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Field Staff (Guelph)
Dave & Linda Buchner
Dave & Linda Buchner
Field Staff
Guelph
Fundraising for staff salary goals includes salary needs, ministry expenses, and an 11% administration fee.
Donations are receipted only for staff and projects approved by the governing board. Designated gifts are used for the purpose for which they are given; when that given need is met, excess funds are used where needed most.
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My husband, Dave, and I joined ISMC in 1992, serving the Lord in Guelph since 1993, at the University of Guelph. For many years, we made contact with the internationals through our various programs with students from over 50 different countries using bus trips, a Friendship Partner Program, and ESL classes. Our primary focus was individual and group Bible studies. Many that returned home also received our weekly Bible studies. Other follow-up included frequent correspondence, links with Christian contacts, and two visits to China. We are thankful for the many volunteers who joined our ministry team over the years as friendship/conversation partners, Bible and English teachers, transportation helpers, and even those who provided snacks and desserts for the Friday night Bible study meetings. Dave also served as the city team director for many of these years.
In 2017, Dave could not continue with his role in this ministry because of his severe stroke and consequent retirement status. How thankful we are for the many staff and volunteers who are now serving in both the Bible studies and English classes. Henk Wichers, and now recently Paul Rasmussen, in our Lord’s timing, has stepped up to lead the ministry in Guelph as city directors.
I do miss the Bible study I taught before on Friday nights, but rejoice how the Lord is using others, including our English volunteers, to reach others for Christ. My main focus is as English Language coordinator with presently 4/5 English teachers, and an average of 40 English conversation partners, matched with about 50 internationals from many different countries. Both the English teachers and conversation partners have had some good opportunities to share their faith, or lead a Bible study. Some have also come to faith. In addition, I personally prepare and send out weekly lessons for my conversation/discussion groups, as well as a grammar group. Lord willing, over the many years, I have continued to follow-up the many internationals who took part in our Bible classes or English classes. With my semi-retired status with ISMC, I am thankful for those who continue to send support to enable me to still be involved in such a vital ministry.