Voices: Missionaries from the Global South pay the price

In today’s news, the focus is often on economic sanctions, trade tariffs and currency fluctuations, neglecting the significant challenges faced by missionaries from the Global South due to political conflicts.

While debates continue about exports and changes in interest rates, missionaries from countries like Brazil, where I am from, disproportionately are affected in their daily lives. These individuals, who are dedicated to spreading the gospel and who already live sacrificially, find themselves caught up in global power struggles.

For instance, imagine a missionary from Brazil stationed in Europe, say in Portugal, France or Germany. They receive financial support in Brazilian currency, but their expenses for rent, groceries and transportation are in euros.

One euro currently equals nearly 6.5 Brazilian reais, up from 5 since August 2022, a 30 percent devaluation of the real amount due to trade disputes and political instability. That can make their monthly living costs unmanageable. Despite receiving the same support from backers in Brazil, the equivalent amount has now significantly less purchasing power in Europe.

This isn’t an isolated incident but a common challenge affecting many families sent from the Global South who are at the forefront of pioneering missions.

The unseen consequences

1. Forced return from the mission field:

Many missionaries quietly are going back to their home countries not because they lack calling, but because they can no longer meet basic needs.

2. Emotional and spiritual strain:

Fluctuating income, often without stable support systems, leads to isolation, fatigue and sometimes disillusionment.

3. Setbacks in evangelism:

Progress made in establishing churches is hindered. With missionaries leaving, entire communities lose the steady guidance they once had.

4. Dedication of the less privileged:

Ironically, some of the most committed contributors to global missions are not wealthy donors from the north but humble believers in the south. I have personally witnessed this. Widows, domestic workers, farmers and laborers from Brazil give generously not out of abundance but out of faith.

It brings to mind the church in Philippi that Paul praised for giving beyond their means joyfully and in partnership for the gospel. He didn’t just receive financial help, but also companionship, trust and shared mission.

To churches:

1. Recognize the reality: Mission work is no longer solely from north to south. The south is rising and needs ongoing, specific support.
2. Review your financial approaches: Consider options like providing donations tied to the dollar or euro, emergency relief funds or financial education for your missionary partners.
3. Be an advocate: Raise awareness among your circles about this injustice. Trade disputes and currency policies affect spiritual endeavors too.

The Great Commission is influenced by global politics, but it can be strengthened through global cooperation. If we truly believe in a unified body, we must show it.

When one member suffers, all members suffer. And when a missionary is forced to return due to currency devaluation, the entire mission field faces setbacks.

Jair Campos is a Baptist missionary, pastor, and leadership coach from Brazil serving in Portugal. He is the executive director of Missions Connex, a nonprofit connecting churches and individuals with frontline missionaries from the Global South. The views expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Baptist Standard.