USA (MNN) — It's a week of celebration in Tyrone, Georgia as Operation Mobilization celebrates 50 years of ministry.
Operation Mobilization (OM) began in 1957 when George Verwer and two other college students went to Mexico to spread the Gospel. Today OM has more than 5,400 workers from 92 nations serving in 110 countries.
"We estimate that about a billion people have received the Gospel in some form through OM's ministry over the years," says Keith Haywood, Vice President of Church Mobilization at OM. This certainly seems cause enough for celebration.
To commemorate their 50 years of ministry, OM has a "week full of activity" planned, says Haywood. Events include a retreat for pastors and Christian leaders, an open house, a reception, worship service, and fellowship brunch. and many of the international OM leaders have come in for the festivities.
OM is using this week for more than just reflection, however. "The theme of our celebration is Celebrating the Past , Shaping the Future," says Haywood. "While we do want to look back and give thanks to God for all He's done, we are looking forward and praying that He will continue to use OM to build His kingdom around the world."
Future plans include the launching of a new ocean-going ship–the third in OM's ministry. On a broader spectrum, OM is looking to restore hope in Christ to Europe and to youth around the world.
Wondering how to join the celebration? "[You] can celebrate with us by going and encouraging others to take part in the mission that still remains to be done." Click here to learn more about specific activities for the 50th Anniversary Celebration.
