Last week we traveled to Huntsville, AL to interview with Baptist World Mission as church planters to the Bronx. I wanted to share a little bit about that process.
The Baptist World Mission Board of Trustees
We actually had to submit our information by August 15th. Ben and I completed separate applications, including some doctrinal questions, our testimony, our call to the mission field, and six references. Ben had to complete a more in-depth doctrinal statement. We both had to have medical exams and submit some other information. The in person interview was just the last step in the process of getting approved by the board.
The conference started Monday morning with a doctrinal review. There were four applying missionaries that had to be reviewed – two couples (one of them was us!) and two individual ladies. We appeared before 3 board members and answered doctrinal questions to be sure that we are in agreement with BWM. The questions were directed mostly to Ben, but I did get asked one. Mine was the easy one. 
After lunch we had a Candidate Committee review with two other board members. Here we each shared our testimonies, call to vocational service, and our particular mission field. Ben was asked questions about the Bronx, we discussed our finances, marriage, spiritual walks, etc. I don’t do very well speaking in front of people – I usually get teary eyed and choke up. This was no exception. I was so frustrated that I couldn’t share my testimony without getting emotional, but probably I was more frustrated that I had forgotten my tissue!
These committees both made recommendations to the Board of Trustees, but it was still not a “done deal.” On Tuesday afternoon we had to appear before the entire Board of Trustees (32 men). We were again asked to share our testimonies. I cried – again. It didn’t help that my pastor, Jeff Musgrave, was sitting right across from me. So many of these life-changing decisions happened while I was under his leadership at Highlands Baptist Church. He played a big part in my surrender to the mission field.
It was so nice to see Pastor Musgrave again!
We were asked to step out while the Board voted on our acceptance. Then we were called back in, and informed that the Board had voted unanimously to accept us as church planting missionaries to the Bronx. Dr. Steadman asked Pastor Musgrave to pray for us. He got choked up too, so I was in good company!
We are very excited (and nervous) as this deputation process begins. We have a lot of work to do contacting church, scheduling meetings, and traveling to present our ministry. But we know the Lord is faithful – He has proved that to us over and over again – and we know that He will take us to the Bronx in His perfect timing.
The Hamilton's – APPROVED! Church planters to the Bronx
I'm teary eyed just reading this! So excited for you guys and thankful I can call you my family. We'll be praying for you.
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