Pages

Saturday, October 1, 2022

From Los Angeles to Burundi & Beyond

One of the pastors we trained as a trauma facilitator (the group from Cameroon) recently reached out asking for prayer for a new group he started in Burundi (some 2,000 miles to the east) when he was invited to teach at a Pastoral Theology class at Bujumbura Christian University. He shared that the students are very happy with the course and with so many deep needs around them they are quickly sharing what they are learning with others.

In order to support the vision of the many under-resourced leaders around the US and world we listen carefully to the needs and are willing to adapt for the win. It seems like every couple of months we are breaking new ground or trying something new. I think that is part of what excites me about the mission field – tapping into God’s creativity and constantly being able to try new things, adapt and improve. Of course, it is frustrating when things don’t work out, but the thrill of seeing a new believer’s eyes twinkle with understanding and appreciation or the raw, faith-filled vision of a new church planter feeling supported and empowered and willing to go where others have not gone makes it all so worth it.

At World Impact we are constantly working to improve and fine tune what we offer so that we remain not only relevant, but always affordable and accessible. One of our personal passions is making sure what we offer to Spanish-speaking leaders is as relevant, affordable, and accessible as what we offer our English-speaking leaders. This month we will be leading our first ever Advanced Trauma Healing Group Facilitator Training in Spanish. Please pray we would truly empower the attendees to be the best facilitators and dream big with God to see more people set free and healed from their deep wounds.

Different parts of the US, the Caribbean, Central and South America will all be represented in our training this month. Each person has a unique area of influence and vision to reach their church, community, city or in many cases region and nation. Not only do we have a great group of students lined up for the facilitator’s training this month, but we are also working on preparing the next group of trainers. Simultaneously training the upcoming facilitators (healing group leaders) and mentoring trainers empowers these ministry leaders to expand our collective reach to transform more communities with the Gospel. While it may not happen soon, it would be amazing to work ourselves out of a job!

Lastly, please pray for me (Chad) as I travel this month for World Impact’s annual staff gathering. Also be in prayer for Fabiola and the kids who stay back in Los Angeles with school and ministry responsibilities during that week.

Thank you so much for your generous support and all the prayers lifted up on our behalf!