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What is the Merritt Ministry?
Founded in October 1997, The Merritt Ministry is a non-profit, non-denominational ministry, which uses hot air balloons and cold air inflatables as tools for evangelism. The Merritt Ministry will function as the "sending organization" of the balloons (much like a missions organization "sends" its missionaries into their mission field). Their Mission Statement is: To glorify, magnify, and exemplify the love of Christ Jesus through visual means (hot and cold air inflatables) as well as through philanthropic and ministry outreaches. To utilize these visual means (Jesus and ARKY The Hot Air Balloons) as tools for evangelism to englarge the Kingdom of Christ.

What balloons are currently used by
The Merritt Ministry?
Currently, The Merritt Ministry has two hot air, special shaped balloons. They are JESUS, The Hot Air Balloon, which stands approximately 110 feet high and ARKY, The Hot Air Balloon, which stands 85 feet high. This is equivalent to 11 story and 8 story buildings. Both balloons have also been created in the form of cold air inflatables to be used on the ground.

How can hot air balloons and cold air inflatables be used as tools for evangelism?
Hot air balloons, both on the ground or flying peacefully through the skies, have long been a fascination to onlookers. These "gentle giants" easily draw the attention of large crowds of people. The hot air balloons (as well as the smaller cold air versions of the balloons) will be used as tools to draw people to where the balloons are, so that there the gospel of Jesus can be shared with them, "Planting the Seeds for Christ."

Who will share the gospel of Jesus with
the people?
The Merritt Ministry Advance Teams will work alongside local churches to share the gospel of Jesus with people drawn to the balloons at each event. By working with the people from local churches, there will be consistency in presenting the gospel, following through on any decisions made for the Lord, and helping to find church homes for those people seeking to attend church.

Where does the funding for The Merritt Ministry come from?
The Merritt Ministry receives donations as a means of covering the expenses related to transporting and flying the balloons to and at events around the country. Start-up funds, and funds for construction and purchase of the balloons, were partially underwritten by a contributing foundation.

How may I become involved with
The Merritt Ministry?
You may become involved with The Merritt Ministry by being a Prayer Partner, a financial supporter, or by being a volunteer crew person for the ballooons at various events where the balloons appear around the country. Contact our office for more information. (209) 839-0767.