Mongolia

Sandwiched between Russia and China, Mongolia occupies a strategic spot on the globe. It is only slightly smaller than the state of Alaska and its land is diverse. In the south, lies the Gobi Desert, a vast emptiness of sand. The northeast contains giant steppes and in the west, mountains and hills occupy the landscape. Most know the country only because of its history and its mighty leader in the 13th Century.

square in Ulaanbaatar (UB)

Ghengis Khan /tʃiŋɡʊs hɑn/

Ghengis unified all the local Mongol tribes and then lead them in establishing the largest land empire the world has ever known. His kingdom covered most of modern day China and reached into eastern Europe. After the Great Khan's death, the empire splintered off and eventually fell to surrounding peoples. They were governed by outsiders until 1911, when they declared independence from China. That was short lived however, and in 1921 the Soviets brought them into their Union. Again in 1990, Mongolia declared its independence.

overlooking a Mongol town

Currently - Mongolia has a population around 3 million. One third of whom live in the capital, Ulaanbaatar /ulɑnbɑtr/. Roughly 90% of the people are ethnically Mongolian. Total there is 23 ethnic groups within the country and 16 different languages spoken. The traditional beliefs of Buddhism and Shamanism are practiced by much of the population. A large portion also claim to be non-religious.
The need for more to actively spread the Gospel is high. So many Mongols have never heard a clear presentation of Gospel. Will you pray for these people?

traditional gers 

The Mongol people are very hospitable; they love guests. If you visit their ger (or their apartment in the city), you will most likely be served their 'milk tea.' It has a very, uh unique taste! It kinda grows on you after a while. :) And the horse and yak aren't as bad as you might think.

typical scenery in the countryside

Information from:
Joshua Project <www.joshuaproject.net>
Operation World 7th Edition by Jason Mandryk 
and personal experience

Blog's Origin

What does World Missions and Mafia have in common?

Here's the story -

One day several of the students at BBTI (myself included) were talking about missions. After all, that's why we are here at BBTI - Baptist Bible Translators Institute. Prior to this occasion, many in my life have teased me about "knowing everyone." While that is a false statement, I do know a lot of people. And those I don't know, well never mind, I don't want to give away all my secrets. Back to the story.... During this particular instance, the statement came up again that I know everyone. Jokingly, one person said it was as if I was the head of the Missions Mafia. 

Of course, it was all in jest, but thereafter, several have mentioned that I should use this "talent" for a good cause. Such as, connecting those who maybe otherwise wouldn't know each other. Therefore, this is the beginning of the Missions Mafia Blog! 

Welcome! 

I do not know if this will be an effective or ever "get off the ground," but it will be fun at least! 

My purpose for this blog all centers around Missions. I might do a missionary profile of someone I know (only if that missionary would not be endangered by doing so). Or perhaps give facts about a country or people group that needs more missionaries. I hope that many will enjoy reading about Missions and ALL are welcome to comment or email me if they have a particular request for information about a certain area.

Also, when I hear of a particular need a missionary might have, perhaps for a short term helper, I will also note that. Maybe that will actually be the avenue for people to team up for the Lord's Work! 

After all, there is MUCH to be done for the GREAT COMMISSION! 

Let us join together and see God's Word Go Forth!!!