Dear Missionary,

One of the most crucial ways to remain connected to those who partner with the work you are doing as a missionary is to keep them informed about every step of the work. The Apostle Paul, who is a worthy model for the work of missions, made sure that wherever he went, the Churches that partnered with him understood the progress of the Gospel, the challenges he faced, and the impact of their partnership. He wrote to the Corinthians that, “…I am not seeking your gift, but I am seeking what may increase your credit” (2 Corinthians 8:20, paraphrased). In other words, he honoured the trust placed in him by communicating openly, transparently, and with details.

Being a missionary is not just about doing good work but also effectively stewarding relationships and you must understand that your partners are not merely financial contributors but co-labourers in the Gospel which Paul never took lightly. He provided regular updates, shared victories and challenges alike, and accounted for every resource entrusted to him. At a point, he said, “I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothing. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my needs and to those who were with me” (Acts 20:33–34). His transparency built trust and encouraged continued partnership.

As a missionary, you must take a cue from that and take seriously every GIFT, every PRAYER, and every PARTNERSHIP. Your updates should cover not only the destinations and activities of your mission trips, but also the tangible outcomes such as the souls that are touched, communities that are positively impacted, and the lives being transformed.

You should communicate how every fund was used, reflecting the same diligence Paul exhibited when he wrote to the Churches about the collection for the saints in Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 9:1–5).

It is not enough to simply report, you must report with CLARITY, ACCURACY, and HONESTY. Vague updates or incomplete records weaken trust. When your partners feel informed, they feel they are part of the mission itself, and they are more willing to continue sowing into the work. God values this level of stewardship because it is faithfulness in the small things (Luke 16:10–12) and the spiritual principle is clear: how you handle what is entrusted to you reflects your integrity before God.

You are called to pursue excellence in communication as much as excellence in ministry. Keep journals, document testimonies, record financial statements, and send timely updates. Just as Paul invested himself in correspondence and accountability, you too must cultivate a culture of transparency. Your work will not only be more effective, but your partners will rejoice with you, and God will be glorified through the faithfulness of your stewardship.

Remember, this is not just administration; it is Kingdom responsibility. Every report you send, every testimony you share, and every expense you account for, reflects your reverence for God, your respect for your partners, and your commitment to the mission entrusted to you. By doing this, you honour God, strengthen relationships, and lay a strong foundation for even greater work in the Gospel.