Grace Brethren North American Missions (GBNAM) ceased operations effective December 31, 2007 Dr. Tim Boal, executive director, explained that events in recent years have forced the agency to make difficult management decisions and have placed a strain on the organization.

“Grace Brethren North American Missions has had the privilege of serving the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches for nearly 70 years,” noted Dr. Boal. “During that time many lives have been changed and many Grace Brethren churches started as a result of GBNAM, formerly known as the Brethren Home Missions Council.”

The agency began in 1939 and for many years was headquartered in Winona Lake, Ind. In addition to church planting, its ministries have included works among Hispanic, Navajo Indian, African American, Albanian, and Jewish people groups and it was at the forefront of the establishment of Grace Brethren churches in Canada. Its offices were moved to Souderton, Pa. in 2005.

“While wonderful church planting opportunities are available, the incessant nature of present events, and the accompanying rumor of these events is draining the agency of energy and marginalizing its abilities to raise funds and to establish new Bible-teaching congregations in North America,” Boal stressed.

He said that gifts to GBNAM through the end of 2007 allowed the organization to honor all obligations, pay creditors, and finish well. “Any excess assets will be utilized to further the goals and purposes of GBNAM, either directly, or through a different organization with goals similar to those of GBNAM,” Boal added.

GBNAM staff members were encouraged to find new opportunities within other church planting agencies that will serve the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches (FGBC).

“While this is a sad ending, it is also joyous because we know that others who are just as inspired, but less burdened, will lead the cause and further the goals that GBNAM has for so long cherished, honored, and nurtured,” he said.

“It has been a wonderful privilege to serve the FGBC and we know God will provide other means to carry out the Grace Brethren effort to plant churches in North America,” Boal concluded.