
By Sharon Mager
COLUMBIA, Md. — Every year in September, the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware churches have the privilege of joining together to pray and financially support local evangelism ministries through the State Missions Offering.This year’s theme is “Maryland/Delaware and the Nations for Christ’s Glory.” It’s a wonderful opportunity for you and your church to grow in awareness of local needs and a chance to partner with over 500 local churches to greatly amplify your impact.
This year, your prayer and cooperative gifts will support three strategic areas:

The BCM/D is leading the way in special needs ministry.
Special Needs— Did you know that individuals and families affected by disabilities make up the largest unreached people group in the world? The BCM/D is leading the way in providing resources and training to help bridge the gap between these families and your churches as we educate pastors, leaders and congregations
Collegiate Ministry — Take a moment to ponder that there are nearly 500,000 college students in our area. Students from all over the world pass through Maryland and Delaware for education and training, and we want to

There are nearly 500,000 college students in our area.
reach them with the good news of the Gospel. We also want to provide opportunities to disciple and mobilize young Christians — to raise up pastors, teachers and leaders who will continue to share the Word of God for years to come.

The BCM/D is currently engaged in a unique three-year partnership with the Kisii Baptist Regional Convention in East Africa.
Our Missions in Kenya —The BCM/D is currently engaged in a unique three-year partnership with the Kisii Baptist Regional Convention in East Africa. The convention has a long history of partnership missions that provide unique opportunities for local churches to reach the world! During previous partnership mission trips, some churches bonded so closely with international sister churches that the relationships have continued decades after the end of the convention partnership. Maryland/Delaware Baptists now have an amazing opportunity to pray for, give to and serve Christians in Kenya through orphanage ministry, school outreach and pastoral training. These trips not only bless Kenyan brothers and sisters, but they give church members hands-on international missions experience which will change their lives forever.
All gifts, in their entirety, will be used to fund these initiatives. With your prayers and gifts, we are making a difference — together.
The Week of Prayer and Emphasis for the 2019 SMO is Sept. 8-15. Our goal is $150,000. Your church has probably received letters about SMO, and maybe you’ve already submitted an order for materials. If you still need materials or have questions, email Demetra Bennett, Assistant to Church Services Support Team.