GAMC0926
July 28, 2009

Anonymous gift helps send new missionaries around the globe

Contact:
Rob Bullock, (502) 569-5101

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Citing deep concerns for the health, education and well-being of the world’s children, an anonymous donor has made a gift of $500,000 to Presbyterian World Mission. The gift, received in July, will help fund the General Assembly Mission Council’s effort to expand the number of mission co-workers serving around the world.

The funds have been received and will support mission workers in Zimbabwe, Mexico, Brazil, Zambia, Egypt and Germany.

“Clearly this donor has a great passion for Christ’s mission,” said Linda Valentine, executive director of the General Assembly Mission Council.  “There is no telling how many lives will be touched by the gospel thanks to this donor’s generosity.”

In 2008, the General Assembly Mission Council committed to increasing the number of full-time, compensated mission co-workers serving around the world. The increase, which reverses a 50-year decline, was affirmed by the 218th General Assembly (2008).

Already this year, 30 new mission co-workers have been sent out to serve with partners in 18 countries, from Bangladesh to Zambia. They were commissioned earlier this month at the triennial gathering of Presbyterian Women in Louisville.

The new class brings the number of PC(USA) mission co-workers to 200, currently serving in 60 countries, up from a low of 175 at the beginning of the year.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) comprises 2.2 million members in more than 10,000 congregations, answering Christ’s call to mission and ministry throughout the United States and the world. See more information on the PC(USA) Web site.