Who Was Lottie Moon?

Each year we make a significant gift from our “Reach the World” offering to the “Lottie Moon” Christmas offering. In fact we consider this element of our mission giving as one of our major mission partners. Why? Because it goes 100% to help keep more than 3200 International missionaries on the field, some that have come from our own congregation. There is no other mission organization in the world or in Christian history that has sent out as many missionaries to the world as Southern Baptist have. That’s why part of our world mission offering goes to this cause. But maybe you wonder, why is it called “Lottie Moon”? I thought you might enjoy knowing a little bit about that.

Charlotte Digges "Lottie" Moon (1840-1912) was an influential American Southern Baptist missionary who dedicated nearly 40 years of her life to serving in China. Born in Virginia to a wealthy Baptist family, she received a strong education, becoming one of the first women in the South to earn a master's degree. Initially indifferent to her Christian upbringing, Lottie experienced a spiritual awakening in her teens, which led her to pursue a life of service and teaching.

In 1873, Lottie was appointed as a missionary to China, where she joined her sister Edmonia at the North China Mission Station. Lottie quickly became passionate about direct evangelism and worked tirelessly to educate and minister to women and girls in the region. She opened a girls' boarding school and frequently traveled to rural areas to share the Christian faith, often facing significant challenges and resistance.

Lottie Moon is also remembered for her advocacy for women's roles in missions and her efforts to encourage Southern Baptists to support international missions. Her legacy continues today through the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, which raises funds for missionaries worldwide. Lottie's life exemplifies dedication to faith and service, making her a significant figure in the history of American missions.

And through offerings like our Reach the World gifts, she continues to impact lives for the Kingdom of God. Just thought you’d like to know! Thank you for your gifts to our Reach the World offering. I believe it could be the largest ever if we all join in. Already we have surpassed $140,000! And remember, God is always trying to take us someplace new. I love being your Pastor!

For God’s Glory Alone,
Pastor Ray