Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. (2 Timothy 2:2)
Legacy and Generational Impact
Legacy. Generational impact. These are terms that are at the forefront of the minds of the leadership of OAW. Are we being effective witnesses for Jesus to at-risk children and youth? Are we reproducing disciples who will reproduce disciples long after we are gone? These are questions we know are on the minds of our mission partners as well.
These questions led us to launch the Open Arms School of Missions in Assis, Brazil in 2019. This was the fulfillment of a goal set out since the birth of OAW in 2006. We have a model for ministry that has been tried and tested. Now we also have a school that can teach that model to the next generation who in turn will reach a generation that we will never meet this side of heaven.
Why Was the School of Missions Formed?
The School of Missions was formed to equip new and existing volunteers, as well as missionary candidates, to plant new OA neighborhood missions, to strengthen existing projects, and to simply be more effective and fruitful followers of Jesus wherever they may be. In addition to specific training on the OAW model for local missions, students have classes in missiology, evangelism, theology, and social work to name a few.
Advancing the Kingdom
Since its inception, with a brief pause during the pandemic, the School of Missions has proudly graduated two to three cohorts each year—each filled with passionate students committed to advancing the Kingdom of Christ and bringing glory to God!
Behind every classroom and graduation ceremony are the unsung heroes—our faithful prayer warriors and financial partners. Their unwavering support enables us to continue equipping and mobilizing God’s people to reach and disciple children and youth for Jesus. On behalf of all our graduates, we offer our deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks! Every gift of $1,000 allows another cohort to complete the course. That works out to roughly $65 per person.
How Can You Participate?
$65 provides a scholarship for one student to complete the course.
$1,000 funds an entire cohort of students through the course.
The sacrificial love and care that the missionaries and volunteers show to the children and their families is an amazing testimony of Jesus working in and through them.