When it comes to sharing with others about your mission, calling, or passion for a particular cause, your main objective should be to connect with your audience. Get them engaged emotionally and intellectually so that they are ready to receive what you have to say. Whether you are one-on-one or speaking to a group, considering in advance how best to accomplish this goal is important for a successful presentation. Here are some points to keep in mind:
This is probably the single most important element in relating to others. People will hear your heart before they hear your message. We are each unique and have our own communication style; trust yours as the Holy Spirit leads. Be yourself: express your enthusiasm and motivation in a genuine way, and others will respond.
First, pray. It is easy to become focused on what you will need to do in the presentation, but ultimately, God will give the result. Ask the Holy Spirit to prepare the hearts of your listeners and to guide you in what and how to share. Then start planning. Assess your audience; what are their overall personality and interests? Grab their attention by using things like letters, pictures, and videos; and engage them by inviting them into the conversation and encouraging them to share their own experiences. However, on the other hand, be prepared to modify the presentation on the fly when necessary.
People like stories. We are moved and inspired by them, and the experiences of others often help us to see ourselves in a different light. In thinking about sharing your story ask yourself the What and Why. What touched you and motivated you to become involved in your mission? Why is it important for you to share this with others? When you have clear answers to these questions, and convey them with passion and conviction, you will be able to communicate your story effectively.
They say “practice makes perfect,” but perfection isn’t necessary so don’t stress about it. However, it is wise to rehearse what you will present. It’s possible that in the midst of a good conversation you might forget a key point that you wanted to make, or an unexpected question might sidetrack you. If you have rehearsed (and made notes or a good outline) you’re less likely to be thrown off script. Practice also builds confidence, and your level of confidence will often speak louder than the words you use.
When the end of your presentation is nearing, remember these points:
To receive free child sponsorship and Forward Edge welcome brochures for your presentation, simply email your request to desimcanally@forwardedge.org.
Find all of our videos to share with others on our Vimeo account here.
I just returned from a mission trip to our child sponsorship program in El Cobre, Cuba and spent several days with not only my sponsored child but some of yours as well! What a joy to see them face to face, hug them, and to share some quality time. One
Letters are vital to raising support for your mission trip. If you have to choose between letters and events, choose letters. Here’s why: They work. People love to see others serve, and they will respond. Even if they might not go themselves, they can be a part of your experience.
One of Forward Edge’s most dearly held values is the importance of relationships. And what better way has God given us to bond with others than over a table of good food. Culture is often shared through food. Sharing meals isn’t just about filling our stomachs—it’s about connection over stories,
Relationships are everything. And it’s not just those in the U.S. reaching out to other countries; it’s the entire Global Church engaging with and learning from each other. As an organization, we seek to foster and steward those vital relationships. Recently, the director of our Uganda children’s program, Bonny Lugayizi,
18 yrs. old
Entered the program: May 2024
Phillip lives with his mother and older sister in Joggo at the staff quarters for the government school where his mother is a teacher. The family stays in a one-bedroom house with electricity for lighting. They cool with charcoal and fetch water from a nearby water tap. Phillip’s sister and mother share the bedroom and Phillip sleeps in the living room.The family shares the bathroom facility with other staff members and their families.
Phillip’s father passed away when Phillip was young and his mother has since been the sole provider for the family.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
