By Ginny Jenson

WorldVenture Mobilizer

 One of the things I appreciate about Mission Connexion is that it is not just once a year. The main conference is supplemented by smaller conferences focused on specific areas during the year. Care Connexion is one I have been able to attend for several years. Each year I gain new insights and a broader network of those concerned about, and involved in missionary care. Whether it is someone from a church, agency, school, or professional care center, the opportunity to learn together and from each other makes this a valuable weekend.

A few years ago, Care Connexion became more than just a conference for me. It brought me to a major crossroad in my professional life. I was preparing for a change in career and had come to the conference hoping to explore new ministry options. That year I made an initial contact with Kara Githens from WorldVenture. That meeting was the start of a new journey for me.

Fast forward to 2015.  I am not only working for WorldVenture but also on the planning team for Care Connexion. The connection I made with Kara that day developed into a job working with local churches to encourage care for and engagement with their missionaries and those preparing to serve cross culturally. My attendance at the conference provided a network that matched me with an agency that stresses the importance of partnership with local churches in addition to being known for their member care. This was a perfect match for me!

Now I attend each conference looking for new ways to help churches develop their member care by continuing to build and train a network of caregivers. I am encouraged by people’s desire to learn how to care with a commitment to action.

This year’s conference was no different. I appreciated learning more about engaging millennials in missions; looking at the different ways to make connecting across generational lines for Kingdom impact. With the main session focused on the generational differences of doing mission; the multitude of workshops provided opportunities for personal growth as well as practical tips to add to my resource list. I was able to network with churches struggling with the practical challenges of caring for our missionaries.

Mission works when we approach it as a team. The Connexion conferences help to facilitate that process. Watch for upcoming conferences to encourage, challenge, and change you. .

Ginny worked in the local church for 20 years before the Lord called her to serve with WorldVenture mobilizing churches in member care and development of future workers.