In a recent gathering in El Salvador, numerous missionaries and Christian Bitcoiners engaged in a profound discussion about the role of Bitcoin in mission work. Initially, the conversation was expected to revolve around utilizing Bitcoin to help existing missions organizations move money, especially to closed countries. However, it soon became apparent that a more significant issue was at hand: the detrimental impact of fiat money on missionary work.

The traditional model of missions is highly centralized, predominantly Western, and operates on a precarious, day-to-day basis. It often intertwines with the concept of almsgiving, leading to substantial dependency and proving ineffective outside a few first-world countries that typically send out missionaries. This model primarily relies on continuous, generous donations from personal networks and a handful of churches. Missionaries depend on these regular monthly donations to sustain a stable income. Unfortunately, a reduction in these donations can lead to financial instability, forcing many missionaries to return home for fundraising or to incur debts for their missions. This model is particularly unfeasible in the developing world, where the culture of funding missions through regular donations is not prevalent. People in these regions, often facing financial challenges themselves, find it difficult to contribute consistently to missionary work. Consequently, many potential missionaries in these areas lack the necessary resources to embark on their missions.

During the conference, a significant realization emerged: Bitcoin has the potential to revolutionize the fiat-based funding model of missions. Historically, missions were supported by grants or large donations that provided funding for extended periods. Unlike the month-to-month approach, missionaries could receive support for several years. Moreover, the long-term price appreciation of Bitcoin suggests that the value of funds could extend well beyond the initial amount saved.

A new model for missions is now viable, one that empowers missionaries with greater autonomy and aligns more closely with the teachings of God. This model emphasizes savings, work, and cultural immersion. Missionaries typically undergo several years of training before field deployment; this period could also be used for working and accumulating savings in Bitcoin. By the time of departure, they could have a substantial reserve to support their work. This approach not only promotes financial planning and investment for the future, a skill often lacking in short-term, high-turnover missions, but also equips missionaries with practical skills. These skills are not just useful for earning money but are instrumental in facilitating cultural integration.

A decentralized approach to mission work becomes increasingly feasible with the advent of decentralized currency. The current monetary system heavily debases missionary work. With the adoption of Bitcoin, there is an opportunity to transform this landscape.