Like you, I receive many letters like this one, recommending a missionary to our ministry. And I also struggle with the process of selecting some out of the many to present their work in our church. At Countryside we are in the process of defining a way to better screen applicants. One of the things that concerned us in the past is the relative few that are going with the specific goal of planting churches. A second concern involves the extended time it takes for language and cultural proficiency. We have supported missionaries for years before they were able to share the message of Christ even once.
The Hoyt’s ministry has neither of these concerns. Ivan and Kim are burdened for the lost in Argentina and are purposing to evangelize their target area and plant churches there. Ivan is an MK, his parents were missionaries in Argentina for many years. He is fluent in the language and comfortable in the culture. It is true Kim has some language and cultural bridges to cross, but what a benefit to have Ivan already proficient in these areas.
Ivan and Kim have been an active part of the ministry at Countryside for many years and Ivan has served on staff as associate pastor since 1996. Six years ago they took a leave of absence to fill in for missionaries on furlough. It was during their year in Uganda that the burden for missions grew heavy and they returned with a purpose to serve the Lord on the mission field.
I ask that you bring this couple before your missions committee and pray together to see if God would have you partner with this church planting ministry in Argentina. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
In His Service,
John A. Lillie
Senior pastor
Countryside Bible Church
(517) 849-9338