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Using legitimate business and professional activities as platforms for ministry is not a new concept for SIM. During its long history as a church planting mission, many people such as school teachers and health-care workers have served with SIM in paid positions.
The significant potential of business-based ministry is clearly recognized by SIM. An "Advocate" was appointed in 2006 to stimulate the development of new styles of ministry and to foster networks, both within SIM and with other agencies and groups active in this area.
There are many models in use linking business, mission, and ministry, and so SIM has adopted several guiding principles:
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Business-based ministries will be integrated, as far as possible, into existing organizational and leadership arrangements. However, it is clear that separate legal entities are required in some cases to provide an appropriate level of expert governance.
Looking ahead, SIM faces several significant challenges:
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Adapting our mobilization, appointment, and orientation procedures to reflect the needs and expectations of people with business and professional experience who feel God calling them to serve as SIM missionaries
SIM's main focus will continue to be its well-established ministries in evangelism and church planting, leadership development, and a range of ministries meeting human need. However, it is also committed to developing a wider range of business-based ministries, designed to help build God's Kingdom and grow His Church. |
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