A CHILDHOOD WOVEN IN FAITH
Growing up as a pastor’s kid left a lasting imprint on how I see the world, the Church, and my place in God’s story. From my earliest days, I was immersed in the rhythms of ministry. The sights and sounds of church life, Sunday morning greetings, Wednesday night suppers, baptisms, prayer meetings, and choir rehearsals were not just events; they were the fabric of my upbringing.
But beyond the routines was the heart of it all: people. I watched my parents pour themselves out in love and service to our congregation and community. I saw the Gospel lived out not only in sermons but in quiet moments, praying with the grieving, rejoicing with the redeemed, and serving faithfully even when no one was watching. That steadfast obedience showed me that a life rooted in Christ naturally pours itself out for others.
PASSING THE FLAME OF FAITH
A pivotal part of my spiritual formation came through missions discipleship. From Mission Friends to GAs, and hands-on projects, I learned God’s heart for the world in a tangible way. These ministries made possible through the Vision Fund and the generosity of believers like you did more than teach me lessons; they passed the flame of faith into my life.
I discovered that the Great Commission was not just a verse to memorize but a way to live. Through WMU missions giving and resources, I saw real stories of missionaries dedicating their lives for the sake of the Gospel. Your giving to the Vision Fund shaped me, teaching that God’s plan is global and deeply personal, and that every believer has a role to play.
This discipleship instilled in me a worldview where faith is not only personal but also missional. It is not enough to simply know Scripture; we are called to live it, share it, and go when God says go. Missions taught me to love beyond borders, to pray with intentionality, and to serve with humility. It gave me eyes to see neighbors and nations alike as people deeply loved by God and worth reaching with His truth.
CARRYING THE FLAME FORWARD
Today, as a wife, mom, and ministry leader, I often reflect on those early years. The seeds planted through family, church, and missions training have grown into a deep conviction: that every life, no matter how small or ordinary it may seem, can be a vessel for Kingdom impact when surrendered to Christ. My story is proof that when the flame of faith is passed on through mission’s discipleship, it continues to burn brightly in the next generation. Thank you for helping light the way through your faithful giving!
-Leah Wilbanks, Executive Assistant at WMU Foundation
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Pass the Flame. Continue the Mission.
A generous donor has gifted $50,000 for matching gifts to the Vision Fund for Giving Tuesday! The first 100 gifts made to the Vision Fund will be matched on a 2:1 basis, and every gift to the Vision Fund after that will be matched dollar for dollar up to the $50,000 match.
Your generosity will be multiplied to help others know Christ and to support the mission and vision of WMU.