Celebrating Jesus!

World Missionary Press exists only because the zeal of the Lord (Isaiah 9:7) sent Jesus into the world so that the speakers of every language, members of every tribe, descendants of every race, and citizens of every nation could know the thrill and wonder of forgiveness, salvation and sanctification in a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

It is also God’s zeal that moves people to donate to WMP. It is He who ultimately provides the printed Word through the hands of faithful witnesses. WMP is only the facilitator. We have a holy and solemn privilege to print the story of God’s redemption in a form easily used to witness. We are very grateful for every dollar given to help us fulfill the work God has laid to our charge. Costs of production have increased significantly this past year. This newsletter details ways you can designate your funds at this joyous Christmas time; ways to help publish the good news and send out God’s message of hope and joy to hungry hearts, eager for the Hope Jesus brings!

 

Idea #1 – Founders Challenge

Recently, one of our partners donated $150,000 for Scriptures for Africa. He challenged us to raise another $150,000 for a total of $300,000. We are accepting the challenge and calling this our Founders Challenge because our founders, Watson and Rose Goodman, had such a heart for Africa. During their missionary career in South Africa, God gave them firsthand experience with the worldwide hunger and need of God’s Word in printed form. They began meeting that need on a small scale while on the mission field, but in 1961 they came home to begin a larger ministry known as World Missionary Press, that provides Scripture for almost all of Africa and the rest of the world!

In September, 2022, the General Secretary for Evangelical Alliance in DRC Congo wrote to our distributor in Rwanda, “I recently got your contact during my short visit to Rwanda. I encountered believers sharing Christian literature in homes and other places. Some of the literature used was Help from Above and The Way to God.  I was very much moved that these materials could be a platform for Evangelical Alliance in DRC Congo…. We plan to use them in our upcoming major evangelistic campaign in Goma, Masisi, Rutshuru and Walikale, where we envision reaching 300,000 individuals in homes across our entire province.” Our distributor had booklets in stock and was able to fill the General Secretary’s request. WMP is committed to Africa!

The Founders Challenge will help fund the production and shipping costs of 40-foot containers to South Africa ($82,493) with 21 different languages in its hold, to Ethiopia ($91,570), to Rwanda ($94,098), and to Nigeria ($100,481) in 2023. You can get on board our Founders Challenge with a gift of any amount—no gift is too small or too large to help impact souls for eternity!

 

 

Idea #2 – A box of Scripture booklets every month

As trimmed 48-page Scripture booklets come off our binderies, volunteers pack 500 copies into each box, weighed to about 10 pounds, and strapped for shipping. These boxes serve as convenient carriers for Christian workers around the world as they trek from village to village, and door to door.

A regular monthly donation of $25.00 for a “WMP BOX” provides 500 Scripture booklets for a church planter in Congo, river ministry along the Amazon in Brazil, and village evangelists in South Asia—bringing glad tidings of great joy into the darkness and leaving a lasting message of hope and redemption.

Idea #3 – A roll of paper

By producing topical Scripture booklets in over 350 languages, WMP provides a unique ministry tool, free of charge, for multiplied nations of the world where materials are not readily available or affordable. The need for “paper missionaries” continues to grow, even in a digital age.

Rolls of PAPER are needed to keep the web press running! A gift of $1,430.74 provides a 1,500- pound 35-inch-wide roll of paper for printing the inside pages for 85,000 48-page Scripture booklets! (The cost per roll of paper increased almost 25% from last year’s $1,147.00 per roll.) A gift of $715.37 will provide half a roll.

Idea #4 – Paper for full-color covers

All WMP topical Scripture booklets and Bible study booklets now have full-color covers. Attractive colorful covers are appealing to the eye, sparking an interest in what might be inside. The contents are still the same precious Scriptures to share the “good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.”

Printing full-color booklet covers is done on our efficient 6-unit sheet-fed press. Each stack of 8,500 sheets costs between $578 and $978 depending on availability, and provides colorful covers for 136,000 48-page Scripture booklets or 68,000 full-color covers for the variety of Bible studies that WMP produces. You can help keep color covers flowing!

Idea #5 – Powerful ink on paper

Ink is vital to the process of printing. When black ink is applied to the rollers on our web press, words from Scripture bring “dead” paper to life! A 425-lb barrel of black ink costing $650.00 transforms rolls of blank paper into the inside pages of approximately two million powerful 48-page Scripture booklets.

A 5-lb can of color ink used to print the full-color covers of Scripture booklets (as well as newsletters and brochures) costs $23.75. A donation of $100.00 will provide color for approximately 58,000 Scripture booklet covers.

Idea #6 – Overseas contract printing

God continues to lead World Missionary Press to provide booklets for certain nations which restrict importing from the USA. Reliable in-country printers are contracted to print the Scripture booklets, which WMP’s national coordinators are able to provide to Christians waiting to share in the joy of giving God’s Word to friends and neighbors. Such overseas printings are generally more expensive than printing in our plant; however, God continues to provide the contacts and the resources to meet the need.

Current contracts in process or pending include printings in S. Asia, Indonesia, and Myanmar. The request from Indonesia for our 2022-2023 fiscal year includes 575,000 copies of the God Loves You! coloring book, which is being well-received. Printing will also include 500,000 Scripture booklets and 350,000 Bible study books.

A donation of any amount will help support believers in these countries by printing God’s Word there.

Idea #7 – New Testaments

Requests for New Testaments are included in many orders from national coordinators and major distributors. Currently, WMP offers New Testaments in just a few languages, but each one is a vital part of building newfound faith in Africa, Latin America, and Haiti. To have one’s own copy to read at any time, and to sense that God’s Word is personal and belongs to you, can deepen the relationship between God and His child. The work begun with the Scripture booklets and Bible studies is continued by studying the entire New Testament. Meeting the pent-up need for Spanish New Testaments for the coming year will require a printing of 200,000 copies. Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Honduras are waiting.

Arabic New Testaments are invaluable in African countries. There is curious interest in the New Testament and the story of Jesus. The New Testaments are gladly received, and the truth of who Jesus is can be presented by the Holy Spirit as the pages unfold. A printing of 50,000 copies will reach into Senegal, Guinea, South Sudan, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chad, and beyond.

A donation of $150.00 will send 175 Spanish New Testaments to brothers and sisters in Christ who long for His Word. A donation of $200.00 will provide 235 Arabic New Testaments that can open seeking eyes and prepared hearts.

Idea #8 – Shipping materials: boxes, strapping, pallets, shrink-wrap

Sending Scripture booklets to the far corners of the world entails using all types of transport—sea containers, postal delivery, trucks, buses, trains, motor bikes, pack animal—before the package arrives at its destination. To prepare shipments for transport, some necessary “little things” involve expenses which are included in the overall cost of providing Scripture booklets to the world.

World Missionary Press uses sturdy cardboard boxes specially designed to hold certain weights. Boxes are strapped closed, rather than depending on tape. Most boxes are loaded onto heat-treated pallets for transport in ship containers. After pallets are loaded to a limited height, they are shrink-wrapped to secure them until the container is unloaded thousands of miles from our dock.

A donation of $99.58 will provide for 256 boxes to be packed with Scripture booklets and fill one pallet. A donation of $96.00 will purchase one coil of strapping and $119.00 will pay for 17 heat-treated pallets to fill a 40-foot container. A gift of $67.00 will purchase 1 roll of shrink-wrap.

Idea #9 – Shipping to the world

Challenges to shipping sea containers have become formidable. Rising prices, closed or congested ports, limited shipping lanes and berths, availability of empty containers—all make for uncertain schedules, but day after day God shows that He is sovereign and that He will make His Word known to the world. As container shipments are completed in production, the task of arranging the delivery to faraway places begins. One by one they leave the WMP dock safe in God’s hands. Shipments are currently en route to 18 different countries. Although delays are often encountered, shipments arrive intact and find their way to the prescribed destination, safe and undamaged. Surely God has His hand on His Word!

This past fiscal year, 59 containers were sent to 45 countries, covering the globe! Shipments carried booklets in languages such as Guarani, Kalenjin, Zulu, Sango, and Maasai. Millions will receive God’s Word, some for the first time in their own language!

We are encouraged to continue trusting the Lord! Even with all the current uncertainties, sending via ship container is still the most economical way to send Scripture booklets, Bible studies, coloring books, and New Testaments. Shipping-related costs to send a container shipment of 4,215 boxes going to Nigeria will amount to $20,481.00. Sending those same boxes via the postal service would cost $225,552.00. Sending 4,215 boxes to Bolivia will cost $11,347.60, saving $148,824.40 over shipping by mail. Such savings allow WMP to print more booklets for more countries, using every donated dollar to the fullest capacity.

Your donation of any amount will help container shipments continue to flow out of the plant, over the seas, and safely into the harbors of the world.

Dynamic Emergence of Language

“For You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” —Revelation 5:9

Languages (or tongues) are not static. According to worldatlas.com: “There are about 7,099 languages spoken in the world. This number is constantly increasing because new world languages emerge every day. These languages are dynamic and living.”

Although WMP currently prints in over 350 languages, we are continually adding new languages, and/or revising languages of booklets already in print. Many of our 25 titles still need to be translated into more of our existing languages. The decision at any one of these levels depends on many factors – starting with one of our major distributors making known the need.

Our distributor in Bolivia is eager for us to publish The Way to God booklet in Plautdietsch (Low German). As production of this new language progresses it is interesting that we might hear a dialect of this language spoken by the Amish and Mennonite people around us. WMP is located among one of the largest Amish/Mennonite communities in the United States.

Mike R., a distributor in the Philippines, reported: We had “15,000 Cebuano [booklets] and Gospel materials. We have distributed most all of them to pastors, missionaries, crusades and true Christians leading Bible studies in the rural homes and inner cities alike.” He concluded with, “Hopefully WMP is printing some more Cebuano as we speak.”

Cebuano and Tagalog languages (spoken by a majority in the Philippines) have updated versions of the Bible that are well-accepted and widely used. As per our distributor’s request, these languages are slated for production, but WMP wanted to revise the booklets first before reprinting them. It was an exciting moment and answer to prayer, when final corrections for Tagalog and Cebuano came back from the field just weeks before going into production.

Our Bible Study on John is available in 16 languages, and is an excellent Bible study for new believers and for discipleship. There is much demand to have this Bible study translated into more of the languages we produce.  Alexis H., of Youth for Christ Benin, included these comments as she placed an order for more copies: “Just last Saturday, while following up with a new believer in Christ, I was promising to teach her how to study the Word of God when she brought out your Bible Study on John mentioning how to study the Bible. She has learned a lot about the book of John by reading   and answering the questions.”

Recently a distributor asked us to produce booklets in the Birifor language of Ghana. To accommodate this type of request, WMP must first determine the “viability” of a new language, of revising booklets, or of expanding translations of some of our booklets. Viability is based on many factors. There typically needs to be a well-accepted, conservative translation of the Bible or at least New Testament in the requested language (we do not translate the Bible), and a willing volunteer translator able to convert non-Scripture wording (such as titles). We also look at the number of speakers and literacy rate for the candidate language. Finally, we must be able to obtain permission from the copyright holder to use their translation.

If viability cannot be established, we would encourage the use of our literature in a language the people group might also speak. In this case, the people group that uses the Birifor language is comparatively small. We may still do the translation, but we would likely make it available online only. This has already been done with The Way to God in Belarusian and Help from Above in Ojibwe.

Once viability is established, the booklet is formatted with the accepted Scripture and wording provided by the volunteer translator. The draft document is meticulously reviewed many times, being sent back and forth to the field two or three times; checked by the translator and WMP to ensure that wording, punctuation, diacritical markings, etc. are accurate. Months (sometimes years) later, the printed booklets emerge from the bindery, packaged in our 10-pound boxes, and ready for shipment.

Through these efforts many are drawn to Christ by the truly living, dynamic, and unchanging Word of God in the ever-emerging, energetic, and dynamic common languages of the people.

[Every donated dollar provides for the production of 28 powerful Scripture booklets for people around the world in their own language. An investment of $100 will touch the lives of 2,800 people; $1,000 will impact 28,000 people who need to have hope in God.]

Meet the Team

Scarlet F.

Bulk Mailing Specialist

Because my home church has always supported and given to WMP, I have grown up knowing about it. One of the highlights of my youth was attending the yearly dinners with my grandmother. My own salvation experience gave me the desire to work for a Christian organization, making an impact and helping do God’s work.

Before working here, I volunteered on the bindery. I started full-time work in June as the Bulk Mailing Specialist. I prepare the monthly newsletter, Prayer and Praise letter, and Prison Inmate Newsletter for mailing. This involves working with mailing lists, sorting, and barcoding addresses. It also involves relating to and working with the volunteers each month who help stuff the newsletters into envelopes. I enjoy their friendly faces and I am very appreciative of their work. I also like working with Christian staff in a Christian atmosphere.

When I am not working, I delight in drawing, painting and making jewelry. My goal is to eventually make jewelry to sell. In high school, I became involved in a cat rescue and adoption program, which I still volunteer for. I currently have two cats I rescued. I also spend time traveling with my family.

I grew up in New Paris with my parents and younger brother. I was adopted from Guatemala when I was 5 months old. My brother is 2 years younger than I am and was adopted from Guatemala when he was 8 months old. I feel very grateful to have been adopted by a Christian family and raised in a Christian home. Being adopted has made me more aware of the need to spread God’s Word to the world. At some point in the future I would like to do some type of mission work in Guatemala.

Grateful Quotes

Inventing New Ways to Make Disciples

“Dear Friends,

As you know, after two years of COVID-19 things in the world are a little different.

During the crisis people didn’t get out. As a result there were less people to witness to in the plazas and streets. Our ministry leadership (at Mexico for Jesus) woke up to the reality that just about everyone has a cell phone – using the internet, WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook and so on. So during the crisis we started sending the Scripture booklet, How to Know God, to their WhatsApp, Twitter and so on. You would not believe the response!

People started responding back, so we started small groups via Zoom to study the Scripture booklet. From there many have gone on to study the New Testament. Some have completed that and are now in the process of going through the Old Testament. God has helped us to invent new ways to make disciples whether on the internet, here in person, and across Mexico.”

—Jim J., Mexico

WMP Partners Around the World

Kim S.

Liberia

Many ministries look to World Missionary Press to provide a particular item to help broaden their outreach and effectiveness. In Franco Africa, the French New Testaments provided by WMP are in great demand and provide a means to encourage and disciple new believers.

WMP: How long have you been involved in distributing WMP literature? 

Kim: Our first shipment of WMP literature for Wordsower was received in 2013.

WMP: Please describe your background and current ministry. 

Kim: Wordsower Africa has four indigenous missionary bases in Liberia and one each in Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, and Guinea. These bases are strategically located in the midst of resistant, unreached tribes. In the regions of our bases are towns that have never had churches. In the midst of these strongholds, we are seeing salvations. We are baptizing, discipling and starting churches.

WMP: What challenges do you have to the free and open distribution of the literature from WMP?

Kim: World Missionary Press printed 141,000 French New Testaments and Scripture booklets that we need for former Muslims in Guinea and Ivory Coast. They shipped them to Christian Aid Ministries who put them in a container and shipped them across the ocean. The 7,000 pound load was trucked to Hope 2, for free storage. A fourth ministry, Kingdom Earth Builders, took a truck load to Missionary Aviation Fellowship in Monrovia to be flown to our base in Zwedru. A trailer load was hauled from Zwedru to the sixth ministry, Hope in the Harvest Missions International, in the city of Ganta. From Zwedru and Ganta, Wordsower Africa took the literature across the Guinea and Ivory Coast borders via 55 gallon barrels strapped to the back of motor bikes. Harassment by border guards, accidents, bruises and blood are the norm when crossing the border. Stitches and broken bone treatment are sometimes needed. Bike breakdowns are common, resulting in sleeping along the road in the mud, against a tree or on a log. Our base leaders will give the [New Testaments] and Scripture booklets to the new converts to use for evangelism, discipleship and church planting.

WMP: Can you share a specific testimony that stands out to you?

Kim: There is a town in Liberia called Dejieh. This town was a powerful Animist, demonic stronghold. Their spiritual leader, called “the devil”, had made a law, stating that no one was to go to church, no church was allowed in his town, and no one was to baptize. The penalty for breaking this law was the fine of one cow. It was also stated and known that if anyone tried to enter the town with Christianity that they will be severely punished. Our Wordsower Africa disciples entered knowing the threat and consequences. Many came to Christ through their fearless efforts, including “the devil” himself! Our team goes to them discipling regularly. The town has agreed that they need a church and has given land for a church. We have never entered an Animistic demonic stronghold, through Christ, and not crumbled its foundation. Pray for this town.

WMP: How has the free literature helped churches to establish believers and encourage evangelism?

Kim: This testimony from our indigenous missionary team in Sierra Leone is typical. “We are training the new converts from 36 different communities to be used as soldiers for our Lord Jesus Christ… 97% of the 615 new converts that were baptized were Muslims. We are training them to know the Scriptures, teach the Scriptures, correct self-mistakes, live righteous lives and be equipped for every good work. A designated team works with them. The team sets up fellowship groups in each of their communities. Pray that the Holy Spirit will make our plan successful.” We love the God Loves You! book. We take these from town to town, village to village, door to door. We gather the children together, and give them colored pencils. They will color as they listen. In my 14 years in Liberia I have never seen material for teaching children.

Building For New Horizons

“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” —John 8:12b

The sun just cresting the horizon on a mild and beautiful cloudless day makes the heart rejoice and the mind fill with words of praise. It is with that feeling of gratitude and wonderment that on November 5th, World Missionary Press will be dedicating our new building that the Lord has provided for the expansion of His work. Interestingly the new building’s ground breaking took place 60 years to the day from the dedication of the original building that housed World Missionary Press in 1961. Eight buildings the size of that first building would fit inside this 16,400 square foot warehouse.

This warehouse is not just so we can be a bigger company, or have a larger presence in the community. As stated in our September, 2021 newsletter, “Our vision is beyond buildings and machinery. It remains a calling from our Savior to take His Word to the world.” The vision for the building began forming in 2013 when the property was bought with two standalone buildings. It was felt that a building connecting the two could someday be constructed. The new warehouse is a memorial to our faith that God would build it “in His time for His purpose.” For the past 8 years procedures have been put in place, staff hired, and production increased. When the time was right (and we asked for your help) the funds poured in from willing hearts.

In this fiscal year fifty-three containers have been sent, with ten more slated to leave as shipping is available. We are producing at a rate equivalent to more than 9 million booklets a month. The new building facilitates keeping up with increasing production demands by creating more shipment staging space, more room for equipment, relieving workflow bottlenecks, and the addition of a new booklet bindery and baler. It is exciting to consider what God will do with this increased capacity– “The sky’s the limit!”

The truth of the light of the gospel crossing more and more horizons is borne out in the ever-increasing demand for materials. For example, in Peru our coordinator could only take a few pallets at a time (showing how a lack of space can hinder the work), however two other ministries have emerged in Peru and are requesting increased amounts of literature. In South Africa a former WMP national coordinator has seen his own ministry increase to the point that he has requested an additional container of literature because of the expanding open doors for outreach.

From a human stand point there is always urgency in production. We must work while it is day, there are souls lost every second, and doors are sometimes open for a limited time. Thus we have worked and prayed hard that production would continue without interruption. Romania is one example of open doors into many of the Balkan states, Ukraine, and other bordering countries. In Africa, a new ministry partner, New Covenant Missions, is asking for materials to use in 26 countries. Many of our distributors are increasing their orders as churches and mission organizations in their countries are continuing and renewing their outreach efforts in a vital way. The Lord is also working to get Scripture into closed countries like Mauritania through Senegal. Our partner ministries are growing in Ghana, Chad, Kenya, and throughout the African continent.

Even with this urgency we know and believe that all literature leaving our plant goes in God’s time and under His direction. Although the internet is ever growing in popularity (WMP has a website, a mobile app, and various social media sites), the vast majority of the 8 billion people on this earth use printed materials for information. Often we receive testimonies of people who find a booklet in a trash can, or lying on the street; or they remember it in their pocket, or on the table; at just the right time they read it, and accept Jesus as Savior. A lady from the USA related how someone gave her a Scripture booklet and it changed her life completely. In requesting more copies she wrote, “I want to be able to give [them] to someone else for Jesus to change their life.” This is the power of God’s Word.

We are dedicating this building and rededicating this campus to sending the light of the gospel beyond our present day horizons.

[You can help fund Scripture booklets containing the light of the gospel for worldwide distribution! Every donated dollar provides for the production of 28 powerful Scripture booklets for people around the world in their own language. An investment of $100 will touch the lives of 2,800 people; $1,000 will impact 28,000 people who need to know God.]

Meet the Team

Steve K.

Prayer Mobilization Coordinator

I became aware of WMP in 2004 when I moved to northern Indiana from Kansas City, Missouri. Recently my term on the Indiana Haiti Benefit Auction ended (which raises money for Mennonite Haiti missions), so I was praying about another ministry opportunity. My daughter noticed from the highway sign that WMP was hiring and I felt impressed to check it out.

WMP offered the Prayer Mobilization Coordinator (PMC) position, which I accepted at the end of July. PMC is a new position, designed to close just some of the gaps created by the home going of Vicky Benson. As PMC I am collaborating on newsletter content, preparing the Prayer and Praise Letter, promoting and scheduling the usage of the World Prayer Center and Fireplace Prayer Room. In short, promoting prayer.

I appreciate this opportunity for two reasons: first, without self-aggrandizement or fanfare World Missionary Press is consistently fulfilling its mission, devoted to Christian ministries around the world that need literature, and completely dependent on prayer to victoriously spread the Word of God. Second, this position pulls together many of my experiences in pastoral ministry, in the publication industry, and as an editor/writer.

I am an ordained minister, a published author, and a master electrician. My wife and I live in Milford, by Lake Waubee, where we spend much of our time kayaking, bicycling, remodeling our home, landscaping, gardening, crafting, reading, and entertaining our 7 children and 8 grandchildren.

Grateful Quotes

“Because of this I now know who God is in my heart.”

“I pray that this finds you highly favored and truly blessed.

“Originally, I just obtained one of your datebooks because it was a free calendar, but a nagging sensation compelled me to start reading the Scripture contained within. Because of this I now know who God is in my heart. I do my best now to spend time with Him in prayer every day. I delve into the Scripture so much that I have a great deal committed to memory. Thank you for helping me rekindle that spark which ignited my fire and passion for a relationship with God.

“Blessings in Messiah”

—Thomas S.

WMP Partners Around the World

Ademir C.

Brazil

As we introduce one of our faithful ministry partners each month we are reminded of how many have served for years and years and how the Lord has blessed that faithfulness. It is a blessing to the WMP staff and supporters to provide the seed for the sowers who continue to labor while it is day. We praise God for their example. 

WMP: Please describe your background and current ministry. 

Ademir: I am coordinator of the Chaplaincy for the Assemblies of God in Belém, Brazil. My role here is evangelism; we distribute WMP material, Bibles, and other reading material. I focus on two areas. First is the prisons. Brazil currently has nearly one million people incarcerated in prisons and jails. Through the Assemblies of God ministry, we have been able to reach almost all of them in some way with these materials. Second, Amazonia; a very large region where transport relies on boats. God gave me a vision of someone traveling on those routes but not having anything to do during the trip. What’s he going to do? He’s going to read. What’s he going to read? He’s going to read about God and His plan for salvation. Above all, I want to take the message of God summarized by John 3:16, the love of God, the plan of God for mankind.

WMP: How long have you been involved in distributing WMP literature? 

Ademir: I first heard about WMP through Pastor Erno E., who is the WMP coordinator here in Brazil. We have worked and ministered together now for over 30 years.

WMP: How does the availability of free literature affect evangelism in your country?

Ademir: A huge portion of the population in Brazil today is evangelical! I praise God for your lives and ministry because you have everything to do with that. Only in eternity will we know the real scope of your work because I know you operate in many countries, but in Brazil the number of people who are evangelical has increased significantly, and continues to grow.

WMP: How long does a shipment of WMP literature last?

Ademir: I do my best to stretch a shipment for one year – but I would love to receive two [containers]     of material per year. Brazil is a huge country, and the material that I receive is excellent but doesn’t quite cover the number of people I’d like to reach throughout the entire nation.

WMP: What challenges do you have in your country to the free and open distribution of literature from WMP?

Ademir: The largest challenge I have is that I support missionaries and missionary families spread throughout the Amazon region. They work full-time as missionaries to spread the Gospel and rely on support. Recently we have had some financial difficulties which have been a significant challenge. Another issue is shipping in the Amazonia region – so much relies on boats in that region, which can be very costly and slow. It can take a long time and cost a lot for the literature to be distributed fully in that area.

WMP: How would you describe the effectiveness of the topical Scripture booklets in your country?

Ademir: We distribute the material in hard to reach locations or other areas where people move around a lot, so it’s hard to speak of one specific testimony. We have seen great change in our nation over time and again, eternity will tell just how effective these wonderful booklets of pure Bible text are here.

WMP: How do the Bible studies and Scripture booklets from WMP help establish believers and strengthen churches in your country?

Ademir: Thirty years ago, Brazil was primarily Catholic or even Catholic in name-only. God raised up ministries like WMP and others – and today we have a huge number of Evangelical Christians of different denominations. We are so thankful for you, for the people who support the work both in prayer and otherwise. May God reward your work; without it, this wouldn’t be possible. You are helping us win a nation for Christ. Thank you.

Committed to Sharing the Gospel

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58

The religious heritage of the Philippines has led to a population that considers themselves Christian. Bible verses appear everywhere in public spaces. But it is a nation in need of the truth of the Word of God. Operation World reports that the Philippines is awash with sects and cults that blend Christian ideas with all manner of false teaching. WMP National Coordinator Rene L. shared about the urgent need for more Scripture booklets: “The Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands with 8 major dialects. The need to reach out to people through the Scripture booklets is always increasing and challenging at the same time. This is why we are asking for more of your material for our beloved nation.”

 

Certain parts of the country, such as the southern region of Mindanao, still present threats and persecution for Christians. Many pastors and believers have been killed, and yet a significant number of Christians remain as a bold witness for Christ (Voice of the Martyrs).

During the shutdowns brought on by the pandemic, distributors were finding ways to witness about God’s love and use Scripture booklets as a continuing voice of comfort and hope. As the restrictions have eased, those like Pastor Jose are on the streets with the Word. His wife and a group of young people joined him for a short inspirational message and then went on the road to distribute Scripture booklets house to house. Others take the message into the prisons and the streets. All are eager to receive and share the precious seed of the Word of God.

One group chanced upon a paralyzed woman who believed that God didn’t hear her prayers. When the team shared God’s love through a WMP Scripture booklet, the woman understood the message and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior.

A missionary couple relocated to a different region in the Philippines. They were able to receive WMP Scripture booklets in the language of this new area of ministry. “If it were not for the divine providence of our Lord connecting us to WMP and all of your hard work and prayer, we would never have had the materials needed to continue our literature ministry here in our new location.” —L.B.

The Every Home for Christ Oikos project which began in 2018 aims to reach every single home in the Philippines in 20 years. That entails saturating all the homes and every province—109 million people in 81 provinces—with the Word of God.

EHC’s Emer E. shares “The challenge is real; scattered islands, distant mountain ranges, weather that is either just right, too hot, or too wet and flooded, 8 major dialects! But we continue to step out in faith with God as our guide…because the Filipinos need Jesus.”

Across the nation pastors are eager to evangelize, but lack the ministry connections for substantial impact. “Many of our churches want to go, but they don’t have the training or the materials,” shares Ditas, an EHC leader.

The Covid-19 pandemic covered the nation and personal door to door contact was restricted. Despite the challenges, church planters in more than 60 provinces left WMP Scripture booklets on doorsteps and evangelized in the streets. EHC gave out bags of groceries which also included a Scripture booklet. Sister Emer emphasizes their need for more Scripture booklets: “WMP booklets are very much needed as our stock is almost gone! Pastors from Ilocos are waiting for Ilocano booklets. Church leaders from Cebu and parts of Mindanao are anticipating the coming of Cebuano booklets. Many other churches are needing booklets in Hiligaynon.”

New shipments are in process for Rene L., WMP national coordinator, and for EHC Philippines. With the new order Emer of EHCP wrote, “We thank God for how the gospel booklets from World Missionary Press are being used in spreading the Word of God in many parts of the Philippines. EHCP is committed to sharing the gospel and saturating all homes by 2038. More and more resources will be needed. With a total of 81 provinces, EHCP now has outreaches in more than 35 provinces. Pastors and partners are intentionally and systematically distributing the Scripture booklets. Thank you for another shipment (1.7 million booklets) that will be given for the Philippines.”

[You can be a part of reaching the islands of the Philippines. Every donation counts – Just one dollar helps us print 28 Scripture booklets! 2,800 Scripture booklets can be produced for an investment of $100!]

Meet the Team

Melissa S.

Partner Communications Associate

I first heard about World Missionary Press about 12 years ago. At that time I was attending a church in Nappanee that would volunteer for World Missionary Press. I have a heart for Jesus and furthering the Kingdom of God. There is no greater feeling than holding God’s truth in your hands. Once that happens God can dispel any lie from the devil in your life because you no longer have general knowledge of who God is— you have a special revelation of His truths. My favorite part of working at WMP is reaching people in their own language to further God’s Kingdom.

I’ve only been working here for 3 weeks, but I feel this is exactly where God has been leading my life. I’m WMP’s new Partner Communications Associate. I keep in touch with our donors and distributors and reach out to organizations who give financially to ministries like WMP. When I’m not working, I like to spend time with family and friends. I enjoy the beach, festivals, fishing, museums, concerts, Main Street Roasters, and the zoo. Sometimes I just like being at home watching DVDs, reading books, listening to music, and puttering around my apartment. I also enjoy writing songs, painting, gardening, and baking.

I have an amazing son and a daughter-in-law. I have three beautiful grandkids who make my heart smile. I am truly blessed to be a mom and grandma. Ohhh… and I have a senior dog who thinks he’s a puppy. His name is Raine Bo.

Grateful Quotes

God’s Word nourishes the children’s souls.

“With all of the unrest in Haiti, it is incredible that the children continue to make their way to the program each week. This month the children are being taught using a Bible study on the book of Matthew from World Missionary Press. The teachers continue to encourage the children to put their faith and trust in Jesus, ensuring that their eternal life is guaranteed even as the world around them is falling apart. Just as the rice and beans nourish their bodies, God’s Word nourishes their souls. Please pray for the safety of the children and the staff as they travel to the program sites and back home and please keep the people of Haiti in your prayers, that the Lord’s peace will prevail in that dark land.”

         —Jim O., Haiti

WMP Partners Around the World

Derryck D.

Trinidad and Tobago

WMP provides Scripture booklets for many of the countries and islands scattered throughout the Caribbean. It has been our desire to establish a centralized point of distribution to help supply the many distributors there. The Lord has led Derryck D. to offer help in getting boxes of booklets into this region. We praise the Lord for this new partner and look ahead to the blessing that will come as the Lord leads.

WMP: Please describe your background and current ministry.

Derryck: My name is Derryck and I serve with Every Home for Christ. I live in Trinidad and Tobago and serve as the National Director for the nation and the Regional Director for the Caribbean. Our mission is to serve the churches in reaching every home on the island with the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We do this by providing literature and training in the areas of prayer, evangelism, and discipleship.

WMP: When did you first learn about WMP?

Derryck: I learned about WMP in 2011. I have only recently been involved in the distribution of material from WMP but some of the other nations in the Caribbean have been involved in the distribution for over 5 years now.

WMP: How does the availability of free literature affect evangelism in your country?

Derryck: The availability of free literature has empowered and encouraged the pastors and other NGOs in a tremendous way. The resources are given to the members and a strategic plan is developed for the people to get out of the 4 walls of the church and go and meet the unbelievers where they are, whether at home, at the grocery, at the malls, the community centers, and every other possible place—even the rum shops and bars. The pastors now have a tool, a resource to help them connect with and pray for the people and still leave a piece of literature in their mail box or under their doors, in case no one is at home.

WMP: What challenges do you have in your country to the free and open distribution of the literature from WMP?

Derryck: The only challenge we may have would be the taxes that the booklets may attract.

WMP: How would you describe the effectiveness of the topical Scripture booklets in your country?

Derryck: I have gone through a series of the booklets. In terms of effectiveness, the only concern of my ministry directors is the length of the booklets. I myself have gone through quite a bit of your resources and even though it’s long, I think it’s quite good. The reality of the current generation is that everyone wants everything quick, rapid, instant.

In recent weeks Derryck has reviewed all the WMP literature and found the Path to Life handout to be especially helpful to many of his distributors. In addition he chose Who Do You Say That I Am?, Help From Above, and How to Know God for his first shipment of 20,000 booklets.

Until All Have Heard

“…behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues,… saying, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’”
—Revelation 7:9-10

NEW COVENANT MISSIONS

One by one they came. All cross the Sahel and beyond, faithful church planters from 25 African nations met to have their vision enlarged (“a church in every village”), their spirits refreshed, and their hearts and minds strengthened for the tasks. They spoke different languages, but lustily sang praises and offered prayer to the Lord as one. What a joyful time it was!

For some, animism and Islam stand firm against the gospel and the fields produce small harvests. Faithfulness to the call of Christ shines bright as noonday. For others, the fields yield a greater harvest, but subtly, the enemy works to spoil the tender ones who come to the Savior. Solid Biblical teaching and pastoral care must keep constant vigil. By God’s grace they are now active among 252 unreached people groups across 25 nations. Thousands of churches have been planted and are developing into multi-generational churches, birthing new churches that will in turn birth others.

Sharing together, they became one in purpose. Emboldened, encouraged, and well-armed, they traveled home with an exciting answer to prayer: the promise of free Scripture booklets in the languages they need to support church-planting teams. World Missionary Press was now a full-fledged partner in reaching farther and farther into each nation with the all-powerful Word of God.

WMP was there to present the literature and work with each individual to make material available. Several attendees had used WMP Scripture booklets and knew of the effectiveness and value they offer in evangelism and discipleship.

Some attendees had already submitted requests for shipments of WMP material and were eager to hear the status of their orders. A director from the Democratic Republic of the Congo had already received his first container and shared with his colleagues how the booklets had allowed his church-planting teams to reach into the more remote regions where there were no churches or gospel presentations, leaving the message as they went from village to village. Small groups of believers began to crop up as men and women readily accepted the news that God created them and loved them.

The leader from Senegal had used WMP literature in the past and welcomed this new partnership to help his teams as they travel into remote areas. He was particularly thankful for the material in the languages of the people. Working in the predominately Muslim Sahel and among unreached people, the availability of the written Word to leave as a continuing witness is invaluable. As he said, “Words leave—Scripture stays.”

A call came for someone to reach out to a particular people group tied to their traditional beliefs. A man of peace in a certain village had prayed for someone to come and help him bring the light of Jesus to his village. In God’s mercy and grace, He heard this plea, directing the message as only He could. From 10,000 miles away the need was acknowledged and a visit to the village was arranged. Hope was born, and a team prepared to help this man of peace introduce his people to the Prince of Peace.

In village after village souls are being rescued from bondage and hopeless darkness. Light is dawning as the Word of God is offered, received, and believed. Each representative thanked WMP for the seed to sow and the grace of receiving what they need free of charge. How we praise God for His all-powerful, unchanging Word and the opportunity to support those who “GO” wherever the Lord leads.

CHALLENGE ENTERPRISES OF GHANA

While in Ghana the WMP team was blessed to meet with our long time national coordinator and partner, Challenge Enterprises of Ghana. Since 1979, CEG has been receiving Scripture booklets to share with pastors, churches, and ministries. The meeting with the CEG staff was a wonderful time of face-to-face fellowship. It is their desire to reach into every corner of the country with the word of salvation through Jesus Christ. One young pastor spoke of his ministry in the prisons of Ghana and how the Scripture booklets were so very important as they are left to continue speaking to hearts long after the evangelist departs. Pastor Maxwell shared how several titles of WMP booklets met specific needs of individual hearts and lives. What a blessing to learn of their diligence and faithfulness in wisely and prayerfully using each booklet!

[You can be a part of reaching the unreached of Africa. Every donation counts—Just one dollar helps us print 28 Scripture booklets! We have shipments ready to send to Ghana, Chad, Senegal, and Kenya with many other orders in process.]

Grateful Quotes

“The Scripture booklet shone…”

Pastor Paul N. reports of their encounter with a demon-possessed woman in a small village in the northern part of the Volta region in Ghana.

“This demon-possessed woman who was also epileptic was given a copy of The Way to God Scripture booklet but she rejected it because she did not want to have anything to do with Christ. Her teenage daughter, however, took it and placed in on the table in their room.

The next morning the woman sent her daughter to call the team so they would share the gospel with her. She claimed that night the gospel booklet shone as if it was on fire so she could not sleep. The team led her, the daughter, and two others in the house to Christ. The demons, during prayer, left her and she was healed of the epilepsy as well that morning.”

—CEG, Ghana

Meet the Team

Allen B.

Volunteer

I heard about WMP through my church in Middlebury growing up. My family volunteered there over the years. I used WMP Scripture booklets years ago at our Spanish church launch in Wisconsin, so after my wife passed and our 2 sons moved out of state, I decided to move to Indiana after 50 years. WMP is one of the ministries where I volunteer.

My favorite part of volunteering at WMP is serving where my family volunteered. I love knowing God’s written Word is available all over the world through the efforts of so many staff and volunteers. And I like the people, break time, and chapel. My hobbies mainly involve serving my family, church, and community. I took many mission trips during work vacations, for example.

I’m second-oldest in a farming family of 8 from Goshen, where school sports and church involvement prepared me to serve 2 years with Mennonite Central Committee in Central America. On my return, I was involved with Iglesia Menonita Del Buen Pastor in Goshen, where I met my wife, Claudette. We were blessed with 2 sons during our 48-year marriage, before the Lord called my sweetheart home.

Our son Mark and his wife Sandy live in Florida and have twin daughters. Our son Chris and his wife Hannah live in Utah and have 3 girls and 1 son. Most of our married life, we raised our family in Wisconsin, active in our Assemblies of God church. We led mission teams and, after retiring, served in short-term missions to South America, Mexico, Jamaica, and Spain over 15 years. In 2020 we returned from Mexico due to COVID. This year I served with Seaglass Min. in Jamaica using WMP Scripture booklets.

WMP Partners Around the World

George O.

Ghana

Evangelism Beyond Denominations works in Ghana to share the gospel with those who are often overlooked. In this work volunteers gather to find those bound by drugs, abuse, or any other device of the enemy to keep them from the life God has for them as His children. The Word of God, as available through World Missionary Press Scripture booklets and spoken to the heart by the Holy Spirit, can meet every pain and heal every soul. 

WMP: Please describe your background and current ministry.

George: I was born into a Christian home but entered into drinking and womanizing. Then God saved me through the Scripture booklet Help From Above. I joined the church outreach team and out of that met Every Home for Christ ministry who introduced to me the house to house evangelism in a very simple way with the World Missionary Press literature.

Traveling around my country I started a ministry, Evangelism Beyond Denominations, to work with all the churches to win souls. With my personal ministry, George Opare Ameyaw Ministry, I work to set crusades and street evangelism. Pneumatic Kratos Ministry is to help plant more churches in remote areas.

WMP: How long have you been involved in distributing World Missionary Press literature?

George: I got to know about WMP literature in 2005. By using the Scripture booklets to affect those who are in the idol worshipping districts and Muslim areas, many souls gave their lives to Christ and now many districts use them as study materials.

WMP: How does the availability of free literature affect your evangelism efforts?

George: The free literature has made the work of reaching out easy, not only to train people but to let them see how to help the lost through the literature. Many juvenile churches now are growing and the little amount of booklets they get is being used to expand their churches because of the literature being free.

WMP: How long does a shipment from World Missionary Press last?

George: With the 20 foot container, our ministry being in all the regions in Ghana, we manage for it to last 5 months, meaning we advise to spread it through those months.

WMP: What challenges do you face?

George: Paying off-loaders and distribution to all the districts; the costs involved.

WMP: How would you describe the effectiveness of the Scripture booklets in your country?

George: A northern area of Ghana is called Bawku West District. It has idol worship and a few Muslims.  Through the literature the chief now has given a vast land to build a church there to help all the villages know Christ. Traditional priests dumped their idols to be burnt.

WMP: How do the Scripture booklets and Bible studies help establish believers?

George:  Many Christians and even a pastor testified that he was using the topical layout of the Scripture to preach. Many Christians testify that it has boosted their studies in some topics in the Bible.

Building for the Kingdom – Phase II

“…And this work goes on diligently and prospers in their hands.” – Ezra 5:8b

Any building project takes sequential steps arrived at by clearly thought-out planning. The Kingdom of God is no exception. God’s perfect plan of redemption was laid out before time began and was brought to its ultimate purpose when Jesus Christ died for the sins of the world and rose from the dead, defeating death and providing eternal life and hope for all who would receive it. Jesus left the task of building up His kingdom to His followers, empowering them with every resource needed, most importantly His presence.

For 61 years God has guided World Missionary Press step by step to accomplish His purposes. Staff members, supporters, and ministry partners have been provided to do the work. Scripture booklets have been prepared in more than 350 languages and more than 2.5 billion items have been sent around the world. Requests for the free material continue to grow as believers recognize the power of the Word as it is received. Thousands echo the testimony from a man in Pennsylvania: “This is part of my personal missionary work. I’m in the transportation business and come in contact with hundreds of people a month. This is a great way to spread the gospel. I hand these out to the people I come in contact with and I feel they have made an impact in their lives helping them and leading them to Christ.”

Now another step has been taken as the need for more efficient production and staging areas led WMP to a new building project. Phase one was to put up a 16,000 square foot building to house inventory and shipment staging. Praise God that this part nears completion and has been fully funded! Now comes phase two, getting everything relocated while continuing printing and shipping operations. This will entail moving existing equipment, the purchase of additional equipment, and relocating the many boxes of literature awaiting shipment!

Additional equipment will be needed, including a reconditioned baler and scrap paper handling system to process the trimmings from three booklet binderies. Praise God that this need has been mostly funded by additional donations received for phase one of the project. A third bindery will be added allowing us to have two binderies running throughout the transition, and increase production going forward. WMP’s Board has approved the purchase of a reconditioned bindery at a cost of $140,000, as funds are received. It is vital that all the equipment be available for installation as the transition begins. Donations toward the purchase of the new bindery will allow the purchase to proceed and delivery be expedited.

Shredded paper from the binderies is baled into large bundles of scrap paper and sold. The cost for the newly reconditioned baler is expected to be recovered in just three years from sale of the scrap paper bundles. We praise the Lord for each detail that He reveals and provides to help WMP be efficient and good stewards of every donation, no matter the size. Every dollar allows us to print 25 booklets with 200-250 Scripture portions speaking God’s heart to those who have yet to know Him.

Once the new facility is ready, the moves begin. The current New Testament bindery must be disassembled and relocated to the southeast section of our main building. The small order department must be taken down and moved to its new home where the New Testament bindery was. That vacated space will then be used to house three binderies and the baler/scrap paper system. Binderies will be installed in their new location one at a time so that we continue to bind and box booklets during all this change.

Even though the planning has been thorough and well laid out, current economic conditions must be recognized. Supply chain issues and difficulty in getting needed material can certainly upend plans. We have seen God provide funding and material in His time and we rest in His faithfulness.

A message from the WMP national coordinator in Sri Lanka speaks of the spiritual hunger in his nation: “It is our trust in the Risen Lord and Hope of His soon coming that gives us no choice but to proclaim His Name to all.” These two facts, the spiritual darkness and hunger in the world, and the soon return of Christ, instill an urgency to supply His Word for thousands of itinerant evangelists and pastors, ministry workers and believers. We are building a physical plant to help build an eternal kingdom! There is no greater task.

Visit www.wmpress.org/build for more info!

[You can help provide needed funds for Phase II of our Building for the Kingdom project! Urgent needs include $140,000 for the new booklet bindery, and $18,000 balance for the new baler and scrap paper handling system. Might the Lord be leading you to help fund this equipment?]

Grateful Quotes

“Immigrant from Ukraine shares Help From Above in Washington State”

“You recently supplied me with a boxful of English Help From Above booklets. I gave them to a young man who is in a faith-based one year drug/alcohol treatment ministry called ‘Mountain Ministries’, which is located near Kelso, WA…. The young man’s name is Vladmir, and he is an immigrant from Ukraine. Mountain Ministries takes their program participants shopping from time to time, and Vladmir likes to witness and give out booklets to people he meets at Wal-Mart and other places.

“Thanks for your assistance. Keep up your good work.”

—James O., WA

 

Meet the Team

Vicky Benson

In Loving Memory

The World Missionary Press family is saddened to report that Victoria Raye Benson, 77, passed away of natural causes in her home in New Paris, IN on Saturday, April 23, 2022. Born November 30, 1944 in Milford, Delaware to WMP founders Watson and Rose Goodman, most of her school years were spent in South Africa, where the family were missionaries. They moved to Winona Lake, IN in 1961 when Vicky was a high school senior. She graduated from Warsaw High School in 1962, from Marion College (now Indiana Wesleyan University) in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, and received her Master of Arts in Journalism from Syracuse University in 1967.

That year Vicky married the love of her life, Jay Benson. Together they served as literature missionaries with Kalam Hidup, the publishing house of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in Bandung, Indonesia. While there, Jay and Vicky coordinated the publishing of 3 million Help From Above Scripture booklets in 3 languages for WMP, many of which were distributed through C&MA.

In 1976 the Bensons returned to the U.S. with their new son, Jeffery, to work with WMP, where Vicky served for 45 years as study booklet compiler, prayer coordinator, treasurer, and vice president. She loved writing, editing, and immersing herself in Scripture. Vicky also enjoyed sharing her favorite books with others and especially loved the romance novels of Grace Livingston Hill, fascinated by their historical accuracy and insight into human nature.

Vicky was preceded in death by her parents and husband, whom she has rejoined in the arms of Christ. Surviving are her son, Jeff, her 4 grandchildren, her siblings Ruth and Harry, and many cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews. She is greatly missed by all at WMP, her family and loved ones, and everyone with whom she prayed, laughed, adventured, and shared spiritual wisdom and support. Memorials may be sent to World Missionary Press, Inc., PO Box 120, New Paris, IN, or online at www.wmpress.org /donate

WMP Partners Around the World

Thony P.

Haiti

The situation in Haiti can best be described as chaotic. A WMP distributor working in Haiti began their report thus:

“To say that 2021 was a difficult year is an understatement; the year began with the entire country of Haiti in a state of unrest and things only got worse. We had a presidential assassination, multiple kidnappings, fuel shortages, out of control gang activity, plus 2 earthquakes and a hurricane; and yet through it all God still reigns.” —J.O.

Yes, God is still seeking the people of Haiti, sending His message through His messengers. For more than 30 years Pastor Thony P. has been serving faithfully in Cap Haitian, northern Haiti, including WMP Scripture booklets in his various ministry opportunities.

WMP: Please share about your background.

Pastor Thony: I was a tall, skinny 16 year old boy with no life, unable to read or write, living under the influence of voodoo. Three men met me one day and said, “We have good news for you.” Their words made me curious so I walked to a church where I saw happy people clapping and singing. I was surprised because in my place no one is happy. The witch doctor comes with things to make people afraid. My eyes and heart were opened and I accepted Jesus into my life.

WMP: How did your current ministry develop?

Pastor Thony: God gave me a vision to see a big tomorrow. My goal became to build a people to transform a nation and to “dig a big hole and bury the voodoo”! God has helped our ministry to establish 15 schools with 3,000 students, a medical clinic, and 22 churches.

WMP: How has literature from World Missionary Press helped the people of Haiti?

Pastor Thony: We need New Testaments (in Kreyol), particularly. When you give a Haitian a New Testament it is a fortune to him. The churches are crying for the booklets to share with a people that are without hope. Over the years WMP has sent us 1,757,597 Scripture booklets, New Testaments, coloring books, and Bible studies. As much literature as we have, it is like a drop in the sea.

In a recent phone conversation with WMP, Pastor Thony pleaded for more literature for the northern part of Haiti, knowing that his people need God’s Word as much as they need anything else. A new shipment containing 796,500 Scripture booklets, Bible studies, and New Testaments has been prepared and is en route for him and another ministry working in the same part of the country. May God bless His message and His messengers!

VICKY IS REJOICING WITH THE ANGELS!

Victoria Raye (Goodman) Benson, 77, of New Paris, died unexpectedly of natural causes in her home on Saturday, April 23, 2022. She had been a resident of Winona Lake and then New Paris since 1976.

Vicky was born in Milford, Delaware on November 30, 1944, to Watson and Rose (Stair) Goodman. Most of her school years were spent in South Africa where Watson and Rose were missionaries. The family moved to Winona Lake in 1961 when Vicky was entering her senior year in high school. She graduated from Warsaw High School in 1962 and from Marion College, now Indiana Wesleyan University, in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. The following year she received her Master of Arts in Journalism from Syracuse University, New York.

She married the love of her life, Jay Ellsworth Benson, on October 28, 1967. After working for the Free Methodist Church of North America, the Bensons served as literature missionaries in association with Kalam Hidup, the publishing house of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA) in Bandung, Indonesia. While in Indonesia, Bensons coordinated the publishing of three million copies of the Help From Above Scripture booklet in three languages for World Missionary Press (WMP), many of which were distributed through C&MA ministries. During this time their son, Jeff, was born.

In 1976 the Bensons returned to the U.S. to work with WMP, a worldwide donor-supported ministry of publishing Scripture booklets and Bible-study booklets. Many of the Bible Study booklets were compiled by Vicky. During her 45 years at WMP Vicky had many opportunities to travel and to speak. She served in various roles, including Study booklet compiler, prayer coordinator, Treasurer, and Vice President. Her favorite tasks were writing and editing. She especially loved studying the Bible to glean truths to apply to her life.

An avid reader, she enjoyed finding gems of books to share with others. Her great love was reading the romance novels of Grace Livingston Hill, which she found fascinating for their accurate historical details, and their insight into human nature.

Vicky was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother and sister-in-law Donald and Kim Goodman, and her brother-in-law Jerry Johnson.

Surviving are her son, Jeffrey C. (Dana) Benson, and four grandchildren, Audrey, Eli, Emily and Isaac of Aurora, Illinois; her sister, Ruth Johnson of South Bend, Indiana; and her brother, Harry (Tricia) Goodman of Goshen, Indiana, as well as many cousins, in-laws, and nieces and nephews.

She is greatly missed by all her family and loved ones, by those with whom she prayed, shared a laugh or an adventure, and by those who looked to her for spiritual wisdom and support.

Visitation is from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Yoder-Culp Funeral Home in Goshen on Friday, April 29, 2022. The memorial service will also be held at the Yoder-Culp Funeral Home on Saturday, April 30 at 10 a.m.

Burial will be at the Violett Cemetery in Goshen.

Memorials may be sent to World Missionary Press, Inc., PO Box 120, New Paris, Indiana, or online at www.wmpress.org.

Help from Above for All

“My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” – Psalm 121:2

As storm clouds gathered over Ukraine, carrying an ominous threat of war, the world watched. Destruction and death became the daily experience of the people of Ukraine. Amid the devastation and uncertainty of even the next hour, God’s people continued faithfully standing on His promises.

A WMP contact in Romania with missionaries in Ukraine sent this poignant message: “The threat and uncertainty are creating turmoil in the country and those around it, but our missionaries stand firm in the knowledge that God is in control, and that His Will will prevail. The tension has reached into people’s homes and villages, breeding uncertainty and worry. And yet, God is using that turmoil to help people be more receptive to Him. The missionaries are always telling us stories that demonstrate how God uses the darkest of times to speak into the hearts of many. The churches in Ukraine are fasting and praying that they will remain faithful and be a good witness to others, regardless of the outcome. I encourage us all to pray with them.”

In recent weeks, World Missionary Press has received a growing number of requests for Scripture booklets in Ukrainian. Surely the Spirit of God is moving among His people to reach out with hope and support through His Word.

Booklet orders have already been sent to four separate churches in Poland to serve those coming from Ukraine and also to minister to Russians who have come for safety. A team from the USA will be ministering to refugees in Greece, including new arrivals from Ukraine. WMP’s national coordinator in Finland has asked for a new supply of booklets in Ukrainian to meet the opportunity.

A group in California is sending humanitarian aid for Ukraine, including WMP Scripture booklets in Russian and Ukrainian. They sent an urgent request for more booklets for the next shipment of aid. Feed the Hungry requested 20,000 Scripture booklets to accompany their response to the situation in Ukraine.

Our national coordinator in Denmark sent an urgent plea for more booklets in Ukrainian and Russian. Noting that Denmark was willing to receive 40-50,000 Ukrainian refugees, he wanted to be prepared. Some refugees had already arrived, making the timing urgent. Now 100,000 refugees are expected!

One request was particularly meaningful. Back In 2015, as the flow of immigrants from the Middle East and Northern Africa surged into southern Europe, churches realized not only the need for humanitarian aid, but also the opportunity to share the truth of God’s Word to those who had never known the One true God and His love for them. Because of the many different languages, churches in Hungary contacted WMP for help. Andrew F. wrote from Hungary back then about outreach to Muslim refugees arrested at the border and taken to the train station for a few hours before traveling on to Budapest and the refugee camps. There were about 20-70 people per day. Very few spoke English. They helped with food, clothes, medical care, played with the kids, and shared the gospel when possible.

One of the churches who had discovered WMP literature in those days sent a new request to share with Ukrainian refugees who were arriving in Hungary in large numbers. Thus, a relationship established for immigrants from afar years ago is now serving refugees from a neighboring country. God always goes before and prepares the way to accomplish His purposes.

It is important to realize that many Ukrainians are remaining in their country and many national churches are standing with them. It is also important to think as well of those in Russia who also are suffering the consequences of the war in their country. In addition, Christians in many countries are opening homes and giving much to receive those who have fled. In each situation the Word of God is their Help from Above.

Many times in the 61-year history of World Missionary Press, we have seen God prepare us for the unexpected. Praise God, we had Ukrainian booklets already available to fill each of the above requests.

“My heart breaks for the people in Ukraine,” wrote Cornel S. (See page 4.) “Since we started ministry in Ukraine in 1991, God has opened doors that I never thought would be possible.” He has seen souls coming to the Lord, disciples being made, and Christian Camps developed for children and youth. “I’ve seen church buildings built and people coming to Christ to fill them. Today is a sad time in Ukraine; however, we have a God who is still in control!”

[You can bring Help from Above to the people of Ukraine and to places around the world. Every donated dollar provides for the production of 28 powerful Scripture booklets for people around the world in their own language. An investment of $100 will touch the lives of 2,800 people; $1,000 will impact 28,000 people who need to have hope in God.]

Grateful Quotes

“Preparing blessing bags for the Community Day in the park.”

“Every year I prepare blessing bags with booklets and coloring books for children, crosses, devotionals and booklets for teens, and Meditations in the Psalms and blessing rocks for the adults.

“We usually see about 250 children, 100 teens, and 200 adults at the annual Community Day in the Park. We love being a blessing to others, and your resources permit us to do much more than we could do on our own.

“The children love gathering at the table and picking a gemstone with a cross painted on it to go with your Who Am I that a KING Would Die in My Place? booklet and coloring in the God Loves You! booklet as we tell the stories!

“I love your outreach materials, small group studies, and of course the coloring books. Thank you for your commitment to God’s work!!!”

—Jennifer R., West Virginia

Meet the Team

Barb G.

Volunteer

I first heard of WMP years ago through Nappanee Missionary Church. I had been honored to serve in Malawi as a missionary through the Rafiki Foundation (2004-2007) but was called back home due to family emergencies. I knew that once I retired, I wanted to do something related to mission work again; however, at this time I am committed to staying in this area. I’d been thinking of volunteering for WMP when a good friend also decided to return to volunteer here, so the time just seemed right. I’ve been volunteering for the past 16 months (although it doesn’t seem that long).

What I like most about volunteering at WMP is knowing I am playing a small part in this enormous ministry. When I learned just how many countries the Word is going out to, and in so many various languages, I was awed. I had seen first-hand how much this type of ministry meant to the people of Malawi while I was there, so again, I feel it a privilege to participate in what God is doing through WMP. Another favorite part has been meeting the wonderful friends I get to work alongside here.

When I’m not volunteering, I love to be outside, either doing yard work or walking/hiking in the summer. In the winter I read more, but also like to have some inside home-improvement project going.

WMP Partners Around the World

Cornel S.

Romania

Romania is strategically located in Eastern Europe to serve as a hub for accessing WMP literature. A new ministry partner, Partners in Evangelism International, received a shipment from WMP in 2020 to reach into these nations with the Word of God. PIEI also supports missionaries in Ukraine who have used WMP booklets in their outreach. God’s Word is at work!

WMP: Cornel, would you share a little of your background and ministry?

Cornel: I emigrated from Romania as a religious refugee, with my family, during the communist regime in 1983. I know what it means not to have literature, to be persecuted for your faith, and to sacrifice in order to put the Word of God into the hands of people. I got involved in evangelism here in the States, then immediately after the fall of communism in Romania and then in Southern Ukraine, and with Partners in Evangelism International since 1990. Our ministry has established partnerships with national missionaries currently in 13 countries. As president of PIEI, I am involved with the overall leadership of these ministries but have closer and hands-on involvement with the ministries in Romania and in Ukraine.

WMP: How are the Scripture booklets incorporated into the ministry?

Cornel: Being fluent in Romanian, I travel often, getting to know our national missionaries who are doing the work of evangelism, church planting, and discipleship as well as train and recruit short-term mission teams to serve alongside our missionaries. We have done a lot of door-to-door Bible and literature distribution during free clinics for eye glasses, blood pressure testing, etc. We pray with the people and give them literature before they leave. Our missionaries and teams go on home visits, especially in rural areas, taking food, school supplies, all kinds of needed goods, along with Bibles and literature. They also rely on having some literature to give first-time comers when they visit their churches and when they have questions. The message of salvation especially is so important to put into the hands of people. It is the most important message that someone will receive—a challenge to make an eternal decision.

WMP: What challenges does the ministry face?

Cornel: Once the shipment reaches our facility in Romania, it’s very easy to distribute from there, and quite fast. During Covid, the process was unusually slow due to travel restrictions and curfews. Once most of those were lifted, and the people in charge of the distribution received a clear directive, the Romanian language literature left the facility and got into the hands of eager pastors, missionaries, workers, teachers, students, etc. Challenges also exist especially when a facility such as ours in Romania becomes a hub for other countries. It would be marvelous to have more Russian and Ukrainian materials for our missionaries there.

We are thankful to join together in reaching people with the gospel for the kingdom of God. We thank you for your partnership in ministry, and for your faithfulness in providing literature free of charge. This is a dark time, and more than ever, people need hope and God’s salvation in order to come to the Light, through God’s Word, His message of hope and love.

 “To the Corners of the Earth!”

For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
He will set up a banner for the nations… from the four corners of the earth.” – Isaiah 11:9b, 12

Excitement rose among the staff as word was received that a faithful partner had given WMP a challenge grant to provide container shipments to “the corners of the earth.” With a gift of $211,000 and a desire to help fund shipments going to various parts of the world, the challenge is going out to help toward another $211,000 to fund the printing and shipping of a total 9,163,355 Scripture booklets to waiting, eager hands—four 40-foot container shipments to Russia, Argentina, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and part of a fifth container to Romania, Bulgaria, and Moldova.

RUSSIA: In March, 2021, WMP was contacted by believers in Russia who presented a well-organized and focused campaign to reach 25 million people in Central Russia within a 24-month period. This plan included the need for trusted literature, leaving the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to continue speaking. Their initial request was for 1 million copies of A Bible Study on John as a starting point with a subsequent request for 1 million copies of the new WMP booklet, Who do You say that I AM?

“Christ is in our country,” was one eager response. “The ministry is growing so fast and the doors for preaching the gospel are more open than ever in our country. Right now we are distributing about 1,040,000 booklets in one month. We feel we still have the resources to start distributing about 2,000,000 booklets in one month. So we are looking forward to the booklets. Print as many of them as you can! Thank you for your work for our country. I thank Christ that we will rejoice together.”

ARGENTINA: Despite limitations for outreach due to the current pandemic, the work of giving the Word of God to the people of Argentina has continued. Doors are opening, requiring a new supply of WMP Scripture booklets and Bible studies. Churches can once again carry out activities without restrictions. A strategic follow-up and discipleship plan has been started by WMP’s national coordinator in recent months. Their new order reflected an increase in the number of booklets and Bible studies that are proving very effective.

“We are blessed to be partners in evangelization,” wrote EHC Argentina. “God is giving us many opportunities to reach many people for Christ each month, and that’s wonderful! Without you, the work would not be possible, since 70% of the literature we distribute is WMP booklets. Our prison ministry requested Bible studies of John, Matthew, Romans, and Genesis. I just had to say they were exhausted, but we are expecting another shipment! Thank you very much, and many blessings.”

ETHIOPIA:  An internal conflict between government and rebel forces has seen thousands die in Ethiopia, with more than a million people displaced. Reports now warn that nearly half a million Ethiopians are facing starvation. Into such uncertainties and desperation, the Word of God brings hope. WMP’s national coordinator confirmed the open doors to share the booklets and the timely need.

“Praise God that Christ is setting people free,” EHC Ethiopia wrote. “Anteneh B. is a street boy who committed lots of sins and was in jail many times. But a simple gospel booklet changed his life. Nobody had told him about Jesus before, because they were afraid to approach him. He shares: ‘But this booklet told me who Jesus is. A lady gave me this booklet, and I accepted Jesus through that message. If Jesus [were] not my Savior, my life [would have] ended up in the maximum-security prison where the worst criminals are sent.’”

A 40-foot container with 1.3 million booklets in Amharic and Oromiffa is in line for production. The booklets are being well received and effective. Millions face an empty tomorrow. Now is the day of salvation.

SOUTH SUDAN: In a recent interview, WMP’s national coordinator in South Sudan eloquently expressed the opportunity and need for a new supply of Scripture booklets. He reports that in the past two years, doors have been opened for evangelism outreach without restriction and churches have seized the opportunity to press forward with the gospel. South Sudan is home to 64 tribes, 27 of which have not been reached with the gospel. He states that “Without you, we wouldn’t know what we could do.” The larger areas of Darfur, Khartoum, and the Nuba Mountains are open to the gospel, accentuating the need for more material.

Booklets are urgently needed in two of the major languages of South Sudan, Dinka and Nuer. The WMP language team is working with the team there to get booklets ready as soon as possible. These will enhance the reach of the literature and support the churches in evangelism and discipleship. A 40-foot container with 1.7 million booklets is in line to provide tools for those going through the open doors God has provided.

ROMANIA, BULGARIA, and MOLDOVA: Scripture booklets will provide for part of a fifth container shipment, bringing the total project to 9,163,355 Scripture booklets destined for the corners of the earth! Each Help from Above-sized booklet can be printed and shipped for 4.6053 cents. What eternal value! You can be part of the vision and provision of the partner who so earnestly wants to reach around the world with words of hope and salvation through Jesus Christ! Will you help meet our “Corners of the Earth” challenge?

[You can be involved in projects “to the corners of the earth!” A generous donor has already provided $211,000. Can we meet his challenge to provide another $211,000? Producing 9,163,355 million Scripture booklets will also ship four 40-foot container shipments to Russia, Argentina, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, plus part of a fifth container to Romania, Bulgaria, and Moldova.]

Grateful Quotes

“Booklet meant for me.”

“I came from a Buddhist family. I prayed and asked Jesus at a church meeting on Feb. 8, 2020, to prove to me that He is real, and He did! Out of nowhere, the pastor who didn’t know me, called out my name and prayed over me. It was amazing.

“I want to give booklets to the Vietnamese community around me and other booklets to everyone that I meet daily and for family. Thank you!

“I was in Las Vegas during this Thanksgiving holiday and got a booklet, Help from Above. I think it was meant for me to get the booklet! I usually travel to Vietnam to visit family back there, and now I know where to get the Word of God in Vietnamese. My goal is to spread the good news in Vietnam.”

—Anthony C., Florida

Meet the Team

<Your Name Here>

6-Unit Press Operator

You could be the next addition to the WMP team!

We are looking for an Offset Printing Press Operator to assist in running our 6-unit Man Roland 300 Press. You will be trained on the job by our Color Press Supervisor and gradually move into being one of our press operators.

Preferred experience includes:

•      -General knowledge of multicolor printing;
•      -Print production;
•      -Machine maintenance.

We are looking for someone with the following traits:

•      -Good vision (no astigmatism or color blindness);
•      -Physically able to lift 40 pounds;
•      -Mechanical aptitude;
•      -Focused on detail and quality;
•      -Team player with a desire to learn and grow;
•      -Flexible to meet production schedule needs.

World Missionary Press provides a good work environment, major health insurance, and paid vacation, holiday, sick, and personal hours.

We have Chapel every work day for approximately 20 minutes as paid time (or Hour of Power twice a month).

This is an excellent opportunity to get in on the ground floor with this press while helping reach the world with the Good News! Come by for a tour to see the press in operation! Please visit www.wmpress.org/job-openings or scan the QR code for more information on this exciting position!

WMP Partners Around the World

Omar B.
Colombia

Some major distributors have faithfully partnered with WMP national coordinators for many years. As booklets are printed and shipped, they are an encouragement to WMP staff, and we are assured that Scriptures will be given out prayerfully and with care and that the Word will fall on good soil. We praise God for those who take up the challenge, carrying words of life and hope wherever the Lord leads.

WMP: Brother Omar, please describe your ministry and background.

Omar: In March 1982, Evangelica Cristiana Templo Belen began its first service. We continue to preach the gospel where the Lord takes us. We have 25 churches within the city of Buenaventura and rural areas, as well as churches established in Ecuador, Belgium, and Switzerland. We distribute literature in all of Colombia to churches who request literature to preach the gospel. We continue to expand through cell groups of adults and children that later become churches.

WMP: How long have you been involved in distributing WMP literature?

Omar: I received my first mail bag of literature in 1995. In 1998 I met with former WMP President Jay Benson and current WMP President Harold Mack in Bogota regarding serving as a major distributor for WMP material in Colombia. We have been answering the challenge since that time, receiving container shipments for distribution.

WMP: How has the free literature helped the churches grow?

Omar: We give thanks to God because Colombia is being filled with the Glory and the Word of God as the waters cover the sea. The gospel is being preached in all the national territories, and many churches are open to preach the gospel. WMP literature has been a great blessing in the country. We have delivered to places as far as the Eastern Plains at the other extreme of the country and to the south in places like Tumaco, in the capitol of Bogota, etc. Literature from WMP is a blessing for both adults and children, as it is clear for all that read it.

WMP: What challenges do believers face in Colombia as they receive and share the Scripture booklets?

Omar: Thanks to God, the Word of God can be preached or distributed with liberty in most cities. In some cities like Cali, etc., there are communities where you need to identify yourself to be able to enter. We go into these areas in uniform with the Army of Prayer and Salvation. When they see us in uniform and that we are Christians, they allow us in, but they do not allow us to take photographs. In December, while we were sharing in uniform, one of us was threatened with death, but they did not harm us because we were together in a group.

WMP: Do you have a testimony you can share?

Omar: This year during our evangelistic journey in Cali, we visited in the Barrio Jardin, a dangerous zone because of violence, narco trafficking, and the presence of many homeless, drug addicts, and street vendors. One street vendor who received a booklet was so touched by it that the next day she searched for us until she found us and asked for another booklet to read. She showed us in her handbag those she had already read. This is the power of the Word of God. Both adults and children like The Way to God Scripture booklet because of the model prayer on page 29. Because of that prayer, they ask for it more than the other titles. That booklet has been the key to go into very dangerous places.

Pray for the 51.6 million people of Colombia, with its 1,119 cities. The need of literature to reach Colombia is great!

“To the Corners of the Earth!”

For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.

He will set up a banner for the nations… from the four corners of the earth.” – Isaiah 11:9b, 12

  Click on Button to Donate

Excitement rose among the staff as word was received that a faithful partner had given WMP a challenge grant to provide container shipments to “the corners of the earth.” With a gift of $211,000 and a desire to help fund shipments going to various parts of the world, the challenge is going out to help toward another $211,000 to fund the printing and shipping of a total 9,163,355 Scripture booklets to waiting, eager hands—four 40-foot container shipments to Russia, Argentina, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and part of a fifth container to Romania, Bulgaria, and Moldova.

RUSSIA: In March, 2021, WMP was contacted by believers in Russia who presented a well-organized and focused campaign to reach 25 million people in Central Russia within a 24-month period. This plan included the need for trusted literature, leaving the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to continue speaking. Their initial request was for 1 million copies of A Bible Study on John as a starting point with a subsequent request for 1 million copies of the new WMP booklet, Who do You say that I AM?

“Christ is in our country,” was one eager response. “The ministry is growing so fast and the doors for preaching the gospel are more open than ever in our country. Right now we are distributing about 1,040,000 booklets in one month. We feel we still have the resources to start distributing about 2,000,000 booklets in one month. So we are looking forward to the booklets. Print as many of them as you can! Thank you for your work for our country. I thank Christ that we will rejoice together.”

ARGENTINA: Despite limitations for outreach due to the current pandemic, the work of giving the Word of God to the people of Argentina has continued. Doors are opening, requiring a new supply of WMP Scripture booklets and Bible studies. Churches can once again carry out activities without restrictions. A strategic follow-up and discipleship plan has been started by WMP’s national coordinator in recent months. Their new order reflected an increase in the number of booklets and Bible studies that are proving very effective.

“We are blessed to be partners in evangelization,” wrote EHC Argentina. “God is giving us many opportunities to reach many people for Christ each month, and that’s wonderful! Without you, the work would not be possible, since 70% of the literature we distribute is WMP booklets. Our prison ministry requested Bible studies of John, Matthew, Romans, and Genesis. I just had to say they were exhausted, but we are expecting another shipment! Thank you very much, and many blessings.”

ETHIOPIA:  An internal conflict between government and rebel forces has seen thousands die in Ethiopia, with more than a million people displaced. Reports now warn that nearly half a million Ethiopians are facing starvation. Into such uncertainties and desperation, the Word of God brings hope. WMP’s national coordinator confirmed the open doors to share the booklets and the timely need.

“Praise God that Christ is setting people free,” EHC Ethiopia wrote. “Anteneh B. is a street boy who committed lots of sins and was in jail many times. But a simple gospel booklet changed his life. Nobody had told him about Jesus before, because they were afraid to approach him. He shares: ‘But this booklet told me who Jesus is. A lady gave me this booklet, and I accepted Jesus through that message. If Jesus [were] not my Savior, my life [would have] ended up in the maximum-security prison where the worst criminals are sent.’”

A 40-foot container with 1.3 million booklets in Amharic and Oromiffa is in line for production. The booklets are being well received and effective. Millions face an empty tomorrow. Now is the day of salvation.

SOUTH SUDAN: In a recent interview, WMP’s national coordinator in South Sudan eloquently expressed the opportunity and need for a new supply of Scripture booklets. He reports that in the past two years, doors have been opened for evangelism outreach without restriction and churches have seized the opportunity to press forward with the gospel. South Sudan is home to 64 tribes, 27 of which have not been reached with the gospel. He states that “Without you, we wouldn’t know what we could do.” The larger areas of Darfur, Khartoum, and the Nuba Mountains are open to the gospel, accentuating the need for more material.

Booklets are urgently needed in two of the major languages of South Sudan, Dinka and Nuer. The WMP language team is working with the team there to get booklets ready as soon as possible. These will enhance the reach of the literature and support the churches in evangelism and discipleship. A 40-foot container with 1.7 million booklets is in line to provide tools for those going through the open doors God has provided.

ROMANIA, BULGARIA, and MOLDOVA: Scripture booklets will provide for part of a fifth container shipment, bringing the total project to 9,163,355 Scripture booklets destined for the corners of the earth! Each Help from Above-sized booklet can be printed and shipped for 4.6053 cents. What eternal value! You can be part of the vision and provision of the partner who so earnestly wants to reach around the world with words of hope and salvation through Jesus Christ! Will you help meet our “Corners of the Earth” challenge?

[You can be involved in projects “to the corners of the earth!” A generous donor has already provided $211,000. Can we meet his challenge to provide another $211,000? Producing 9,163,355 million Scripture booklets will also ship four 40-foot container shipments to Russia, Argentina, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, plus part of a fifth container to Romania, Bulgaria, and Moldova.]