Please help our efforts by encouraging us in our faith-walk so that we may continue to build up the body of Christ throughout the world.
If you are interested in “adopting” one of our missionary families, please contact us.
The lists below were borrowed from World Venture with our thanks.
THE CARE AND FEEDING OF MISSIONARY KIDS!
Xtreme Mercy kids are kids whose dads and moms serve as missionaries. They are normal kids who are neither growing up strictly in their parents’ culture nor are they growing up exclusively in the culture of the country where they live. As a result, their lives are being shaped by both their parents’ culture and their host culture; this forms a different, third culture. The children of Xtreme Mercy missionaries grow-up in extraordinary environments that impact their lives – and we trust that they, too, will impact others for Christ.
1. Build a relationship.
The children of Xtreme Mercy missionaries are kids with a lot of adults in their lives. It’s unrealistic to expect them to know you when your involvement in their lives is limited to once every five years. Be consistent in communicating with them and their families. Visit them overseas when you have a chance, exchange pictures, send the Sunday comics, be involved.
2. Be informed.
Communicating with someone who makes an effort to know basic facts about your life and your country is much more enjoyable than talking with someone who merely makes assumptions. The more informed you are, the better your questions and comments will be.
3. Meet felt needs.
Getting to know the children of Xtreme Mercy missionaries will help you know how best to help them in ways that are meaningful to them. International calling cards, a home away from home, a gift card, etc.
4. Help them transition.
The children of Xtreme Mercy missionaries life is filled with transition. You can help make the transitions easier. Remember that coming to the United States or Canada is probably not coming home for them. They are “constant immigrants” with the ability to make unique contributions. As immigrants, they often find the “normal” overwhelming and the “extraordinary” usual.
5. Pray.
Pray for their health; their part in their parents’ ministries; their adjustments to new places, schools and ideas; their spiritual and emotional growth.