The news came as a shock. After serving as full-time missionaries to Spain, members of Chad’s family were suddenly denied visas. Reeling from the rejection, but still convinced of God’s call to serve in Spain, Chad began to search for a new direction. Serving as a full-time missionary had been fulfilling. He had seen God’s hand at work in his ministry. So why the roadblock coupled with the continued intensity of the call? 

Before heading to the mission field, Chad gained extensive experience running multiple businesses. His success in business was aided by his gifts of leadership and administration, and he enjoyed motivating and encouraging those around him. 

While in Spain, Chad saw how scuba diving could double as a ministry tool. He recalled the fruit that came from sharing the love of Christ with others while helping them learn to dive. As Chad reviewed his time in Spain and consulted wise friends, he began to see how God had uniquely prepared him for a different ministry approach: re-entering Spain as an entrepreneur and engaging in a business as mission (BAM) venture.

BAM entrepreneurs establish sustainable and profitable businesses that operate in a biblical manner for the purpose of modeling Christian life and establishing churches. The businesses are legitimate enterprises that provide valued economic benefits and authentic access to the community. 

Chad’s scuba diving shop allows him to employ Spaniards and to demonstrate godly principles at work. 

“This type of working relationship not only allows me to share Christ, but also provides the time and transparency needed to disciple those that are working side-by-side with me,” Chad says. “I see the business as one way to allow others—especially those who would normally not enter a traditional church—to see a glimpse of God working in my life.”

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