Retiring or retired but still want to serve the Lord? GFA has a ministry opportunity that may interest you! In 1993 GFA started a new division called Special Assignment Missionaries. These missionaries have the opportunity to assist missionaries with special projects, teach in Bible schools, and replace GFA missionaries while they are on furlough. Each special assignment missionary goes through the standard GFA application and selection process to ensure that GFA doctrine, policies, and standards will be maintained.

The men preach, teach Sunday school, maintain general church administrative duties, and do whatever is needed to maintain the ministry in the missionary's absence. The women lead ladies' meetings, teach Sunday school, counsel women, and take part in many other ministries as well.

GFA Missionaries are thus enabled to leave their ministries under the care of special assignment missionaries who share like-minded beliefs, policies, and standards and who work hard to maintain all of the ministries of the missionaries while they are on furlough. 

Program History

The program was initiated with Glenn and Arline Lambright. Their first assignment was in Nagoya, Japan, to replace Dr. and Mrs. Alan Patterson. They lived in and cared for the Pattersons' house in addition to their ministry duties.

Following that initial experience, the Lambrights also served in Australia, Scotland, Dominica, and England. The success of the program has led GFA to expand its effectiveness by seeking and adding more couples to follow their example.

Dr. Roger Bixler, a retired pastor, and his wife joined GFA's special assignment program in 1995. They have served in England, Scotland, Canada, Korea, and South Africa.

Dr. Frederick, a retired BJU professor, and his wife joined the special assignment program in 2001. Their first assignment was in Scotland.

Consider the need

Our program was born out of necessity at the urging of a local church pastor who was concerned for one of his missionaries.

This program provides:

• Peace of mind for the furloughing missionary
• Continuity for his congregation
• Ease of transition at the end of the furlough
• Assistance in special ministry projects

Consider your abilities and opportunities

GFA is looking for retired pastors, Bible teachers, or laymen with extensive preaching, teaching, and ministry experience to take part in this unique ministry. We are primarily seeking those who would be able to do this ministry for several years; however, we would consider someone who would be able to go on only one or two assignments. If you are interested in this ministry, please contact the GFA home office .