A Ministry Advocate is a devoted follower of Christ who has a passion for presenting the Gospel and the ministry of MAF. A Ministry Advocate is a volunteer who informs his/her circle of acquaintances about the plight of isolated people and how MAF overcomes barriers to reach them in the remotest parts of the world.
Because we believe God calls each Advocate specifically to serve in this role, MAF asks each one to go through an application process. For more information, please contact the MAF-Advocate Wing using this online inquiry form. You may also call 1-800-359-7623 extension 1785 or send an email to advocatewing@maf.org.
Yes! Ministry Advocates serve right in their hometown, advocating to churches, organizations and individuals they know.
Ministry Advocates are involved in various types of presentations, events, and activities. They communicate the heart of MAF with their home church, small group, youth groups, or VBS, just to name a few examples. Other ministry opportunities might include air shows, workplace giving events, mission conferences, and other local churches. Advocates can host their own original events such as small dinners in their home or a chili cook-off at their church! The options are endless!
Absolutely! There are many opportunities that do not require public speaking. A one-on-one conversation about MAF can be as fruitful as a presentation to several dozen people. Countless creative events are possible. For example, host a dinner party with friends and serve ethnic foods, set up an MAF display at your local bookstore, start a prayer group for MAF, or act as a liaison and host for an MAF missionary raising support. Although many events in which a Ministry Advocate participates typically involve some public speaking, MAF is committed to assisting its advocates to effectively communicate the ministry. What communicates to people best is your own passion for reaching the lost.
Ministry Advocates spend approximately two to four hours a week volunteering their time for MAF. Ministry Advocates agree to a one year commitment. During that year, each Advocate seeks eight or more opportunities to present the ministry of MAF.
Ministry Advocates increase the awareness of the needs around the world and of the ministry of MAF. Their impact is eternal as they mobilize others to become involved in the work that God is doing through MAF.
All MAF promotional literature and resources are provided to the Ministry Advocate at no cost. MAF does not expect the advocate to travel beyond his or her community. All Advocates are encouraged to plan events that do not require cost reimbursement.
Mileage and travel expenses are considered a donation by the Ministry Advocate.
You are trained right where you live! The training course either can be mailed to you or you can complete it online at the Ministry Advocate's convenience and within the established time frame. The training sessions are reviewed with a coach via phone conference. At the completion of the course, a practice presentation is reviewed.
All resources to facilitate the Ministry Advocate's calling to represent MAF are gladly provided. Ministry Advocates are considered staff members. From brochures to DVDs, to books and displays, the goal is to equip Ministry Advocates with materials that will aid and enhance their representation of MAF. Ministry Advocates also receive their own MAF email address, name tag, personalized business cards, and an MAF shirt.
MAF is committed to supporting the Ministry Advocates to be effective in their ministry. Ministry Advocates maintain regular contact with a coach through email and monthly phone conversations. Ongoing training and development is provided. Ministry Advocates can also encourage each other through the specially-designed community website where they also can view information postings as well as access help aids.
Yes! Currently the best way to meet other Ministry Advocates is through the online community forum. Also, once a year MAF holds an annual Ministry Advocate conference at its headquarters in Nampa, Idaho. The conference gathering serves as a time for Advocates to meet and encourage each other and acquire additional training.