As we focus on South Korea this month, “Back To The Present” we are reminded of recent issues that we all face regarding North Korea. We pray that these problems may somehow result in the opening of a door for the Gospel into the North.

As you read the lead article about Marshall and Sandy Ruth, you may ask yourself, “Where are Dave and Beth? I thought they had served in Korea!” We are the other missionaries in the story who worked alongside Sandy and Marshall for eight years. The Ruths were there ahead of us and stayed after us when we were called to other assignments. As we worked together with the Bakers, the Ruths, the Cheons, the Thomases and the Ehrhardts, we experienced some of the best years of our lives. But missionary longevity in Korea belongs to the Ruths. The story of their recent trip only scratches the surface of the impact that they have made for Christ in that country.

As you think of the Ruths’ example and ponder their faithfulness, God may be speaking to you about what you can do to serve Him. Have you considered missionary service? We are accepting applications for our missionary training program that begins in September. Ask us for an application form or go to our website if you prefer to do it electronically.

Last fall headquarters staff members gathered together for serious discussion about finances. The purpose for the meeting was to search out creative ways to balance our budget. To see the results of that meeting, read the next article, “Because You Asked.”

The work continues on around the world. As you read, a short-term ministry team is working in Sierra Leone, a new medical clinic is being dedicated in Colombia and new missionary candidates are preparing to bolster CinA outreach in the Philippines. Your investment in global missions is paying many dividends.

Last fall, headquarters staff members were asked to meet for serious discussion about finances. The purpose for the meeting was to search out creative ways to balance our budget. Many suggestions were considered, but all together the saving was small, so we were not making headway in reducing expenses. Each CinA staff member (like each missionary) raises his/her own support funds for living expenses. However, out of funds that the organization receives for missions, we also help each staff member over and above their donor support. We call this financial assistance an allotment.

So in order to help reduce expenses, the staff discussed and voted to reduce their own allotments by 25% beginning the middle of 2006 if the financial picture would not improve by then. It was an wonderful demonstration of dedication. (By the way in case you’re wondering, this reduction includes the president and other executives.) Well, this is now the middle of 2006, so those reductions took effect last month. To characterize the difficulty of the situation even further, home base personnel do not necessarily attract attention like those who do more front-line missionary work overseas, but these staff members are just as deserving. King David established an important principle long ago: those who stayed “by the stuff” are just as deserving of a share of the spoils as those who go to fight the battle, 1 Sam 30:24, KJV. Pray with us that God will give us all an understanding of this principle.

Would you give extra this month for our home base staff members? It would be appreciated very much. To do this, designate your gift for a certain staff member’s personal support by indicating their name or account number, OR designate your gift for “Home Base Staff Support” to help cover HQ staff allotments. Who knows, God may enable you to continue giving this “extra” each month! Thank you for standing together with us “by the stuff” as we carry forward the battle for souls around the world.

Home | Ministry News | Newsletter | Short Term | Ministry Resources | Training
Sister Church | Prayer Bulletin | Ministry Needs | Donations | Contact Us | Privacy Policy