!

Contact the office for a list of Central's missionaries and their addresses.