Why does long term witness require more than just sending workers?

Kate and Chris arrived five minutes ago with their two children, Rory and Chloe. Their bags are unpacked, their language lessons are beginning, and they are meeting people in their new community.

They don't yet know what the next few years will bring. They hope to build relationships, serve their neighbours, disciple Christians and work alongside local churches. They hope to see a lasting witness to Christ's love take root.

They know that to see the Gospel bear fruit, they will need to persevere for many years. And during this time, Kate and Chris will not stop being people.

They will get tired and sick. They may experience grief, loneliness, or disappointment. Their children may struggle. They may face a crisis they never anticipated. They may discover that something they thought they could handle is harder than they expected.

That is why at SIM, we don't simply send missionaries. We walk with them.

Many realities can make long-term service difficult. When trials happen, missionary care will help Kate and Chris remain faithful throughout.

They might ask for practical help to be able to recover. They might need extra time with Mike or Emilia to discern what is the best way forward. When Rory goes from elementary to junior high, they might need advice to choose the best path for his education. Through it all, SIM's goal is not to keep Kate and Chris on the field at all costs. It is to care well for people as they follow Christ's calling.

Caring for missionaries like Kate and Chris is not separate from SIM's mission. It is part of pursuing that mission faithfully.

So what does that care actually look like?