We use a multi-faceted approach to reach the nations and involve our people where they’re gifts, and talents can be used.
We pursue international partnerships with indigenous ministries that are effectively impacting their own cultures. Our goal in partnering is the development of people and systems, focused on biblical principles that will do more than provide relief of short-term needs. Finally, we seek to meet spiritual needs along with material needs, connecting our “good works” with the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Watermark corporately invests deeply in a few regions, rather than scattering our efforts broadly. Our External Focus staff coordinates short-term trips to serve with our various partners in different regions, and our body can also be involved from home through prayer, financial support and specific projects. Regardless of where our service takes place or the form it takes, we see international involvement as a chance to disciple our own people, even as we seek to impact others.
As with ministries here in DFW, we encourage our members to discover, research, and build relationships with international ministries beyond our formal partnerships. By investing their time, talents and treasures in ministries as God leads, our people are meeting spiritual and material needs worldwide.
The good news should always accompany good works–as we serve, we want to provide for people’s spiritual needs while meeting many other needs.
We want to work through, empower, and support local (indigenous) churches and ministries.
We focus on developing people and restoring systems- not just on providing relief. As we seek to disciple others, international trips are a powerful opportunity to disciple our own people as well.
While we encourage anyone to invest in needs around the world, Watermark’s short-term discipleship trips are reserved for those who have chosen to go “all-in” with us through membership. Why?
First, trip goers are representatives of both Christ and our local body of believers, and they’re participating in projects and relationships that Watermark has been building for many years.
Second, we know that it’s important for people to have community around them who can help them process this opportunity, help them prepare, and pray for them throughout the process and during the trip.
Third, it’s important for people to get plugged into service locally before they seek to use their gifts and talents overseas.
Finally, we truly want to disciple participants through the preparation, the trip itself, and the follow-up after the trip. Membership is important for the commitment and accountability involved.