I am continually amazed by the incredible range of ministry and missions opportunities here in the United States through U.S. Missions. I often call it our “smorgasbord of ministry.” This wide range of ministry continues to play a significant role in making Jesus Christ known throughout our nation.

Our U.S. missionaries, chaplains, and project volunteers act as the local church’s hand extended into the corners of our nation that are not typically reached through our local churches’ efforts. Through these ministries, we can reach most of the unique people, cultural, subcultural, and special needs groups in the United States. Our nation is incredibly diverse — diverse in culture, in community, and in thought.

Each year we hear of the thousands of people who come to faith in Christ and are baptized in water and in the Holy Spirit. Every day, lives are transformed because of the efforts by the U.S. Missions team. These frontline warriors are the boots on the ground that make a ministry impact for the Assemblies of God. From missionaries, to chaplains, to associates, and beyond, this team of almost 18,000 strong is a vital source in expanding the kingdom of God.

I believe there are three key objectives that have played a major role in the development of effective ministry within the U.S. Missions family.

Every day, lives are transformed because of the efforts by the U.S. Missions team.

First, we add value. It is a high priority for U.S. Missions to ensure our missionaries, chaplains, and volunteers are taken care of. We focus on the health and well-being of our team so they are confident that their families and their futures are well-established. One of the ways we accomplish this is through ensuring they have the funding necessary to take care of all their needs, both ministry and personal.

Second, we leverage resources to the team. Based upon their requests and input, we have been able to provide them with the resources they need to help them meet the challenges of effective and efficient ministry. In addition to access to resources like Speed the Light, Light for the Lost, and Boys and Girls Missionary Challenge (BGMC), this can include access to additional training they may need to reach their audiences. U.S. Missions is committed to making sure we support our dedicated men and women with the specialized tools they need to fulfill their mission.

Third, we promote replication. Replication plays a major role in expanding the kingdom of God. We continue to emphasize to our missionaries the importance of raising up people who can carry on the ministry after the missionary has left this assignment. We stress that every ministry should be equipped with the leadership necessary to continue the work. There is nothing more tragic than when a ministry dies with its leader. It is important our missionaries are prepared to pass on the baton to other men and women who are faithful and share a similar call.

It has been an honor and a joy for me to work with the men and women of U.S. Missions. Our missionaries, chaplains, and project volunteers show their deep commitment through their actions to fulfill the Great Commission in the United States. Their hard work as well as their love of God and their nation has reinforced my love for America. I retire as executive director of U.S. Missions knowing that America is being touched through competent men and women.

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2017 issue of Called to Serve, the Assemblies of God ministers letter.