The Truth Corps, 1970

During discussions at Pacific Coast CBM meetings much consideration was given to a means to stimulate enthusiasm for mission work. Similar discussions were held with the resident missionaries in Panama. From these discussions evolved what became known as the “Truth Corps.”

The objectives of the project were:

  1. To strengthen the spiritual life of of the ecclesias they work in, in this case Panama City.
  2. To afford the young participants involved the opportunity for spiritual growth that will come from fulfilling the command to speak the gospel.
  3. Obviously to bring the gospel to people who did not now have it.
  4. To involve ecclesias in North America through their sons and daughters being in the mission fields.

The cost of the project was approximately $700.00 per participant, including transportation and all expenses during their two month stay. Each of the participants paid $250.00 of this cost and the remainder was borne by the PCCBM. PCCBM funds for this project came as the result of special appeal and were separate from all other PCCBM funds.

The response to the appeal was sufficient to cover all expenses and indicated the high interest of the brotherhood for this type of project.

Postcript

The PCCBM feels that “Truth Corps.“ project was a great success by human standards, only the Heavenly Father can measure the real increase. Therefore, the PCCBM would like to thank all who helped make this program the success it was.

Your Brethren in Christ
Pacific Coast CBM
BRO. CHARLES BRINKERHOFF,
Publicity

Truth Corps Activities In Panama City

English Work

The major activity was English Bible study classes in the homes of the people. Four areas within a two mile radius of the ecclesial hall were mapped out. The four teams consisted of Jim Hunter and Stan Wilkinson, Mike LeDuke and Vern IfiII, David Scott and Glennys Hoare, Dennis and Paula Paggi. Two local members, Bro. Tony Howell and Sis. Joan Hines also helped teach a number of classes. The teams canvassed in their respective areas for four days, and set up a total of 80 Bible classes. The classes lasted about 30 minutes and were illustrated with slides, Summaries were left with each student, so that a review began the next lesson. The six lessons covered the topics: The Bible – -How is it Organized?. The Promises to Abraham, The Covenant with David, What is Sin?, Death and Resurrection, The Kingdom of God. The six lessons were followed by a complete review and in some cases a seventh class on Nebuchadnezzar’s Image.

With the completion of the lessons, each student had a foundation upon which to build. A personal invitation was given to each student to attend an illustrated lecture series at the hall. The lecture titles were: Israel: Miracle Nation, Past, Present, Future; The Broken Down Society; A Sign and a Challenge; Peace of Mind in a Violent World; and Baptism -Steppingstone to Salvation. At the conclusion of each lecture, the visitors were invited to continue their studies with classes offered at the hall On two evenings during the week.

Statistical information will conclude this portion of the report. A total of 400 Bible classes were given during the nine week Truth Corps program. The weekly total averaged more than 50 classes. A total of 56 visitors attended the lectures. About 30 people indicated they would continue their studies at the hall.

Spanish Work

Since most people in Panama City are bilingual and a percentage speak only Spanish, some of the Truth Corps activity was in the Spanish areas. Four lectures in Spanish were given at the hall during the eighth week. The series was entitled, El Costo de Ser Discipulo (The Cost of Discipleship). In the week prior to the series, 4500 Spanish invitations were passed out and 250 posters were distributed in the shops near the hall. A total of 22 visitors attended the series. Again, follow-up classes were offered, and a few visitors indicated they would attend.

“How shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?'” (Rom. 10:14) Certainly our responsibility is the same, whether we be in Panama City or in our own area. We carry with us the Gospel, and it is our duty to let its light shine in our speech and our actions.