History

The History of Bonisa Mission

Mission
Mission is the commission of the Great Sender, the Lord Himself. Mission is the duty of each Christian congregation, as well as of each individual member of the congregation. “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations,” the Lord Jesus said in Matthew 24:14.

History
Semi-officially, Bonisa has existed since 1957. At that time, Mrs. Mijnders began her home-front work of raising awareness of and support for mission work in former Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). In 1974 Bonisa Mission was officially instituted. Its activities expanded through contacts with mission workers from remote corners of the earth. Gradually Bonisa began to focus more on China. Bonisa means “Peace” or “Message of Peace.” The glad tidings of peace must be proclaimed world wide. The message of peace and salvation may be proclaimed to people who by nature have no peace with God or in their hearts. The Gospel is that God gives such people peace for the sake of Christ Jesus’ redemptive work and by His Holy Spirit.

Bible-translation Projects
Often through impossibilities from our side, the Lord has opened doors in China and South America. Bonisa has been able to assist with several Bible-translation projects for ethnic minorities. “We do hear them speak in our own tongues the wonderful works of God” (Acts 2:11). Bonisa Mission is involved in translation projects in southwest China and in the Amazon region of Brazil. In 2002 the translation of the Bible into the Wai Wai language for Brazilian Wai Wai tribe was completed.

Mission Projects
In Bonisa's Statutes the following is included: “Bonisa's aim is the promotion and execution of mission-related projects and the lending and encouraging of inter-denominational help wherever needed in the world.” Accordingly, by God's grace, Bonisa gives assistance to poor, vulnerable people by means of humanitarian-aid projects. Bonisa aims to work through local Christian congregations to provide aid in places of need. Word and deed must go together. Aid projects are meant for the well being of the whole population. In accordance with this principle, churches, village homes, schools, Bible Schools, and bridges have been built; water wells drilled; evangelists supported; handicapped cared for; and needy people assisted.

Opened Doors
The Lord Himself has opened doors. Now by your prayers and gifts, you may offer help in His Name. How long yet? May it be “Until the day break!” (Song of Solomon. 2:17).