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How do you encourage the missionaries you support?

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	Through prayer and correspondence with them.

	We keep a prayer journal for the missionaries we have a close relationship with — about 20 currently. When we write them or have opportunity to see them, we are able to ask specific questions about their ministry. This has made us feel closer to their work and helps them know that we really are reading their updates and praying for them.

	It sounds simple, but letters. And not just e-mail. There's something about receiving a hand-written letter or a birthday card or anniversary card that just makes a more personal connection.

	We put together a support team for our church's missions effort in a particular world area -- Indonesia, for instance. The team is divided into smaller groups who assist with financial needs, or help with prayer resources, etc. The home team meets regularly to pray for our Indonesia missionaries, and when they're home, we do a nice dinner bringing the missionaries and support team together. This team effort takes some of the pressure off the missionaries, allowing them to focus on their primary ministry, while knowing there is a group back home keeping the support team focused on the work.

	We have scheduled through our church regular trips to visit and work with our sister churches abroad.