For 25 years the teachers of missions from the various colleges, universities, and training schools of the churches of Christ have met to discuss the challenges, needs, resources, and opportunities for cross-cultural evangelism and church planting. We rejoice in the increase in the number of trained missionaries, mission teams, and teachers of missions that have been used by God to plant churches all over the world. In addition, the World Mission Workshop continues as a vibrant influence in motivating college students to become missionaries. More churches are willing to send and more teams are going.

In February, 2000, the Teachers of Missions Workshop focused attention on recruiting and training second-career servants of God. We want to facilitate a process to involve more adults, especially "baby boomers" in missions. The members of the Boomer generation (born 1946-1964) can retire early, enjoy longevity which gives them 20-30 years in retirement, are affluent and highly skilled, and have a passion for spiritual service for second careers (post-retirement). For at least the next 30 years the church will have a unique source of personnel for missions in this generation who will have the resources, health, and desire to actively participate in cross-cultural ministry. Creative training opportunities are needed for mid-career adults. Mission enrichment seminars and special training workshops should be created to equip the church to train and recruit more older adults for missions.

Your response will bring you research materials on the "Boomers," bibliographies, and other resources and Internet home sites. We, the teachers of missions, do respectfully request your prayers and involvement in facilitating this visionary process.

Signed by the following:

Herman C. Alexander Mark Berryman Janice Bingham Mark Blackwelder Bettye Blay Kenneth D. Bolden Mr. & Mrs. Wendell Broom Bob Carpenter Monte Cox Gwynneth Curtis Sonny & Eunice Guild Kirk Hayes Layne Heitz

Gordon Hogan Mark Hooper Mr. & Mrs. Tobey Huff Evertt W. Huffard Mr. & Mrs. Jay Jarboe Stuart & Celilia Jones Ed Matthews Joe McKissick John McMillan Phyllis Phillips Charlie Pruett Bill Richardson

Daniel A. Rodriguez Luis Rosas LaVonne B. Scott Ken Sinclair Mr. & Mrs. Kent Smith Charles Stelding Bruce Terry Gailyn and Becky Van Rheenen Bob Waldron Mr. & Mrs. Jack Walker Clay Whidden Dwight Whitsett