We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
It's been an exciting 6 months of kicking off the conversation of Business as Mission in this area of the web. As we look towards 2007, it will be an exciting and very important year for the movement of Business as Mission. To keep some sanity and so I can enjoy some time with the family there will not be a whole lot of posts coming over the next week. I hope everyone else can do the same and I look forward to continuing the conversation in 2007!Labels: E-Zine and Blog Updates
Continue reading 'We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!'
"If you're an entrepreneur, you should sound more confident than you are..."
I continue to be impressed with the team at Kiva. For those of you who missed the previous posts, they are a talented group that is committed to providing loans for entrepreneurs in poor countries in the attempt to change lives. I've been so impressed my wife and I have joined those lending to entrepreneurs on their site.It's been amazing to watch how their ideas have "tipped" since their story aired nationally on Frontline. Recently I've enjoyed reading the blog "The Kiva Chronicles", that is written by the founder, Matt Flannery. It's an interesting look back at their journey and I'd encourage any aspiring young entrepreneur to take a glance at it. Here's a recent posting on Matt's blog that I thought was a good inspiration for those in Business as Mission for a variety of reasons. You definitely need to read the whole article on this one.
"If you're an entrepreneur, you should sound more confident than you are. If you're a social entrepreneur, you should be more inspirational than you feel. If you are an introverted social entrepreneur, you will face even more problems...
I struggled with depression for much of my young adult life. Sitting close behind a great optimism for other people lied a cloud of pessimism directed inward. In my short career in the corporate world, this pessimism would hang over me for weeks at a time. I would come home from work just wondering how I was going to escape the meaningless cycle I seemed to have fallen into.
There's a big difference between ideas and beliefs. The last two years we've been battling in the world of ideas and slowly changing minds. Lately I've surprised myself. I've actually started to believe these ideas. Last week I was speaking and I noticed the tenor of my voice modulating between dispassionate and passionate, intellectual and emotional, bound and released. I stopped thinking for a while and just let myself go. The time flew by.
At the moment, Kiva is financially self sufficient. We are doing about $20K in loans each day, and getting just under 10 percent in optional lender fees. Our users are proving that personal lending can be carried out in a financially sustainable way. Because we have an amazing group of lenders, the urgency of daily fundraising has been alleviated. This means that we are free to carve out our own destiny and build the product that we all desire. Together, we can assemble a resource that will be a public good for generations to come. I can't tell you how excited that makes me feel.
Again, we owe this all to our users. Thanks to you as I leave work tonight and head home for a rare and wonderful sleep."
Labels: Business as Mission News and Notes, Editorials, Microfinance
Continue reading '"If you're an entrepreneur, you should sound more confident than you are..."'
"Open for Business Event" Starts in One Week
One week from today, as the Christmas comes to a close a new generation of college students will gather in St.Louis for the Open for Business Conference. The Open for Business Conference is a part of Intervaristy's triennial conference, Urbana.This is shaping up to be one of the largest gatherings of students, educators, practitioners, and authors on the business as mission movement. It will be an incredible few days of networking, learning, and experiencing Business as Mission. Unfortunately, due to some family commitments I will not be able to be at the event, so I'll be relying on some good friends and readers of this blog to keep me updated as to what happens!
The event will offer over 40 seminars related to business as mission (BAM). Only those Urbana delegates who have selected "Open for Business" as their track will be able to attend these seminars. However, Jimmy Quach and John Terrill of the Event's Leadership Team have mentioned that they plan on making a lot of the materials available online in some form or fashion once the event is over. Until then, I've copied a list of the topics featured at the event in the rest of this article to give you an idea of the content.
In order to foster an integrated, holistic approach to business, we encourage delegates to attend seminars from each of the following five sets. Because some BAM practitioners operate in sensitive places, their names have been withheld to protect their privacy.
BAM in Practice: This set of seminars help you integrate Christian faith with all operations associated with running a business. These are necessary building blocks for successful Christian engagement in business.
Spiritual Formation: These seminars seek to address some of the spiritual, personal, and community challenges that confront the BAM movement and its participants.
BAM Expressions: These seminars allow you to explore unique challenges and opportunities inherent in the range of BAM strategies and enterprises.
Contexts: These seminars help you to think through all that you’re learning in your own particular context of work and ministry.
Case Studies: These seminars highlight a wide range of BAM enterprises and strategies in a multitude of country and cultural settings.
Seminar Session 1 — Thursday, December 28, 7:30 – 8:45 PM
A Biblical Perspective on Business – BAM in Practice (Millenium - Meramec)
Bill Pollard
A biblical view of business becomes real in the practice of doing business. What are the practical ways God’s purposes can be demonstrated in the practice of business? We'll "get real" in several areas: pursuing excellence in our business activities; framing jobs so that what workers are doing is more than the task they are performing; giving (and receiving) authority and the freedom to make decisions; dealing with suppliers; and considering the boundaries between work and personal/family life.
Funding BAM: Donors or Investors? – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Lower)
Paul Park
The financial requirements and financing strategies of BAM initiatives vary widely. In what situations are donor models appropriate, and when are investment approaches to be preferred — and can we bridge the gap between the two?
Human Resources: A Christian BAM Perspective – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Middle)
Sam Lam
How do we create work that honors, engages, and motivates people? How do we develop organizational and human systems that respect the dignity of human beings? How can HR practitioners facilitate job design, compensation, selection, termination, performance management, leadership development, and benefits in ways that honor God?
Rethinking Strategy from a Biblical Perspective – BAM in Practice (Millenium - Mississippi)
Daniel Byrd
How sure are you that what you have learned about strategyis appropriate for a kingdom-driven business? Using Scriptural principles we will sift traditional strategy concepts to determine which are valid tools for our use. With a kingdom perspective on strategy in-hand, we will then address how our business practices should conform accordingly.
Production and Manufacturing: A BAM Perspective – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Meramec West)
John Beckett
How do we resolve the tension between achieving efficiency and respecting people? Can we outsource in ways that protect domestic employees and don't devalue offshore workers? Can a biblical perspective on quality and safety positively influence business?
Marketing Strategies from a BAM Perspective – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Meramec East)
Tom Buckles
How do we develop marketing strategies in a developing-world context? Which goods and services are appropriate for a given culture? What are the right channels? What is the right level of marketing to address the legitimate needs of people and not just the marketer's greed? How do we find the right balance of pricing and margins to ensure sustainability yet meet customer needs?
Spiritual Disciplines for Business People – Spiritual Formation (Crowne Plaza - Missouri)
Kent Humphreys
What are the spiritual practices that can be most useful for businesspeople — and what impact do they have in a business context? We'll survey practical disciplines to grow spiritually, stay humble, make wise choices, and draw near to God in your business, not despite your business.
The Elusive Notion of Success – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Upper)
This seminar is also offered in Seminar Session 3.
What is success from a Christian perspective? How should BAM practitioners develop robust goal-setting, achievement, and accountability measures? What does "the bottom line" really mean for BAM? How can apparently competing outcomes be resolved in the practice of BAM?
Seminar Session 2 — Thursday, December 28, 9:00 – 10:15 PM
Business Plan Competition Finals – BAM Expressions (Millenium - Meremac)
The finalist teams in the $40,000 business plan competition will present their ideas to a live judging panel and the seminar audience. Teams must field questions from judges, who will use responses to help determine the winners. Winners will be announced Saturday.
Biblical Principles of Business as Mission – Spiritual Formation (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Middle)
Mats Tunehag
We'll look at specific biblical texts that have bearing on the mission, strategies, relationships, cultural dynamics, and the day-to-day world of the BAM professional. What does the creation story tell us about work and business? What can we learn from Jesus about BAM? And what does the theology of Paul have to offer?
Building Christian Community for Business People – Spiritual Formation (Crowne Plaza - Meramec West)
Bob Lynn
Being part of a community of like-minded businesspeople enhances your ability to discern the mind of Christ for your own life and the mission, operations, and future of your business. Community can speak into our ethics and decision-making and provide both accountability and encouragement. How can you find — or build — a vital Christian community relevant to both your business and your faith?
Small-to-Medium Enterprises – BAM Expressions and Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Meramec East)
Bob Kuhlman and David Johnson
The role of small-to-medium businesses in building healthy economies is crucial and can transform whole societies. This seminar will consider the opportunities and limitations of SME businesses and will discuss specific examples in Eastern Europe.
Discernment of Calling: A Personal Case Study in Calling – Spiritual Formation (Millenium - Mississippi)
Steven Preston
The Honorable Steven C. Preston was recently appointed by President Bush to become the Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration. Hear his convictions on what it means to be called into leadership, how we serve God every day in our vocational callings, and how throughout his 25-year career, he has been led to switch careers at times when it seemed most unlikely.
Central Asia – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Upper)
Central Asia is home to a number of former Soviet republics that are still seeking to establish themselves economically. A BAM practitioner will provide first-hand accounts of the opportunities and challenges in working in this predominantly Muslim region.
Sub-Saharan Africa – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Lower)
Jim Hocking
Notable challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa include endemic poverty, lack of safe water, and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Hear first-hand accounts of the opportunities and challenges in working in this extremely difficult environment.
Money and Motivations: Understanding God and Profit — Spiritual Formation (Crowne Plaza - Missouri)
Gary Ginter
Jesus said money is dangerous to one's spiritual health, yet business keeps score with money. Can Kingdom Professionals learn how to deal in money without getting seduced? We will survey practical scriptural principles for stewardship lifestyles, strategic investment, and Kingdom finance as well as common myths and understandings about money and wealth.
Seminar Session 3 — Saturday, December 30, 12:00 – 1:15 PM
Branding, Advertising, and Selling from a BAM Perspective – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Meramec East)
Mark Neuenschwander
Given the developing-world context of many BAM enterprises, how should we label and talk about the products and services we offer? How should Scripture inform our advertising and selling strategies? How do we stay accountable to God and others so that what we deliver matches our declarations?
Case Studies in Business Ethics – BAM in Practice (Millenium - Meremac)
Al Erisman
Bribery, intellectual property, fair compensation, child labor, misrepresenting tentmaking — the ethical hazards in the BAM context are many. What are the ethical challenges in these particular areas for a business? How can Christians fruitfully approach such issues?
Finance: Managing Money without Going over the Edge – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Meramec West)
John Mulford
How does God think about money as it flows through a business? How do fair pricing and fair wages fit into a financial system and economic return? Is there a biblical way to work with vendors and suppliers on money matters? What are other less tangible financial issues in business? We'll cover financial pressures to take into account and hidden traps businesspeople must avoid.
Leadership from a BAM Perspective – BAM in Practice (Millenium - Mississippi)
Brad Smith
BAM can be more difficult than either traditional missionary work or business for profit-maximization. What tensions can you expect and how do you navigate them? Where have others found the great challenges and opportunities? What does it mean to lead from a BAM perspective? How do you pursue Jesus in this pioneering call?
Lessons Learned from the Business as Mission Movement – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Middle)
Steve Rundle
The history of the BAM movement is rich with examples — both success and instructive failures — to guide reflection about your business practices. We'll look at case studies as well as trends drawn from different BAM approaches and different global regions.
East Asia – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Missouri)
Beverly Liu and Morris Li
East Asia is now a global leader in technology and manufacturing. BAM practitioners will provide first-hand accounts of the opportunities and challenges in integrating the gospel and business in this fast-paced region.
Middle East / North Africa – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Lower)
The Middle East and North Africa is predominantly Muslim and includes some of the most unreached nations on earth. A BAM practitioner will provide first-hand accounts of the opportunities and challenges in building a business that witnesses to Jesus.
The Elusive Notion of Success – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Upper)
This seminar is also offered in Seminar Session 1.
What is success from a Christian perspective? How should BAM practitioners develop robust goal-setting, achievement, and accountability measures? What does "the bottom line" really mean for BAM? How can apparently competing outcomes be resolved in the practice of BAM?
Seminar Session 4 — Saturday, December 30, 7:30 – 8:45 PM
Micro-Enterprise Development – BAM Expressions (Millenium - Meremac)
Peter Greer
This seminar will focus on how to help the poor enter into economic activity, presenting global opportunities to engage in MED as well as an examination of the limitations of the sector. We'll also consider the interface between this sector and other sectors in the BAM movement.
BAM Strategies in Context – BAM Expressions (Crowne Plaza - Meramec East)
John Mulford
Igloo manufacturing in Sudan? Fish farming in Siberia? What businesses — and business models — fit what situations? This seminar will examine the fundamentals of strategy with attention to the market, competition, resourcing, geopolitical, and religious contexts.
Overseas Private Equity Enterprises – BAM Expressions (Crowne Plaza - Missouri)
Dwight Nordstrom
What does a large-scale business look like, what challenges does it face, and what role does it play in the global BAM movement? Financing, human resourcing, and government relationships are some of the practical aspects we'll cover in this seminar.
Transitioning from Disaster Relief to Economic Development – BAM Expressions (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Lower)
Bill Toannon
Tsunami and earthquake, flood and famine, disease and plague, all represent an initial point-of-entry for a Christian response. Pitfalls of relief and development programs will be realistically examined and consideration given to the necessity of transitioning from humanitarian aid to sustainable nation-building and commerce.
Business as Ministry in a Multi-National Corporation - Contexts (Millenium - Mississippi)
Timothy Liu
How do you, as an individual in a large company, pursue business as a ministry, wherever God has currently placed you? What’s the potential global impact when Christians are mobilized to impact their marketplace? We'll discuss geographic and cultural differences to take into account and how to think about being a small — but transformational — part of a big organization.
Latin America – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Middle)
David Befus
Overall, Latin America has one-fifth the per capita GDP of the United States and is marked by inequalities in income distribution. Hear about the challenges and opportunities in promoting holistic economic development in places where there are no jobs.
U.S.-Based Global Business – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Meramec West)
Brian Chan
Workers in the United States are adapting to globalization and looking to find new roles as many traditional jobs move overseas. Hear about the opportunities and challenges in starting up a company that adds value to the global economy while building a global business that advances the Kingdom.
Starting Your Own BAM Business – Contexts (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Upper)
This seminar is also offered in Seminar Session 5.
Sarah Smith
Starting any business takes wisdom, courage, and resources — and all the more to start a BAM enterprise. You'll need a business plan that pursues an integrated "triple bottom line." And how will you find partners, resources, and funding? How will you gather advisors and supporters and build a network with BAM entrepreneurs? This seminar will get practical without forgetting the big picture.
Seminar Session 5 — Saturday, December 30, 9:00 – 10:15 PM
BAM and Justice – BAM in Practice (Crowne Plaza - Meramec West)
Julie Hindmarsh
Business done God’s way promotes God’s justice. How can business in its various manifestations tackle and make a difference to some of the real-world issues of our time? We'll give attention to gender inequality, child labor, fair trade, the environment, capital flows, and related topics.
Tentmaking – BAM Expressions (Crowne Plaza - Missouri)
Dwight Nordstrom
How does the popular notion of tentmaking fit into the global business-as-mission movement? How might you use your vocational skills and talents to make a fruitful and fulfilling contribution to the Kingdom of God globally through working as a tentmaker?
Mobilizing Your Church... or Any Church – Contexts (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Middle)
Duane Moyer and Doug Hunter
How can you help your church engage with the BAM movement and deploy every believer to be a work/life missionary from their “Jerusalem” to the ends of the earth? We'll look at what resources work/life ministries provide and how you can integrate them with your church’s mission. Expand your vision for the transformational possibilities and get ready to take practical next steps.
Pursuing BAM in a North American Company – Contexts (Millenium - Meremac)
John Beckett
This seminar will address the current challenges and opportunities facing North American Christians in business. What BAM concepts can a North American company deploy in their strategy and operations? What is God's purpose for you in your organization?
Starting Your Own BAM Business – Contexts (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Upper)
This seminar is also offered in Seminar Session 4.
Sarah Smith
Starting any business takes wisdom, courage, and resources — and all the more to start a BAM enterprise. You'll need a business plan that pursues an integrated "triple bottom line." And how will you find partners, resources, and funding? How will you gather advisors and supporters and build a network with BAM entrepreneurs? This seminar will get practical without forgetting the big picture.
Discernment of Calling: How to Find Your Niche — Spiritual Formation (Millenium - Mississippi)
Scott McFarlane
Are you seeking God to lead you into the calling and vocation that best utilizes the gifts He has given you? Hear about some of the creative ways God is using Biblical principles to extend His Kingdom and meet people's needs around the world through people in business.
South Asia – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Meramec East)
South Asia is home to a dizzying array of people groups and belief systems, but also marked by fast economic growth, spurred on by the high-tech sector. A BAM practitioner will provide first-hand accounts of the opportunities and challenges in this complex region.
Southeast Asia – Case Studies (Crowne Plaza - Mississippi Lower)
David Kwok
Southeast Asia is a diverse region with countries that are predominantly Muslim, Buddhist, or Catholic. While some economies are growing rapidly, others are trapped in long-standing poverty. A BAM practitioner will provide first-hand accounts of one set of opportunities and challenges here.
Labels: Events and Conferences
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Searching Posts by Categories or "Labels"
This evening I switched over the Business as Mission Blog to a new version of Blogger. What does that mean for you?Well as you can imagine, I'm still trying to identify all the new features, but the biggest one I would point on is the ability to see posts in related categories (What blogger defaults to call "Labels").
So now, at the bottom of each post you can click on the "label" category to see related links. For example, if you click on the link at the bottom of this post "E-Zine and Blog Updates" then you will be able to view all related posts. Hopefully this should come in handy when keeping up with related books, conferences, editorials, case studies, etc. If you've personally had any experiences with the new version of blogger and would like to pass on that learning, please let me know.
Labels: E-Zine and Blog Updates
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Business as Mission by Michael Baer
A new business as mission book is out just in time to add to your Christmas shopping list! YWAM Publishing has teamed up with Michael Baer to release Business as Mission: The Power of Business in the Kingdom of God. Hopefully I'll be getting a copy here soon to write a review, until then here's an excerpt from the publisher's site."We are living in the Business Age. The historic role of nation states is rapidly being replaced by the corporation. Like never before, Christian business leaders have the chance to play a pivotal role in transforming society and spreading the gospel. But seizing this opportunity requires thinking differently about God, about his kingdom, about his purposes in the world, and about business.
While some Christian professionals dream of being "freed from business" to go into the ministry or see business as enemy territory to be invaded for Christ, others are convinced that Christian principles simply don't work in the "real world". In this book, Michael Baer challenges each of these positions. He rejects the unbiblical thinking that ministry and business are by definition separate activities - that our lives can be compartmentalized into the sacred and secular. Instead he guides business leaders in developing the vital characteristics of a kingdom business - the kind of business that will free them live fully integrated lives and lead organizations that significantly impact the world."
To order a copy click here or visit www.ywampublishing.com.
Labels: Books and Articles
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C12 Feature on CNN Rescheduled for Tonight
A few days ago, I mentioned that the C12 group was scheduled to appear on Andersen Cooper. However, due to last minute editorial decisions, CNN postponed its segment on C12 originally scheduled for Friday night. We are told that it will air TONIGHT between 10PM- Midnight EST.I would really encourage you to read the summary and the comments on Anderson's blog. They don't come as any sort of suprise, but it is a direct reminder as to how some of the "the world" recieves the ideas of intersecting faith and work. I'm going to paste a few of them here in the full article and I encourage you to click here to read more.
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I don't necessarily agree with a CEO using his power position in a business to essentially preach his religious beliefs to his employees as though it's a ministry. He could still "walk the talk" with his beliefs but why create a "church-like" atmosphere by beginning the day with prayer and bible studies? I'm guessing that this construction company does not employ a large number of people. If this management style was practiced in bigger businesses, I'm sure those CEO's would get some complaints!
Posted By Jolene, St. Joseph, MI : 12:30 PM ET
My initial reaction was confusion. This is a level of faith and religious practice I cannot understand, really, and the concept of a religion-based work environment seemed ridiculously unprofessional. I checked out the C12 Group site for a better understanding and overall, it doesn't seem so bad. It offers the chance for more community worship which of course is considered fundamental for many. Besides having a strictly Christian board and trying to save at least one life for all of eternity (I'd be so incredibly annoyed at work everyday...), the mission statement includes promoting balance in all aspects of life, moral coaching and guidance and as a business, it encourages a healthy yet very productive work ethic. If it is 100% true that everyone else feels comfortable working for Azzarelli, then it seems like an amazing company to be a part of. I just can''t accept the fact that it's focused so intensely on one religion. And let's be honest, the main goal in business is to profit, not to "glorify God." They know it.
Posted By Sabrina, Montreal, Quebec : 12:44 PM ET
David, I think this is very scary. Religion(I prefer spirituality) is a personal thing as is a relationship with God.As we watch on a daily basis how fundamentalist Islam eats away at the rights of people, we should be wary of fundamentalist Christianity doing the same thing here. Once people get the idea in their heads that there is one way to God(funny,its always their way), then they begin to force their way on others. I feel sure that those who work in Mr. Azzarelli,s company and are not practicing his brand of religion, feel very uncomfortable. God in his greatness has offered us many paths to salvation. As a recovering alcoholic, I found my path thru AA, and their wonderful advice to find a God of my understanding has kept me sober and given me great solace.
Posted By Brett, Oriskany, VA : 12:59 PM ET
David:
I just checked out the C12 Group website. On the surface, in one way, I see it as a great way to network within the Christian business community. But as I read more of the website under "Empowering Christian Leaders in Business", I wondered if this organization may be on the fringe of the Capitalist Christians agenda as it was described on AC360 segment, "What is a Christian?"
I feel uneasy with..."The Biblical qualifications include that God has an external plan for believers' life and that includes your business."
Also, "Each company within a C12 Group of 10-15 firms typically has an on-going opportunity to touch more people than all but the largest mega-churches! Imagine the personal blessing of empowering these local Christian business leaders to fruitfully respond to the opportunities they've been given as stewards and servant leaders of the Lord's provision in your local marketplace."
In addition, it reads "As a primary vocational focus, you'll find C12 to be a unique opportunity to earn an attractive professional income while serving the community you've come to know so well, and becoming an integral part of C12's cadre of highly talented and committed Area Leaders across America."
I do admire Bert Azzarelli's commitment to his faith and making it a part his every day business life. But, the Biblically qualified C12 Christians written about in the website is connected with 1 Timothy and Titus books in the Bible. What are the chapters and verses?
I am also uncomfortable with the Member Experiences page where it reads, "C12 is all about results and is committed to helping our members discover that operating according to timeless Biblical principles is the best way to generate results that really matter!" and references to the "fruitful" CEO's and owners....
So, as a Christian businesswoman, I am intrigued, but I also feel guarded and see some red flags about "exclusivity" and interpretation issues in the Biblical teachings and qualifications of this "inclusive" organization.
Posted By Sharon D., Indianapolis, IN : 1:41 PM ET
David,
These C12 are all over Florida. The C12 organizations just had a huge rally on this side of the state about 6 weeks ago.
They claim this is the work of the Lord to bring religion into the workplace and by doing this they have been rewarded with wonderful gifts like increase sales and increase bottom-lines. These are the Christians who believe God will lead you to great abundance and wealth. I think Mr. Doss calls these the "capitalist" Christians. First time I ever heard that term was last week.
Before hiring someone, they ask for your church affiliation. If you are a building sub-contractor, they check your tax returns to make sure you are donating at least 10% to God's works. It is an interesting way of doing business.
I learned about these folks about 5 years ago. One of my clients told me about it. At one manufacturing firm in town they only play Christian music in the world place. They formally pray at noon before lunch. The owner comes on the speaker and does a prayer. If he is on vacation doing God's work on a missionary trip, he brings in a "guest business owner" to pray with his people.
I wonder, "Will I stop in purgatory -- temporary because I didn't push my religious views on my employees and staff?" Can someone answer that question for me?
Posted By Renee Bradenton, FL : 1:48 PM ET
I would definitely not work at this place. I firmly believe in separation of church and state and I absolutely believe that religion should be kept out of the workplace. It seems like it's perfectly fine to alienate or insult agnostics or atheists, but never members of organized religions. I sort of think it's slightly dangerous to push religion at work-and make no mistake-that's exactly what's going on here. Studies indicate that most people want to feel like they're part of a TEAM at work-not a religion. This is how problems start because no one believes in one thing, nor should they. This country was built on religious freedom, so if I want to worhsip Buddha, for instance, I shouldn't feel intimidated at work if I'm not a Christian. That's why worship should be saved for the church or home. Organized religion has been at the root of most wars. Let's keep it where it belongs.
Posted By Debbie Darby, Denham Springs, LA : 1:53 PM ET
Labels: Business as Mission News and Notes
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4 Last Minute Business as Mission Christmas Ideas
Looking for some last minute things to purchase this year for Christmas? Here's a few last minute ideas involving business as mission groups that have been featured on this blog in the past few weeks.
#1- Christmas Cards from Africa
Cards from Africa is a Business as Mission company that has been in the news (and featured on this blog) a lot over the past few weeks. If you are still looking for some last minute Christmas Cards or are ready to start planning ahead for next year, check out this link to view their Christmas selection.
#2- Buy a Christmas Tree ... in Uganda
From the Kibo Group Team "I'm about to help you out here with an amazing idea for your Christmas shopping. You know that nagging problem of what to get for the person who has everything? Well, this should solve that one. I bet they don't have their very own tree in Uganda. Click on the link below and you can buy one, get a cool Christmas card you can plant (yes, a card you can plant when you are done) and it will grow flowers (no kidding) and you get an ornament that will have a number on it marking the GPS coordinates of your tree in Uganda." (Better click on the link below if you want it to make sense)
#3- Give a Business as Mission Book to a Friend
Every so often a book comes along that can capture the hearts and the minds of a generation or a movement. The words on the paper come alive and change the way we have thought about issues and ideas for years. If your one of those people that have been deeply impacted by one of these books, I would encourage you to pick up a copy and give it to a friend. If your looking for specific books, look on the resource tab on the left or click on this review: "The Top 5 Business as Mission Readings."
#4- Download Christmas Video Clips to Share with the Family
Five years ago when Steve Jobs and Apple Computer introduced the iPod, they had no idea that their creativity would impact the church. Now you can download high quality video clips about Christmas. They can be a great way to spend a few minutes reliving the story with your family, friends, or in your church or business. Be sure the check out the clips on Mary, What is the Meaning of Christmas? and The Christmas Story with Steven Curtis Chapman. The best thing about it is they don't cost the $15-20 that other sites might charge, but they cost the same price of a video clip on iTunes ($1.99) .
Continue reading '4 Last Minute Business as Mission Christmas Ideas'
#1- Christmas Cards from AfricaCards from Africa is a Business as Mission company that has been in the news (and featured on this blog) a lot over the past few weeks. If you are still looking for some last minute Christmas Cards or are ready to start planning ahead for next year, check out this link to view their Christmas selection.
#2- Buy a Christmas Tree ... in UgandaFrom the Kibo Group Team "I'm about to help you out here with an amazing idea for your Christmas shopping. You know that nagging problem of what to get for the person who has everything? Well, this should solve that one. I bet they don't have their very own tree in Uganda. Click on the link below and you can buy one, get a cool Christmas card you can plant (yes, a card you can plant when you are done) and it will grow flowers (no kidding) and you get an ornament that will have a number on it marking the GPS coordinates of your tree in Uganda." (Better click on the link below if you want it to make sense)
#3- Give a Business as Mission Book to a FriendEvery so often a book comes along that can capture the hearts and the minds of a generation or a movement. The words on the paper come alive and change the way we have thought about issues and ideas for years. If your one of those people that have been deeply impacted by one of these books, I would encourage you to pick up a copy and give it to a friend. If your looking for specific books, look on the resource tab on the left or click on this review: "The Top 5 Business as Mission Readings."
#4- Download Christmas Video Clips to Share with the FamilyFive years ago when Steve Jobs and Apple Computer introduced the iPod, they had no idea that their creativity would impact the church. Now you can download high quality video clips about Christmas. They can be a great way to spend a few minutes reliving the story with your family, friends, or in your church or business. Be sure the check out the clips on Mary, What is the Meaning of Christmas? and The Christmas Story with Steven Curtis Chapman. The best thing about it is they don't cost the $15-20 that other sites might charge, but they cost the same price of a video clip on iTunes ($1.99) .
Labels: Business as Mission News and Notes, Microfinance
Continue reading '4 Last Minute Business as Mission Christmas Ideas'
Business as Mission by Tom Steffen and Mike Barnett
Another Business as Mission book has recently been released, this one coming from the William Carey Library. I haven't been able to get a copy or read it yet myself, but here's a quote from the official site. For more information click here."To put it bluntly," wrote Doug Pennoyer, Dean of the School of Intercultural Studies, Biola University and President of EMS, when announcing the call for BAM papers, "Business as mission (BAM) is a work in progress. It is a field that needs definition, theological clarity, and missiological focus. Our call for papers for our regional conferences is timely, and the culminating discussions and presentations at the national level puts us in a place to make a pivotal contribution in a sea of some confusion and even controversy" .... While this volume will certainly not bring total clarity to the topic, it will provide some needed definition and precision while at the same time identify areas that will demand further discussion, clarification, and maturity."
Labels: Books and Articles
Continue reading 'Business as Mission by Tom Steffen and Mike Barnett'
C12 Group Featured on CNN's Anderson Cooper 360
The C12 Group has been featured on this blog a few times in the past (See the Post: Building Great Business for a Great Purpose), but for those of you who are unfamiliar to their story this is an organization that is all about leading thriving profitable businesses. Their focus on the practical issues facing Christian business leaders, combined with their commitment to a Biblical perspective coupled with like-minded peer counsel and accountability has drawn recognition from both Christian and secular media.They have been featured in magazines like Fortune, the Wall Street Journal and most recently CNN's Anderson Cooper. A crew from Anderson Cooper 360, was in Tampa just a few weeks ago. They visited a local C12 chapter meeting, taping interviews with several of the members. That segment aired last night.
Labels: Business as Mission News and Notes
Continue reading 'C12 Group Featured on CNN's Anderson Cooper 360'
December E-Zine has been sent. Sign-up now to receive the updates in 2007!
The December E-Zine has officially been sent! This month's email highlighted the upcoming postings and interviews with business as mission influencers and entrepreneurs that will be taking place in 2007.We also recapped the numerous awards competitions that have recently taken place for Business as Mission and Social Capitalism (The World Challenge, Fast Company Social Capitalist Awards and Open for Business Competition) and focused on some unique social capitalist groups like Kiva and how they can inspire the Christian community to think outside the box.
As we start the new year, be sure that you stay connected to the conversation. Two of the best ways to stay connected is to subscribe to the RSS feeds and sign up for the monthly email updates by entering your email address in the top right corner of the home page. Help spread the word about Business as Missions by encouraging friends and co-workers to sign up as well!
Labels: E-Zine and Blog Updates
Continue reading 'December E-Zine has been sent. Sign-up now to receive the updates in 2007!'
Business as Mission Company Finishes 2nd in World Challenge Competition
The winners have been announced and it's official! A Business as Mission company, "Cards from Africa" has finished in 2nd place in the World Challenge Competition!The competition, sponsored by Newsweek, Shell, the BBC is one of a growing number of competitions that are spotlighting social capitalist ventures (See previous post about Social Capitalist Awards).
The winning project was a group from Sri Lanka that found creative ways to produce paper from some otherwise waste products while protecting the endangered population of elephants in the area. As the winner, they will will receive from Shell a US$20,000 grant to benefit their project. A further prize of US$10,000 will be given to each of the two runners up, including "Cards from Africa."
One representative from each of the three final projects was flown to The Hague, The Netherlands to attend the award ceremony. The awards ceremony will be broadcast on BBC World on December 16th and will appear in Newsweek the same week.
As I mentioned in previous posts, I find it inspiring to see a business as mission company compete and rise to the top of competitions with other organizations outside of the business as mission scope. I can only imagine the increased recognition and awareness that will be brought as it receives recognition through new Newsweek and the BBC!
Be sure to check out these other related links:
Cards from Africa is also a finalist for the "Open for Business" competition sponsored by Intervaristy Dec 27-31st, 2006 in St. Louis
Click here to see the previous post about the competition as it entered it's final stages of voting.
Labels: Awards and Competitions
Continue reading 'Business as Mission Company Finishes 2nd in World Challenge Competition'
Searching for "27" Business as Mission Entrepreneurs
There is nothing quite like a well told story.They are a source of inspiration and hope. For the Business as Mission movement, stories of people who are "living it" provide a fuel for future entrepreneurs.
The businessmen and women that lead these organizations are often full of new ideas and lessons they have learned from past experiences. In the year of 2007, it is my hope that through this blog we could identify 27 different case studies to inspire, challenge and educate those that will come carry things forward.
I plan on interviewing the leaders of 27 groups and sharing their stories with the world starting in January. Some of these may also include case studies and stories that have been mentioned on other sites. I've already assembled a list of 18 very intriguing and unique stories. Just like the previous post, "Nominate the Top 20 People Impacting Business as Mission" I need your help in identifying other stories that need to be told. So if you know of someone who is involved in Business as Mission, send me their story before January 1st!
You can email me by clicking here. Be sure to include:
1. Name of the company and a brief history
2. How it fits the definition of business as mission
3. Contact information of the leader/owner/CEO of the organization and it's website
Labels: 27 Business as Mission Entrepreneurs
Continue reading 'Searching for "27" Business as Mission Entrepreneurs'
Nominate the Top 20 People Impacting Business as Mission Before December 22nd
The end of the year seems to always trigger those magazine writeups of the "Top 20" people, companies or events to watch in a given industry. Everything from sports, music, technology and politics takes a moment to highlight the major things to watch out for in the upcoming year.So, that's what we are going to do for Business as Mission on this blog. Over the next few months I plan on starting a series of posts that will spotlight 20 major influencers who will be impacting Business as Mission in 2007.
I'll be interviewing and spotlighting 20 passionate, and talented people, companies or organizations that are out to move the business as mission movement forward in hopes of connecting people to groups where there might be some synergy.
Here's where I need your help! Tell me about yourself, someone that you admire, or someone that you are working with that is making a dent in this crazy world through business as mission. Answer the following questions and email me before Friday, DECEMBER 22nd.
1. In 50 words or less, please share how this person is helping to move the business as mission movement forward.
2. Please describe how this nominee is using business as a force of positive change. What technology, idea, or strategy is the nominee using?
3. What significant events, plans or new activities do they have planned for 2007?
4. What are the results, both financial, spiritual and social? How has the nominees business performed, and what impact has it had on the problem it addresses?
5. What is their contact information (Email and Phone Number) so I can send them some questions.
Email me your thoughts and nominations by clicking here.
Labels: 22 Business as Mission Catalysts to Watch in 2007
Continue reading 'Nominate the Top 20 People Impacting Business as Mission Before December 22nd'
