Ministries We Support

Disaster Relief

Disaster Response

Healing Hands

Tanzania

Indonesia

Indonesia








Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort
The Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort immediately responds to major disasters across the continental United States. When a disaster occurs, the organization contacts the leadership of local Churches of Christ in or near the affected area. If the local congregation wishes to assist, truckloads of essential supplies are sent and turned over to them for distribution to disaster victims. These supplies include emergency food, personal hygiene items, infant care products, water, cleaning materials, and other basic necessities.
All aid is given freely to anyone affected by the disaster, regardless of race, creed, origin, gender, or religious affiliation.
The organization is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation employing fifteen full-time staff members. However, its success depends greatly on the hundreds of volunteers who make the work possible. Volunteers in the Nashville warehouse help pack and prepare supplies so they are ready for immediate shipment when disasters strike. Even the truck drivers who deliver the supplies are volunteers. Across the country, local Church of Christ congregations volunteer their time to distribute the supplies and serve those in need.
Contact Information
Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort, Inc.
P.O. Box 111180
Nashville, TN 37222-1180
410 Allied Drive
Nashville, TN 37211
Phone: 615-833-0888
Toll-Free: 1-888-541-2848
Fax: 615-831-7133
Email: info@disasterreliefeffort.org
Churches of Christ Disaster Response Team
Our Vision
The task before us is to bring the Good News of the Gospel to disaster survivors. Our commitment is to strengthen the local church. Many people and organizations will come and go during the course of a disaster, but it is the local church that can be the enduring reminder that love and support was found and help was given. Therefore, we commit ourselves to work with the local congregations to effectively and efficiently serve disaster survivors in Christ's name so they will find truth and hope.
Who We Are and What We Do
The Disaster Response Team is immediately available to the local congregation(s) in the disaster-stricken area. The purpose of the Disaster Response Team is to aid the local congregation in recruiting and receiving volunteers to assist with the emotional and spiritual needs of the disaster victims and to assist them in the clean-up and rebuilding stage.
The Disaster Response Team will bring the following to the disaster site to aid the local congregation in reaching out to their community:
We would be happy to provide any further information you might require. We are available to come to your congregation for a presentation of past relief efforts. Please call the Disaster Response Team to schedule a presentation.
Contact Information
Telephone: 937-308-7593
E-Mail: Churchesofchristdrt@gmail.com
Postal address:
CHURCHES OF CHRIST DISASTER RESPONSE TEAM
9285 S. State Route 202
Tipp City, OH 45371
The Churches of Christ Disaster Response Team is overseen by the Elders at the Cassel Hills Church of Christ, Vandalia, OH.
AT OUR CORE
At the core of Healing Hands International reside our mission, vision, and values. Everything we do as an organization is driven by these principles.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world that is full of hope where physical needs are met and hearts are surrendered to Jesus Christ.
Our Mission
Our mission is to aid, equip, and empower those in need around the world in the name of Jesus Christ so they might experience God’s healing grace.
We fulfill this mission through these programs and ministries:
Our Core Values
Christ-centered
Jesus Christ is Lord of our lives and the ministry of Healing Hands International belongs to him. Our love for Him compels us to love others and honor Him in what we do.
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17
Integrity
At Healing Hands International, we treat our donors, volunteers, staff, and partners at home and abroad with honesty, transparency, and integrity in all circumstances, never compromising the truth.
"For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man." - II Corinthians 8:21
Empowerment
At Healing Hands International, we empower people by teaching them to help themselves and others.
"I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13
Collaboration
With a rich history of partnership, encouragement, and support through Churches of Christ and a spirit of love and unity, we work together with all constituents to determine the best solutions to meet the physical and spiritual needs of those whom we serve.
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." - Romans 15:5-6
Longmire Church of Christ & the Bear Valley Bible Institute
Longmire Church of Christ is involved in training preachers around the world through the Bear Valley Bible Institute — even in places as far off as Tanzania.
To learn more about the Bear Valley Bible Institute and the work they are doing, click here .
About the Tanzania Missions Effort
This effort has built Bible Schools in Arusha and Moshi and a Preacher Training School in Kisongo. It continues to strengthen congregations, enabling them to be self-supporting and self-propagating, and to train Africans in Africa to teach other Africans the Word of God.
This is part of an ongoing plan begun in 1998 by Cy Stafford and the Kensington Woods Church of Christ to accomplish this work. The work continues under the oversight of the Bear Valley Church of Christ. The ultimate goals are self-reliance, self-propagation, and independence. These goals will be achieved by teaching the African people the Word of God so that they are equipped to teach their own people.
The Andrew Connally School of Preaching (ACSOP)
The ACSOP is named after the late Andrew Connally, a pioneer in Tanzanian mission efforts. The school is located in the Kisongo area just outside of Arusha. The campus includes a library, classrooms, kitchen, offices, dormitories for up to 48 students, guest quarters, and a large covered patio area for gatherings.
Due to a partnership with the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver, CO, graduates of ACSOP receive a Bachelor’s degree in Bible, and a Master’s program is also available. Education is highly valued in Tanzania, and these men come from all over East Africa to receive this Biblical education.
So far, ACSOP has trained around 200 evangelists. These men return to their home regions to teach and preach what they have learned. Graduates have helped plant more than 150 new churches across Tanzania, the Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya — spreading the Gospel throughout East Africa.
The Arusha and Kilimanjaro (Moshi) Bible Schools
These schools have a different purpose than ACSOP. Their goal is to allow anyone the opportunity to gain a deeper knowledge of the Bible. The program is open to both men and women who are willing to attend. The certificate program lasts two years and is conducted four evenings a week.
Many of the students are new Christians who grow more in two years of training than they might in twenty otherwise, resulting in a higher level of spiritual maturity within the local body.
These schools have also become powerful tools for evangelism. Each class admits 24 students, about half of whom are nonmembers. By graduation, they are taught the Word so thoroughly that many complete the program as New Testament Christians.
Safari For Souls
“Safari For Souls” campaigns occur each year between May and July across villages around Arusha. During that time, 75–100 short-term workers come to Tanzania, strengthening congregations through lectureships and Gospel meetings.
Evangelism is conducted through in-home Bible studies, tracts, and correspondence courses. These campaigns also bring great spiritual growth to the campaigners themselves.
The Tanzania Leadership Conference
Each year, 80–100 evangelists from across Tanzania attend this conference. Its goal is to teach and train God’s men in leadership responsibility and spiritual maturity.
The Future Preacher Training Camp
This is a one-week intensive training program for young men ages 13–27 who demonstrate maturity, zeal, and commitment. These campers are proving to be dedicated workers for the Lord even at a young age.
Tanzania Christian Camp
A highlight for the youth of the Church and their friends, the Tanzania Christian Camp offers a week of “spiritual feasting.” It was started in 2009 by John Rice (Director of Backwoods Christian Camp in Lineville, AL), Ben Thompson (former missionary with TZ2000), and Burt Fuller (Director of another Christian camp in AL).
Stay up to date on the Tanzania Mission by following their blog at tanzanianmissions.blogspot.com .
Barry and Melany Hatcher
Barry and Melany Hatcher have dedicated their lives to spreading the Gospel and strengthening the Lord’s church through their Indonesia Mission Work. Their mission focuses on evangelism, leadership development, and the training of faithful Christians to teach and share the Word of God throughout Indonesia and neighboring regions.
Indonesia Mission Work
The Hatchers’ ongoing work in Indonesia includes local congregational support, preacher training, and evangelistic outreach. Their mission emphasizes equipping the local brethren to become self-sustaining and to continue the spread of the Gospel independently. Through years of consistent effort and faith, Barry and Melany have helped develop strong congregations that stand firm in their faith and teaching.
Their updates and reports share encouraging stories of conversions, leadership growth, and spiritual progress among the Christians in Indonesia. Below are recent newsletters from Barry that provide more details about their mission work and ongoing efforts.
Mission Updates & Newsletters
Our Family
We are growing so much, and we are also very happy that we are able to labor for our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ministry News
In the ministry work, there is much to do — from evangelism, visitations, and activities to attending programs, Bible studies, and helping brethren who face difficulties. We are constantly planning activities of edification, preparing sermons and Bible classes for both adults and youth.
Recently, I was invited by the youth of the church to begin a Bible study, and we have been meeting for almost two months now. During this time, the youth have been involved in producing the program and assisting in evangelism. It has been a wonderful experience for many, especially those who went door knocking and handed out flyers for the first time.
We continue to work for the benefit and growth of the church, preaching and teaching themes that help every Christian grow spiritually. We strive to preach and teach the Word of God as faithfully as possible.
In San Jose Sur, we have been invited to a seminar on December 3rd, where I will be teaching on “What does the Bible teach about the usage of cannabis as a medical matter?” This opportunity excites us greatly, as it allows us to discuss important topics in our society and guide the youth toward following the path of the Lord.
Works
With the Church
We have been studying the letters of Peter and are currently in the third chapter of the second letter. Additionally, we are preaching a series of sermons based on holiness, the dangers of false doctrines, and the firm foundation of Christ — all inspired by Peter’s writings.
We are also planning an evangelistic campaign for next year to continue strengthening and expanding the Lord’s church.
With the Youth
We are organizing various growth activities such as camps, lectureships, and Bible bowls to encourage spiritual development and fellowship among the young members.
With the Men
We have started a training course for men on the basics of homiletics and hermeneutics. This program has greatly helped the men gain self-confidence when preaching, praying, and leading songs during worship.
Song Leading Course
A Song Leading Course is currently being conducted at the Barba Church of Christ, which we are attending. We also plan to host a similar course in our home congregation in the future. This training has been very beneficial for those who lead singing, helping them grow in skill and confidence.
Closing
We are doing so much here and currently have about three ongoing Bible studies. Soon, we will start sending pictures so that you can get to know the people who are studying the Word of God with us. We are deeply grateful for your support and pray that you feel encouraged knowing that your help is making all of this possible.
We love you all and will continue to write to you more often. May God bless you for your partnership in the Gospel.
Kenya Mission Work
This work is under the oversight of the eldership at Longmire Rd Church of Christ in Conroe, Texas. If anyone is interested in supporting the efforts in Kenya, please contact Evangelist Peter Masih.
“Greetings from the Longmire Rd Church of Christ in Conroe, Texas. To our sister congregations in Kenya, we appreciate very much the progress that has been made through the growth of the Lord's work. We continue to pray for all Christians and members of the Lord's church. May God bless their efforts to spread the Gospel and teach to save lost souls. Special thanks to our supporters who carry on our financial assistance for the cause of Christ. — Missionaries Bro. Scott and Bro. Peter.”
“Barbie, special thanks to you for assisting with Kenyan newsletters. It is a tremendously outstanding job. Thanks for helping in this effort. With much gratitude and appreciation — Scott and Peter.”
On the left: Picture with David Akuto in Sigoti. On the right: Rafiki Peter Masih, Evangelist, and Scott Parrott — Bondo, Kenya (2019). Both serve as missionaries in Kenya, East Africa.
Preacher: Nickson Misiko — Bokoli Church of Christ
“I met with some members today for Bible study. After the study, they asked about our plans for the Bokoli Church of Christ. We continue to pray for you all and for the future of the church here.”
“We thank God for this work. After a two-day Bible study, we were blessed to baptize Mary Nekesa (16 years old) and Caro Nanjala (17 years old) into Christ at Bokoli Church of Christ. Glory be to God — the church is growing well.”
“Today we have a house fellowship near Bokoli town at 1 p.m.”
“Hello Babu Peter, how are you doing? We are doing well. Greetings from preacher Nickson Misiko. On behalf of the Bokoli local Church of Christ, I want to thank you and all the elders of the Longmire Rd Church of Christ for your continued support. We are progressing well with Bible studies, door knocking campaigns, and my personal Bible classes with the deaf.
The brethren at Bokoli Church of Christ request your help to build a small building for worship, as we are currently renting a room that costs too much. We appreciate all the elders, and thank Brother Babu Peter and Brother Scott Parrott for working with us. — Yours in Christ, Preacher Nickson Misiko, Bokoli Church of Christ.”
Preacher: James Owino — Openda Church of Christ / Preaching School
“Good afternoon brother, I pray all is well. I wish to inform you that we shall have four students graduating this December, and another group next year. We humbly request your support toward this graduation. Thank you, Brother Peter.”
Brother Peter sent words of encouragement to the preaching school students at Openda Church of Christ along with an additional $100 to purchase a new computer.
Ephesians 4:4–6: “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all.”
“James, you now have one computer and one printer, and enough funds to buy a second computer. Greetings to the church and all the preaching students. — Babu Peter and Scott Parrott.”
Unfortunately, after sending updates, James was involved in a serious motorcycle accident. He broke one arm, one leg, and sustained internal injuries. Local brethren helped raise funds for his hospital transport and treatment, but he continues to need prayers and assistance.
“James complained of abdominal pain, vomiting blood, and coughing thick clots. Please keep him in your prayers. The government hospital has no drugs, and his wife told me that your financial help will greatly assist in his treatment.”
“James, sorry to hear about your accident. I hope you recover soon and that God watches over you. My prayers and thoughts are with you. On the 16th, I am sending $100 personally to help with your hospital expenses. — Brother Peter Masih.”
“David, I got approval for $200 for James. I’ll send it tomorrow so you can pick it up on Tuesday. Sorry to hear the sad news, but we’re praying to God to help him recover and continue serving the Lord.”
Preacher: Zach Otieno — Siaya Church of Christ
“I was invited to preach in the children’s hospital ward today after church service.”
“I take this opportunity to thank all the elders for the support I received. It will help feed families and children affected by the ongoing drought in Siaya, which has lasted four months. Thank you, missionaries Brother Peter Masih and Brother Scott Parrott, for your encouragement and partnership in Siaya.”
Preacher: Kennedy Munubi — Kongoni Church of Christ
“We are so thankful. Over the last two months, I have been teaching the brethren through the books of Isaiah and Daniel. It has been a long journey, but we praise God for His blessings and thank everyone for their prayers and time.”