Mobilization.
What does it even mean? There are several definitions, but the one I keep coming back to is simple: bringing people together for action.
For the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of serving as the Mobilization Administrator for BIC U.S. World Missions, helping people identify their call and begin serving in cross-cultural settings around the world.
But mobilization is not something any one of us does alone.
Mobilization: bringing people together for action
Pastors, youth leaders, spiritual directors, Sunday school teachers, small group facilitators and so many more walk with people as they discern God’s calling on their lives. For some, that call may be to cross-cultural ministry.
That’s why I want to invite you to partner with me in mobilizing the people in your congregation who may be called to go globally.
Here are eight practical ways we can work together to invite your congregation to consider global service:
1. Let’s Chat!
You know the strengths, talents, and passions of your congregation the best. I would love to meet with you (in person or via Zoom) to share current global needs and help you identify 1-3 individuals in your congregation who may need encouragement as they explore cross-cultural service. To schedule a conversation, email me at vlandis@bicus.org.
2. Host a World Missions Speaker
Hearing real-life stories matters, and our missionaries and staff would love to speak to your congregation about how they’ve seen God at work in the world. Contact Tess Crawford (tcrawford@bicus.org) to get the list of upcoming availability.
3. Host a Global Missions Prayer Event
Our office can help support this, including providing our large 20’ x 40’ prayer canvas floor map with guided prayer prompts for our missionaries around the world. Contact Tess Crawford (tcrawford@bicus.org) for details.
4. Share Upcoming Short-Term Trips with Your Congregation
Facilitated by World Missions staff, these trips enable participants to step out of their comfort zones, serve alongside global faith leaders, and expand their understanding of the worldwide Church. Opportunities for 2026 are listed on our website and are a great first step for many.
5. Get Specialized Leadership Training for Short-Term Trips
One- to two-week missions trips have the potential to be enormously beneficial for both participants and the communities they serve. However, despite best intentions, these trips can often fail to make a lasting impact – or even hinder existing ministry – if not carefully planned. As a member of the Standards of Excellence in Short-Term Mission (SOE), we desire to maximize the lasting impact of short-term missions work.
There are two upcoming SOE online training:
- Weekend Option: April 17-18, 5pm-8:30pm Friday, 9am-4pm Saturday (Eastern)
- Mid-Week Option: May 5-7, 11:30am-3:30pm (Eastern) each day
Email missions@bicus.org to register.
6. Adopt a Missionary
Our missionaries’ work is grounded in the faithful prayer, emotional, and financial support of congregations. If your church would like to build a deeper relationship with a global worker, email missions@bicus.org.
7. Take our “World Missions Short Course” on Pathwright
This course helps leaders understand God’s heart and plan for all peoples, how BIC U.S. World Missions approaches cross-cultural work, and practical ways to be involved in God’s global mission. It is self-paced and takes 2-3 hours to complete. Register here.
8. Utilize the World Missions Video Library
We have a wide selection of professional videos featuring global workers sharing their stories and ministry updates. These can be used during services, small groups, mission Sundays, or on your congregation’s digital platforms.
For many years, I felt alone in the responsibility of mobilizing global workers. But that’s not true, and it’s not God’s design. Mobilizing the Church is something we do together.
Will you join me in helping the next generation of global workers hear God’s call and take the first step?
Originally published in the February issue of the Missions Moment e-newsletter.
Vicky Landis is the mobilization administrator for BIC U.S. World Missions. She is passionate about mentoring young people and walking with those who sense a call to cross-cultural ministry. She lives with her husband, Jared, in Lancaster, PA, where she attends Lancaster BIC. In her free time, she’s probably on the move: cycling, running, globetrotting, or taking her nieces and nephews on adventures.
