“A man’s heart plans his course, but the Lord directs his steps” (Prov 16:9) ACCTS’ annual budget is about $860K. To be good stewards of God’s provision, we have developed a firm foundation of continuing donations, a clear vision for their use in building God’s Kingdom, and a solid strategy for effective international military ministry. In 2022, the Holy Spirit added another requirement: flexibility.
We began the year with plans to celebrate ACCTS’ 50 years of ministry in events around the US. Instead of the half-dozen we had planned, however, we were only able to hold one, for just as the world started to emerge from Covid travel restrictions, Russia invaded Ukraine.
ACCTS staff in Moldova and our military Christian fellowships (MCF) co-workers in Ukraine and surrounding countries immediately began helping both Ukrainians refugees and those who remained behind. Thanks to our donors’ generosity, we supported thousands of refugees with over $90,000 for water, food, shelter, fuel, God’s Word, and other assistance. Our staff and co-workers diligently sought out what was most needed and found the necessary supplies despite disruption of the regional logistics systems. We were also able to forge partnerships with other ministries that had relief supplies but needed MCF volunteers to get them distributed. Because of wise stewardship by those on the ground, funds could be channeled to meet specific critical needs as the situation on the ground evolved. Many MCF members opened their homes to complete strangers, and the regional MCFs selflessness bore powerful testimony to their love of God in Christ, much like the church in Macedonia in Paul’s time. ACCTS remains in constant contact with these MCFs that are filling critical gaps to meet both financial and spiritual needs in this war-torn region.
Even though much of our focus shifted to Eastern Europe in 2022, our other ministries continued to thrive and grow as the Lord directed our steps:
· Our Interaction Rocky Mountain High program was adapted by several nations to provide culturally appropriate Christian leadership training for their MCFs.
· Our International chaplain training continued to reach those whom God has called to work as chaplains but who need training in the precepts of chaplaincy.
· Our ethics and leadership initiative continued to help more international military Christian leaders integrate their faith with their military decision making.
· Some of our staff resumed international travel to provide a ministry of encouragement for our military brothers and sisters around the world and their families.
As we move into 2023 we will continue to serve those who serve you around the globe and remind them of God’s promise, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Josh 1:5)
Thank you for your continued support for this ministry of stewardship.
