What is Backpack Missions?
Backpack Missions is an easy, exciting, and effective strategy for teaching Great Commission principles and Southern Baptist Cooperative Missions to children in any church. Backpack Missions is comprised of simple mission object lessons presented by a world trekking backpacker character, "Backpack Andy" [or personalize with your own name] who teaches a missions lesson using objects taken from his backpack. Backpack Missions is drop-in mission education and awareness.

Where Can Backpack Missions Be Used?
Backpack missions can be used anytime anywhere. This simple mission education tool is most effective when integrated into existing ministries focused on children such as children's worship time, children's sermon, Sunday School, other small groups, camps, retreats, field trips, and so forth.

Why Should Our Church Consider Using Backpack Missions?
Children need to know that God has a special plan for them and their church. It begins by having a personal relationship with God through accepting and following Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior. A loving and growing relationship with God compels believers to accept and commit to God's invitation to be on mission with Him. God's mission is reconciling the world with Him through His Son, Jesus. Backpack Missions teaches God's Great Commission and Southern Baptist Cooperative Missions through presentations children can understand and identify with. Each lesson makes biblically based missions come alive.

Who Should Lead Backpack Missions?
Each lesson is easy to prepare for and present. The presenter does not have to be a professional actor; however, "Backpack Andy" should be played by a person who is excited about teaching missions to children, has the time to commit to making Backpack Missions a regular feature, has the ability to relate to children, teaches with enthusiasm and energy, and is willing to dress like a hiker/backpacker.

What Does It Cost and What Else Do I Need?
Backpack Missions is free and downloadable. Currently, there are 24 lessons, and more will be added. If you have an idea for a Backpack Missions lesson, we want to hear from you. Email children@bnamb.net. The only other item you will need is a backpack and the objects for each lesson. Objects should be easy to secure. Consider decorating the backpack with stickers or flags that give the appearance of the backpack having been around the world.

When Can I Start?
Now! Just click here to view the lessons and start your journey.

For more information or resources to help with Cooperative Program education, contact the Cooperative Program Office at (803)765-0030 or (800)723-7242, ext. 1801.