UWM and LAM merge!

Recently we received word that LAM (Latin American Mission) will be merging into UWM.  This is very exciting news!  The merger came after a period of prayer and consideration by both mission agencies.  The UWM family was invited to pray last summer and the decision was made in mid-August to merge.  You can read more about this merger on UWM's webpage.  To learn more about LAM, visit their website.

We are excited about the merger.  Isn't it great when two strong effective mission agencies decide to join forces so that they can have an even more effective impact in their areas of ministry?  This is what is happening.

Please do pray for the leadership of both agencies.  UWM has effectively taken on an additional 175 new missionaries and many of the systems in place will need to be changed.  This is going to take time.  Also UWM recognizes that LAM, which has focused solely in Latin America and the USA, has a great reputation and a very effective ministry.  The desire is to build on what has been done so that both UWM and LAM missionaries in Latin America will be more effective.

How does this change things for us?
LAM does not have any missionaries in the Dominican Republic.  So for our daily ministry, not much has changed.  In other areas, there are changes -

1.  UWM is financially stronger and will be reducing the 15% administrative fee to 13%, effective January 1, 2014.  For many years, UWM has desired to lower this fee and now they are able to do it.
2.  There will be many changes as to how the Latin American region is organized for our management, accountability and care.  In the past, 2 area directors oversaw these areas.  With the increased number of missionaries and the desire to give the same care as it has in the past, UWM will be making structural changes.

As I said, we are excited about this.  We feel God has led UWM and LAM together.  In a world that is so divided, it's so fun to see this happen!  To God be the glory!