Oklahoma Baptists Join Sending Church Lab to Strengthen Missionary Support

Oklahoma Baptists have joined a Sending Church Lab initiative aimed at strengthening the support and preparation of international missionaries. The event, held at Council Road Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, brought together nearly 40 participants from 12 Oklahoma Baptist churches. The focus was on equipping churches to take a more intentional role in sending and caring for missionaries.

The Sending Church Lab, facilitated by the International Mission Board (IMB), provided a two-day opportunity for pastors, church leaders, and missionaries to engage in discussions, self-assessment, and planning. The central question guiding the event was: What does it mean for a church to truly be a sending church?

Mike Wall, a global missions ministry partner of Oklahoma Baptists, emphasized the importance of churches reclaiming their responsibility for the Great Commission. Wall, who previously attended a Sending Church Lab in Tulsa, was inspired by the experience and believed Oklahoma churches needed similar training. He highlighted the value of local church ownership in missions, stressing that churches must take an active role in preparing and supporting missionaries.

Bryan Wooten, IMB senior church engagement strategist, led the lab. He developed the concept after recognizing the need for stronger relationships between missionaries and local churches. Wooten credited the North American Mission Board for pioneering similar events with positive outcomes. The lab aims to raise up a host of IMB sending churches by fostering deeper engagement.

Wooten outlined the church engagement pathway, which includes praying, cooperating, partnering, and sending. While many churches engage in prayer and financial support, he emphasized that sending requires a more intentional approach. This includes taking responsibility for an IMB missionary by providing ongoing encouragement, accountability, and soul care throughout their term of service.

During the event, participants used whiteboards to evaluate their church’s missions practices, identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies for improvement. The lab provided a platform for churches to reflect on their current practices and commit to more effective mission support. The initiative reflects a growing emphasis on local church involvement in global missions, aligning with the biblical call to make disciples of all nations.

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