Our Story: What God Has Done!
A gospel song says, "Wherever I go, you've been there before. You light up the darkness, you open the door."
"MASTER Provisions"
God opens doors to build His church worldwide through people involved in ministries like MASTER Provisions. MASTER Provisions is a channel of God's grace to meet needs in economically devastated countries.
In 1994, God called a farmer
and a telephone man together to begin ministry to the millions of
people in Ukraine. In the first few post-Communist years, the 5,000
coupons that could have once bought a new car turned into 5,000 coupons
for a loaf of bread. Ukrainians lost their life savings and could
not afford to clothe their families.
Into such disastrous situations, MASTER Provisions brings hope, using clothing as the tool to assist the church. We ship containers full of good used clothing and shoes to accomplish God's purposes.
The fourfold mission of MASTER Provisions is to:
Creating Jobs
Sorting and distributing clothing gives
unemployed believers a stable job. The clothes workers evangelize
on the job while they serve others' clothing needs. In addition, they
enjoy Christian fellowship and learn Christian work principles. By
contributing clothing and shoes, you can share in our ministry.
Empowering the Local Church
Clothes shops extend the ministry
of the local church. Workers witness, rather than whistle, while they
work. They share the Gospel and offer evangelical printed materials
to those needing clothing. In Kahovka, Ukraine, village churches are
being planted in conjunction with a clothing outreach at the marketplace.
Monies generated pay wages and benefit the work of the church.
Providing Affordable Clothing
Goods shipped by MASTER Provisions allow people to take care of
their family's clothing needs. A small portion of each shipment
is given away, while most clothing is sold at very affordable prices,
much lower than at alternative shops. By purchasing their own clothing,
people avoid a welfare-like dependence on us. And, they maintain
personal dignity and responsibility.
Offering Short-Term Missions Opportunities
Short-term mission trips change lives.
MASTER Provisions leads two such
trips each year that allow you to carry out Christ's command to witness
to the world. Trips offer opportunities to encourage children, speak and
teach, participate in worship and baptismal services and share your musical
talents.
How Can God Use You?
God continues to use available people with a servant heart! You could
be the catalyst to start a clothing drive at your church that even involves
your entire community! Your gathered resources of extra used clothing
and shoes enables MASTER Provisions to expand its ministry. Many hands
are needed to collect and pack clothes or even help load a container.
Clothes packing events promote teamwork and unity within the church.
Want a great hands-on
youth service project focused on missions? Families and teens enjoy laughter
together while completing an important task. Younger children can help,
too. You would be amazed at the mounds of clothing created by a single
church. Some large churches have even filled a forty-foot shipping container
by themselves.
In addition to church clothing
drives, your contacts with schools, consignment shops, rummage and
garage sales and clothing manufacturers can result in clothing donated
to MASTER Provisions. There is an URGENT need for good children's
clothing and shoes. Imagine how difficult it would be for you to clothe
growing children on a salary such as $10 a week.
Are you willing to organize a clothing drive at your church with our assistance? MASTER Provisions relies on churches and individuals to supply good clothing and financial support. The continued ministry of MASTER Provisions depends on caring people like you. God uses people with willing hearts and open ears.
"Those who shut their ears to the cries of the
poor will be ignored in their own time of need."
Proverbs 21:13 (NLT)
Are your ears open? Will you allow God to use you to strengthen His church overseas?
"As I travel over the seas,
It's God's hand,
His strong right hand,
That guides and strengthens me."