Since most tentmakers are not able to communicate openly with their home churches nor are their pictures displayed on church missions bulletin boards, it is all too easy for them to be forgotten. We’ve compiled a list of comments they have received on returning to their home churches. It is imperative that tentmakers ensure their home and sending church is on board with them and that a communication channel has been established before they leave. May you never hear the negative comments!

“Great to see that you are back. I would have loved to hear more about your stay in the Middle East. We do however have visitors coming for dinner, so I have to leave.”

“Nice to see you in church again! Did you go to another church?”

“It would be great if you could share information about your stay in Tanzania [they had actually been in Tunisia] in the church. We can give you ten minutes to do this in February.” – Senior pastor speaking to a returning couple in August

“We would love to hear more from your ministry in Central Asia. Could you share some pictures, tell us about the work you did and also add your personal testimony? We will give you 10 minutes to cover this.”

“So how was your trip? – As if we had been on a two week holiday instead of ten years in the Middle East.”

“Maybe you should bring a tax free car from there when you return home.”

“So did you make a ton of money?”

“Good to see you back, hope you got that living abroad stuff out of your system.”

“Hope your kids don’t end up hating you for forcing them to go to that horrible place.”

“Must be so nice to be back…”

Some also shared their positive comments.

“We are so happy you have returned home safe, we prayed for you and your children every day.”

“You have inspired us to become tentmakers as well, thank you for sharing your tears and joys with us.”

“We want to hear what God has done through your ministry abroad – come and speak to our group as soon as you can.”

“How can we help you during this time of adjusting back to your home culture?”

“Thank you for allowing us to be your prayer partners all these years. We could not go, but through you we felt that we were there with you.”

If you have a returned tentmaker in your church, give them a hug!

By Ari Rocklin