Who Is Lottie Moon

Lottie Moon was a Southern Baptist missionary to China who served for nearly 40 years, from 1873 to her death in 1912. Born in Virginia in 1840, Charlotte Digges Moon, affectionately called "Lottie," became a dedicated advocate for missions and sacrificial giving. Her legacy is closely tied to her tireless efforts to spread the Gospel in China and her passionate appeals for greater missionary support.

Role in Southern Baptist Life

Lottie Moon is a central figure in Southern Baptist missions because of her example of sacrificial service and her influence in mobilizing support for international missions. In 1888, she helped inspire the founding of the Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU), which focuses on promoting missions and supporting missionaries.

Every December, Southern Baptists participate in the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions, named in her honor. This offering is a significant fundraising effort supporting the work of the International Mission Board (IMB). It is one of the largest mission-focused fundraising events in the world.

How Is the Money Used Effectively?

The funds collected through the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering go directly to support the work of Southern Baptist missionaries and their ministries. None of the money is used for administrative or promotional costs; instead, it provides:

1. Missionary Salaries: Supporting thousands of missionaries and their families worldwide.

2. Ministry Projects: Funding church planting, evangelism, medical aid, education, and other ministry efforts.

3. Training and Support: Equipping local believers and missionaries for long-term Gospel work.

4. Relief and Development: Assisting with disaster relief, community development, and humanitarian needs as part of a comprehensive Gospel witness.

By focusing on the direct needs of missionaries and their ministries, the Lottie Moon Offering ensures that resources are maximized for advancing the Gospel among unreached people groups.