The second course in the series is Principles and Practices of Christian Microfinance and Microenterprise Development. This course provides an overview of microfinance and microenterprise development and offers advice to those interested in selecting and designing a holistic intervention appropriate for their ministry context. The next offering of this course is scheduled for January 4 – February 19, 2010. Cost of this seven-week course including materials is $230 (USD). Note that the Foundations course is a prerequisite for this course.

The third course in the series is the eight-week course Promoting Church-Centered Savings and Credit Associations. The next offering of this course is scheduled for May 3 – June 25, 2010 with another offering scheduled for October 25 – December 17, 2010. This course is available to those who have taken the prerequisite Principles and Practices of Christian Microfinance and Microenterprise Development. Cost of this course including materials is $300 (USD). Learn more about these and other courses at:

http://www.chalmers.org

http://www.lifewind.org/

See their training offered at

http://www.lifewind.org/village_train_courses.php

Another link in the chain has been provided by groups like the Chalmers Center at Covenant College.

http://www.chalmers.org/

With their “Foundations and Principles of Holistic Ministry” course, they provide a strong economic underpinning component so often missing in CHE programs staged at the indigenous level.

These are just two examples. What other sources have you found for CHE recently? What are the benefits, … risks… costs… strengths… weaknesses, opportunities, and threats? Just click “comment” below this item on the web and share your point of view. You can even speak totally anonymously. Just click “Comment” below.

http://www.chalmers.org/

Chalmers has been a strong partner to Brigada. Please tell them you see their items in Brigada Today. Thanks.

1. SCOTT’S “BEST READS OF 2007″
2. FLORIDA TENTMAKING COURSE STILL HAS ROOM
3. TAKING THIS SURVEY WILL HELP MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
4. EQUIP YOUR MISSION TO BETTER PROTECT KIDS FROM CHILD ABUSE
5. TAKE PART IN GLOBAL LEARNING CENTER SYMPOSIUM
6. GET READY, GET SET, THEN GO
7. HOSPITALITY CENTER ADDS MINI RV PARK
8. ANOTHER RESOURCE FOR RAISING SUPPORT
9. FUTURE MISSIONARY FELLOWSHIPS
10. MOMENTUM MAGAZINE TO FEATURE “STORYING”
11. WE FEEL SOOOOOOO LOVED AND APPRECIATED!!! :-)
12. FOUR FINAL DAYS FOR 2007 GIFTS TO ARRIVE: WILL YOURS BE ONE?
13. THE BACKPAGE: THE DARKER THE SKY, THE BRIGHTER THE GALAXY

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1. SCOTT’S “BEST READS OF 2007″ — Back again by popular request is Scott Shaum, of Barnabas, Int’l, with his “Best reads” of the year.

   See his “Best reads” article at:

   http://www.brigada.org/articles/best-reads-2007.html

   Learn more about the organization with which Scott serves at

   http://www.barnabas.org

   or email him directly

   Barnabas International sshaum(at)

   barnabas(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . then reassemble the address onto one line]

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2. FLORIDA TENTMAKING COURSE STILL HAS ROOM — Did you know that GLOBAL Opportunities is celebrating its 10th year in running intensive, hi- impact tentmaking courses? Read on their website what course alumni have to say and then register for the next course in Florida, Feb 20-24 2008. Many say that no tentmaker should leave without this training, and if you are between tentmaking jobs, you should go and refresh your vision by attending. Focused on the core principles and skills for being effective, this course is designed for those considering tentmaking (using profession as mission), those wanting to promote tentmaking, and mission leaders wanting to build a tentmaking component into their agency. Every year, hundreds go overseas as ESL teachers, but how many are equipped to share their faith? If you are considering business as mission, the course provides the key ministry principles you need to be effective. Check out their course outline of 30 plus sessions at

   http://www.globalopps.org/ltn/LTN2008.htm

   You can also contact Dave directly at 239.243.0881 or email him at david(at)globalopps

   (dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.] GO will donate $5.00 to Brigada for each student that registers from this ad… so if we could just raise up 400 people for this course, we’d be *set*!!! Please go! :-)

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3. TAKING THIS SURVEY WILL HELP MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT — A UK based ministry called Aid for Trade wants to develop on-line training for microenterprise development. They have put together a brief on-line survey to try to discover the needs for this type of assistance among people on the field. It takes between 12 and 15 minutes to fill out. If you have an interest in Business as Mission and few minutes to help out, please go to:

   http://www.internationalsurveys.info/aidfortrade

   to fill out the survey in a secure on-line environment. By the way, they’ll even provide a summary of the results to us here in a future Brigada. Also, if you know of other resource people in this area, they’d appreciate you connecting them with those “in the know” in this arena.

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4. EQUIP YOUR MISSION TO BETTER PROTECT KIDS FROM CHILD ABUSE — In Sept. 2006, leaders from 12 mission organizations met together to explore ways to work together on best practice standards in child safety and abuse response. The result was an intermission Child Safety Network. A second meeting was held in May 2007 involving leaders from 22 organizations. The third Child Safety Meeting is scheduled for February 13-15, 2008 in Rockville (suburb of Richmond), Virginia and is open to new organizations as well as those already involved. The seminar is for leaders of mission agencies and faith-based NGOs and for those with this area of responsibility within their agency. For more information and to register, see The Child Safety and Abuse Response Networking Workshop website at:

   http://intre.org/event/info.php?site=46

   The deadline to register is January 23, 2008. Email further questions to child-safety_intl(at)sil

   (dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address back onto one line.]

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5. TAKE PART IN GLOBAL LEARNING CENTER SYMPOSIUM — The annual Global Learning Center Symposium, hosted by Grand Rapids Theological Seminary is February 6-8, 2008. This year’s theme is “21 in 21: 20-somethings and 21st Century Mission.” Through a variety of events, they’ll be exploring what it looks like to engage the emerging generation in global mission. Dr. Bill Taylor of the World Evangelical Alliance will be a plenary speaker as well as some 20-somethings themselves. Check out:

   http://grts.cornerstone.edu/resources/glc/symposium

   or e-mail

   glc(at)cornerstone

   (dot)edu [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

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6. GET READY, GET SET, THEN GO — The Center for Intercultural Training (CIT) provides a complete, cross-cultural training program in 9-10 weeks that includes culture prep, language acquisition, and team and relationships skills. A shorter program is also available that includes culture prep and language acquisition. Training is available for the entire family during this upcoming spring term (begins February 13). Bible Intensives are offered during the summer months. A Debrief and Reentry module is also offered twice annually. For more information, call 800.887.1786 in the USA or visit

   http://www.cit-online.org

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7. HOSPITALITY CENTER ADDS MINI RV PARK — The Southern California (USA) hospitality center, Rancho de la Paz, has added three RV sites with hookups to their six guest rooms. Available to individuals, couples, and families, on a donation basis, this ministry houses missionaries, ministers, and full-time Christian workers who need temporary housing for up to two weeks. Rancho de la Paz also serves as a Writers Haven for those needing un-interrupted writing time. Web site:

   http://across2u.com/rancho.html

   Phone: 1-951-245-4082 or Email: rancho(at)across2u

   (dot)com for information or to make reservations. [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

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8. ANOTHER RESOURCE FOR RAISING SUPPORT — As the first wave of missionaries came through Kingdom Come Training partnership development courses in 2007; they became increasingly aware of the need to give ongoing assistance to people raising support for ministry. For 2008 they’ve announced the Support Assist Team. The “Team” consists of KCT and those who take the training via live, interactive multipoint videoconferencing. KCT provides the training plus ongoing encouragement, coaching, consulting and practical support. The rest of the team stays in touch, reports progress, shares prayer needs and reports back on what works what doesn’t. Everyone celebrates when someone reaches 100% support. It all gets coordinated through e-mail and the KCT website. Give Jerry a call at (503) 314-7211. jerry(at)kingdomcometraining

   (dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . then reassemble the address onto one line] or browse to

   http://www.kingdomcometraining.com

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9. FUTURE MISSIONARY FELLOWSHIPS — During the next 60 days, discussion groups will be meeting at 16 locations across the USA both to learn about and critique the idea of pre-candidate fellowships before introducing them broadly in the USA (the concept has been tested and developed in Korea since 2001). To learn more about this ministry concept see the website:

   http://www.seeoursite.org/pcf/

   There you’ll find the list of cities hosting these discussion groups. If you would like to participate in one of the discussion groups please write to: pcfquestions(at)gmail

   (dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . then reassemble the address onto one line.]

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10. MOMENTUM MAGAZINE TO FEATURE “STORYING” — The January/February 2008 issue of Momentum will focus on Orality. Justin is looking for… – resources for teaching orality – dates for workshops, conferences, etc. – statistics related to orality – articles surveying orality ministries in particular regions – a chronology of the development of orality ministry – frequently asked questions you have encountered – short (1-2 page) case studies written in a popularized style

    If you can help with those or other possible ideas,

    editor(at)momentum-mag

    (dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . then reassemble the address onto one line.]

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11. WE FEEL SOOOOOOO LOVED AND APPRECIATED!!! :-) — Thanks to these visionary friends that have, through their partnership, propelled Brigada Today into 2008:

    $100 from a new friend in Tallahassee $25 from the good people at Florida Personal Injury Law

    http://www.fortheinjured.com/

    $100 from a friend in Menlo Park, CA $100 from Perspectives Atlanta, GA $50 from long-time subscriber Diana, author of Adventures With PawPaw children’s books designed to introduce children to other countries and cultures, on the web at:

    http://www.adventureswithpawpaw.com

    $100 from Mission Mobilisers International Inc. in Australia

    http://www.mobilise.org.au

    $25 from Reignbridge, featuring Fawn’s book “Power of Honor” $25 from a great friend in the UK $250 from a Sunnyville, CA couple. Shew. How can we say thanks enough? $50 from Women of the Harvest. Please check them out at…

    http://www.womenoftheharvest.com

    (Whoa… great website. Pubs, retreats, resources, well-organized, sharp! Clean… Even if you’re not a woman, check it out to learn from it! :-) )

    $25 from Mission Indep. Bap. Church in Chicago. $25 from a faithful friend in Colorado Springs $300 from Youth With a Mission, Lebanon, PA… Whoa. Praise God. $50 from new friends in Massachusetts $100 from a faithful friend in Sweden $500 from great new friends in the UK! Woooo-hoooo! :-) $200 from Peninsula Bible Church in Cupertino, CA! Amazing. $50 from Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship, Birmingham, AL $25 from Somerset, KY $25 from West Chester, PA $35 from Ukraine $100 from a member of the Board of Missions, Cumberland Pres. Church. $100 from Mission Nannys; take a look at their growth…

    http://www.missionnannys.org

    Up to 2001, only 22 volunteers had been sent out. Since then, the number has jumped to 90 with 14 going out last year alone. (They’re looking for more women volunteers 18-75 willing to go in 2008, by the way. Families need domestic assistance, homeschooling help, etc. for 3-6 months. Check the web or email bettysullins(at)

    juno(dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

    To all these folks and to all those who pray for Brigada, thank you for a *fantastic* last week! Only 4 more days to go for 2007 gifts. (Recall that we’re counting for 2007 gifts that come in through Jan. 10th.)

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12. FOUR FINAL DAYS FOR 2007 GIFTS TO ARRIVE: WILL YOURS BE ONE? — Whoa… So, with the $2360 that has come in since last edition, we stand at (drum roll) $13,918.90 for the year, just $3231.10 away from reaching the budget we had published in January, 2007! So … if you were holding out on writing that $3000 check, just to see who else gave… :-) now would be a great time to give. :-) Or… even if you only had in mind a PayPal donation of $25. It would *still* be a great time. We’re also just $1177.10 away from matching last year’s finish. Who would have believed it!!!

    For those who mail in checks, we’re waiting until Jan. 10th… (because one could have written out a check on Dec. 31st, mailed it, and we might not see it for a few days). So … to be fair… we’ll count PayPal gifts toward 2007 needs all the way up through Jan. 10, 2008. As a result, all is not lost! :-) Even though we’re only standing at $11,558.90, we still have time to try to make our 2007 budget needs of $17,150. To pull this off, we only need exactly 50 more people, groups, or churches to step up to the plate. Just *one* courageous soul would need to give $1000, 3 more would need to give $250, 14 more for $50, and 32 more gifts of $25 in order to meet our 2007 needs. Here’s the summary chart to meet those 2007 ministry needs:

    1 more gift of $1000 3 more gifts of $250 14 more gifts of $50 32 more gifts of $25

    Gulp. The final yard. Would you pray with us that everyone who *can* *will* step forward? Thanks. By the way, if you decide to send a check on the 10th, just date it Dec. 31st, then drop us an email to let us know it’s coming. No need to express mail it or anything. Anything arriving, unannounced, after the 10th, will be treated toward 2008′s ministry needs. Thanks again for the amazing energy boost!

    Just click on “Donate“. You can make a gift from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, you can send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax- deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

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13. THE BACKPAGE: THE DARKER THE SKY, THE BRIGHTER THE GALAXY — I recently had the chance to drive to the top of a very tall & remote mountain (13,796 feet above sea level). I was amazed by the views it afforded, especially at night, when it grew very dark. And I do mean *dark*. (Since we were hours from the nearest city, it was a case of *extreme* darkness.) Stars were everywhere. I wrote in my journal, “I don’t deserve to behold this majesty. It’s so quiet up here, except for the stars… and they seem to be *singing* glory to their creator!” No matter which direction I looked, I could see deep space objects with the naked eye. And when I looked at any given point in the sky with my binocular, I would see *dozens* of galaxies, clusters, and nebulae in seemingly every field of view. What impressed me most was how *clear* these objects were. You see, when it comes to astronomy, the darker the sky, the more visible the dimmest glows.

    I’ve noticed a similar phenomenon with missionaries. For example, in times of great financial need or hardship, the smallest gift can appear as a very bright spot in an otherwise very dark month. So please don’t ever forget — your gift of prayer and finances can be *the* difference- maker in inspiring your favorite worker to keep shining brightly in areas of bleak spiritual darkness. Thank you for your support & sacrifice for those working around the world. Thank you for making their work possible through your partnership and vision.

    To those serving internationally, there is one more meaning that occurred to me. Sometimes it is in the midst of hardship that we come to experience the glow of God’s love & care most prominently? Yes, you’ve left family, friends, and grandparents. So in the midst of this darkness, we pray that God can cause a glow in your heart like you’ve never felt before… as long as you’re looking for him and giving him *place*. Give God place in your own heart. Search for him. He’ll glow for you again too.

1. WORLDCONNEX CAN HOOK YOU UP WITH UNREACHED PEOPLES
2. MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
3. GET STRATEGIC COORDINATOR TRAINING DOWN UNDER
4. LEARN DENTAL CARE AT HOME
5. IN SEARCH OF A LATINO ETHNOMUSICOLOGIST
6. IN SEARCH OF RUGGED LAPTOPS
7. UNENGAGED PEOPLES OF NAMIBIA
8. FUND RAISING BLOG / SALE ON VIDEO TRAINING
9. ESL/EFL TEACHER TRAINER WORKSHOP, JAN 3-5, 2008
10. IN SEARCH OF MATRIARCHAL PEOPLE GROUPS
11. PERSPECTIVES COURSES POPPING UP EVERYWHERE, LIKE JAX!
12. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
13. MAKING PROGRESS; CAN YOU PUT US OVER THE TOP?
14. THE BACKPAGE: WHAT’S YOUR PHILOSOPHY ON BORROWING?

WORLDCONNEX CAN HOOK YOU UP WITH UNREACHED PEOPLES — WorldconneX works across denominations, agencies and networks. Their only agenda is to help your church connect with its calling, providing as much or as little assistance as you need. They do this in three ways: (1) Activation – Host an Inside Out Weekend event and discover the resources that God has placed inside your church members. WorldconneX will help you discover the uniqueness of your vision, people and resources — then create a plan that leverages those distinctives. They can also assign a certified coach to walk alongside you for a few months up to a year as you implement your strategy. (2) Front Line Services – Whether your church is sending its own or would like to support other church’s missionaries, WorldconneX can help you access resources to successfully plan and execute long term missions. (3) International Connections – WorldconneX is networked with leading missions practitioners throughout the world. They connect you with individuals and resources you might never find on your own. Join one of their Affinity Groups or take a Pastor PLUS vision trip with WorldconneX. Learn more at

http://www.worldconnex.org

or email info(at)worldconnex(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address back onto one line.]

MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT — For those ministering to the poor in the Two-Thirds World, the Chalmers Center offers a series of three distance courses on conducting Christian microfinance and microenterprise. The initial course is called “Foundations and Principles of Holistic Ministry” (Two-Thirds World section). The “Foundations” course helps you understand appropriate goals and strategies for conducting Christian economic development in poor communities within the Two-Thirds World. The course will actually benefit anyone preparing for Christian outreach and ministry among the poor, whether they plan to implement an economic development strategy or not. This course will be offered on Feb. 4 – 29, 2008 and again on April 28 – May 23, 2008. Cost of this four-week course is $75 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. Additional courses are available as follow-ups.

To register or to learn more about the distance learning courses, including information about group discounts and a Two-Thirds World discount, visit

http://www.chalmers.org

When registering, we’d love it if you’d let them know you heard about it on Brigada. For questions, email

chalmers(at)covenant (dot)edu [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

or call 1-706-419-1805.

GET STRATEGIC COORDINATOR TRAINING DOWN UNDER — It’s slated for 17th February to 7th March 2008 in Perth, Western Australia. Strategic Coordinator Training is about planning and implementing evangelism and church planting among your favorite segment of society. It’s an intense 3-week seminar led by veteran missionaries experienced at implementing people- and city-transforming strategies. Create a working plan for the evangelization of your focus population; be it gothic youth in London, indigenous peoples of Australia, an unreached people group in Africa or a mega-city in Asia. Learn more at:

http://www.ywamperth.org.au/life/?events-44

(We’re also grateful for the $20 gift that this training program sent to Brigada as a thank-you note! Yay! :-) )

LEARN DENTAL CARE AT HOME — Take our multi-media home study course! Basic dental care can help win hearts wherever you go. No drills, injections, electricity, or sophisticated equipment needed. Do you have a compassionate heart and are not afraid to step out of your comfort zone? If yes, then this is for you! see their video on youtube.com -type “Simplified Dental Care.”

http://www.dentaltrainingformissions.com

or email: dentaltrainingformissions(at) yahoo(dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the email address on one line.]

IN SEARCH OF A LATINO ETHNOMUSICOLOGIST — Brigada sometimes helps search for those “needle-in-a-haystack” personnel needs. Here’s one: A Christian worker is search for a Latino ethnomusicologist. (If you don’t know what that is, no need to reply. :-) ) If you *do* know… or that is, if you have a lead, please ask the cross-cultural musical teacher to drop an email to: danieljohnson(at) iibet(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the email address on one line.] Dan thanks you in advance!

IN SEARCH OF RUGGED LAPTOPS — (Thanks to Tony, who saw this note by Greg Slade on CamSOC.) Apparently, for some years now, Greg has had an interest in “ruggedized” notebooks for use on the mission field. His interest was sparked even more by two recent camera failures, presumably due to too much bouncing around on bad roads in the developing world. Now, “ruggedized” notebooks cost significantly more than more common ones, and run more slowly, because they use milspec parts, which are never “bleeding edge”. But, the tradeoff is that “ruggedized” systems have better components, and are much less prone to fail. Brands and models he mentioned included:

Rugged Brands:

• Dolch: http://www.dolch.com
• Getac: http://www.getac.com
• TerraLogic: http://www.terralogic.co.uk
• Xplore Technologies: http://www.xploretech.com
• Amrel System LLC: http://www.amrel.com

  Rugged Models/Lines:

• Dell: Latitude ATG: http://www.dell.com/ATG
• NEC: http://www.nec.com
• Panasonic Toughbooks: http://www.panasonic.com/business/toughbook/products.asp
• Toshiba Tecra: http://www.toshibadirect.com/td/b2c/cfam.to?coid=-26374

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UNENGAGED PEOPLES OF NAMIBIA — The Herero, the Namibian Coloureds, the Nama/Damara, and the Mbalantu are all precious people in God’s sight. Pray for those who have heard but do not understand or have not accepted Him as their Personal Savior. Pray for people to come and share the Love of Jesus with them. With no evangelical witness, no workers, no volunteer groups, no one to tell them, many will perish. Please join us as we pray for the Lord to continue to build up prayer support for these unengaged peoples. Pray that all barriers to the Gospel will be removed. To adopt one of these people groups for prayer for to find out more information please contact

http://www.forgottenpeoples.info

or email forgottenpeoples(at)telkomsa (dot)net [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

FUND RAISING BLOG / SALE ON VIDEO TRAINING — Now you can get even more practical advice from Bill Dillon, President of People Raising. Learn from his more than 35 years of fund raising experience. Whether raising individual support or organizational support this resource could be invaluable. Pass this important resource on to team members and friends. Also take a look at the award winning 6-hour fund raising training program available in DVD/CD/Video/MP3. Normally priced at $299.99 it is on sale at the low price of $69.99 through Dec. 31st. For more information go to

http://www.peopleraising.com/blog/

or e-mail Bill(at)PeopleRaising (dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

ESL/EFL TEACHER TRAINER WORKSHOP, JAN 3-5, 2008 — Get professional training for English language teaching as ministry in any country. This workshop, slated for Colorado Springs, demonstrates foundational principles, interactive methodologies and practical applications to improve your own teaching skills or so you can train your staff to teach English with quality and build program credibility. A new ESL/EFL Training DVD will be premiered and it’s ASCI accredited. Local transportation and host homes are available in some situations. Further details can be found at:

http://gemtefl-3.blogspot.com

or send an inquiry to gemtefl(at)gemtefl (dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

IN SEARCH OF MATRIARCHAL PEOPLE GROUPS — One Brigada participant is looking for good mission resources that talk about how to reach matriarchal people groups? Got any leads? If so, log on to

http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=47

Dave will appreciate it. And thanks for using Brigada!

PERSPECTIVES COURSES POPPING UP EVERYWHERE, LIKE JAX! — They’re about to start, all over the country. Like… suppose you live in Jacksonville, Florida. Youth With A Mission is hosting the course there. Recall that Perspectives is an internationally-respected 15-week study program developed by the U.S. Center for World Mission. Featuring an experienced speaker each week, you will cover topics such as the Biblical perspective on mission, the spread of Christianity in history, mission strategies, and the mission task remaining. Classes start on January 6, 2008. You can register online at

http://www.perspectives.org

Or in the case of JAX, just call 904-384-8400 or e-mail perspectivesjax(at)yahoo (dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address onto one line.]

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! — We’re so grateful for those who keep the lights burning here! We’ve recently received these gifts:

• $45 from Bridge Builder Ministries Int’l ! Thanks Doug!
• $20 from a Brigada participant who started back in 1995!!!
• $20 from a Brigada participant “down under”
• $100 from a participant in Ukraine! Thank you!
• $300 from WorldconneX Mission Network, www.worldconnex.org . Whoa.
• $25 from Raleigh Personal Injury Lawyers, http://www.lawyernc.com
• $25 from New York Mesothelioma Lawyer, http://www.mesotheliomahelp.net (And thanks to Mike at www.consultwebs.com for relaying their gifts!!!)
• $25 from Mission Travel
• $25 from Cayucos, CA
• $50 from from a grateful mission leader in UK
• $25 from a full-time missionary in Thailand who wrote, “I am blessed to be able to contribute to Brigada. I love Brigada and all the resources available through it. I pray that God will meet your needs above and beyond what you could ask or think.”
• $100 from a participant in Worthing, West Sussex, UK
• $25 from a friend in Blacksburg, VA
• $25 from an encourager nearby in Jeffersonville, IN
• $100 from a friend laboring in Thailand
• $200 from a saint focusing on an unreached people group in Iran. (Please pray for Iran on their behalf.)
• $30 from Magazine Training Int’l — http://www.magazinetraining.com/
• $9.90 from ISA because Sidney & Eric bought insurance for their trip through them at http://www.missionaryhealth.net/brigada.htm
• $200 from Westwood Baptist Church in Olympia, WA http://www.westwoodbaptist.com (Please give thanks for them today!)
• $350 from Hebron Missionary Advocacy Fellowship http://road2hebron.jesusanswerscom Please visit their site. Thank you so much for your ministry!

  We’re sooooooooooooooooooooooo grateful to these partners! May God bless them in ways beyond belief!

MAKING PROGRESS; CAN YOU PUT US OVER THE TOP? — Whoa. In the last Brigada Today, we reported that we were hovering at $6,752.87 toward our 2007 budget needs of $17,150. Suddenly, we’re within reach! We now have $8,452.77. Just think… if your church or group, or if you as an individual were to have *any* contingency tithe money left… Would you consider investing in something that is mobilizing and resourcing for the unreached… since 1995? If you have ever found something in Brigada to by helpful… or if you’d like to underwrite Brigada for someone who lives in a faraway land who cannot send funds on his or her own, please just click on the “Donate” page.
We’ve made progress, but still need the following gifts to meet our needs…

• 1 of 1 1000 1000 (1 gift of $1000)
• 3 of 5 500 2500 (3 more gifts of $500)
• 10 of 250 2500 (10 more gifts of $250)
• 11 of 13 100 1300 (11 more gifts of $100)
• 26 of 27 50 1350 (26 more gifts of $50)
• 60 of 70 25 1750 (60 more gifts of $25)

You can pull the money from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

THE BACKPAGE: WHAT’S YOUR PHILOSOPHY ON BORROWING? — Our organization is about to commit to building a new Prayer Center & Atrium at our new campus called Emerald Hills. (You can read more, by the way, at

http://www.emeraldhills.info

So we’re about to commit to a construction loan. What’s your strategy & philosophy on all that? This is a roughly $700,000 project. We have cash and/or commitments in hand for about $350,000 of that amount. As for *our* board of directors, they like for us to have the “stream identified” before borrowing… and, in general, they advise us to only borrow up to the amount equal to what the stream could repay. Is your philosophy similar … or different? What scriptures play into your decision, when you’re tackling something big like this? (This is big to us at least. :-) ) Please stop by and drop a comment at…

http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=48

Thanks for sharing your approach.

1. TRAINING ON MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
2. GET YOUR OWN MISSIONARY WEBSITE
3. SHORT-TERM MISSIONS WITHOUT LONG-TERM HARM
4. AQUAPONICS WORKSHOP
5. GREAT CHRISTMAS/END OF YEAR GIFT FOR YOUR MUSLIM FRIENDS
6. LOOKING FOR AN ITEM IN A PAST BRIGADA?
7. GAIN NEW INSIGHT: TAKE THIS ONLINE PROFILER
8. E-TICKETING THROUGH GLOBAL TRAVEL TRENDS (GTTRENDS)
9. UNREACHED AND LEAST EVANGELIZED PEOPLES FORUM
10. GRAND CENTRAL: YOUR FREE PHONE NUMBER FROM GOOGLE
11. FREE DOWNLOADABLE MULTI-LINGUAL TRACTS
12. INVITE A SPECIAL SPEAKER: ROCCO BADENHORST
13. READ BILL DILLON’S FUND-RAISING BLOG
14. SINCE WE LAST REPORTED…
15. UNDERGIRD BRIGADA, GIVE FOR A GLOBAL CITIZEN WHO CAN’T
16. THE BACKPAGE: THE NIGHT BEFORE A BIG TRIP

1. TRAINING ON MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT — The next class of the Chalmers Center’s “Principles and Practices of Christian Microfinance and Microenterprise Development” email-based distance learning course is scheduled for Jan. 7 – Feb. 22, 2008. This course gives you an overview to microenterprise development and microfinance and orients you to the selection and design of a holistic intervention appropriate for your ministry context. Cost of this seven-week course is $199 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. (The course will be offered again in Sept. 2008.)

   The course is available to those who have taken the prerequisite course, “Foundations and Principles of Holistic Ministry.” The “Foundations” course helps you understand appropriate goals and strategies for conducting Christian development in poor communities within the Two- Thirds World. (It will actually benefit anyone preparing for Christian outreach and ministry among the poor, whether they plan to implement an economic development strategy or not.) This class will be offered on Feb. 4 – 29, 2008 and on April 28 – May 23, 2008, and either class offering can be taken as the prerequisite for the Sept. 2008 “Principles” class. Cost of this four-week course is $75 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material.

   Because these courses are email-based, slow dial-up speed will not limit participation. Also note that you may spend 8-10 hours per week on course work.

   To learn more, including information about a discount for Two-Thirds World participants, or to register, visit

   http://www.chalmers.org

   or call 1-706-419-1805. When registering, use Reference Identifier BRN- 10/07.

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2. GET YOUR OWN MISSIONARY WEBSITE — 411 Ministries is offering a new, upgraded service that allows any missionary to bring up their own website within 15-30 minutes without knowing any web programming. Get a free Basic website plus a donation-based Premium website. You can include your personal and family information as well as information about your sending organization. In addition, you can post pictures, prayer requests, news updates, your current support status and needs, and you or your family’s biography. Their management interface includes an easy-to-use button-driven toolbar to add formatting to all your information. Some 180 missionaries have already found a home there. For more information, go to:

   http://www.411ministries.com

   or, contact noel(at)

   411ministries(dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address elements on one line.]

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3. SHORT-TERM MISSIONS WITHOUT LONG-TERM HARM — In addition to its distance learning courses on economic development, the Chalmers Center also offers an email-based distance learning course on the issues surrounding short-term missions (less than one month) in the context of the socio-economic poor. This course presents frameworks for considering the issues so that the benefits of missions projects are maximized and potential harm is minimized. It is designed for those involved in short-term missions to locations throughout the world as well as to locations in the U.S./Canada. The training is appropriate for: 1) sending churches and denominations, 2) host churches and missionaries, 3) missions project leaders, and 4) missions team members.

   The next class is scheduled for March 10 – March 28, 2008. Cost of this three-week course is $55 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material.

   Because the course is email-based, slow dial-up speed will not limit participation. Also note that you may spend 6-8 hours per week on course work.

   To learn more, including information about a discount for Two-Thirds World participants, or to register, visit

   http://www.chalmers.org

   or call 1-706-419-1805. When registering, use Reference Identifier BRN- 10/07.

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4. AQUAPONICS WORKSHOP — If you want to develop skills in the emerging technology of fish and vegetable production in a naturally balanced system, attend an upcoming Aquaponics Workshop. Learn the techniques of inexpensively constructing and managing these highly productive systems which are adaptable to all types of environments and proving to be an effective outreach ministry. Full-time missionaries can register at the student rate. For more information or to register, visit:

   http://www.aquacultureinternational.org

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5. GREAT CHRISTMAS/END OF YEAR GIFT FOR YOUR MUSLIM FRIENDS — Here’s a new book, One God One Message, written for Muslims, skeptics and seekers. A newly printed, thinner, attractive edition seeks to clear up the confusion that prevents Muslims from taking the Bible seriously using real-life illustrations and more than a thousand verses from Scripture. Available for $10 a copy from GoodSeed International:

   http://www.goodseed.com/store/us/products/resources/ogom.aspx

   Translations are underway in French, Arabic, Farsi, Urdu, Swahili and German.

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6. LOOKING FOR AN ITEM IN A PAST BRIGADA? — Just use our on-site search capability, powered by Google. Just click on “Search” in the menu at the top of this page. Enter a word or two from the item that you remember and watch it flash before your eyes.

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7. GAIN NEW INSIGHT: TAKE THIS ONLINE PROFILER — Just browse to

   http:// www.cflex.org

   It’s a free online test that helps you analyze your ministry in a whole new objective light. Check it out. (Thanks Rick!)

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8. E-TICKETING THROUGH GLOBAL TRAVEL TRENDS (GTTRENDS) — Organizers of GT Trends invite you to book global travel through their site, claiming cheaper fares and easy access. You can also become a business partner with GTTrends by investing US$ 299.00 to become an Associate Travel Agent, creating the potential for a stream of income from the customers you attract. For more information, email streams7(at)

   juno (dot) com or benjo_lee(at)

   juno (dot) com. [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the email addresses onto one line.]

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9. UNREACHED AND LEAST EVANGELIZED PEOPLES FORUM — Don’t forget, it happens this week, Nov. 27-29, 2007, at the Irving Bible Church, Irving TX. The goal? To increase and multiply the focus and engagement with Unreached Peoples. In this forum key ministries, churches, agencies, and others from or within North America will meet to interactively: a) Explore the big picture & current realities b) Cross-pollinate c) Engage in strategic conversations around the challenges and issues that emerge. d) Connect to a growing group of partners, models, resources and new ideas e) Intercede and hear from God f) Both give input and receive. Get more info at

   http://www.snipr.com/naupn2

   or email johnq(at)

   missionamerica(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address on one line.]

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10. GRAND CENTRAL: YOUR FREE PHONE NUMBER FROM GOOGLE — Have you ever wanted to have one number that followed you wherever you went? Have you needed an US number when you lived overseas? Dou you need a number in a different area code? Google has launched a new service called GrandCentral. Check it out at

    http://www.grandcentral.com

    It allows you to sign up for a local phone number that forwards to several other phone numbers. It works with landlines, mobile phones, voicemail, and other systems. It is in beta and is free. But for now, users primarily can just *reserve* a number… unless you can find a current Grandcentral user to “invite” you. (Thanks Jonathan!)

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11. FREE DOWNLOADABLE MULTI-LINGUAL TRACTS — Order soon in time for the Holy-days! In 1954 a pastor preached a sermon entitled, “Steps Leading to Salvation” and distributed his notes. Little did he know that this would give birth to the _Step Up To Life_(tm) evangelistic booklet. Since that time the tract has been translated into 17 different languages and is used worldwide by many different denominations, organizations and everyday “Joe Christians.” More information, teaching materials, free downloads (multiple languages available), and interactive versions are all available at

    http://www.stepuptolife.com

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12. INVITE A SPECIAL SPEAKER: ROCCO BADENHORST — Looking for a speaker for an upcoming missions conference? Rocco Badenthorst is reputed to be such a speaker, having been invited to Brazil for the past three years by invitation at one their key conferences. Many listeners have experienced transformed as a result of his talks. Read more at:

    http://www.integrityministries.org/christianspeaker.htm

    Call him at (309)828-5057 in the USA or rtb4him(at) gmail(dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble it onto one line.]

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13. READ BILL DILLON’S FUND-RAISING BLOG — Now you can get even more practical advice from Bill Dillon, President of People Raising. Learn from his more than 35 years of fund raising experience. Whether raising individual support or organizational support, this resource could be invaluable. Also take a look at the award-winning 6-hour fund raising training program available in DVD/CD/Video/MP3.For more information go to

    http://www.peopleraising.com/blog/

    or email Bill(at) PeopleRaising(dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with . and reassemble the address on one line.]

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14. SINCE WE LAST REPORTED… — Our good friends at Dial-Abroad sent $60.95 in thanks for those who learned about their services via Brigada. Thanks! To try Dial-Abroad’s revolutionary phone services (at a great price), just click to:

    http://www.dial-abroad.org/brigada.htm

    In addition, an Oregonian sent $20, joined by a resident of Kentucky who sent $25. And a new friend from the great state of Pennsylvania sent $300!

    This brings to $6,222.87 the total gifts for 2007. We publish our budget needs in the first month of the year. The 2007 budget is $17,150 for *everything*. So… sorry to say… we have quite a bit of ground to cover in the next 6 weeks. Is there *any* way you, your church, or organization could pitch in? Match the giver from Oregon, Kentucky, or Pennsylvania? We would be so grateful. When giving reaches $17,150, we’ll stop receiving money for 2007 and stop mentioning finances in Brigada Today. You have our word on it.

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15. UNDERGIRD BRIGADA, GIVE FOR A GLOBAL CITIZEN WHO CAN’T — Notice, you received this edition of Brigada for no charge. We’re a step-out-on- faith initiative. Would you consider giving an offering so that our 2007 needs are met *before* the end of the year? If so, just click “Donate“. You can pull the money from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

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16. THE BACKPAGE: THE NIGHT BEFORE A BIG TRIP — What do you do on the eve of a big trip overseas? (It’s such an evening for me tonight.)

    Do your kids ask you to help them list an item on eBay? :-) My suggestion is — do it. The gesture will take you 30′ and possibly force you to stay up a half-hour longer at the end of the day, but the price will be worth it. Besides… maybe it’ll make you sleep better on the overnight flight. So in general… invest in a high quality time activity for any family member that will receive it. You’ll be glad you did.

    Do you clean out your inbox? I try to, if at all possible. My outbound flight might take me out of commission for as long as 18-24 hours. So if possible, I like to be caught up so things don’t look any worse than they already are! :-)

    Do you look ahead not only at the time you’ll be gone but also at the 7 days immediately after your return? Check out any deadlines or due dates for that next week so you can be working on things during your trip, if need be.

    Do you make arrangements for communicating with your loved ones at crucial junctures? (e.g., arrival at an int’l port of destination, or connecting in a sensitive land) It’s extra work to arrange for cell phones, faxes, or email hook-ups. But it just seems the extra work pays off not only for the ones you love, but also for the ones making your trip possible (donors).

    Finally, do you gather up all your research and notes about your trip? Get your eTicket numbers, reservation numbers, confirmation numbers, etc., and put them all in a file folder in your *carry-on*. If they’re checked, you might never see them again.

    Think ahead before your trip. The time you invest on the front end can pay mongo dividends on the other side.

    Doug

Want to comment on this “BackPage?” Just click here to see it at the Brigada “Brigade” site, where you can add comments.

1. WHAT DOES YOUR ORGANIZATION/MISSION USE FOR A PLANNING TOOL?
2. NEED A HELPING HAND? WANT TO ACCOMPLISH MORE?
3. IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO CATCH A VISION FOR ASIA
4. GET QUOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS ABOUT MISSIONS
5. CHRISTIANITY TODAY POLLS CHRISTIANS ON ‘DANGER ZONE MISSIONS’
6. HELP A NEW MISSIONARY UNDERSTAND CONTEXTUALIZATION
7. ONE MORE MICROCREDIT ORG
8. THE HINDU-CHRISTIAN INTERFACE
9. THERE IS A MUCH EASIER AND QUICKER WAY TO RAISE SUPPORT
10. SAVE MONEY ON GROCERIES & USE THE DIFFERENCE FOR MISSIONS?
11. THANKFUL BEYOND MEASURE FOR PARTNERS THAT UNDERGIRD BRIGADA
12. WE’RE PUBLISHING A HALF MILLION BRIGADA TODAYS THIS YEAR
13. THE BACKPAGE: OUR “30 DAYS” CAMPAIGN WENT WELL; HOW ‘BOUT YOURS?

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1. WHAT DOES YOUR ORGANIZATION/MISSION USE FOR A PLANNING TOOL? — I faced that question this past week, when our team started working on our primary objectives, goals, & tasks for the future — our Field Ministry Plan for 2008 and beyond. After examining a bunch (but certainly not all) of the options, I recommended Central Desktop to our team. See them at:

   http://www.centraldesktop.com

   (Note that we’re not getting any kickbacks or “affiliate” bonuses by recommending them… Just one beggar telling another where to find bread.)

   Surprisingly, our team embraced it within about one hour.

   There are certainly plenty of tools that teams can use. Everything from sending a Microsoft Word doc (or Excel spreadsheet) to one team member at a time … to Google’s new online apps … to GoogleGroups… to other online collaborative software — ad infinitum. But CentralDesktop, though it cost us something (at the level we chose), seemed to offer a great match of tools. The level we chose was the threshold level where we got SSL (secure) web interactivity with one another. That gave us, in one handy package with one handy secure web address, online discussions (with great notification options), document sharing (with version tracking), task lists and milestone building (yes it’s kind of basic, but it’s at least *there*), basic calendaring, lightweight databases, and light reporting… all in one package. Plus we can invite in non- members (i.e., organization volunteers) to our heart’s content — one workspace at a time. On top of all that, the developers seem very accessible through the online forum (they’ve answered every feature request and help request within 2 hours so far), and they’re bringing out a *monthly* upgrade that’s adding real value, every 30 days.

   So … yes… it’s still early in our use, but it looks extremely promising so far. Check it out for your team.

   Would you mind telling us what your group uses for planning purposes? Just visit:

   http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=39

   and click on “Add a comment” at the bottom of the item. Thanks!

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2. NEED A HELPING HAND? WANT TO ACCOMPLISH MORE? — Consider spending some time with the folks at Creative Results Management. They have a Core Coaching Skills Certificate Program — see it at

   http://www.creativeresultsmanagement.com

   That could make the difference between your success… or “unsuccess”. :-) Give ‘em a try today… (and please thank them for their support of Brigada this past week!)

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3. IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO CATCH A VISION FOR ASIA — OMF International has been reaching East Asia with the gospel since Hudson Taylor founded the organization as China Inland Mission in 1865. If you would like to learn more about OMF or how you can be involved in the work that includes more than 1,500 workers from 20 countries with a focus on more than 400 unreached people groups throughout East Asia, visit their website

   http://www.omf.org/us

   or attend their “Reach Asia” information evening, October 27, 2007 in Littleton CO, USA (For more information, contact Alicia Abennett(at)omf(dot)org or call 303.730.4160.) [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .] (Sorry about the quick notice. When submitting Brigada items, better give at least 60 days advance notice prior to events that might require flights.)

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4. GET QUOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS ABOUT MISSIONS — Do you need some great missions quotes or Illustrations? The “Blog World Missions 101″ has hundreds of quotes illustrations for use in missions presentations, messages, or seminars. Andy has posted his missions illustration file and it is growing rapidly in volume. Why hoard the wealth? All quotes and illustrations are from current missions books, and sources are footnoted. Share the wealth and enjoy. Find it at

   http://www.worldmissions101.blogspot.com I was there about 15 seconds before I found a quote that I put in my permanent quotations database. Thanks to Andy and the group!

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5. CHRISTIANITY TODAY POLLS CHRISTIANS ON ‘DANGER ZONE MISSIONS’ — Did you see the Aug 15-16 survey that Christianity Today conducted with USA Christians about mission works in dangerous regions? Catch it at Christianity Today. Bottom line? USA Christians still seem very supportive of outreaches in dangerous places, even though there are risks involved. Over half of the respondents said work should continue there, even if forbidden by law. Interestingly, they only thought it would be irresponsible if the missionaries are unprepared. Score one for the training types. :-) (Thanks for tipping us on this story, Jeff!)

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6. HELP A NEW MISSIONARY UNDERSTAND CONTEXTUALIZATION — Brigada reader John is compiling resources on contextualization. This will be similar to his previous work on the must read books for all missionaries. This time he wants to compile material on contextualization.

   He has three questions to which he would love to know your answer.

   1. What is the best definition of contextualization?

   2. What resources would you recommend to a newly enlisted missionary to help them contextualize their ministry?

   3. Where do you point in Scripture that commands the missionary to contextualize in his ministry?

   He’ll greatly appreciate your responses. Just click to:

   http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=41

   and “Add a comment” immediately below the post. Thanks!

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7. ONE MORE MICROCREDIT ORG — Brigada participant, Norm, had one more organization to add to our list given in the Aug. 31st issue of Brigada Today (#4, “HEARD ABOUT MICROCREDIT?”). He highly recommended…

   http://www.lifewind.org

   He felt they had “the best program of sustainable microbusiness enterprise of any Christian organization and perhaps of many non- christian organizations.” He added, “I am not part of their organization but highly recommend their methods and training that they hand off.” Thanks Norm!

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8. THE HINDU-CHRISTIAN INTERFACE — This five week training in Hindu ministry will be offered in Pasadena, CA in the spring of 2008. The class will meet one night a week for three hours. Students can expect a combination of lectures, short reading assignments, multimedia presentations, Biblical reflection, discussion groups and devotional music. For a brochure and more information on dates, venues and fees contact the Pasadena Coordinator at andy(dot)pearce(at)gmail(dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

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9. THERE IS A MUCH EASIER AND QUICKER WAY TO RAISE SUPPORT — If you depend on church meetings and letters to raise your full support, it may take a long, long time. If you get training in effective relational and presentation skills, you can do it in less than half the average time, and the cost is relatively small. Now you can get full training right in your own home through live, interactive videoconferencing. You will join with up to six others in three other locations for an hour and a half a day, four days a week for three weeks. All you need is high speed internet. Jerry, for more than twenty years, has equipped missionaries to share their vision in such a way that people discover their passion and get involved through prayer and giving. Give Jerry a call at (503) 314-7211 or email jerry(at)kingdomcometraining(dot)com [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .] or browse to:

   http://www.kingdomcometraining.com

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10. SAVE MONEY ON GROCERIES & USE THE DIFFERENCE FOR MISSIONS? — That’s what one Brigada reader advocates. He maintains that USA Christians can 1. Reduce expenditures monthly to have more to give to missions? 2. Help bring unchurched people into contact with caring Christians? 3. Help the working poor in their own neighborhoods help themselves? All by utilizing the services of and encouraging your local church to be a host site for… Angel Food Ministries. See his summary of the program here…

    http://www.squidoo.com/angelfoodministries

    Want to comment on this ministry? Just click to:

    http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=42

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11. THANKFUL BEYOND MEASURE FOR PARTNERS THAT UNDERGIRD BRIGADA — We’re grateful this week for Orphan Voice, College Heights Christian Church and a worker from Team Expansion — because they all bought their trip interruption insurance from ISA at:

    http://www.missionaryhealth.net/brigada.htm

    And ISA, in turn, gave a portion of those funds — $89.05 in face — to help get Brigada onto your screens! Thanks ISA!

    Thanks, too, to Dial Abroad for the $60.95 they sent as a thank you to Dial Abroad “Brigada-based” customers using their services. Thanks for those who keep talking!!! :-) Thanks, too, to the anonymous reader who sent $180 saying “Keep up the great work”, another who sent ***$500***, and another who sent $100 from the Pacific Rim. We were also appreciative of the Core Coaching Skills Certificate Program

    http://www.creativeresultsmanagement.com

    for sending $75 as a way of saying thanks “all the good information that flows through Brigada.” [blush] (God be praised, Keith!) Please go check out his site today.

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12. WE’RE PUBLISHING A HALF MILLION BRIGADA TODAYS THIS YEAR — With over 11,000 subscribers… 52 weeks… that works out to over 500,000 editions in just one year. Our financial needs seem small enough… just $17,150 for all of 2007. Where else can you get that much bang for your buck!? :-) Want to help pump Brigada’s missions mobilization message out to the masses on every continent? You can. Here’s how: Just click on the “Donate” page. You can pull the money from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

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13. THE BACKPAGE: OUR “30 DAYS” CAMPAIGN WENT WELL; HOW ‘BOUT YOURS? — Did your “30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim World” campaign go well? Write about it online at:

    As mentioned earlier (in “THE BACKPAGE: JOIN 30 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR THE MUSLIM WORLD”, Sept. 14th, 2007 Brigada Today), some 400 people got involved with either the kids version or the adult version. It’s leading in nicely toward our 30 days of emphasis on a country in the Middle East. We’ll pass out *those* booklets this Sunday and next, then begin the emphasis the week following. We’ll enclose an insert with specific prayers about two of our church members that will be journeying to the country to survey it for our congregation and the mission with which we hope to partner (Team Expansion) for this outreach. It’s an exciting time for the church… and there are lots of folks ready to get involved. So … bravo to the “30 Days” bunch for helping us launch the whole thing. The work is worth it!

    Would you mind sharing how your campaign went? Just click to:

    http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=40

    and click on “add a comment” below the item. Thanks!

1. TRAINING ON MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
2. MISSIONTRAVEL.ORG OFFERS DISCOUNT AIRFARE FOR MISSIONS
3. CHURCH MOBILIZATION TOOL
4. YOUR BEST SOURCES FOR RENTING VEHICLES?
5. CALLING ALL USA-BASED CHRISTIAN WORKERS: TALK TO THE IRS
6. 24/7 PRAYER MISSIONS TRAINING
7. SHORT-TERM MISSIONS WITHOUT LONG-TERM HARM
8. WHERE WOULD YOU TURN FOR ADDING SUBTITLES
9. SO THANKFUL FOR GIFTS
10. HELP US HELP YOU
11. THE BACKPAGE: JOIN 30 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR THE MUSLIM WORLD

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1. TRAINING ON MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT — The Chalmers Center for Economic Development offers low-cost email-based distance learning courses on how to minister to the poor without creating dependency. This training “helps the church to help the poor help themselves.” A course called “Principles and Practices of Christian Microfinance and Microenterprise Development” gives you an overview to microenterprise development and microfinance and orients you to the selection and design of a holistic intervention appropriate for your ministry context. Cost of this seven-week course is $199 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. The course will be offered on Jan. 7 – Feb. 22, 2008.

   The prerequisite course is called “Foundations and Principles of Holistic Ministry.” It helps you understand appropriate goals and strategies for conducting Christian development in poor communities. Cost of this four-week course is $75 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. The next offering is scheduled for Oct. 22 – Nov. 16, 2007. It also will be offered on February 4 – February 29, 2008.

   Because the courses are email-based, slow dial-up speed will not limit participation. Also note that you may spend 8-10 hours per week on course work.

   To learn more, including information about a discount for Two-Thirds World participants, or to register, visit

   http://www.chalmers.org

   or call 1-706-419-1805. When registering, use Reference Identifier BRN- 09/07.

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2. MISSIONTRAVEL.ORG OFFERS DISCOUNT AIRFARE FOR MISSIONS — Christian owned and operated online travel business exists to save missions time and money through discounted international airfare. Supporting missionaries, churches and mission organizations, MissionTravel.org focuses on the Great Commission and helps those serving around the world. Dedicated to supporting global missions, qualifying groups of 10 or more may also be eligible to receive contributions from MissionTravel.org owners. Pass the word. Visit and share

   http://www.missiontravel.org

   or call 1-888-849-8850 in the USA or email quote(at)missiontravel(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

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3. CHURCH MOBILIZATION TOOL — DualReach has developed the Design Your Impact Workshop, a five-hour seminar that enables church leaders to discover their congregation’s key characteristics and resources (their DNA) and identify a strategic missions focus that can unleash powerful, new global dynamic from their church. Workshops are led by trained individuals with extensive teaching resources: 7 video clips of model churches, 2 animation clips, PowerPoint®, Facilitator’s Manual and Participant’s Notebook. The next training date to become a Workshop facilitator is Friday, November 12, in Brentwood, CA (East of San Francisco). Learn more at…

   http://www.dualreach.org/missions/resources/index.shtml

   or email info(at)dualreach(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

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4. YOUR BEST SOURCES FOR RENTING VEHICLES? — Got a favorite source for renting that car or van overseas? This request might sound “off the wall”, but one Brigada participant just asked how he might discover this sort of thing. So, for example, if you know of a good “chain” or website, or even a particular favorite *local* vehicle rental agency somewhere in the world, list it at the link below, then click on “Add Comment”:

   http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=33

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5. CALLING ALL USA-BASED CHRISTIAN WORKERS: TALK TO THE IRS — The IRS has just released a significant redesign of Form 990 – Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax. They are proposing that it take effect in the 2008 tax year. Part of this Form would be a new Schedule F – Statement of Activities Outside the United States. This would ask for specific disclosure of the countries where a nonprofit organization has activities. Organizations would be required to list the number of bank accounts and offices in those countries, the number of employees located in each country, the activities conducted in each country, and the total expenditures in each country. Disclosure of this sort of information could easily compromise the safety and security of missionaries working in some countries. Under this proposed form, what they do and where they work will have to be disclosed to the public. Because of the significant issues raised by this new form, a tax attorney in Dallas, TX, has created a special issue of his “Legal Memos” newsletter that he is making available free to anyone who would like a copy. It explains some of the major proposals in the new Form 990, the consequences of public disclosure of Schedule F, and what action you can take to help keep those disclosures private. To get a copy, just go to the Nonprofit and Church Law Ministries website at

   http://www.nonprofitchurchlaw.org

   to download a copy of the Special Issue: IRS Releases Major Redesign of Form 990.

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6. 24/7 PRAYER MISSIONS TRAINING — Elijah Company will join with as many as 300 local believers in the south of Spain in an area called Campo de Gibraltar to conduct a second 24/7 House of Prayer. This is a strategic area sandwiched between Europe and North Africa. An International School of Prayer will be conducted along with a Missionary Training Camp. The objectives of this event are to seek the Lord for this strategic area and mentor others into a stronger missions/prayer focus. Participants can come for any duration. For details see

   http://www.elijahcompany.org

   and

   http://www.campo247.com

   or call (757) 226-3507 or email elijah(at)elijahcompany(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

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7. SHORT-TERM MISSIONS WITHOUT LONG-TERM HARM — In addition to its distance learning courses on economic development, the Chalmers Center also offers an email-based distance learning course on the issues surrounding short-term missions (less than one month) in the context of the socio-economic poor. This course presents frameworks for considering these issues so that the benefits of missions projects are maximized and potential harm is minimized. It is designed for those involved in short-term missions to locations in the U.S./Canada and throughout the world. The training is appropriate for: 1) sending churches and denominations, 2) host churches and missionaries, 3) missions project leaders, and 4) missions team members.

   Cost of this three-week course is $55 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. The November offering of this course is full. The next available offering is scheduled for March 10 – March 28, 2008.

   Because the course is email-based, slow dial-up speed will not limit participation. Also note that you may spend 6-8 hours per week on course work.

   To learn more, including information about a discount for Two-Thirds World participants, or to register, visit

   http://www.chalmers.org

   or call 1-706-419-1805. When registering, use Reference Identifier BRN- 09/07.

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8. WHERE WOULD YOU TURN FOR ADDING SUBTITLES — Suppose you had to add Czech subtitles to a multimedia presentation. How would you start? Whom would you contact? If you know of someone, just click to

   http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=34

   And click on “Add Comment” to list your favorite resource.

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9. SO THANKFUL FOR GIFTS — We’re humbled and encouraged by the gifts we receive from new friends of Brigada. This past week, we received $25 from MissionTravel.org. They wrote, ” Thank you for leading the way to equip believers serving in the missions community. We are happy to help in this way as you advance His kingdom. God bless, MissionTravel.org owners.” If you don’t mind, please give them a try in the near future, if at all possible. Thanks!

   http://www.missiontravel.org

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10. HELP US HELP YOU — Want to undergird Brigada? It’s easy. Send any amount to help us reach our goal. Just click on the “Donate” page:

    http://www.brigada.org/donate.html

    You can pull the money from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

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11. THE BACKPAGE: JOIN 30 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR THE MUSLIM WORLD — In the July 6th edition of Brigada Today, we mentioned the “30 Days Muslim Prayer Focus” (“THE BACKPAGE: MORE FOR THE SAKE OF PRAYER”). This year, the USA supplier completely sold out, then ordered 10,000 extra copies, then sold completely out of those too. Our own church distributed well over 400 of these to church members who were, for the first time, lifting up the needs and futures of Muslims worldwide.

    Is it a good sign that tens of thousands of us are praying for our Muslim friends and neighbors worldwide? You bet. To me, it’s a great indicator that there’s a strong interest in helping Muslims come in contact with the power of Jesus Christ in a positive way.

    Is it too late for you and your church to get involved? Not at all! Here are some additional resources from the web:

    http://www.30daysfire.net/pgs/Home.php

    Click around the page, select a date, click on a video, show a map, (the “download a PDF” link didn’t work for me on the 13th or 14th). Basically, even without the book, you can still pray from the same text.

    See the “sights and sounds” at:

    http://www.30-days.net/reveal/sights/

    Hear the call to prayer, … and see the “What is Ramadan?” video.

    See the page at:

    http://www.30-days.net/shop/download.htm

    which is offering free resources there throughout the month, including a PDF download of the children’s booklet in several languages. See the calendar at:

    http://www.30daysprayer.com/muslim/2007/default.htm

    which lets you click on one day at a time and really see the regional organization.

    Using these online resources, booklet or not, you can keep pace with life-changing, world-impacting prayer.

1. GET TRAINING AS A STRATEGY COORDINATOR
2. DIRECT A PROGRAM OF CARE FOR THIRD CULTURE KIDS
3. GOT FEEDBACK ON THE MANNACARD?
4. HEARD ABOUT MICROCREDIT?
5. CHECK OUT THIS FREIGHT SWITCHBOARD
6. MAKE A STATEMENT WITH YOUR GIFT TO BRIGADA

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1. GET TRAINING AS A STRATEGY COORDINATOR — The Great Commission Initiative provides strategy coordinator level training designed to facilitate global church planting movements by equipping church planters, pastors, discipleship directors, lay leaders and mission strategists with the most current missiological thinking and practice. GCI uses the very best trainers available from various parts of the world-people who have first-hand experience with Church Planting Movements and other phenomenal movements of God. Participants are taught how to learn foundational and biblical principles from these men and women, and then to contextualize them to their particular people group. They focus on four specific areas of training: (1) worldview analysis (2) church planting movements, (3) the discipleship methods that facilitate them and (4) oral communication strategies. Participants who complete the entire cycle of training do so having completed a Master Plan for evangelizing their people group. The training involves three phases of training accomplished in three separate weeks. Each week of training is separated from the others by three to four months. In between training sessions, participants are given assignments relating to the development of an evangelistic strategy for their people group. The $450 per week registration fee includes food and lodging, as well as training costs. For more information, please visit

   http://www.txgci.org

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2. DIRECT A PROGRAM OF CARE FOR THIRD CULTURE KIDS — Frontiers US Sending Base needs a Children’s and Youth Ministry Coordinator to direct a program of care for TCK’s and their families. The Coordinator will oversee pre-field and re-entry care for families and coordinate kids programs at annual events. This position is full-time and will be fully underwritten by personal ministry partners developed by the candidate. If you are interested, please contact Pamelaia pamelaia(dot)sanders(at)gracetogo.org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

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3. GOT FEEDBACK ON THE MANNACARD? — Mark recently asked if we had received any feedback on the MannaCard, mentioned in the March 16th edition. There, we said, It’s a method of moving money and information to/from the mission field. They claim they can significantly reduce the expense & wait involved for wires, checks or cash. Try them out at:

   http://www.mannacard.com

   Got feedback? If so, just start/add a comment at

   http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=32

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4. HEARD ABOUT MICROCREDIT? — One anonymous Brigada reader encourages you to give it a try providing “Microcredit” to small businesses in the developing world so that they can better their economic situation and thus come out of relative poverty. These may not be Christian organizations, but they may allow Christians to express love while making contacts in unreached parts of the world in order to gain an opportunity to live and share the Gospel in the long (or short) term. The Brigada participant emphasized that he had not fully reviewed any of the sites so he encourages all of us to read everything before making any commitments.

   http://www.kiva.org/

   http://www.unitus.com

   http://www.GlobalPartnerships.org

   http://www.accion.org

   http://www.GrameenFoundation.org

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5. CHECK OUT THIS FREIGHT SWITCHBOARD — According to one anonymous Brigada participant, you don’t have to call multiple carriers or check multiple Web sites to gather rates and service information. Freightquote.com has already done it for you! Their online solution needs only a few pieces of information from you, and then it returns a complete menu of options. You choose the carrier, service, and price that best fits your need. Then book, track, and manage all your shipments in one place-through your secure Freightquote.com account. According to this user, their system is fast, easy, and free to use.

   http://www.freightquote.com

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6. MAKE A STATEMENT WITH YOUR GIFT TO BRIGADA — Got a statement, memorial, remembrance, sponsorship, or other message to share to the 11,000 people in the Brigada audience throughout the globe? Just click on the “Donate” page:

   http://www.brigada.org/donate.html

   You can pull the money from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

1. HINDU EVANGELISM RESOURCE
2. USING MOBILE DEVICES FOR OUTREACH
3. MISSIONAL ENTERPRISE BLOG
4. NEW SOUTH ASIA FOCUSED KIDS MATERIALS AND WEB SITE
5. HAVE YOU EVER USED A RESOURCE ON BRIGADA?
6. CLOSING STUFF

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1. HINDU EVANGELISM RESOURCE — A new witnessing tool is now available for sharing Christ with Hindus. The Vedic Bridge is a contextual Gospel tract ready for you to download and print in PDF format. The Vedic Bridge tracts are free to download and distribute. To get there, click to: http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=31

   Find the link (which was too long to include in this enewsletter; it wrapped to the next line) and click on it there to bounce to the correct page. The Vedic Bridge is also available by contacting information(at)go2southasia(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

   This print ready tract is designed for tri-fold to print at your church or home computer. The tract is designed to make witnessing to Hindus simple for Christians who do not have a background in understanding Hinduism.

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2. USING MOBILE DEVICES FOR OUTREACH — With 80% of the world’s population in an area with mobile coverage, and 2 billion cell-phone users, there is serious potential for evangelism and discipleship using mobile devices, both in technically advanced and developing nations. Internet Evangelism Day has produced a page on using mobile devices:

   http://ied.gospelcom.net/mobile-outreach.php

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3. MISSIONAL ENTERPRISE BLOG — Mike, who is a church planter in Glasgow Scotland, has developed a blog about ‘missional enterprises’ (sometimes know as kingdom businesses, tent-making, etc.). He is hoping for an ongoing conversation about business as a means to reaching the developed nations and living out a theology of work. Many resources exist for those looking to reach the underdeveloped or closed access nations but what about the Western World? It’s a place to share his own journey, network, resource other for the same purpose, encourage one another, spur creative missional enterprises and chew over theology. Check it out at

   http://missionalenterprise.wordpress.com/

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4. NEW SOUTH ASIA FOCUSED KIDS MATERIALS AND WEB SITE — The South Asia Region of the International Mission Board would like to introduce you to The Caravan. Raj, Hati, Sindi, Googly and Bangles are the core members. The Caravan is a group of cartoon characters whose goal it is to teach others about the places and peoples of South Asia.

   Each character represents Christians from different cultural and religious backgrounds found throughout the region. Through the Caravan’s stories, activities and other resources, they aim to tell about the life of believers in South Asia and the vast lostness that also abounds in the region.

   The Caravan has just premiered on the web at

   http://www.go2southasia.org

   The Caravan site has many great resources for parents and teachers to use to teach kids about missions in South Asia. It also has many fun games and stories for kids. The authors will continue to add new stories and materials each month, so visit regularly. For questions, email them at TheCaravan(at)wigtake(dot)org [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

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5. HAVE YOU EVER USED A RESOURCE ON BRIGADA? — If so, would you consider a gift of encouragement? Click on the “Donate” page.
   You can pull the money from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

1. TRAINING ON MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
2. HELP OTHERS EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF MISSIONS
3. TRY THIS FREE BOOKLET FOR NEW WORKERS
4. SHORT-TERM MISSIONS WITHOUT LONG-TERM HARM
5. NEW SITE THAT RESPECTS AND WITNESSES TO MUSLIMS
6. RECOMMENDED SHIPPER
7. SOURCE FOR SWAHILI BIBLES
8. OPPORTUNITY IN CENTRAL ASIA
9. THANKS FOR THE ENCOURAGEMENT AND SPONSORSHIP
10. UNDERGIRD BRIGADA
11. CLOSING STUFF

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1. TRAINING ON MICROFINANCE AND MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT — The Chalmers Center for Economic Development offers low-cost email-based distance learning courses on how to minister to the poor without creating dependency. This training “helps the church to help the poor help themselves.” A course called “Principles and Practices of Christian Microfinance and Microenterprise Development” gives you an overview to microenterprise development and microfinance and orients you to the selection and design of a holistic intervention appropriate for your ministry context. Cost of this seven-week course is $199 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. The course will be offered on Jan. 7 – Feb. 22, 2008.

   The prerequisite course is called “Foundations and Principles of Holistic Ministry.” It helps you understand appropriate goals and strategies for conducting Christian development in poor communities. Cost of this four-week course is $75 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. The next offering is scheduled for Oct. 22 – Nov. 16, 2007. It also will be offered on February 4 – February 29, 2008.

   Because the courses are email-based, slow dial-up speed will not limit participation. Also note that you may spend 8-10 hours per week on course work.

   To learn more, including information about a discount for Two-Thirds World participants, or to register, visit

   http://www.chalmers.org/

   or call 1-706-419-1805. When registering, use Reference Identifier BRN- 09/07.

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2. HELP OTHERS EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF MISSIONS — Having a hard time convincing your fellow church members that mission trips are worth it? Help them see what you see by taking them on a short-term missions trip. With the help of the book Equipped for Adventure, designed to help someone lead a short-term missions trip, you can see your church’s mission focus transformed! This book is available for $12.99, and is available online at:

   http://www.wmustore.com/product.asp?sku=N064143

   To order by phone call: 800.968.7301 (toll-free). If you live outside the US or Canada, call 205.991.4933. You never know who God could call to missions.

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3. TRY THIS FREE BOOKLET FOR NEW WORKERS — Chris, a missions minister at a large church just outside Indianapolis, recently recommended the booklet called, “Traveler’s Companion.” It is produced by Berna Products. You can find them at

   http://www.bernaproducts.com/

   Just click on “Educational Materials”. The brochure is really a 12-page booklet that covers a number of aspects of health and international travel. It is well done and the best part – it is free. (Thanks Chris!)

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4. SHORT-TERM MISSIONS WITHOUT LONG-TERM HARM — In addition to its distance learning courses on economic development, the Chalmers Center also offers an email-based distance learning course on the issues surrounding short-term missions (less than one month) in the context of the socio-economic poor. This course presents frameworks for considering these issues so that the benefits of missions projects are maximized and potential harm is minimized. It is designed for those involved in short-term missions to locations in the U.S./Canada and throughout the world. The training is appropriate for: 1) sending churches and denominations, 2) host churches and missionaries, 3) missions project leaders, and 4) missions team members.

   Cost of this three-week course is $55 (USD) plus the cost of separately ordered course material. The November offering of this course is full. The next available offering is scheduled for March 10 – March 28, 2008.

   Because the course is email-based, slow dial-up speed will not limit participation. Also note that you may spend 6-8 hours per week on course work.

   To learn more, including information about a discount for Two-Thirds World participants, or to register, visit www.chalmers.org or call 1- 706-419-1805. When registering, use Reference Identifier BRN-09/07.

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5. NEW SITE THAT RESPECTS AND WITNESSES TO MUSLIMS — Glance at:

   http://www.ruhallah.org/

   It is a new website that is directed to Muslims around the world. The site asks the seeker “What does the Qur’an say about Jesus?” and then answers many questions Muslims have. (Thanks for the anonymous tip.)

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6. RECOMMENDED SHIPPER — A good friend recently recommended a shipping company and, although the company is not a Christian Owned company, the sales representative with whom she had worked (Karen) is a believer. She mentioned that the company gives discounts to non-profits (especially churches, missions, etc.) on shipments within the U.S. They also ship abroad; however they cannot offer the same discount. The company can be found at:

   http://www.freightquote.com

   Or call Karen directly at 800.323.5441, x1548. They apparently allow the user to see multiple shipping avenues, thereby finding the best rate.

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7. SOURCE FOR SWAHILI BIBLES — Do you know a source for purchase of Swahili Bibles or New Testament? A search has been made through the International Bible Society but it appears that the only option is online through Bible Gateway. Right now the only other alternative that has been found is through the British Bible Society but it would be best if it were from a source in the states. If you have any other leads or suggestions just post a comment with the source at:

   http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=27

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8. OPPORTUNITY IN CENTRAL ASIA — Here’s a person wanted as a Project Manager for Central Asia. They’re ideally looking for a couple, mid-30′s and above. Projects include water well drilling, water system delivery, build and repair schools. Engineering skills are not necessary, but the person must be able to manage people and make decisions or know how to find answers. Some financial management will be involved. The individual should be gifted or trained in discipleship. Contact travelwaterman(at)yahoo(dot)com if interested and for more details. [As a means of preventing spam for our contributors, in the preceding email address(es), please replace (at) with @ and (dot) with .]

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9. THANKS FOR THE ENCOURAGEMENT AND SPONSORSHIP — A Missions Minister wrote, this past week, “I’m a missions minister that is very grateful for the wonderful service you provide through Brigada. I find items in at least every third issue that is helpful to me. Thank you for your efforts for the kingdom.” He enclosed a check for $25. Thanks!!! In addition, thanks to PureSpring Int’l Ministries, Johnathon, Kathleen, Ruth, and First Baptist of Junction City who all bought their travelers’ insurance via , thereby resulting in a sponsorship gift of $47.75! If you’re going to buy traveler’s interruption insurance anyway, (or, for that matter, any other kind of insurance) why not give them a try at:

   http://www.missionaryhealth.net/brigada.htm

   Thanks, too, for the $20 donation from Golden Rule Travel

   http://goldenruletravel.com/missionary.asp

   a Christian travel agency that specializes in missionary, adoption, and humanitarian travel. They have special contracts to get the lowest price and extensive knowledge of our industry to give you the best service. Their 24/7 cell phone customer service is unprecedented and industry- leading. Please take a look at them.

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10. UNDERGIRD BRIGADA — Want to help? Just click “Donate.” You can pull the money from your PayPal account or from any major credit card. Or if you prefer, send a check payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada secretary), 11327 Jefferson Trace Blvd., Louisville, KY 40291. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) As always, be sure to let us know if you’d like us to promote any particular service or ministry, or if you’d prefer your gift be anonymous. And thank you in advance for helping.

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11. THE BACKPAGE: THE MEANING OF “CAMARADERIE” — To me, it’s a good word: “camaraderie.” It hails from an old French meaning “roommate,” and it carries with it, built in, not only a sense of friendship, but also a *positive* friendship. It goes beyond teammate by implying a sense of laughter, fellowship, and enjoying the challenge.

    I have to admit, I’m drawn to camaraderie. It just seems that any job or challenge feels easier when there’s fellowship among those accepting their various roles.

    Last night was a good example. I moonlight as a coach for the boys soccer team at a fairly large Christian high school. We were playing a team that had consistently beaten us. But on Labor Day, we did an optional practice where we even named the activities after their players. Drill #22 was the one where the defense sends a ball over the top of the opponents’ defensive line (just like #22 does on the team we were going to confront). When it happened during the game, our players were not only prepared for it, but they were kind of chuckling to themselves while they executed our strategy. They were enjoying camaraderie. Not only did they have a good time, but they also won! We beat our rivals 3-0, even though we had lost to them 3-0 earlier in the season. One reason? We took heart from the camaraderie we experienced with every player faithfully carrying out his role.

    How ’bout you? Do you have more fun when you’re serving on a team with camaraderie? Got an example of camaraderie in your own life? Just click comments on the web version of this article to share your testimony and/or life lessons. Find the web version here:

    http://brigada.org/brigade/?p=28