Big Heart, Small Town: Where Our Mission Begins

Consford Chronicles Missions With the Consfords

April 25, 2025

Tucked away in the piney woods of East Texas, our journey began not in a far-off land, but in the quiet town of Center, Texas. Here, our hearts were stirred,…

Tucked away in the piney woods of East Texas, our journey began not in a far-off land, but in the quiet town of Center, Texas. Here, our hearts were stirred, our faith was stretched, and our calling was made clear.

At Central Baptist Church Center TX, we found a faith family that didn’t just talk about missions—they lived it. This church, known lovingly as a church with a heart for missions, poured into us, prayed over us, and propelled us into a life of global impact. It’s a powerful reminder that worldwide missions from East Texas really can begin in the most unexpected places.


East Texas Roots, Global Reach

Some people think you have to be a big city missionary to make a difference. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t need fancy zip codes to change the world. He just needs willing hearts.

Whether we’re ministering locally or boarding a plane to another continent, we carry the same message: Jesus saves, Jesus loves, and Jesus sends. From the piney woods to the palm trees, the Good News travels with us.

Our East Texas roots remind us that the mission field isn’t just “over there.” It’s right here too—in grocery stores, school drop-off lines, and coffee shops. But when God calls us abroad, we go boldly, knowing our church family is behind us.


The Power of Partnership: You Don’t Go Alone

One of the most beautiful things about worldwide missions is that it’s never a solo act. Behind every missionary is a community of people sending prayers, support, and encouragement.

That’s why we’re forever grateful for Central Baptist Church in Center, TX. Their support system is more than financial—it’s emotional and spiritual. They’ve helped train and prepare us for ministry and have stayed connected no matter how far we’ve traveled.

Action Item:
👉 Please visit Central Baptist Church Center TX to learn more about a church with a heart for missions.


Real Stories from the Mission Field

Let’s talk real-life impact. Missions aren’t just about photos and passports—they’re about people. Here are just a few glimpses into what worldwide missions from East Texas really look like:

🎙️

Missionary on Fire Podcast

Preserving the Legacy of Faithful Missionaries

The Missionary on Fire podcast features interviews with veteran missionaries, classic sermons from the field, and stories of God’s faithfulness across generations. If you love the heart behind these stories, you will love the podcast. New episodes regularly.

  • In Ghana, we partnered with local churches to host Bible clubs and help plant churches.
  • In Ivory Coast, we shared the Gospel through music and storytelling, and preaching.
  • In East Texas, we are part of weekly bus ministry to people who need a ride to church.

God has taught us that it doesn’t matter where you are—what matters is who you’re reaching. Whether it’s around the corner or across the ocean, mission work is a lifestyle, not a location.

👉 Check out more stories and updates on our blog.


How You Can Be a Part of It

You don’t need a passport to join in on the mission. Whether you’re in East Texas or beyond, you have a part to play in the Great Commission. Here are a few ways you can jump in:

  • Pray for missionaries and the people they serve.
  • Give to missions organizations or churches like Central Baptist Church Center TX.
  • Go—short-term trips, local projects, or simply walking next door to share the love of Jesus.
  • Encourage someone who’s already serving. A text, a letter, or a coffee date goes a long way.

If you feel a tug on your heart toward missions, don’t ignore it. God loves to use ordinary people for extraordinary work.


Final Thoughts: East Texas and Beyond

We believe with all our hearts that worldwide missions from East Texas are making an eternal difference. From Center, TX to wherever God leads next, we’ll keep going, sending, serving, and trusting that He who called us is faithful.

Thank you for following our journey. If you want to stay connected, learn more, or support our work, we’d love for you to follow along:

👉 Visit our blog at consfords.com/blog

And again—don’t forget:

👉 Please visit Central Baptist Church Center TX to learn more about a church with a heart for missions.

Let’s keep shining the light, from East Texas to the ends of the earth.

JC

Joe Consford

Baptist Missionary — Author — Podcaster

Joe and Laura Consford are independent Baptist missionaries to Ghana, West Africa, sent from Central Baptist Church in Center, Texas. Joe is the author of That's My Goat and Missionary on Fire, and the host of the Morning Meditation and Missionary on Fire podcasts. The Consfords are currently on deputation and available to visit your church.

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