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Frequently Asked QuestionsAs the Pratts prepare to return to Jamaica they have encountered lots of repeat questions. Perhaps you have been wondering too, so we’ve tried to answer some of them here. How long have the Pratt's been serving in Jamaica?Merlin and Kay have been back in Jamaica since August 2, 2011. They previously served for two years (2006-2008). Is the money I send Tax Deductible?Yes! We have worked hard to get all the necessary documentation. We are a 501c3, Not for Profit, Tax Exempt entity. All gifts are tax deductible. I can’t seem to remember to send in my check for support. Is there an easy way to handle this?Yes! We have an automatic check withdrawal system set up to help with this. It is the same one that many churches are using and is very safe. Go to the Financial Support page and download the VANCO form. Print it, fill it out, attach a voided check and send it to 2317 W. Price Rd., St. Johns, MI 48879. How many do we need to have on a team to do mission work in Jamaica?The “Manse” at Port Antonio can hold 18 when we get all the rooms fixed up, new bunks built, etc. Depending on what you are doing, a team of about 8 is good for most things. What kind of work will we do?It depends on your gifts and what the needs of the Jamaican Church are. Much of our work will be in the realm of Leadership Development: Pastoral Training, Worship Structure, Administration, Small Group Ministry Training, Worship Music, Evangelism Training, Sunday, and School Teacher training. We will also need teams to help lead Vacation Bible School, Puppet Ministries, Traveling Choirs, etc. and some construction or facility rehab projects. I don’t get around as well as I once did. Can I still help?Can you still read? We need to provide mentors for children of all ages. The little “Basic School” we support needs people to come and read to the children and help them with basic skills. If you like children we can find a job for you. Bloomfield Methodist Church has a “Primary School” (1-6 grades) which can always use people with a purpose. Beside teaching, the school has need of groups partnering with them to get the school facilities in order. What can we do here to help you on the field?Pray and then Pray some more! There are so many needs but none more vital than prayer. Our work is all about Jesus and His message going forward. We need prayer for strength, courage and to daily put on the minds of Christ. PAPA's Ministries would be glad to send any materials necessary to help introduce our ministry to your Ministry Groups, Service Groups, etc. Golf outings, Bowling, etc. are also good fundraising events. Of course genuine Jamaican Style dinners are also a hit. Continue with "Please contact our St. Johns, Michigan Office. We are so fortunate to be living in this day and age for there are so many ways to send forth the Word of God. There are many ways you can help, so many that we’re not sure where to end the list once it starts. However, here are some:
DVD’s that have the words to songs and the music on them are great to help get the kid’s attention. Some VBS DVD’s are like that now as well as worship DVD’s with praise music. Anything you have had for awhile or have duplicates of would be helpful. However, we don’t want cast offs or old technology because it is still old here. The best way to get these things to us is via a team that is coming. It is very expensive to ship things. So, bring a team and pack away those mission items. Don’t forget some airlines are now charging for overseas checked bags. Would you come and speak to our church about partnering with PAPA’s?Merlin & Kay will be returning for leave August 15 through September 13, 2012. They will be available during that time for opporunities to share with your ministry. Check with our Office to see what the calendar looks like for them. Also, while the Pratts are in the field, we have Ministry Partners that can come and share with you what is happening at PAPA's. |
 Bloomfield Methodist Church |