A Heritage of Missions

Nancy Smits comes from a long line of mission-hearted family members. Her grandfather, Calvin Schaap, served on the “Back to God Hour” board and even traveled to the island of Bonaire one winter to work on building a radio tower when BTGMI was expanding broadcast outreach from there. Her great-grandfather was a pastor, and her Uncle James Schaap has documented stories of people whose lives have been changed through the outreach of ReFrame Ministries. 

Before Nancy’s grandfather passed away he invested in church development and was a big support to many Christian ministries. “We have a long heritage of faith,” says Nancy. “My mother’s family was very mission minded and they passed that along through the generations.” 

Nancy and her husband, Dan, have four children who are all involved in some kind of service. Her son David works in prison ministries. Nancy is a teacher, working with kids who have learning disabilities. 

“Because of my rich heritage, I am thankful for faithful Christ followers in my past,” adds Nancy.

It’s no surprise that Nancy and Dan both have a heart for missions. And they want that legacy to continue. The Smits have created an estate plan that benefits Kingdom ministries like ReFrame Ministries. 

That legacy was important also to Dan, part owner of Double S Dairy in Waupun, Wisconsin. “We’ve used the Today devotional in family devotions since the children were old enough to follow along.”

The Smits support BTGMI with financial gifts, through church offerings, and have named BTGMI as a benefactor through the Barnabas Foundation. “I personally feel drawn to the stories of those in persecuted countries who get to hear the Gospel over the radio waves,” notes Nancy, who encourages others to consider supporting missions. “Hearing the salvation stories of those who have heard should be encouragement for others to also help support the ministry.”