If you are a missionary you need an advocate. If you have more than one church or group of supporters then you would do well to have an advocate for each group. So what is an Advocate?
An advocate is like an ambassador, someone who represents you when you aren’t present. Every missionary needs someone “back home” to be their spokesperson. You might already have an informal advocate. If someone wants to ask about your ministry who do they go to? They might ask one of your parents or a family member. You might be fortunate enough to have a well-informed Missions Director or Missions Pastor. Perhaps you are still trying to handle it all by yourself. After all, we have websites and newsletters, and messaging apps on our phones. Yet all of those things can act like a wall between us unless there is a human connection. That human connection is invaluable for gathering supporters. It is much easier to have your advocate ask for support for you, rather than asking for yourself.
You say, “I’m thinking of a couple of people who already help me. How can I help them be better advocates? The following is a description of your hometown helper.
• An Advocate is a friend.
This is not a job, it’s a friendship. You should enjoy being with your missionary. They should enjoy being with you. Have fun together.
• An Advocate is a team builder.
You should be your missionary’s biggest fan, but one fan is not enough. To survive a missionary needs prayer warriors and financial backers. You may help bring them in. You should help keep them connected.
• An Advocate is an encourager.
A cheerful word, a hug, a text. Missionaries often feel out of place, forgotten. Even small things have a big impact.
• An Advocate is a resource.
Help your missionary find lodging, transportation, and a phone when they are in the area. Do they need winter clothes? A doctor? A dentist?
• An Advocate is a self-starter.
You can’t wait until the missionary asks for help. Watch for needs, and offer something specific.
Don’t wait until the church member asks about your missionary. Tell your church what they need to know about your missionary.
• An Advocate is a teacher.
One-culture church people need help to understand what missionary life is like. You should visit your missionary where they are serving at least once so that you understand in person what their life is like.
• An Advocate is an expert on their missionary.
Who and where do they serve? Where are they now? When are their birthdays? What is their biggest need? What dreams do they have for their ministry?
An Advocate is an integral part of every missionary team. Find an advocate. Be an advocate. And change the world!
by: Ken Holderman