Take a Missionary to Lunch Day is celebrated on January 14. Today, missionaries can be found in various nations around the world. A missionary is a member of a spiritual collective who has been sent to provide literacy, education, economic development, and health care services. This holiday sheds light on the good work they do in areas they travel to.
History of Take a Missionary to Lunch Day
In 1598, the term ‘mission’ was coined. The Jesuits adopted this word to denote the act of sending people overseas. The word ‘mission’ comes from the Latin term ‘missionem.’ This word is used by Jesus in the Great Commission in the Latin translation of the Bible. The first Christian missionary was the apostle Paul. His work began in about 37 A.D.
As far back as 563 A.D., the Catholic Church dispatched missionaries across the world. After Martin Luther launched the Reformation, Protestant missions began in 1517. In 750 A.D., the Muslim faith began its first missionary work. Dawah, which translates to ‘to invite,’ is how Muslims convert others to Islam. In the United States, they do this via prison ministry.
Modern evangelical organizations have focused their efforts on sending missionaries to every ethnic group in the world, with a huge increase in efforts since the 1900s, and a significant boost since the 1974 Lausanne I: The International Congress on World Evangelization in Switzerland.
Evangelism, big gatherings reminiscent of concerts, home churches, and relationship building are all common ways for Christians to carry out their mission work. Building relationships with native people in a certain community is also possible. Missionaries will become immersed in the culture in order to reach out to the people through commerce, education, relief initiatives, and everyday life.
Door-to-door evangelism is the most popular type of proselytizing. The Mormons adhere to a set of guidelines for sharing their beliefs, outlined in “Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary Service.” The most well-known aspect of Jehovah’s Witnesses is their door-to-door preaching. Pamphlets, books, and magazines are distributed as they attempt to convert people to their faith.
Take a Missionary to Lunch Day timeline
The Catholic Church dispatches missionaries across the world.
After Martin Luther's Reformation, Protestant missions begin.
The term “mission” is first introduced.
The Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization is held in Switzerland.
Take a Missionary to Lunch Day FAQs
In the Bible, who was the first woman missionary?
Various female activists in the early church are mentioned in early Christian literature. St. Priscilla — a Jewish missionary who may have assisted in the founding of the Christian community in Corinth — was one of these women. With her husband and St. Paul, she traveled as a missionary and instructed the Jewish philosopher Apollos.
How are missionaries compensated?
Finding sponsors can help missionaries raise additional funds for their ministry, which can make a significant financial difference. The major motivation for missionary work, however, is religious rather than financial.
Is it possible for missionaries to marry?
When missionaries finish their missions, they are encouraged to date and marry, but they are not allowed to pursue intimate relationships while on the mission.
How to Celebrate Take a Missionary to Lunch Day
Take a missionary to lunch
As the holiday suggests, treat a missionary friend to a delicious lunch. If you are unable to do so, consider putting together a care package of treats to give to them.
Make donations
If you don’t know any missionaries, why not make a donation? There are foreign and local missions that will appreciate the help.
Reach out and offer support
Request the addresses (e-mail or physical) of missionaries from your church or denomination. Start a conversation with them. Inquire about their interests, daily routines, and new experiences. Inquire about how you might assist them in their efforts.
5 Facts About Missionaries That Will Blow Your Mind
Fearless dedication
On January 8, 1956, Jim Elliot was martyred, but his wife, Elisabeth, decided to stay and spread the gospel in the area where her husband was killed.
Secret agent
Amy Carmichael was an Indian missionary who established safe houses for children who were being trafficked.
The instigator
William Carey was the first missionary to India.
Friendly strangers
81% of Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists around the world do not know a Christian.
Going the distance
In the early 1900s, Mary Slessor served as a missionary in Nigeria for over 40 years.
Why We Love Take a Missionary to Lunch Day
We get to appreciate missionaries
Missionaries do a lot for the people they are sent to visit. Today, we get to celebrate their selfless work and valuable contributions to society.
Encouraging a new generation
We love the fact that we get to encourage prospective missionaries. A new generation of missionaries will appreciate the recognition given to missionary work around the world.
It is a source of inspiration
Missionaries inspire us all to be better people. Their selfless actions inspire us to help others and make the world a better place.
Take a Missionary to Lunch Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 14 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January 14 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 14 | Thursday |
| 2028 | January 14 | Friday |
| 2029 | January 14 | Sunday |
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