Missions
our focus centers on two vital initiatives:
1. Establishing a Lutheran training facility in Chiang Mai to support pastors in challenging environments.
2. Building a community center, mission team housing, and worship space in Martina Bustos, Costa Rica, where hope is needed.
LISA seeks to build a training center for house church leaders seeking Christian doctrine training. This effort, led by the Garuna Foundation, carries the promise of sharing the message of Jesus in regions where it remains concealed. The cost of this endeavor is $50k, and upon its completion, we'll conclude our partnership with Garuna, continuing to nurture the seeds we've planted in God's overseas ministry.
Our choice of Costa Rica for our mission is guided by a sense of divine calling. The village of Martina Bustos, located in the hills on the outskirts of Liberia, Costa Rica, is home to around 7,000 residents, primarily women and children, as many men have left for jobs near the beach.
Our initial exploratory team conducted Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs and connected with the locals. To better serve this community, we've established our own non-profit in Costa Rica. By the end of 2023, we aim to purchase land in the village, where we'll construct a community center resembling a small compound. It will house facilities for English classes, worship, medical assistance, and a grocery store, with open spaces at its heart for community gatherings. In 2024, we plan to send five teams to do a variety of mission work, including VBS programs with the children, construction on the church, work with the moms, and more. Over the next five years, we aim to acquire additional land nearby to establish a local-led church presence, as there is currently no church in Martina Bustos. We eagerly anticipate the transformative work God will accomplish in this village, bringing the light of the world to those in need.
LoCal Focus in Omaha
At Beautiful Savior, we are deeply committed to making a positive impact in our local community through various mission initiatives. We believe that missions are most effective when they are rooted in genuine relationships and meaningful service. Our dedicated care team is actively engaged in meeting the needs of both our church members and our neighbors. In addition, we proudly collaborate with local non-profit organizations to amplify our collective impact.
Our local missions efforts include:
Lydia House Support: Every month, a dedicated group from Beautiful Savior visits Lydia House to extend our support to the women and families there. In November 2023, Beautiful Savior provided Lydia House with a check for $60,000 to help build a brand-new playground. Thank you to everyone who donated to help this incredible cause.
Saturday Morning Outreach: Each Saturday morning, a dedicated team gathers to prepare and distribute lunches to the homeless in Omaha, offering nourishment and care to those in need.
Weekly Prayer Team: Our prayer team meets weekly to lift up prayers for our church, its leaders, and our community, seeking God's guidance and blessings.
Assure Women’s Center Partnership: We partner with Assure Women’s Center to provide support and options to young expecting mothers facing challenging decisions.
Collaboration with Within Reach: We proudly collaborate with Within Reach, working alongside Christian leaders across Omaha to spread the message of Christ throughout our city.
Life Groups' Community Projects: Our vibrant Life Groups actively engage in community projects throughout the year, including initiatives in their own neighborhoods and local parks. If you have a passion for a specific cause not mentioned here, we encourage you to connect with your Life Group and collectively make a difference in the lives of your neighbors.
At Beautiful Savior, we are dedicated to improving the community we call home, striving to be a beacon of hope and compassion. Join us in these meaningful endeavors as we work, live, and play together, making a lasting impact on the lives of those around us.
International Missions
Beautiful Savior's journey in international mission work is marked by a tradition of service and collaboration. Over the years, we've had the privilege of completing missions in places like Hong Kong, Terraces, and Prey Veng, always with a deep commitment to working alongside local communities.
You may recall our involvement with the Garuna Foundation's school in Cambodia. It's with gratitude that we report the school's successful operation. In January 2024, Pastor Ryan attended its ceremonial grand opening. Additionally, LISA (Lutheran Institute of Southeast Asia) has acquired a building for seminary and teacher training in Cambodia. These projects are complete, with ongoing support aimed at sponsoring students and teachers.
What’s Next?
We humbly request your prayers as the first step in our mission. Pray for God's guidance in how you can contribute your blessings, whether it's your time for a trip, your funds for the community center, or your ability to connect with others and build relationships in Martina Bustos. Engaging in missions offers numerous avenues, and we're grateful to share in this mission journey with you.