Phillip Rice

On December 26, 1979, my wife Shelby and I left central Arkansas headed to Marion, IL, to pastor West Boulevard Baptist Church. This is where a journey of friendship and ministry with men our tribe referred to as interstate missionaries began. These families had moved to the “fringe” areas of our association to reach people far from God and plant churches in states some refer to as unreached people groups.

Missionaries across the centuries have had the enormous responsibilities of providing the training needed to sustain the work of bringing converts to Christ and establishing churches. In fulfilling this colossal task, BMA Global missionaries over the past 75 years have founded Bible colleges and institutes in the United States and around the world.  I’ve had the distinct pleasure to teach in many of these institutions.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus, Father of mercies and comfort as he strengthens us through tribulations. Though unworthy to be called his children, He chose us by his grace for this ministry. Thank you, BMA churches, pastors, and friends, who have prayed for us as you send the gospel to the nations.

In the midst of darkness, pain, and tears, God continues to work, using His church to accomplish His work. We are happy to share the news that Water of Life Church in Lutsk, Ukraine, has chosen Oleg Hotsyk to serve as a youth pastor. This event is a clear testimony of God's love and power. Oleg and his wife Dasha are the fruit of many years of work by the church focused on discipleship and spiritual influence.