"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)
When missionaries are commissioned for service by Global Ministries, an anchor cross is placed around their necks. The anchor cross is a symbol in early Christian iconography that serves as a reminder that we are firmly grounded in Christ while engaging in God's mission.
By sending missionaries—including young adults—from everywhere to everywhere, Global Ministries is connecting the church in mission. Missionaries are partnering and engaging with volunteers; evangelizing and church planting through mission initiatives; addressing global health and diseases of poverty; and responding to the needs of local communities for the transformation of the world.
Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in Latin America. Widespread malnutrition and inadequate water and sanitation systems produce ongoing health risks. Reaching underserved communities to provide healthcare and foster sustainability is a challenge.
Missionary Belinda Forbes serves Acción Medica Cristiana (AMC), Advance #14846A, which empowers locals in identifying and responding to root problems that impact their communities' health. Forbes serves as the international liaison for community health. It's a role that engages her in direct dental care, training, communications, and partnership development.
"Health promoters are trained to derive appropriate solutions to basic health care needs," explained Forbes. "AMC's health promoters are inhabitants of the local community. They are poor farmers or indigenous people who have the capacity to adequately address the first level of health in their community. They know the context and issues, and they have a moral commitment to attend to their own people."
Adapted from General Board of Global Ministries website
The Advance is the accountable, designated-giving arm of The United Methodist Church. The Advance invites contributors to designate support for projects related to the General Board of Global Ministries. Individuals, local churches, organizations, districts and annual conferences may donate to The Advance. One hundred percent of every gift to The Advance goes to the project selected by the giver.
