The regulations given in 1888 state that the purpose for institution of the work of missions shall be the announcing and glorifying of the name of the Lord, the proclamation of the precious Gospel of salvation where this has not yet been done, and also to cooperate in the gathering to the Church of the Lord the lost sinners who will be saved, and the extension of Jesus' Kingdom in the world.
The work of World Missions has included a variety of ministries such as evangelism, church development, formal and non-formal programs of leadership training, Bible translation, literacy programs, literature development, media ministries, development of primary and secondary school systems, and support work such as construction and maintenance. Usually the institutions and programs have been administered in concert with national churches and governments. The effective transfer of such programs to national churches and agencies is an important achievement.
National churches have developed in most countries where CRWM works. Today, CRWM has working agreements with over 30 national churches and agencies.
Recruitment, orientation, and in-service training efforts have gradually developed in the "home" office located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Communicating mission work to the sending churches is done through CRWM Canada, based in Burlington, Ontairo and CRWM USA, based in Grand Rapids. Throughout its history, CRWM has received strong prayer, care, and financial support from churches.
Today, the purpose given to CRWM is clearly stated in its administrative rules: "The glorification of God through the salvation of sinners, the building of the church, and the coming and extension of the kingdom of God." To fulfill this purpose CRWM concentrates on evangelism, the development of churches, leadership training, Bible translation, the development and distribution of Christian literature and the development of Christian schools.
(Picture - Rev. Henry Beets, first director of CRWM)
