Giving program honours special occasions

FRESNO, CALIF.

MBMS International is piloting a program tailored to honour special events such as funerals, birthdays and anniversaries while making a contribution to sharing the gospel around the world.

The Honours Program includes a rack of cards to be set up in the lobby of a participating church. The rack contains copies of 10 unique greeting cards: five honour the passing of loved ones, and the other five honour celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations or other special events.

The giver selects the appropriate card for the one being honoured or for the one who has suffered a loss, gives the card to the person and sends a donation in honour of that person to MBMS International in an accompanying remittance envelope.

According to Harold Ens, general director of MBMSI, the Honours Program is a significant way to acknowledge an important occasion. "Each card has been custom-designed to reflect a variety of life's milestones. The Scriptures and messages have been carefully chosen to reflect the importance of the occasion being honoured."

The program was initiated as a response to requests from MB church members.

"Some of our supporters have been asking for new ways to support global mission in their daily life, " says Ens. "Giving a card from the Honours Program tells the person who is being honoured or who has lost a loved one that their event has significance beyond today, and will have a lasting impact in spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ."

The program will be piloted in 25 churches in Canada and the US. After one year, MBMSI will evaluate the program and make necessary changes before introducing the program to all MB churches. Individual cards are also available by calling MBMSI at 888-UNO-MBMS (866-6267).--Brad Thiessen, MBMS International