As a Southern Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Crystal River gives to the Cooperative Program to support both national and international missionaries. The Cooperative Program was designed almost 100 years ago so missionaries could receive regular financial support without having to raise support by getting various churches and individuals to pledge support to them. The goal was for missionaries to spend more time engaged on the mission field and less time raising support for their ministry.
The Cooperative Program enables First Baptist Church of Crystal River to share in the support of over 8,500 missionaries: about 5,000 in North America and over 3,500 internationally.
We take three special offerings during the year in support of missions. During the Easter season, we receive the Annie Armstrong Missions Offering in support of North American missions. In September, we receive the Maguire State Missions Offering in support of Florida missions. During the Christmas season, we receive the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering in support of international missions.