And whoever welcomes a little child
like this in my name welcomes me.
Matthew 18:6a


Some Suggestions For Assisting Reentering Young Missionary Children

Developed for Members of Receiving Churches by Sheila Austin – 2000
(Used with permission)


Parents fom the home congregation with children of similar ages as the missionary family could correspond with the missionary family prior to their reentry to begin the get-acquainted process.

Teachers of the Bible classes which missionary children (MKs) will attend could send a picture of their Bible class to the missionary family; then obtain close-up pictures of the MKs (from their parents) and post them in their respective classes so the children will recognize them.

Children in primary and elementary classes could write individual notes of welcome to the MKs; the preschool children could draw pictures of the church building or their classroom.

Use the bulletin boards lavishly to portray the returning family together and individually (close-ups) and make them feel welcome upon return.

Your child might select something of his or her own (not purchased, e.g. as favorite book, game or toy) to give as a welcoming gift to the MKs.

One family with children of corresponding ages might be the liaison to help the children get acquainted with others of their age group.

Teens might offer to entertain the children while the missionary family unpacks.

Parents of the receiving church might invite MKs to join their family for a trip to the zoo, picnic or park.

Teens from the receiving church could ask MKs to help them bake cookies and take to shut-ins. This would allow the shut-ins to welcome the reentering family, also.

Parents from the receiving church should encourage their children to invite the MKs into their home, and to interact with the MKs regularly.

Imagine what would be the most helpful for you if you were returning to the States with similar aged children – then do that for the missionaries.

The gifts of time and listening will be appreciated more by the missionary family than the gifts of things and money.