July 15, 2003
FSM 342 CM/FM
7/99
Copyright © 1999 by The Family
(Editor's note:) This FSM continues in the series of witnessing tips and ideas, compiled from comments and suggestions on your TRFs and other articles that you've sent in for publication. We've tried to include as many how to-type testimonies as possible. We hope these will give you new ideas for outreach methods that you may not have tried before—as well as some fresh approaches to those you're already familiar with. If you have found a new method for getting out the message, please write it up and send it in so we can publish it for all! God bless you!
From a Guadalajara Home, Mexico:
Here are a few things we've learned in getting our local CTP going here, which may help others.
- Locate a needy community in your city. It helps if it is a well-known area; then people you are petitioning for support will recognize the location as a needy one.
- Print up a cover sheet with the prospective community's name at the top, followed by a wish list of items which you need to make complete food packages to give away.
- Approach any and all food distributors, great or small, with your appeal project.
- Accept even small food donations.
- Use the food for the specific purpose for which it was intended.
- Pray and seek out someone inside the community in question, who can help make a list of the families who are the most needy. With the help of a concerned local resident you can get the food straight to the people who need it most.
- If feasible, establish a distribution base (such as in someone's house) where you can come regularly and where people can come to receive their food packages from you. This also provides the opportunity to read some Word and fellowship with them as they get their food.
- Take pictures of the distribution of the donated food and send them to your donors, along with a thank-you letter.
From Liz, Michael, Mercy and Stacy, Mexico:
Our CTP ministry consists of taking our extra provisioned goods to some of the most needy neighborhoods in our city. Until this month, we had been bringing the food in our van to the neighborhood, and the people would line up behind our vehicle with their own buckets, which we filled from the boxes of fruit and vegetables we had inside. But this generated lots of pushing and shoving in the line, and we frequently ran out of food before the line ended. Some of the parents sent several of their children through the line with buckets, which meant that some families got a few buckets of food, while the last people in line didn't get any.
To solve that problem, the Lord showed us to make individual bags of food to deliver directly to each house. He even raised up a contact who donated strong plastic bags to use. Although it is more work for us to prepare the bags at home, it has completely eliminated the confusion and problems we were having before, and saves us time in the delivery.
Best of all, though, we now have enough food for everyone, and no one goes away empty-handed. TTL!—And thank God for prayer and prophecy, through which we were able to find this solution.
From Tommy Livingstone, Thailand:
Doing CTP programs while on the road has been a great door opener for us, particularly in areas where people don't yet know the Family. It's a great way to introduce our work to the local community in their own institutions. At first I thought that since we weren't a show troupe, we couldn't do CTPs, but we found that almost everyone has something to contribute!
Our average CTP program lasts 1 to 1-1/2 hours, and consists of introducing ourselves, playing a few songs either on guitar or with a tape deck or video player, one or two skits, games with uplifting talk-time, questions which promote audience participation, and sometimes even dancing, depending on the group of people.
We try to approach potential places a few days in advance, not only to give us time to practice our program, but also to ask them for a tool sponsorship request letter. Then we can approach local businesses for sponsorship, in order to be able to present them with the sponsored tools at the end of our program.
We also take pictures for our photo albums and for the local sponsors. We try to get a thank-you letter for each sponsor as well. Our programs have been anything but professional, but the sincerity and love speak louder than anything, and in each place we've been so far, we've been very warmly received and are welcomed back.
From Chris, Susanna and Josh, Chile:
I have been holding monthly raffles with my friends and contacts, and the proceeds sponsor a collection of TA videos for a hospital or institution. The friends who participate in the raffle can also win videos, tapes and CDs. Our friends are thrilled with the idea! It had been difficult to find people to sponsor the videos, but raffles inspire them to help.
When presenting our gift to the CTP recipient, we take a photo of the occasion and send it with a thank-you letter and monthly newsletter to all our friends who participated in the raffle.
From Shajjad and Katie, Romania:
I found that many of the FC publications, such as board games, flannelgraphs, coloring sheets and activity pages, are useful in our CTPs with children.
I go once or twice a week to play, pray and read with young cancer patients, and I'm finding these publications very useful. We've been going to this hospital for nearly three years, and sometimes when I ran out of ideas of things to do, and was looking for new games to play, I realized that I didn't need to look very far or wrack my brain trying to come up with ideas.—All I needed to do was to look to the Family CC material for wonderful, Word-based activities, which is what those children need and appreciate the most.
I also use the materials with our sweet JETT-aged catacombers. They have helped color and assemble all the board games, and we are having such fun playing together. All our catacombers, young and old, like to join with the Praise Time activity game too.
From Francisco, Margarita, Esdras, Luz, and Dren, Mexico:
Prepare your shows and offer them in the public schools! You can ask for a minute contribution per student (such as 1-3 pesos), and get your support this way. Then you can offer the tapes and videos to the school's teachers and directors. Another tip is to go to the community cultural center and offer your presentation; they are often happy to pay you for those presentations.
From Jason, Chrys, and Marie, Thailand:
We are working on preparing a program for primary school children on moral development and avoiding social evils. We've begun by interviewing schoolteachers, finding the issues that concern them and problems that confront them. It's been really informative, and we'll be focusing on these responses, doing skits to illustrate them and using this as the basis of our presentation.
For example, we found that a majority of the poor kids at our local Buddhist temple school come from broken homes, and many are discouraged from even attending school. But without basic education, they'd face an even bleaker future. Knowing their specific problems help us encourage them with the Lord's solutions.
We are also experimenting with using pre-recorded sound effects for skits, using a laptop loaded with sound files.
From Leah and Casper, Thailand:
We keep our Home's outreach PR book in a clear folder, with photos and testimonies from all our main CTPs. Each month we do a two-page newsletter with updates on our activities, which we send to all our supporters. We also color photocopy these newsletters each month and add them to our PR books, so they stay updated and give a current picture of our work.
From Gabriella, Thailand:
For the next six weeks we are working together with the management of a resort to run four nine-day English camps for Thai students. There are approximately 50 students attending each camp, which include games, rallies, videos, songs, English classes, sports and other activities.
How it began: A very dear friend and supporter who is on the board of education has a hotel resort on a resort island, and he wanted us to do something for the Thai students there. He got this idea of running English camps at his resort, and asked us if we would help. He said that he would pay for our services with a donation for the Family.
The first one was an experiment and it went very well. The Superintendent of Education for some nearby provinces also came for a day or two to observe. So far, the first camp has been a success. We have two adults and two teens running things, along with two or three others from the hotel. There are also four Thai teachers attending who are interested in how we do it. They help with the children's care, so we are able to concentrate more on the teaching aspect, preparing activities, etc.
We have been able to use Family materials in our teaching. For example, sometimes we put on the Treasure Attic videos, and most of the English classes are taken from Family materials that we have in Thai and English. At meals, exercises and other activities, we play our tapes. We typed out and photocopied a song sheet for all to follow along with during song times. When the kids all sing together and dance, it is so powerful! We also use it as a means to teach them English.
If something comes up with the kids where someone is unloving, we are able to bring it up to the whole camp and teach about the right way to play, etc. So it has been very fruitful. We can't openly witness about Jesus, as the attendees' families are Buddhist, but we can witness to the students personally during breaks, etc., which has been very fruitful. On Talent Night, some of the children performed The Rock in the Road skit.
On the last day of the first camp, we displayed our tapes and CDs, and made them available to all. We got out 23 tapes and one CD in only a few minutes. TYJ! Most of the kids wanted the tapes with songs that we had learned at the camp.
From Leland, Spring, Steven and Mary, South Africa:
As the Lord usually provides nice housing for us in good neighborhoods, in doing our CTPs we've found it wisest to distribute donated food, etc., away from the immediate neighborhood where we live. Otherwise, it can become a problem—not only for us, but for our neighbors as well—as it attracts the poor who are prone to steal, particularly when they get the impression that things are readily available. So the Lord is showing us to just give out tracts from or have prayer for these people at our Home.
From Santiago L., Bolivia:
We met an international fundraising organization which is active in this country, and decided to offer them our tools, since they support child-oriented projects. We found out that the projects they were supporting were in desperate need of our videos. Their hunger for what we have to offer in the way of training, seminars, etc., was a great opportunity to pour all the valuable input and training we have in the Family.
We are already involved in some CTP-type ministries which need sponsorship, so we talked about the possibility of turning our CTP ministries into appeal projects. We took the matter before the Lord and He showed us to offer the organization the opportunity to invest in our projects, which can be tailored according to the specific need of each Home.
As we decided to start, we met a couple of people who explained to us how to appeal and how to approach them without having to compromise our beliefs or dedication to the Lord, Dad and the Family. Basically, there were several points to keep in mind:
- Our Goals: Define what we need and want to do.
- Our Methods for attaining those goals.
- Specifics: How will we put our plan into action?
- Itemized Budget Proposal
- Project Schedule
- Feedback/Final Report: At the end of the project, furnish a detailed report on the results.
There is of course some risk in getting so involved with the System, and we do not want to be ignorant of the Devil's devices, but where Jesus leads, and as He leads, we can safely go.
From John Trust, Middle East:
It began Christmas `97 when we brought our children to sing for a local needy children's hospital. The head doctor, who is very well known in the country and on the board of several foundations, was touched by our songs and our concern for the children suffering from leukemia.
At the same time, we were taking our OC singing group caroling for some of our friends. We would deliver Christmas cookies and see if they had time for a song or two. A wealthy Jewish businessman we visited was so touched by the songs that he hired our children on the spot to sing at all the branches of his exclusive department store. He also gave the team free singing costumes. He paid us very well for our performances, which was a needed blessing for us, as we had pretty much stopped distributing tools (which had helped support us) due to a problem situation several months earlier.
In the city's largest shopping mall, our friends from the hospital had a booth, selling odds and ends in an attempt to raise funds for new operating equipment. They asked us if we could sing in front of their booth, thus drawing a crowd, and their spokesperson would then make a request for the wealthy shoppers to help them. They were selling animal balloons as their main fundraising item, which went like hot cakes as no one here had seen these before. The kids' singing group would gather a large crowd, and people would buy balloons and other goods, literally filling their donation boxes. It was quite a success, to say the least. We never asked for a penny for ourselves, which made quite an impression on their staff; we were happy to be a blessing, as it is a needy situation.
We did another fundraiser for them the following April, on Children's Day, and then for a special weeklong celebration later on in the year. As the New Year approached, they again asked us to help them, this time for a ten-day program, which we agreed to. At the same time a facility for helping street children, where we do CTP, was suffering from incredible financial difficulties, not even able to afford electricity for one of their centers. We offered to do a fundraiser for them at a large gift fair, using the sculptured balloons. Again it went extremely well.
While we were doing this year's hospital program, a well-known local musician asked if he could help participate in the fundraiser. They had us perform on a stage right in the middle of the food court at the mall. An unexpected consequence of this was that the program was filmed for two prime-time TV shows, and the main newspaper covered the event.
At times we were wondering if we were just doing too much for this hospital, to do music programs, have the clowns sell balloons for them, singing in their hospital for the sick, etc., when we are struggling ourselves, and so many in our Home have needs as well. But when we prayed about it the Lord kept encouraging us to keep giving, that CTPs would be the foundation of the work.
Doing this for the hospital for two straight years now is starting to pay off in more ways than one. A large international fast food chain recently called us asking us to perform for their parties, which would be well paid. Several people who took our Caring Clown flyers have hired us for their private parties.
Another victory in this new ministry of helping others fundraise is that now they distribute our tapes for us on their table which they use to promote their products. We were able to get out 30 tapes at the hospital program, which is a fair amount for this area. The profits from the tapes were a blessing to us to cover some of our expenses!
Recently the Kidney Foundation asked us to help them in their fundraising, and we are working out to receive a portion of the donations to cover our expenses. National TV is coming to our New Year's hospital show, and will film the kids' and teens' shows. Though we are not able to promote ourselves as the Family here due to sensitive situations, we are meeting many good friends who might be able to help us here.
A final bonus is that the hospital was able to provide free medical treatment for Tab and Ban who have been suffering from asthma, and now that Tab is PG with number 6, they are working out her delivery free of charge. They are even taking care of our dog, who suffers from arthritis. Working with these dear sincere people at this hospital has definitely been a case of give and it shall be given to you.
And the icing on the cake to this story is that a dear young girl who we have known for a year now came to the hospital program and sang with our team, and wants to continue helping us. We are so thankful for this new way to win people to the Lord, get out tools and be a blessing to many!
From Gideon, Heidi, Sam, Samaria and Lily, Pakistan:
Watching FCF's fundraising video was a real faith and vision increaser! It caused us to really pray and raise our level of faith and asking.
Shortly after watching it and praying for new open doors, YA Lily and teen David met the young director of a multinational clothing company's new branch in our city. The director was impressed with our work and asked for a request letter, which we formulated according to our increased vision. He then visited our Home and was very touched by the children's performance. He told us how impressed he was with the young people's original presentation of our work, and how committed they were.
Three weeks after our first visit he phoned to say that he had passed on our letter to his head office in Hong Kong along with his recommendation. He apologized that they had closed their donation budget for the year, and that for now they were going to make only a small donation in response to one of our requests—$3,300! PTL!
Our new friend told us that we should apply again in March of next year, when they make their new budget, and that they should be able to help us in a bigger way. In the meantime we will be continuing to follow up on him. He is also asking us to get involved in an educational-type CTP that their company sponsors, as he really needs our help to make it work.
From Aaron, 19, Russia:
If you're in a country where native English speakers are a rarity, as in Russia, you could consider offering your services in correcting English text. There are numerous companies that need someone to grammar check things such as advertisements, Web site presentations, legal documents, communications with foreign companies, etc. It's not time-consuming, can be done during spare time, is a good fundraiser, plus it's something indispensable that every company needs and would probably really go for. We've only done one project so far for a friend who is helping us with our visas, so we haven't asked for payment, but it may be a good idea.
From Josiah, Jewel, Lily and Angie, Nepal:
When we need to take a road trip, we approach our friends who are not already pledgers or regular givers, and explain our plan, where we're going, and what CTP programs we'll be doing, what tapes and videos we'd like to donate to these institutions, and the cost of our trip. Different ones usually chip in with the equivalent of roughly $15-30, and when we put it all together, the Lord has always supplied enough!
Things have gone that way here a lot, as usually a lot of folks' donations put together add up to what we need, as opposed to one large donor. This has made us faithful to feed and follow up on these folks regularly. When we do, they know that we care about them, and don't only come to see them when we need help, which makes them willing to help when we do have a need.
From Christina, Simon and Kristia, Thailand:
One of our supporters gave us an idea for fundraising: He suggested that we explain our present—or near-future—CTPs on paper, along with the expenses we'll need for a three-month program on each project, and present this to our non-regular supporters and friends. This would give them a clearer idea of how they can be a part of our CTPs. They can then choose which project they'd like to support, and how much they would like to help with. Or this could be presented to new friends right away, to cultivate them into long-term supporters.
We brought his idea to the Lord and put our prayers into action and it works. We have gotten good responses and gained a lot of support from this new method. We are very thankful for a fresh approach to friends. TYJ!
From Natalie, Nick and James, USA:
We have put up advertisements in the community where we live saying that we do childcare at home, or babysitting. We've gotten quite a good response from parents. We put on the KVs and TAs for the children, and they just love them. Now we have parents asking to buy the videos, as the kids have told their parents about them! PTL!
From Gideon and Lamb, Norway:
Just before Christmas and during the days between Christmas and New Year, we tried something new: lotteries! We had recently formed a private, non-profit charity organization to help us with our ministry of humanitarian aid to Russia. As a result we can legally do lotteries.
We used a very simple setup with a package of 1,000 numbers. We chose the winning numbers and used as prizes different small items we had provisioned for that purpose.—They included such new things as gloves, scarves, small playmobile toys, stuffed animals, model assembly kits, kitchen utensils, and of course—our videos, tapes and CDs.
We used a large picture display of our work and put up a big sign saying that the proceeds were going to send humanitarian aid to Russia. It was very fruitful and we raised over $400. We also got an article in the local paper explaining our work. We had a chance to meet with many people, and everyone who bought lottery tickets was given a poster or tract.
From Philip, Meekness and Josh, Namibia:
With the Lord's help we were able to create a Yearly Summary Newsletter for our friends and supporters. We did it last year too, and it was a big testimony. Nothing succeeds like a success, and we felt there is so much to share and so much that has happened, that it's nice to give the Lord all the credit and share it with others! In this newsletter we included:
- the Word
- our basic yearly stats
- a list of the ministries we've been involved in
- our vision and goals for the next year
- a photo page
- a place for specific notes of thankfulness for their support.
From Joy, Christy, Sara and Jerub, USA:
Stoplight-witnessing, more commonly known as canning, was always really a trial for me. I knew Dad had said some pretty negative things about the way it was done in the past, and I felt like it was just a money-making gimmick, with no heart for the sheep.
I remember the first time I finally found myself in a situation where I was going to go canning. I really prayed and asked the Lord to help me, and went out deciding to throw myself into it wholly and shine His light to everyone I could. I determined that I was going to put the sheep foremost, and my motive was to get the lit into every hand that I could. I have found to my delight that stoplight witnessing can be a very inspiring way to meet people and share God's love with them!
I have often prayed with people for different troubles—right there on the street! Many times they have cried at my prayers. I have managed at times to find out things about their personal life in just a few moments. I have shocked them with my happiness even if they were grumpy and rude. I have humbled them with the fact that I try to get them to keep the lit even if they don't give a donation. I know that when I am filled with His Spirit they feel my sincerity and God's love, and I really get reactions.
If those of us stoplight-witnessing keep our sincere concern and love for those we meet, it can be a wonderful and inspiring witnessing adventure, and bear much more fruit than just a donation in the bucket! I have found that some of our stoplight witnessers go to the cars with their bucket in front of them, giving lit only to those who give a donation. But I feel that the Lord really blesses it when we first offer the lit to every person.
I have even sometimes found people who were pleasantly surprised that I would encourage them to keep the lit and read it, even when they gave nothing. I believe if they could have helped and didn't, later the Lord will convict them, and they may send something to your address, or even give if they see you again. I feel that this is a much better sample to impart to people, showing that what we feel is most important is getting out God's Word.
One time when we were traveling and had been in one city for the second day on the same corner, a lady a little ways down from where I was hollered for me to come, and handed me a $5 bill. She said that she had gotten a poster the day before and hadn't given anything, but after going home and reading it, made a point to come by again, hoping I'd be there so she could give a donation! To me, this was a real confirmation to seek to get out the message! So whatever way you're witnessing, keep shining His love and getting out His Wonder Working Words to a waiting world!!
From Mark Willing, Mexico:
Since using our Jesus shirt when canning, the witnessing and donations flow a lot easier. People can easily see even from a distance what you are and what you stand for, and have their donations ready.
From Ruthie and Abi, India:
After watching FCF's fundraising video, Ruthie (18) was ready to try out some of the tips she saw on the video. Before leaving home, our witnessing team set some goals. We didn't get out any tools the first half of the day. About to go home, almost defeated, we decided to try the proverbial one last door.
After introducing ourselves, Ruthie asked the general manager if she could go over around his desk to explain the work. He listened very attentively and then we laid out the videos on his desk. He then got out his checkbook and gave a good donation which amounted to the goals we had set before leaving home! PTL!
From Mary Heart, Pakistan:
The potential for seminars is tremendous. There are hundreds of private and government schools in our area, and we have done five seminars already. We made a one-page outline with the subjects we can do, each topic being covered in two hours. Then I faxed or mailed this form to all the schools which have taken our videos in the past. So far, it looks promising!
We cover such topics as teaching your baby to read, classroom control, pre-writing skills, motivation, etc. Besides us being able to witness and get tools out, we also ask for a donation of approximately $25 per hour. So even though it has been quite an investment to get all the needed materials together, in many ways it looks like it will be a rewarding venture in the long run!
From Stephen, Susanna and Rosita, Russia:
Our weekly Open the Door for the Children has continued to be a great blessing. The group continues to grow, with new children coming each week. It has worked well for us to invite the children to come learn English, as well as learn about the Bible. Thus, some parents who might otherwise object to the idea of their children attending a Christian program are willing to overlook that fact, because they are so interested in their children having the opportunity to learn English from native English speakers. Through this we've been able to meet and minister to many of the parents as well.
From Peter Heart, Pakistan:
About four years ago we began to explore the possibility of getting companies to advertise in our local newsletter.
In the first issue, we got one page of ads, which was encouraging as it brought in about US$700. The printing was provisioned, so there were minimal expenses involved. Plus we had an attractive color newsletter to mail to our local supporters, as well as give out to those we met. Then the Homes encouraged all the outreachers to pursue this new avenue, and in our next issue we were able to get about three pages of ads—which amounted to US$2000! It has turned out to be a great blessing in support and publicity!
We realized that companies with advertising budgets spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on advertising, and it is an avenue of support that can be exploited. Whether you are a registered tax-exempt organization or not doesn't matter in this case, as the funds are part of companies' budgets designated for a specific purpose, and as long as it goes for that purpose, that is all that matters. Sometimes it doesn't even need the approval of the top man in the company; many times the marketing manager has the authority to arrange advertising.
We are seeing things start to really take off, as we have been working quite hard and are developing long-term commitments with some companies. This ministry takes someone with a real vision and a lot of patience and faith, as it can be a fight to get started, and it requires a lot of work. You have to not only get the ads, but gather material for the newsletter, and get the printing and layout work done, etc. But if you enjoy this type of work, it can be a lot of fun.
The Lord did so many miracles to encourage me to keep going. He's supplied professional ad agencies who do the layout work for free. He dropped a very precious printer into our laps to do our printing for free when we weren't even expecting it. He supplied high-capacity Zip drives for our computer work, and all kind of things that made &&&everything go a lot smoother. Even the director of the company that does our layout work has become one of our largest monthly pledgers! It's been very exciting.
Now our newsletter has taken on a new form of providing the GP with helpful information, while still highlighting our activities. We also put some spiritually feeding material in. All in all it's become a real blessing to our work. People are impressed when they see a color brochure representing your activities. Plus seeing some of your sponsors gives more credibility to your work and sometimes provokes other companies to do something for you as well.
Here are summaries of some points we've found helpful:
- Look in local newspapers or magazines for the companies that advertise, so you know whom to target. You can ask any company, big or small, if they advertise, but knowing in advance is helpful. I find it much more fruitful to call in advance to get an appointment rather than just dropping in on them—especially with the bigger companies, this can make a big difference.
- Always aim at seeing the top man in the company. But if you see that that is a closed door, don't give up. Go for the marketing manager, especially in the bigger companies, and often he'll be the one who okays the ad for you.
- When a company agrees to advertise, ask them how many issues a year they want to have their ad printed in, or if you can use their ad in each issue you publish. In some cases you may feel led to get to know them a bit more before you ask them for a commitment, but it isn't a big deal for them, so be Spirit-led and don't be shy.
- Just to give you an idea of the funds that are spent on advertising: Here in Pakistan, companies easily spend US$10,000 per month just for one sign board on a main city street.
- Some companies pay in advance; others pay on receipt of the newsletter.
- Don't limit yourself to only approaching companies for advertising. You'll find some companies that won't go for ads, but they'll sponsor videos or vice-versa.
- Advertising companies can sometimes arrange ads for you, but they'll take a commission unless they like what you're doing and agree to waive their commission. They can also help with layout work, but you should find someone who will do the work for free, as it can be very expensive otherwise. Try to find a good firm, as it will most likely make a difference in the quality of work you get.
- Don't get discouraged in the initial stages, as it can take quite a few months to get the first issue off the ground, and it may be three or four issues before it begins to really take off. Just remember that once this ministry does get rolling it will be a steady form of income, especially when you get several companies who are committed to help with each issue.
- Of course it should be understood that you should have a regular program for spiritually feeding your sponsors, as they are most likely sheep that the Lord wants you to take care of.
- You'll need a tariff card with the prices of the different sizes of ads. We just typed up a letter on our local letterhead, which gave a brief rundown of our work and a short paragraph about the circulation of the newsletter. Then we listed the rates for the ads and mentioned the fact that their donations would go to sponsor the projects we are involved in.
- Keep in mind that when you approach companies for advertising in your newsletter, it is on the grounds that they are giving a donation to help sponsor your volunteer work. Don't approach it as a business deal, as there is too much competition to convince them that they will get the advantage from the advertisement to justify the amount you are asking.
- We ask about US$500 for a full-page ad, US$250 for half, US$125 for a quarter page. You will have to judge your field conditions and go according to your faith; that's just to let you know what we charge, so you have an idea to go on. You can also have different rates for color ads and black and white ads.
- Try to get the companies to give you the ads and fees directly, as if they refer you to their ad agency, these charge a commission and oftentimes are very slow in paying.
- Set a reasonable timetable for each issue. Go slow at first, as it takes time to start a new project. You can always increase the frequency of the issue as time goes on. The Lord will come through if you're doing your best and following His leadings.
(Editor's note: Needless to say, if you commit yourself to such a venture, you must be faithful to produce the newsletters on time and in the amounts promised.)
From Elizabeth, Middle East:
When approaching large companies, banks, etc., we present the need for regular support towards our volunteer programs. Individuals and smaller companies often show interest in helping monthly, but larger corporations (such as banks and insurance companies) seem to prefer yearly gifts.
We prepare a two-page personalized request letter, on letterhead, which contains a brief overview of our activities over the past few years, as well as one or more suggestions of how they can participate financially. Then, depending on the need or the importance of the company, we enclose a plastic folder containing 6-12 pages of recommendation and thank you letters, copies of any certificates from local institutions for our services, monthly overviews of our recent activities, as well as, if possible, a color newsletter of our work (or photo pages).
This portfolio folder gives a somewhat official presentation. We adapt its contents over time, as we add more recent recommendation letters and take out older ones, depending on to whom it is addressed. Which area of our work we emphasize, such as our work with the refugees, or orphanages, or with the handicapped, or our musical programs, varies with the person or company we address it to.
In the case of a large donation from one bank, they replied in a very clear way that this gift was a one time only gift, in other words not a commitment of yearly sponsorship. However, the PR lady said to me, next year you should reapply, and I sure hope that we will give again! PTL! It shows that they do understand and relate to this kind of request for regular (in this case yearly) support.
From Tim, Philippines:
When the economy plummeted here in Asia, we were caught off guard. Many of our friends who have been faithfully helping us couldn't continue on a regular basis. Our outreach wasn't doing so well either.
We got on our knees, crying out to the Lord. Then slowly it dawned on us that we had been looking at the conditions, and that is why the Lord couldn't supply. The Lord said we had to make sure we didn't forget our praise times, as this is the voice of faith, and by doing so we are thanking Him in advance for His blessings! Then, boom!—Out of an unexpected situation came our finances to pay the rent and other bills! This experience gave me the faith that the Lord will always care for His Own! TYJ!
From David and Praise Lamb, Canada:
A lot of people have a common dilemma—they don't know what to do with their pennies! Quite frequently these coins end up discarded and cast aside in ashtrays, drawers, jugs, jars, cups and the like. With change (ha!) in mind, the Lord showed us to go DTD with our two MC girls and conduct what we now call a Penny Harvest. We found out that lots of people were more than happy to part with their pennies—from a little handful to bucketsful! Of course, we don't turn down other coins or bills as well!
We were able to collect close to $200 from the first building that we tried—a building that had been DTD'd so many times in the past! We also gave out a poster and a copy of our newsletter to the people who gave, and in the end averaged a dollar per poster—not bad when you're just asking them for their penny collection! Sorting, counting and transporting them can be quite a logistical undertaking, but TTL our bank has been cooperative.
From an educational and spiritual perspective, our MC girls saw once again that the Lord can use what people would consider of little or no value, as something that can be a blessing and a benefit to others. TYJ!
From Peter, Marianne, Mary and Jakim, USA:
I've noticed that people like a particular reason or purpose to donate to, more than just donating to support you. I started at Christmas time. I dressed up my can with holly and bells, and approached cars with, Merry Christmas! I know that's not exactly new, but it worked well.
I thought I'd try the next major event of Valentine's Day. I put hearts and roses on my bucket and said, Happy Valentine's Day, and handed them a quote poster. People were so inspired to receive something instead of someone always trying to take from them. Of course, I would ask if they'd like to donate to our work, which most were happy to do.
For Easter, I got a big Easter basket and filled it with posters (mostly Man of Love and Quote posters, but anything would go), and said, Happy Easter! People loved throwing money in the basket.
Now I'm trying Mother's Day. The Quote posters are so nice to give to mothers. I always have the Lion posters and kids' posters as well to give to those I think would read them more. Here in the States people decorate and sell things for these holidays at least a month ahead, so I can capitalize on this for a month each holiday. Not only does this work well to get the posters out, it makes it so much more fun to have variety in outreach!
From Leah, Thailand:
We made appreciation plaques for our main supporters this month. We chose a thank you-type poem and then wrote their name and a personal word of thanks to them at the bottom. We then hand-drew and colored/painted flower designs on each plaque.
We found a company that makes plaques who was able to help with them in bulk for a very cheap price. This made a nice gift to show appreciation for our friends who have been so faithful to continue helping us in spite of the economic problems, when many of them are struggling themselves.
This is what we wrote:
A thoughtful act or a kind word may pass in a moment, but the warmth and care behind it stays in the heart forever.
Dear (Mr./Mrs./Ms. X),
Thank you for caring and for your help in making our work possible.
With sincere appreciation,
The Family
From Zech, Hannah, Anna and Joktan, USA:
If you ever have an emergency situation like we did this month when our vehicle's engine blew, try sending out an emergency appeal letter followed up by a phone call a few days later, as this helps re-instill the need. I think it helps our contacts realize how much we really need them. It's a little humbling, but good for the pride and gets good results. TTL!
From Christian and Timothy, Chile:
We have printed desk cards with a picture of our music band on one side, and the logo and needed information on the other and also a quote from the MOP about music. We'll be giving this out along with a Somebody Loves You tract to the most potential and responsive people of the audience, and also to be used as a business card to get into new places.
From Pablo, Perla and Love, Ecuador:
After tool distribution, our second-best method of support is children's parties, something that has really caught on here. We have a complete show with clowns, puppets, games and songs. Then we get to know people who are interested in our doing a party for their kids, etc., as well as have a chance to witness.
From Luke, Poland:
When I first joined the Family, our Home was short of personnel and low on finances. One idea that came up was to go clowning. Because there were not many people in the Home, it was obvious that one of the clowns would have to be me. This idea really scared me—I felt I could do anything but clowning. But the idea never came about, and I was glad for that.
Then in the next Home we moved to, the same idea came up. I made the clown costumes for those who were going to go clowning and that was it. I didn't want to have anything else to do with it. But when the people from our Home were first going clowning, it turned out that they needed one more person, and the costume that was left fit me very well.
Well, the thing that I fought so hard is something that I like doing the best now! Because of our outfits, we can reach people we wouldn't be able to otherwise. When I kneel in front of the little kids, making different balloons for them, it makes me really happy. Our sample wins the hearts of kids and parents. They all know who we are and what we are doing, and we use it to personally witness to them. We are still working on this project, it's building our faith, and we are learning to depend on the Lord more through it. The fruit it bears is good, and it also helps us to bring in more finances.
From Eli, USA:
Next time you go clowning, buy one of those cheap Polaroid cameras and a pack of film. Charge people $2-3 (or whatever you have the faith for) to get their picture with their favorite clown!
From Ben, Harvest, and Meek, USA:
We'd like to share an idea to use when clowning at birthday parties: Organize a raffle. Each child enters their name, and at a certain point during the event, a winning name is pulled, for a prize of our tools.
We've also found during parties that sometimes the kids can get pretty rowdy and difficult to control. That's a good time to divert their attention by putting on one of our videos, which has already been cued up to a catchy song or skit. That will keep their attention and calm them down until it's time for the next game or activity.—And it has the added advantage that the parents can see how their children respond to our videos.
From Joshua, Priscilla and Faithy, Brazil:
The Lord opened the door to set up a stand with our tools, clowns and balloons at a horse farm that is frequented by lots of families on the weekends. We learned from this that prayer and seeking the Lord for every move is very important! It wasn't until three of us (Simon, Marie and Claire, YA/SGAs) got together to desperately pray and hear from the Lord about our ballooning idea that the door opened to set up our stand. The Lord told us not to go out in our own strength but in His.
So instead of going out blind that afternoon, we decided to stay home and prepare a request letter which we would present to the managers of places that looked potential. When we presented this letter to the manager of the horse farm, he was impressed! TTL that we stopped and invested time to do it—just as the Lord suggested!
From Clara, Russia:
When Daniel and I were ballooning as a fundraiser in Germany, we found that it helps to present people with a concrete goal, something like, We've been working in such-and-such a city for so many years doing this and that project. We're planning to return in so many weeks/days. Then people can see that we mean business and know what we're doing, and most give cheerfully. If someone was interested we witnessed to them further.
We hung 30-60 ready-made balloons on a huge provisioned rainbow umbrella, and the kids could choose one. This way we were mobile, and it didn't even take knowing a lot of complicated stuff. We just made the simplest balloons possible, and people liked them just as much.
From John and Dawn, USA:
We have been setting up inside department stores, which I understand some have had difficulty with. In our PR book, we put some photos of our clown team, taken inside a big-name department store, so that it's very obvious where we are. When trying to book our show in a new store, we go in dressed nicely, explain our work and show our PR book to the managers. There are also pictures of our clown team with hospital staff and thank you letters from other CTP events. Having both the overall presentation of our work, as well as seeing that other department stores also support our work by letting us clown, seems to give managers the faith to let us into their stores also.
We have heard of clown teams in other areas who have said they cannot get out lit while clowning. However, for us it has never been a problem. We have poster tracts which our printer donates, and we give these as coloring pages. I always tell the parents: Help yourselves to a coloring page for the kids. There's a Christian message on the back which you will all probably enjoy as well!
We also have tapes set out, and place Somebody Loves You tracts by the donation box/can. The parents often look through our PR book (which is also displayed open nearby) or check out the tapes while waiting for the balloons or face painting. I also witness to people as they are standing there. Quite often they are touched to give an extra donation after knowing more about us and hearing our witness. Painting a face can present an opportune time to witness salvation to kids too!
From Christina, Patrick and Peace Jubilee, USA:
When we put up a sign at our ballooning stand saying $1 per balloon, some people were offended and went away disgruntled with sad or screaming kids. Now our big sign gives our organization name and says Give a donation—get a balloon!—What everybody needs is love! People feel free to give less, and many give more.
Our donation bucket reads: Thank you for your help! Free poster or story!—Take one! and is stocked with posters and The Prince and the Magical Power tracts. If they don't take one, we hand the tract to the parent or the child—and they are so pleased and happy to get it.
Although our donation per balloon is lower, we make lots more friends and get out quite a lot of tracts and Posters, and even some tapes and videos. Our overall income for the day has dramatically increased and we are more inspired too!
Organization also makes things go more easily: I have a shoe organizer (hanging with separate pockets) to separate the different colors of balloons, as we are sometimes asked for certain colored balloons. It hangs on the back of the shopping cart or card table. I tie (or tape) a string clothesline from the cart or table to a nearby area and string up the balloon animals for the kids to choose from. This is helpful when people are in a hurry and need to grab one quick and not wait around for you to make one.
Or I sometimes tie some 6-inch lengths of yarn to the front of the cart to stick the balloons right there at the kids' nose-level. I carry my balloon stuff in an ice-chest, and when I use a shopping cart, the ice chest in the cart makes a handy tabletop to display the brochure and local pix, and also some tapes/videos, business cards, etc.
When we use a table, the chest goes under the table, hidden by a colorful tablecloth. Our big eye-catching poster board sign hangs down in front of cart or table and says it all.
Serena mentioned that while she paints the kids' faces, she wins souls. She tells a little story relating to each design she paints, which leads kids to the Lord.
One more point for us older clowns: A heavy ballooning weekend sometimes resulted in a flare-up of carpal tunnel syndrome, and my arms and hands would ache at night. I found a video on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome—Relief and Prevention (from a book by the same name) showing simple hand and arm exercises for stretching and strengthening, which have been a big help.
From Charity, Lydia, Rachel, Jesse and John P., USA:
For those Homes who are clowning for a fundraiser, we have found that getting insurance has opened up a lot of doors for us to get better places, as here in the States many places are worried about getting sued if a child chokes on a balloon.
From Daniel, Mercy, Daisy and Crystal, USA:
To avoid having to run to the bathroom or snack bar to change water, I bring a bottle or two of fresh water and place a bucket under the table to dump the used water in. The bucket has a lid with a small cap, which I open and put a funnel in to avoid spills. This way I can change water every time I paint a face, and it looks a lot cleaner and more inspiring.
For those of you who like to use water-based paints, you can get a set of 12 colors, in 8-oz bottles, for $42.50 (including shipping) from S&S, a company in the US, whose toll-free phone number is 1-800-243-9232. They are made especially for face painting and the large bottles last a long time. Ask for the Palmer Face Paints. They'll also send you a catalogue if you ask.
From Daniel, Mercy, Daisy and Crystal, USA:
For a fast, easy, cheap and nice-looking balloon display, decorate a can (such as a small coffee can) with pictures or whatever (we used the Family brochure). Fill it with sand, and stick 6-8 dowels into it. Fasten the balloons on the dowels without using tape. This takes up very little space on your table and you can sell right off of the display, thus keeping your display fresh.
We also got small drawer sets, which we found helpful in keeping our balloons tidy and convenient (we separate them by color). The one we got was in the handyman section for keeping nuts, bolts, etc. It has a handle on top and 10 swing-out drawers, plus one large one at the bottom where you can put your marking pen, etc. Approximately 10 x 12 x 5 in., plastic. It keeps your table looking neat.
From Patrick, Christina, and Peace, USA:
We do face-painting and had some questions about what kind of designs we should do. Some felt that it was fine to sort of become one and do some popular designs (snakes, aliens, Batman, etc.), so we wouldn't come on too stiff and religious, even though some were not so edifying. Here's what the Lord told us in prophecy about it, which we thought would be interesting for others who face-paint:
(Jesus speaking:) Whatsoever things are lovely, pure, and of good report, think on these things. No man liveth or dieth to himself. Whether therefore ye eat or drink or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. If there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think of these things.
The world knows enough Hell, show them a bit of Heaven. Be ye messengers of peace, love and righteousness. Be ye separate! It is good to do nothing whereby thy brother stumbleth. He that knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is sin. All good and perfect things come down from the Father of lights.
Judge by this manner: What would I draw on their faces? What would I tell them? What impression would I want to leave them with? Be Me, and let Me use you, and yield to Me and I will use you. You will be love to these people. Be Me to these people. Draw Me. Draw My Spirit, My love and My care.
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of you, but that which is good for the use of edifying, that it may minister grace. (End of message from Jesus.)
From Joshua and Joanna, Taiwan:
A friend printed up a full-color A3-size poster for us, advertising our kids' singing group and clown act. This has proven very helpful and has gotten us different open doors as at our shows we distribute them to interested people who approach us about our work and show.
One other thing that has been fun is making cute balloon sculptures and giving them away during our kids' shows as shiner prizes for little trivia quizzes we hold during our shows. For example: How old is my youngest daughter? We did this at a Christian show and then also gave the balloon sculptures away as free gifts to those who bought our tools. We did get out lots of tools to folks who wanted a balloon, and this helped our tool output to go really well at that particular show.
We have also tried to involve our tools in our balloon-making more, by offering free balloons to people who get the tools for their kids. So far it has been quite encouraging, and we are learning how to combine both together rather than just making balloons as clowns without much witness.
From Abe, of Love, Poland:
The Lord recently led us into ballooning as a means of support, but due to the strong anti-sect, anti-cult, suspicious sentiments in this country, we did not feel led to distribute tracts while ballooning. We looked at it more as a means of support, freeing us to do our other ministries for the Lord.
When approaching a new mall in the city, the man accepted us clowning for our charity work, but said that he would like it if we could provide some sort of sign that they could put up in the entrance afterwards, stating the amount raised and what it was used for. This was a big request for us, as we haven't been used to being so open about financial details! Secondly, we weren't sure how to present the fact that while we do help the poor and needy physically as much as we are able to, a lot of our help is in the spiritual through our witness and literature, and the money doesn't always necessarily go to purchases for the needy. We get most of the physical help for CTPs through provisioning, and the financial help goes to cover our operating costs.
Well, the Lord had the answer: to give a full set of tools to the orphanages and children's centers we've been working with (10 videos in total). This way, as a sponsorship, we are able to charge the normal amount we charge, pay the tithe and seed corn, and benefit from the Lord's supply through the remaining finances. And the children at four orphanages in our city receive a priceless collection of material with a wonderful message of the Lord's love for them.
This has been an answer to our prayers in more ways than one, as we have been praying and trying to find people who would be willing to sponsor videos for these centers and orphanages, and now our prayers have been answered. TTL!
From Mary Hart, Canada:
I used to be the straight person presenting the tapes and videos, and I enjoyed it! Then clowning around became an interest, and I noticed I could make people laugh effortlessly—something I've not been known for! I decided to put on a clown suit, and it's been a key to helping me open up and love more. Even though I could make people laugh, I felt I wasn't relaxing with others, and was somewhat tense and bound—even when simply fellowshipping at Home. But now it's very special how I can just be.
All of this to say the Lord can use anything to set us freer! I've discovered a new way to enjoy others (most people like a clown) and the barriers go down. I'm still able to talk heart to heart, pray with them, tell it like it is—and they see the humorous side. Amazing!—I'm continuing to discover Him, even at the ripe age of 50.
From Maria, Victor and Lily, Italy:
We've learned that it's a good idea to ask for ballooning permission from local authorities ahead of time. This way you can assure yourself a good spot.
From David, Ruthie, Heidi, Taiwan:
I use a block request letter that I fax to every potential provisioning contact I meet. I don't use a logo, but that might be a good idea. At the top of the fax I have listed the To/From/Re: in big print, then I go into the body of the letter. I increase the font in my letter to the maximum size without needing a second page, as faxes can come out unclear, so the bigger the print the better.
My main letter begins with an introduction of who I am. I list my wife and kids and our group's main purpose. I then add a short testimony of someone's life changed through knowing us. The third paragraph is the actual request. This, along with the greeting, is the only part I change for each contact. I then end with thanks for taking their time to read this fax note. I also leave my phone number and e-mail, so they can get in touch with me.
I have a fax program on my computer, so I just bring out the document in Word for Windows. After editing and a final read-through, I go to the file/print menu. Instead of printing to the printer, I choose my fax driver which opens up the fax program. From there I just fax it to the company. (Be aware that some fax programs, like mine, register the company name and phone number in its .ini file. I have to go back and erase the addresses from this file and its backup if I don't want to keep a ready record to all our contacts.)
It might be a good idea to give the company a call soon after, asking if they got your fax. Most of the time the company makes a decision even before they meet me, so I believe the fax is a very important tool.
From Nadia, Russia:
One tip is to go through all the materials in your PR album before each appointment, to see if you want to leave everything in there, or maybe change something around for this particular person.
On the last page of my PR album, I had a list of all the contacts that had helped us before. There were some pretty big names such as McDonald's, Pepsi Cola, etc. When a man we were approaching saw this, he was very impressed by all the companies that helped us and said: So how can we help you too? PTL!
This man was also very impressed by all the pictures and projects we showed him. But he said: Okay, I saw everything that you have done but what are your plans, what are your goals? Of course we explained it to him, but we thought it would have been better to have a brief write-up about the projects and goals that we need help with in our PR albums too.
From Isaac and Ruth, Burma:
We have made it a point to go to trade fairs and exhibitions and look at all of the products available, collect the name cards, and then follow up on the people. Some of these people later became close personal friends.
One time the salesmen from one company told us that their boss had instructed them to destroy half a container of imported packaged food, as the date had expired. They knew that the food was still good and felt bad about destroying it, knowing the need of the poor around them, so they hoped that we would be able to get it to distribute. They were very happy when the boss agreed to this. So we are learning that it is important to take care of and minister to the little people in the companies too, not just the boss.
From Hosanna, Maryann, David, India:
When going shop-to-shop provisioning in a wholesale market, we took our needs list, printed out in large print on our letterhead, with a space by each item for people's signatures. It was a great blessing, and gave people more of a vision to give. After one person gave and signed his name, others were encouraged to give also. Positive peer pressure worked!
From Juan and Letizia, Italy:
We found out that when witnessing to the market stands, it is always better to go when they are almost closing down. When they are with their clients, they have their mind focused on their business, whereas while they're closing down, they are more relaxed and willing to listen and help. We also have more time to share the Word with them.
From Paul, Charity and Eman, Reunion Islands:
When going shop to shop, if the people we approach say they cannot buy a video or a tape, we have started asking if they would like to donate their services or their products, when it's something that we could really use. For example, the other day a lady who runs a hairdresser salon didn't want to buy a video, but she agreed to do two free haircuts.
From Vicky, Italy:
I was always used to big-scale provisioning, where you get a lot of things from one place, but this month we tried something new: a little city market where you get a little from each little stall. This was something that another Home had pioneered, and then had passed on to us when they left the country.
At the beginning I was skeptical, but soon I saw that what all the little people gave weekly really added up. At the end of our round we had enough fruit, veggies, meat, fish and bread for the whole week—not only for our Home, but enough to share with other nearby Homes. Plus, instead of feeding the Word to only one person, we're now feeding 30!
It reminded me of when Dad said that he preferred to have 1000 little widows giving him $1 a month, instead of one man giving him $1000 and telling him what to do with it. Maybe it will not work for everybody, but for our small Home, it really fills the need.
From John, Rose, Tabitha, Turkey:
One of our hotel contacts that helped our road teams decided to send us their extra linens, staff uniforms, etc. They also plan to ask their guests to leave any unwanted items to send to us. They collect these and have them shipped to us by a transport company. GBT! This might be an idea for other Homes who send out road teams!
From Steven, written when in the USA:
I chose to take a job because I needed to show support in order to get my wife's green card. (We had come to the States from the field and didn't really know anyone to sponsor us in this.) My heart's desire was to have a position where I could witness.
I applied for different positions, and ended up with a job as a personal trainer at a fitness club. Due to Family training, I had no problem approaching people to help them. People started to like me, and my clients started to multiply. From the start I let people know that I was a missionary, which was a ground for witnessing. I didn't want to hide my candle and miss the blessings of the Lord. Because I obeyed, the Lord blessed us.
My clients gave us things we needed to make our ministry easier. When we didn't have a place to stay (due to a situation with our landlord) the Lord touched the heart of a woman named Sharon—who is now a live-out—to open her doors to us. Before I asked, she offered. She said the Lord had put it on her heart to help us. I had started witnessing to her and found out that her husband had been killed by a drunk driver, so she needed us as well. Sharon also gave us the money for our van, which we desperately needed. Before that she had lent us a truck that had belonged to her husband.
Another person from the gym was Eric, who helped us financially, enabling us to get a computer and printer. We also rented a house owned by one of my clients; after hearing about our work and the children's singing, he let us rent it for half the price of our previous apartment. He also let us stay rent-free for five months, to allow us to use the money towards funds for the field. Because I was faithful to witness, the Lord did it.
I also got awards for outstanding performance and was offered different promotions, but since my life was that of service to the Lord, I turned them down.
I think the main things to remember when working at a secular job is to first know that it's God's will, and to be faithful to witness. The Lord may open a door that you couldn't get in otherwise, so strike when you have the chance. Like Dad said, sometimes it's the rich who are the most destitute.
From Ray, of Rejoice, Japan:
I was recently experimenting with teaching English as an outreach method. I began using some retyped Family materials and stories. My aim was to get close to these people by giving them what they wanted: to learn English. They saw that I was really trying to help them learn, taking extra time to answer their questions and help them in areas they were having a hard time with. They received posters, tapes and CDs enthusiastically. I was also able to use some Family songs in classes and activities. The KVs and TAs were great teaching tools.
I started teaching part-time at the school, but then they asked me to go full-time. After praying and hearing from the Lord with my mate, I decided to go for it. It was supposed to be for one month only, but they still hadn't found a teacher, so I agreed to stay on for a few more months. I had a good relationship with the students and the staff, and everyone wanted me to stay, but finally we left the city to pioneer a different area with another family.
During that time some of the students had been visiting the Home and getting quite a witness. Some of them got saved, and I am still in communication with some of them, following up through the mail. Witnessing in this way I was able to get close to most of the students, and win them as friends. We were able to talk about a lot of subjects, which usually led back to the Bible and other related topics.
It wasn't always easy to witness in a school where there were rules forbidding discussion about religion, but I found ways to get around it. It was a secular job for which I was getting a salary, but I was able to pretty much witness to whoever I wanted or felt was sheepy, and also get out our lit and music tools. It was also in a very cold part of the country, Hokkaido, where the extreme weather made it very difficult to do street witnessing.
Now, in Akita, I am still pioneering this way of witnessing and praying for sheepy students. English is something the Japanese people will always want—if not for themselves, for their children. It has opened doors, and helped me to meet very precious people that probably would not have received a poster or tape on the streets.
English teaching, for me anyway, has proven to be a way that I can meet new people and ensure a way to witness to them and feed them regularly, while also receiving their support. It is also a way to get out the tools. It may not be for everybody. I taught English in the past without really having the motivation or vision to turn it into a witness. Now I don't want to do it unless I can witness and meet sheep.
From Sam, of China, Japan:
I worked at a System job for about one year. As with everything, it had its good points as well as its bad. The main reason I took the job was for the witness. I've lived in Japan for a long time, and was frustrated at the way I had witnessed in the past. A few other YAs and I wanted to try to reach the Japanese people on their own level. I wanted to find a way to minister to the top without being concerned with their money, etc., so I took up being a bartender.
As the saying goes, a bartender is a man's best friend. It was true and applicable in my case. Customers would come, sit and drink—for anywhere from one to seven hours. Initially they wouldn't be that drunk, so you could hold a decent conversation with them for a while. I got quite close to many customers right away, and many would come just to talk to me and pour out their hearts. There were a few bartenders working there, and they too had a lot of time to talk to people. But whenever someone wanted to talk about something deep, they'd naturally come and talk to us Family young people who were working there.
Being a rookie at working at a System job, I made a lot of mistakes. I had to learn the balance in having a good time with the customers and bringing in a heavier witness. I wanted to stay away from coming across religious and churchy, but at the same time let people know that I had morals and was serious about my life. At first this was easy to do. I found that it was good to tell them three things right off the bat: Number one, that I am a Christian. Number two, that I do and support missionary work. Number three, that I am married. This helped keep a lot of pressure off me.
Originally I was only planning on working at this job for a few months. But as time went on, I ended up working about five nights a week, six hours a night, for a number of months.—And this much System influence won't do anyone much good. Instead of controlling the job, I let it control me. I started to compromise my convictions in drinking; the time I had to witness and talk to people turned out to be more partying and games and talking about nothing.
The first thing that went wrong was my desire for the Word left me, because I was filling up my desires with the work and System influence. One night, the Lord really rubbed my nose into how out of it I'd been. I ended up drinking—in the space of one hour—five liters of beer (because I was dared to), and some vodka on top of that, which created a bomb and set me over the toilet. I woke up feeling like, How could I go that far? I saw the shocking truth of my situation. I believe if I had worked much less, I could have been more on guard. But because it had gotten to where my time in the Family atmosphere was so much less than my time in the System, it became unbalanced.
I also strongly believe that just like in FFing, the girls needed a fishermen, the same held true for me, in a different sense. I needed a strong shepherd. Maybe some other jobs aren't as materialistic as mine was, but they still can't be taken lightly, as the Devil can use it as a tool to cause you to doubt the Word and the Family lifestyle, and take you right into the System.
On the other hand, if it is taken seriously, the Lord can get good mileage out of it. We gained a number of very close friends, and the souls that were won were very solid and really knew they were saved. There was one staff worker who the Lord used me to minister to, despite my bad testimony at times. He would often come over to our Home during the day to fellowship and share his heart. One day he called me and said that he had a lot of friends that he could hang out with, but that I was the only guy that he could pour his heart out to, and he was wondering if I had time to talk with him. The Lord still uses us in spite of our failures. An important lesson that it taught me was that everyone has a heart that needs to be touched.
Before, I used to look at the Japanese as a people. Now I look at them as individuals. I also speak Japanese much better than I ever have before and I feel very confident in communicating with them.
I guess the point I want to stress the most is, Use it!—But don't let it use you! Working at a System job can be beneficial or it can be a detriment. The Enemy is playing for keeps and, as Dad said, one compromise leads to more. System jobs can be a powerful way to witness if used for the Lord's glory.
Again I want to emphasize to be careful how much time you spend in your job, as there is a very strong pull and you need sufficient rest with the Family. There are different pitfalls and signs you need to be watch out. If you find yourself neglecting the Word and using other things to fill up your life, then you're starting to walk more on the Devil's territory. You need to evaluate right away what you're doing and watch that the System job doesn't take the Lord's place in your life.
(Editor's note: And make doubly sure that it's the Lord's will in first place, and then keeping checking in with the Lord to see if you're still on the right track!)