Christar is an interdenominational faith mission with more
than a half century of ministry in the establishment of local indigenous
churches.
What is a "Faith Mission?"
Each missionary with Christar must trust God for their
financial support. We believe that the work of God is accomplished
primarily by God's working in and through His servants in answer to
prayer.
Missionaries on furlough (i.e., home leave after a term of service)
Missionaries on the home office staff from the president down
How is support raised?
Individuals, churches, Sunday school classes, and other interested groups
contribute to Christar the amount that is need to maintain
a missionary. Most missionaries with Christar are
supported through the combined contributions of individuals and churches
or church groups.
Specific amount are paid monthly by Christar for an
allowance to cover food, clothing, and personal items. Another amount
is paid for housing and other missionary needs such as literature,
travel, and equipment. Both of these figures are determined by
missionaries on each field with final approval by the Board of Trustees.
These amounts vary for each field, but are the same on a given field
for each missionary, pro-rated according to marital status and size
of family.
A percentage of all missionary support is used for administration (averages
10%) and other benefits, including a retirement plan, medical and life
insurance, and reserves for emergencies. Provision is mad to pay for
return travel to the missionary's home after a term of service.
If a missionary receives more support than is needed in a given year, this money
is carried over to help in the support needs of the next year, which may
increase due to inflation or other factors.
What happens if a missionary is under-supported?
Christar requires that all missionaries be 100% supported. If a missionary becomes under-supported
while on the field, he continues to draw the same monthly allowance until
he comes home on furlough. During his furlough he must raise the additional
support. In the case of a sever support shortage, the missionary may be
asked to return earlier than normal.
Outgoing expenses are one-time expenses for travel to the field, buying
equipment, setting up a household, attending language school, and shipping.
Outgoing expenses are raised in addition to monthly support.
When should I begin my missionary support?
There are several reasons why you should start to support your missionary before
he reaches the field. Every time he makes a trip to share his vision and
burden with a church or group of individuals, he incurs travel expenses.
Prayer letters are mailed regularly and this is an additional expense.
The cost of plane tickets and other outgoing expenses must also be covered
before a missionary can leave for his field assignment. For these reasons, he needs
a substantial amount of money in his account.
Christar seeks to maintain the highest standards of financial accountability.
It is a member of the Evangelical Council of Financial Accountability
(ECFA) and the Canadian Council of Christian Charities (CCCC), as well as
the Interdenominational Foreign Missions Association (IFMA). Our financial
records are audited each year by an independent auditing firm. The results
of the audit are available to any who request them. We believe financial
accountability to God, our donors, and the public at large in the wise
use of the monies entrusted to Christar is of vital importance.
The use of all monies given to Christar is confined to Board-approved missionary
ministries. Each gift designated for an approved ministry is used as
designated. When a need has been met, designated gifts will then be used
where needed most. Contributions given to Christar are acknowledged with a
tax-deductible receipt.
How do I go about supporting an Christar missionary?
Select a missionary in whom you have confidence as one who depends
fully on God for a fruitful ministry. Look for one who will be your
partner in reaching a lost world for Christ.
Ask God what part you should have in the missionary's support and ministry.
Commit yourself by faith to give a regular amount monthly, quarterly,
or annually. Contact us at our U.S. address telling us which
missionary you want to support. We even support electronic transfers
for donors who want this convenience.
Count your blessings as you participate in the ministry of reaching
the world for Christ.
Do you have a burden for a specific people, country, or ministry? Would
you like to know more about Christar? Then contact us at
the address address below with your questions.