We finally got to meet Dr Jim and Beth Blessman today of Blessman Ministries Inc (see previous post back in May). We have had this day circled on our calendar for months. Doc is a retired physician from Iowa, and about 10 years ago, they started Blessman Ministries Inc (I'll refer to it as BMI from now on). Their base camp is just outside of Johannesburg, South Africa, and so we were very excited to meet them. We were praying that the Lord would confirm his will regarding the vision He gave me for Jo'burg back in Aug 28, 2010 (see previous post). To say the least, they were an absolute treat, and the Lord clearly gave Jennifer and I some confirmations. Earlier this week, Pastor Ron asked if I wanted to meet with them with the missions board before 1st service, which I absolutely agreed to. They were a very dear couple and you could tell their heart aligned exactly with our hearts. Doc had the chance to share during both services and we were treated to Biaggi's with Pastor Ron, Sandy, the Blessman's and one other couple that came with them from Iowa. We got home this evening and realized that God had opened up a door...a huge, life-changing door. Here are some of the bullet points that we love about BMI. I'll try to keep the list short.
- They feed 5000 needy children in Gauteng (Johannesburg) and across the country with distribution sites in
Gauteng, Western Cape, Limpopo and soon Kwazulu Natal
- They have a heart for orphans, and they have a sponsor program similar to Compassion and World Vision. Jenn would be able to work with these orphans and help them succeed and have a chance.
- They live on a huge game park, so African wild life is abundant. My dream is to see a wild lion - but not too close...
- They have a small church in a local village. Doc asked if possibly I would help out in some fashion at the church. I've spent the last 3 years getting my ministerial credentials and I'm currently working on a Master's in Intercultural Studies at Moody Theological Seminary. They said we would have a vehicle available for travel when we get there
- In South Africa, it is highly recommended that all businesses and organizations give 1% of their earnings to charitable organizations. With my sales experience, Doc suggested that I could be a big asset to BMI in meeting with these businesses to try to obtain that 1%.
- Jim is a physician, and so I could have easy access to an MD while in SA. We also found out there's a CF Clinic right in Jo'burg. I'm currently investigating health insurance while in SA. I'm all set to continue having my current health insurance (Health Alliance) when we come back to the States
- BMI has a 2BR/2BA home on-site for us when we come. They invite teams throughout the year to come to SA and work with BMI for a 2 week stint, so I'm sure we'd be assisting with them
- They also bring in interns to advance their education (med students, vet students) and they are investing in the community by teaching farming and sewing, so education is a big component of their ministry, which is important for us too
- If we were to move to SA, one of the hardest parts would be leaving our friends and family back here in the States. The good thing is that we will be coming back yearly so we could still see our friends and family. It really is the best of both worlds. Although this is costly, we think this is positive for us not only physically, but also spiritually, emotionally, psychologically and mentally
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| Dr Jim Blessman |
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