God is on the Move: BCNE Church Partnerships
The BCNE is fostering partnerships with pastors in for various ministry opportunities in the U.S. and abroad. Pictured above: Two families that came from Brazil to Boston to participate in the BCNE’s Multiplication Center, pastoral intern Roberto De Sousa, and BCNE Partnership Director Sharon Haller.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
- Philippians 1:3-6
Paul was thankful for the Philippian church who supported him time and time again. Their partnership was instrumental and vital to Paul proclaiming the Gospel to the world. I’m so thankful that we have churches from all over the U.S. who love to partner in New England for the Gospel’s sake.
As I reflect on the partnerships we have in New England and the partners in Europe, Brazil, and the United States, I am encouraged by the benefits I see in partnering and the way God is putting people together for his Kingdom advancement. When partners contact the BCNE a process is followed where the question is asked, “What is God asking you to do, who is God placing on your heart, and what gifts and talents do your people possess?” Then I connect them to the BCNE church that would be the best fit and encourage them to pray together, encourage one another, and see how partnership develops.
“When partners contact the BCNE a process is followed where the question is asked, ‘What is God asking you to do, who is God placing on your heart, and what gifts and talents do your people possess?’ Then I connect them to the BCNE church that would be the best fit and encourage them to pray together, encourage one another, and see how partnership develops.”
Connecticut pastors and partners from Treasure Coast Baptist Association meet over coffee in Manchester, CT.
God is opening doors internationally for BCNE churches to go abroad and for the international churches to come and participate in New England. One of these partnerships is with the Multiplication Center where short-term trips provide an opportunity to learn about the history of New England including the spiritual heritage and how we have drifted away from God, a chance to visit the sites of the Great Awakenings, meet our pastors, and hear what God is up to today.
In addition, God is opening doors for new state partnerships. There are local associations who are adopting a state or region as well as continued partnerships with various states who have adopted a state in New England. Since churches, both established churches and church plants, go through cycles of growth and opportunities new partners are needed each year. As needs are shared, new partners are showing interest, and they are being connected with BCNE Churches.
Lastly, God is moving people to think about missions, but they are choosing to travel in the U.S. instead of overseas. Since COVID, many churches are just beginning to think about traveling again and those churches are looking for partnerships in the United States or US Territories. There are many opportunities to impact the nations at home in the US. Our BCNE churches can benefit from these partnerships. I would like to challenge our churches to think about an international mission right here in New England. The nations are coming to us, look to see how your church can do missions for the nations at home.
If I can help you with partnership either to receive a partner or be a partner, please let me know. I am so grateful for you and the difference you are making in God’s Kingdom.
Sharon Haller serves as the BCNE Partnership Director. If you are interested in beginning a ministry partnership, contact Sharon at shaller@bcne.net.