Interview with Matthew Bradshaw from Sagebrush Community Church

by: Matthew Ellison

Matthew Bradshaw is the Global Outreach Director at Sagebrush Community Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sixteen: Fifteen had the privilege of walking Sagebrush through the missions coaching process several years ago and continues to assist them as they further their vision. We recently helped facilitate a connection between Sagebrush and PHX 10/40 Interface, one of our newest ministry partners. This connection is quickly becoming a fruitful partnership for Sagebrush, PHX 10/40 Interface, and most importantly the refugees that God has brought to Phoenix.

Matthew Ellison:  Why has Sagebrush made engaging refugees (or as you like to say "New Americans") in the Phoenix area through PHX 10/40 Interface part of Sagebrush's overarching missions strategy?

We saw an opportunity with PHX 10/40 Interface to give our people a cross-cultural experience in a local area. We saw the value of the 10/40 Interface and could not resist getting involved.

Matthew Ellison: What does that engagement look like?  What kinds of things are you doing?

With the 10/40 Interface, you are paired with a new American for one week, approximately 40 hours. In that time, you have certain tasks you must complete together to help teach your new American how to adapt and acclimate to their new environment. Basic chores like going to the grocery store or using public transportation can be very difficult when you are in a foreign country. Our goal is to ease that transition and show these people the love of Jesus is a real and practical way.

ME: Do you find that this compliments or distracts from Sagebrush's global vision?  Please explain.

We believe this compliments our global strategy very well. We understand that many people in our church will never experience what life is like in a foreign country. However, this doesn't mean they cannot have an impact on the nations. The nations have come to us; we cannot neglect their presence or ignore their need. 

ME: Can you share a brief story of how God has impacted people from your church as well as the lives of refugees through your partnership with Phoenix 10/40 Interface?

We had a volunteer in April connect with a New American on a deep level. She was able to break bread and build a relationship. Our volunteer even invited her New American into a family member's home. Through their time together they forged a relationship and at the end of the trip, our volunteer received a gift from her New American. With big tears in her eyes, she told us that she had just given her a hug and was so moved. She couldn't believe how generous her new friend was, and how much she cared for her. Our volunteer was changed, and her heart was melted all because they spent a week "doing life together". You can't put a price on that!