The CIS Mission Board of Directors has approved Colin Campbell, chaplain with the “War on Cancer” in Charlottesville, as a special ministry project. The decision was ratified at a regular board meeting in October, 2008. [read more]

For over 30 years Dr. Bray has used the YWAM Prayer and Planning Diary as a way to stay on track with his personal piety and as a prayer guide for the whole team. "Next to the Bible, this is the most life-changing devotional book I have ever used," says Dr. Bray. "It takes you right into the heart of Jesus for the lost world-it is like walking with God. Plus it helps you plan your daily apostolic action." [read more]

THE volunteers who serve at the CIS Mission Book Table Ministry are offering two free gift books this season as part of their 2008 holiday ministry to needy students, supporters and the whole body of Christ. [read more]

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia – Dr. Bill Bray, who trains and motivates international mission leaders in growth and development skills, has blocked dates for quarterly “planning retreats” in 2008. To register, contact the Development Director of your mission or Dr. Bill Bray directly at bray.william@gmail.com

The dates reserved for 2008 are January 6-13, March 30 to April 6, June 30 to July 6, August 31 to September 7.

Each of the planning retreats will have an inspirational sub-theme, such as the second annual Christian Heritage Week in Williamsburg scheduled during the week of July 4, Independence Day. However there will always be a major theme that looks forward to the next quarter’s events as well as specific training workshops.

The first training retreat started on September 2, 2007 in New Bern, North Carolina. It focused on 2008 budget campaigns, pledge programs, Christmas and end of year stewardship. Future retreats will bring together senior staff from a mission for two days of inspiration, prayer and planning.

“Dr. Bill has a gift for teaching,” says the Rev. Juanito Sanchez, missionary bishop to Bicol in the Philippines. “He makes whatever he teaches very clear.”

The final quarter theme in 2007 focused on Annual Celebration Banquets and budget pledge campaigns. Future retreat workshop sessions will deal with fundamental concerns such as accountability, donor appreciation, database management, support team development and planned giving.