Mission Retreat Focuses On Individual Needs

WARRENVILLE, IL (August 14, 2000) - Serving the Lord abroad has plenty of rewards for the Kingdom, but missionaries still must cope with the day-to-day "ups and downs" of ministry.

The Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC) is attempting to address various areas of need in an effort to further enhance what has historically been considered a crown jewel in denominational ministry. Last week's retreat sponsored by the ECC's Department of World Mission had exactly that in mind.

Fourteen missionaries representing seven countries gathered in Warrenville, Illinois, for a time of spiritual renewal, fellowship and continuing education, also addressing various concerns and matters involving member care. Three itineration workshop participants in the accompanying photo are (from left) David and RoxAnn Kelly, Ecuador, and Sharon Gerde, assistant to David Stockamp, retreat coordinator. (To view the entire group of participants, click Group Photo) For some, the event was a positive way to re-enter life in the United States. For others, it served as a needed break after months of itineration and the stresses that go with traveling from church to church trying to raise awareness about mission work in the ECC.

"Many of our missionaries return home spiritually tapped out and somewhat emotionally stressed as they return to a place which in some ways no longer feels like home," Stockamp said. "We address these issues through sensitive dialogue, worship and providing a safe place to share." Two qualified therapists also participated in a mental health assessment process.

Jim Gustafson, World Mission executive director, reviewed numerous changes in the department. Other departmental members addressed topics including church relations, the Covenant short-term missionary program, Covenant Mission Connection, Hispanic Ministries and missionary services. North Park Theological Seminary's Professor of Mission, Dr. Wayne C. Weld, provided a World Mission overview.

The retreat expanded beyond departmental concerns to other vital areas of Covenant ministry. The ECC's executive director for the Department of Christian Education and Discipleship, Doreen Olson, shared recent developments within that area of ministry. Rob Hall did likewise for the Department of Church Growth and Evangelism and Millie Lungren reviewed the work of Covenant Resource Center.

Participants met with itineration coordinator Barbara Fisk to review individual schedules. Near the end of their time together, the group found a few moments for relaxation at a local concert.

For some, the retreat provided an opportunity to meet colleagues ministering in other countries. "We haven't seen Dave and RoxAnn Kelly (Ecuador) in over 12 years," said long-time missionary to Africa, Paul Noren. Others shared stories of their respective mission work in various parts of the globe.

"It's important that our missionary colleagues have a good understanding of what's going on in the entire Covenant," said Stockamp. "These people have a good access to our congregations and they should be advocates for all of our departments. After all, we are one world with one mission."

Stockamp acknowledged the challenge in attempting to orchestrate visits by World Mission representatives to the Covenant's 700-plus churches. "We don't just want to tell missionaries where to go," Stockamp said. "We have to juggle church expectations with the reality that our missionaries have particular connections, along with family expectations and continued educational needs. That' a lot to juggle."

Stockamp is working on next summer's retreat and is searching for a church willing to sponsor a program to care for missionary children so that families can be together at this time. Indications of interest should be directed to the Office of Mission Facilitation by telephone at 503-246-9544 or by e-mail at Gerdewm@aol.com.

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