A Bible Training Scholarship Advocate Story
Every CRI relationship starts somewhere. For Jim, it started with a friendship.
“Getting involved with Bible Training Scholarships (BTS) was an evolution of desire. I've loved watching CRI grow from the start–from those early days to when we expanded into South Asia. Then I read about BTS, and I'm a believer in ongoing support that pays dividends later—a continuity picture that fits how I wanted to give.
I’ve known Alan and Melody Pieratt since the 1980s. In 2000, my daughter and I went on a trip with CRI to Mozambique. Our goal was to better understand the health concerns people there were facing, particularly AIDS and malnutrition. I enjoyed being part of that trip and helping identify the root causes of these challenges.
After seeing suffering in Mozambique, my heart became more aware of the struggles of poverty around the world. So when I learned about the conflict and displacement in Myanmar, I wanted to find a way to help. I heard about CRI’s Bible Training Scholarships and how it equips students in Myanmar. I knew it was an opportunity to plant seeds that God could multiply in the future. It’s encouraging to see these young people want to learn and teach the Bible despite the political upheaval and social instability they face.
Tualmung is a student I’ve sponsored for several years, and it has been meaningful to follow the life of a real person over time. He’s experienced struggles and victories, just like we all do, but walking through those seasons with him has created a lasting heart connection that means a great deal to me.
I’d throw my hat in the ring for a trip to meet the students I’ve sponsored over the years, to give them a hug. It’s been a special part of my life to watch CRI grow, from when I served on the board to now investing in students through sponsorships.”