We were getting the tentmaking booth ready for the missions conference when a couple stopped by to chat. They had questions about tentmaking and wanted to know more, so we invited them to attend the tentmaker track the next day.

Jerry and Sonya were very interested when they were told about an upcoming tentmaking course the following week, but they explained that since both of them were working, it would be impossible to get time off work on such short notice. Continue reading →

“Mission agency to cut 600 to 800 Missionaries“

Western missions funding has been declining for the past 25 years & the pace is accelerating!

When we were first married, we immediately met with our missions coordinator, who was delighted that a young couple was committed to going abroad. However, as the years rolled by it became evident that our departure was not going to happen any time soon. Indeed, the mission was pulling people off the field due to lack of finances. The missions coordinator told us to simply go abroad and find jobs, and that is how we became the accidental tentmakers. Continue reading →

After 20 years of mobilizing and equipping tentmakers, hearing their stories after they have returned home, learning what has worked and what has not, I have been able to put together this list on how I would do ministry as a tentmaker based on their experiences.

IF I WERE A TENTMAKER, I WOULD…

…maintain my own spiritual vitality by spending regular time in Word & prayer. Continue reading →