Connect Newsletter
April 2021

Dear friends,

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Jesus’ ministry was the time he spent in close fellowship with his disciples. He ate, walked, and lived with them while demonstrating how to live with a Kingdom mindset. They laughed together in times of joy and cried together during times of heartache. In humility and servitude, he took the time to simply be with them.
 
In the same way, the Holy Spirit prompts us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. This issue of Connect highlights the stories of believers who have followed this example, stepping out of their comfort zone to invest in the lives of those in need.
The Journey to Escape the Sex Industry
For women trapped in the sex industry, escaping and building a new life is often their biggest challenge. Peace Promise aims to prompt and assist that transition by building relationships, providing financial assistance, and offering spiritual support. Read one woman’s journey.
New Project - Tutoring for At-Risk Students
Lacking the resources needed to succeed in school, orphans and homeless children in Choma, Zambia are at a severe disadvantage. The Piccolo School of Excellence seeks to address this by providing critical tutoring and mentorship for those at risk. Learn more.
2020 Annual Report Online
The 2020 Annual Report is now available online. This report showcases stories of God’s faithfulness seen throughout our global community … despite the challenges of last year. We pray they inspire hope and encourage you as they did us. View annual report.
Welcome New GCB Members
We are pleased to announce Bonnie Hershberger and Naomi Smith have been confirmed as new members of General Conference Board (GCB). Join us in welcoming them and praying for wisdom as they step into these roles. Read GCB bios.
Called to Ministry - Q&A with Female BIC Pastors
Throughout our history, we have been blessed by the many BIC women who have served as ministers and church leaders. We invited four current female pastors to reflect on how God called them into ministry and continues to work in their lives today. Read blog post.
The Impact of the Justice System
The latest issue of Shalom! focuses on how the criminal justice system impacts those who have been incarcerated as well as their loved ones. Writers explore the magnitude of the system through personal stories and share how God’s hope is piercing the darkness. Read the issue.
General Assembly 2020 Minutes
The General Assembly 2020 Minutes are now available online, and print copies will be mailed to each congregation in the coming weeks. View minutes PDF.
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:43-45