As you may know, this year I started as a partnership development consultant with Wycliffe. I come alongside members whose income is low, and help them build up their support team. Those who work for Christian organisations such as Wycliffe have noticed that patterns of giving and receiving have changed significantly in recent years. There seem to be a number of reasons for these changes. Many churches—traditionally important donors to missions—are heavily committed to local outreach initiatives, and have had to reduce their giving to mission activities overseas. And many individuals feel overwhelmed by the ongoing solicitation for all kinds of funds. Traditionally, Christian giving and receiving was something done ‘in secret’ (Matt. 6:3–4). But now, many people like to talk more openly about money. There has also been an economic decline; and sometimes the financial needs of missionaries are not understood. For these and other reasons some Christian workers, including Wycliffe members, have seen their income drop significantly.
But Christians still desire to give and, as a result of the changes, it’s more and more the case that givers like to have a personal relationship with the person receiving. This is a very positive development. Jesus Himself was supported by a group of women (see Luke 8:3). It is my aim to help colleagues deal with these new realities of giving and receiving. To encourage them to keep on trusting God 
and discuss ways to find the new God-given supporters they need, in order to do the work to which He has called them. So that, together with our supporters, we all help to provide Scripture in every language that needs one!
To this end, I mostly meet individually with colleagues to talk through their specific situations. In June I led a seminar on partnership development at the start of our yearly Wycliffe conference. Over forty questions and issues were raised by those who attended—too many to deal with adequately in the meeting. I am now looking for effective ways to respond to the needs my colleagues have in regard to partnership development.
One way forward may be to hold occasional workshops for those near enough to the Wycliffe Centre to attend. In anticipation of this I attended a one-week course at the Wycliffe Centre called “Learning that Lasts”. I do still remember what we learned 
, and hope to put it into practice when the time comes.
Apart from possibly holding workshops/seminars, I will be relating to colleagues working at the Wycliffe Centre to develop a plan of what I can do most effectively during our remaining time here in the UK. I hope to set up something of value to leave behind. So far what I have done has been very warmly received and seems to address a real need. For example, one couple were struggling to find enough financial supporters. The wife was close to resigning to take a paid job, even though they both felt her calling was to stay in Wycliffe. As we discussed the changing patterns of giving and receiving, they adjusted their approach; and although it took time, eventually they had enough supporters. Now she looks radiantly happy in a new Wycliffe assignment.
Meanwhile, please pray there will be someone to replace me. Ideally I’d like to train someone to take over before we go to South Africa (mid-2011).
Thank you for your partnership with us as the Lord leads me into this new area of ministry!
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