Writing Guide

Prayer Letter Tips

Your prayer letters are more than updates — they are a lifeline connecting your supporting churches to the work God is doing through you.

Why Prayer Letters Matter

"Brethren, pray for us." — 1 Thessalonians 5:25

Prayer letters keep your partners informed, engaged, and praying. A well-written letter helps supporters feel connected to your ministry even when they're thousands of miles away. It reminds them that their giving and prayers are making a real difference.

Consistent, quality communication also builds trust. Churches and individuals who feel informed are more likely to continue their support and even increase it over time.

Structuring Your Letter

1

Opening — Personal Connection

Start with something personal or a brief story. Draw the reader in before getting to updates.

2

Ministry Update

Share what's been happening — churches visited, conversations had, doors opened or closed.

3

Answered Prayers

Celebrate what God has done. This encourages your supporters and builds their faith.

4

Specific Prayer Requests

Give 3–5 concrete items people can pray for. Vague requests get vague prayers.

5

Support Update

A brief, honest snapshot — percentage raised, upcoming needs, or milestones reached.

6

Closing — Gratitude

Thank your supporters sincerely. Remind them their partnership matters.

What to Include

A family photo or ministry photo
Your current support percentage
Specific prayer requests (3–5)
A story or testimony from the field/road
Upcoming schedule or travel plans
Answered prayers from previous letters
Contact information and giving details
A Scripture verse that's been meaningful

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sending letters too infrequently — supporters feel forgotten and disconnected.
Being too vague — "pray for our ministry" doesn't give people anything specific to pray about.
Only writing when you need money — supporters can tell, and it damages trust.
Making it too long — aim for one page. People are busy; respect their time.
Forgetting to proofread — typos and errors undermine your professionalism.
Neglecting to say thank you — never assume supporters know you're grateful.

Frequency

Monthly is ideal during deputation when things change quickly. Once on the field, bi-monthly or quarterly is typical.

Consistency matters more than frequency. Pick a schedule and stick with it. Supporters who haven't heard from you in 6 months start to wonder.

Tone

Write like you're talking to a friend at church. Be warm, honest, and grateful. Share both victories and struggles — your supporters want to pray for real needs.

Avoid sounding like a corporate newsletter or an impersonal mass email. Your personality and heart should come through.

Digital vs. Physical Letters

Digital

  • Cost-effective and easy to send
  • Can include links, videos, and photos
  • Faster delivery, easier to share
  • Easily lost in crowded inboxes

Physical

  • Tangible — gets posted on fridge or bulletin board
  • Preferred by many older supporters
  • Feels more personal
  • Printing and postage costs add up

Recommendation: Use both. Send digital to everyone and physical to key supporters and older members who prefer mail. Many missionaries find a 70/30 digital-to-physical ratio works well.

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