February 2019- The Armor Bearer
Dear Faithful Supporters,
Thank you for your ongoing generosity to AFBM. Because of you, we continue to minister to our military, veterans, and their families.
Though it is impossible to grasp the full impact of your support in the lives of our military, especially those who might be stationed around the world—we can give you a glimpse of these blessings when totaling our 2018 reports. Last year, our shared ministry reached heroes in four countries and aboard nine ships. Over one hundred military bases were touched with the Gospel of Christ.
A further breakdown of the data reveals that our online ministries reached over fifteen thousand people on five continents—most as they served in deployments and onboard ships. Over two hundred people found church homes using our church locator and by emailing us for assistance. More than three thousand people requested worksheets and certificates for completing PTSD classes online. These individuals hailed from Afghanistan to Uruguay, totaling twenty-four countries.
The Lord gave us two new church plants to hurting military communities and three new missionary families. We rejoice in fifteen straight years of growth and pray for our seven missionary families currently on deputation.
“Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.” ~Colossians 4:5
We are aware that military missions are more critical than ever. We seek to walk in the Lord’s wisdom as we endeavor to reach these heroes. Ultimately, we struggle against the exposures and influences in our heroes’ lives that make it difficult for them to navigate this wicked world and to find the right path. It is a privilege to partner with you as we follow the Lord to guide them on this search where their relationship with Christ is the destination and our highest priority.
Now more than ever, we understand that the Lord uses all of you to make this outreach possible. Prayerfully, this letter allows you to get a sense of the prominent place you hold in this ministry. Your faith and practice overwhelm us and inspire us to continue to serve.
Our new year begins with trusting Christ and standing side by side with you. We will pray, work hard and seek the Lord at every juncture—continuing to update you along the way. We will remember you in our prayers, naming you as we thank the Most High God.
In closing, we love serving our military, veterans and their families! Thank you again for joining with us to reach them with the Gospel and inspiring them to serve.
On behalf of your AFBM Family and as your servants in Christ,
Doug Carragher, General Director