Tuesday, November 3, 2009

A Heart for Missions



This past weekend was the Annual Mission Forum at Broken Arrow. The congregation honored Dad with a plaque presented to Janice, reading: Presented to Janice Pratt in Honor, Memory and Appreciation of Wayne Pratt for over 30 years of leadership and service on the Missions Committee. Presented by Mission Forum 2009, Broken Arrow Church of Christ, November 1, 2009
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They also had a special write up in this year's Mission Forum program about Dad. My heart is full and so touched by every one's kindness.

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It reads:
A HEART FOR MISSIONS
Wayne Pratt 1942 - 2009
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It is difficult to think of Mission Forum without remembering Wayne Pratt, a former deacon here, who for many years made it his passion. Wayne's brother, David, served as a missionary in Africa and Russia for many years, and the family often opened their home to visiting missionaries, so he understood well the many struggles a missionary endures. He used his AA travel privileges to visit missionaries in the field in Italy and Ireland, as well as in the US, not only to assess the works there, but to encourage them and to bring back to the church here a better understanding of their personal, spiritual, and financial needs.
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His vision of Mission Forum was more than a day for a special collection, he saw it as a way to spark the dream of mission work in children, teens, and families. By distributing change cans early in the year, families are reminded every day of the needs and opportunities of mission work. During Mission Forum week, we hear from missionary leaders, both reporting on the work that has been done, and inspiring us with visions of the harvest still in the fields. On Mission Forum Sunday, we share foods that are the favorites of those people around the world with whom we've shared the gospel; their flags are a reminder of our unity in Christ. Our contribution is a natural expression of that unity and our love for others.
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Although we are saddened by Wayne's passing this year, we are excited to see that his dream lives on.

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