At our church, we are proud to support Buddy Barrel, a vibrant missions education program that engages children in the vital work of spreading the Gospel around the world. Known formally as the Boys and Girls Missionary Challenge (BGMC), this initiative is designed to instill a passion for missions in young hearts, encouraging them to pray, give, and actively participate in global outreach.
The Origins of Buddy Barrel
The Buddy Barrel program was established in 1949 as a response to the need for children's involvement in missions. It was recognized that teaching children about missions during their formative years is crucial for cultivating future generations of compassionate adults who care about global needs.
The program began with simple wooden barrels that children would fill with coins, symbolizing their personal investment in missions. This concept has evolved into a beloved mascot, Buddy Barrel, representing the joy and responsibility of giving.
How Buddy Barrel Works
The Buddy Barrel initiative encourages children to collect funds through various activities and events, including:
- Buddy Barrels: Children receive small barrels to collect change at home, which they bring back to church monthly.
- Faith Promises: Older children are encouraged to make commitments to give regularly towards missions.
- Special Offerings: Parents and adults can participate by providing additional support during designated offerings.
Through these efforts, Buddy Barrel has raised millions of dollars since its inception, directly supporting missionaries and providing essential resources for spreading the Gospel.
Impact on Global Missions
The funds collected through Buddy Barrels are utilized for various missionary needs, including:
- Production and distribution of Gospel literature.
- Support for missionary projects around the world.
- Funding for church planting initiatives and other outreach programs.
By participating in Buddy Barrel, children not only learn about the importance of giving but also see firsthand how their contributions make a tangible difference in communities far beyond their own.
Engaging Children in Missions
Buddy Barrel is more than just a fundraising tool; it is an educational platform that empowers children with knowledge about global missions. Through engaging materials, activities, and stories from missionaries, kids are taught about different cultures and the challenges faced by those who serve in remote areas.
This holistic approach ensures that they grow up with a heart for service and a commitment to making an impact.
Join Us in Supporting Buddy Barrel
We invite everyone in our church community to support the Buddy Barrel program. By encouraging our children to participate, we are fostering a generation that is not only aware of global needs but also equipped to respond with love and action. Together, let’s inspire our young ones to pray, give, and go—making a difference one penny at a time!