The FBT missions conference this year hosted seven missionary families who came and gave their presentations throughout the week. They came from all over the world, including Bulgaria, Germany, Honduras, Sweden, Egypt, Madagascar, and New Zealand. Dr. Don Sisk from BIMI was the guest speaker that week.

In preparation for the conference, church members created around-the-world display booths throughout the building for each missionary country.

FBTA students enjoyed having the missionaries speak in their classes and talk about their different countries. The missionaries would often wrap up their talks with a discussion time, so the students (from K5 through seniors) could ask more specific questions about their ministries.

“I love having the missionaries in the classroom, and hearing how the Lord keeps them safe through the challenges they face in foreign countries,” said Mrs. Page, algebra teacher.

FBT former youth pastor, Bro. Mike Barr and his family also attended the conference and spoke in chapel several times. The students were happy to see their children (former classmates) and catch up on their lives at Crosspoint Baptist Church in Iowa City.

On Friday night, church members dressed up in different countries’ attire, and had an international foods fellowship after the service. Students also got into the act by dressing in kilts or saris that represented their own personal heritage.

“I love cooking, so I made Belgium waffles for the International Fellowship on Friday,” said Mrs. Fea, science lab teacher.

The men and teen boys had a great time fellowshipping with the missionary men on Saturday morning at the men’s prayer breakfast. The ladies also enjoyed hearing from some of the missionary women at the ladies’ brunch.

On the last night of missions conference, the church celebrated a “Missionary Christmas” by giving gifts to all the missionaries.

“One of my favorite parts of the conference is at the end when the church members get to show their appreciation by pounding the missionaries with armloads of gifts,” said Mrs. Dyck, journalism advisor. “I pray that they can feel the love that FBT has for them, and how thankful we are that they choose to serve the Lord in this way.”