Pastor's Pen: Why We Partner in Belize

Rev. Tim Tam, the Founder and Spiritual Director of the Word at Work, asked me to write something to share with congregations considering engaging in mission in Belize. I thought our congregation might appreciate what I wrote. We return to Belize in January 2026.

I have been associated with the Word at Work and mission in Belize for almost twenty years. Each congregation I have served has participated in at least one short-term mission trip through The Word at Work. However, my congregation here in Norwalk, Ohio, has amazed me.

In other churches, I was the biggest cheerleader for our involvement. Here, church members are driving our engagement beyond my wildest imagination. We are now taking annual trips to Belize. We are committed to making it affordable for anyone who wants to go. We have encouraged other churches to partner with us, including Pentecostals, Roman Catholics, and a local Hispanic congregation. We are working to fill shipping containers and fund their delivery. We midwifed an exciting relationship between a school in Belize and one in the United States. By partnering with ministries in Belize, we are making a profound impact for God’s kingdom.

That being said, I have a confession to make. As much as I love the friendships I have made in Belize and am thankful for the good work we have done there, that isn’t why I go. I am a pastor at heart, and my flock is in Ohio. When I go on a short-term mission trip, my focus is always on my people. I watch how they are impacted. I observe how their faith is deepened. I see how God is changing their lives through mission. Our church members come back on fire for Jesus. Our short-term mission trips to Belize make better disciples.

Naysayers tell me we shouldn’t spend time or treasure abroad because we have so many problems at home. In response, I could say that when Jesus said “all nations” in the Great Commission, he meant it. However, I am more crass. Our involvement in Belize means more mission at home. When we see what the Holy Spirit can accomplish abroad, we tend not to limit him in our neighborhood. After our mission trips, I see church members hungry for passionate worship, intentional community, and opportunities to serve.

The Word at Work does mission right. We partner with locals. Too often, Christians go to foreign lands with the idea that they are bringing Jesus to the poor, unfortunate souls there. The Word at Work knows that Jesus is already there, and he will be there long after we return home. Our partners in Belize are often more competent, capable, and faithful than we are.

To those interested in taking the leap of faith and engaging in mission work, I say, do not limit the Holy Spirit. Too often, my vision has been too narrow. I have only seen the finite of talents or finances. Then God shows me legions of angels and chariots of fire. I am grateful for the Word at Work, our friends in Belize, and my parishioners for helping this old pastor to dream new dreams.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor James