Sponsorship and Visa Process
Dear Friends and Supporters,
This Christmas season, we had a wonderful time celebrating with family at our home in NC. It was a precious opportunity to reflect on the Lord’s goodness and enjoy special moments together before embarking on the next steps for London.
The Lord greatly blessed during my visit to London in December. While I was there, I had the opportunity to meet with a lawyer to discuss the visa process. Initially, I had planned to apply for the Global Talent Visa. Although this is an excellent visa option, it is both expensive and very challenging to obtain.
After consulting with the lawyer, we decided on an alternative route: having Downham Baptist Church sponsor Candace’s entry into the UK as a Biblical Counselor. As part of this plan, she will pursue certification through BCUK.org, a program closely associated with CCEF, to enhance her qualifications and ministry effectiveness.
This route is ideal for our family, as it will allow me (Chris) to continue working my bivocational job. Unfortunately, I am unable to apply for a ministry visa because it would restrict my ability to work bivocationally, which is an essential part of our ministry and financial support plan.
Next Steps:
In January, Downham Baptist Church plans to apply for sponsorship authorization with the UK government.
Candace’s Sponsorship: Downham Baptist Church will sponsor her as a Missionary with the role of Biblical Counselor.
Family Visa Plan: I (Chris) and Theodore will apply as dependents under her sponsorship.
Cost Breakdown: The total visa fees for the first three years amount to approximately $14,338. This includes application fees, healthcare surcharges, and other related expenses. By God’s grace, we have already raised $10,000 towards these costs and are trusting Him to provide the remaining amount.
Financial Support Needed: We estimate that we will need an additional $1,500 per month in support to cover the ongoing costs of this process and our ministry in the UK. Currently, we are at $500 per month in support and are praying for additional partners to help meet this need.
Please pray for God’s provision and guidance in this process, particularly as Downham Baptist Church applies for sponsorship.
Pray for the smooth processing of our visas and for wisdom in managing the legal requirements.
Pray for the financial resources needed to support this path. While we are grateful for the churches already supporting us, we are praying for additional monthly support.
We are thankful for your continued prayers and partnership as we seek to follow God’s leading in this ministry.
In Christ,
Christopher Beane