THE DOWNS FAMILY

We have been missionaries since 1986 when we were commissioned by the Parkcrest Baptist Church in Springfield, MO. Under the authority of this church we started a new work in southern Missouri which Tim pastored for two years. Tim & Barbara both completed the “Missions” program at Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MO.

Barbara was saved at the age of six due to the influence of her aunt and uncle that took her to Sunday School with them. Her parents were then saved while Barbara was a teenager. She has always been active in church and has served in many areas: teaching Sunday School, church and choir pianist, Kindergarten teacher, and has worked along side Tim in various ministries.

Tim was saved at the Shawnee Mission Baptist Temple when he was 13 years old. From the beginning of his new life in Christ, Tim wanted to serve the Lord. During the early years of ministry Tim & Barbara served as youth directors and led the children’s ministry in Shawnee. Tim was the music leader and choir director with Barbara as the accompanist. Later Tim was a professor in the Bible Institute sponsored by the church.

It was during a “Missions Conference” in the Spring of 1983 that God confirmed His call on their lives and the Downs’ went back to Springfield to complete the Missions program at Baptist Bible College.

The Parkcrest Baptist Church commissioned the Downs family as missionaries in 1986 and they were on their way to Congo (Zaïre). Due to the turmoil and political conflicts in Congo (Zaïre) they were unable to return for a second term and changed fields to Côte d’Ivoire in 1993. God has blessed in a marvelous way and there are today 6 churches in Congo (Zaïre) and 6 new churches in Côte d’Ivoire along with a full four year Bible Institute and publishing house.

Personal information:
Birthdays: Tim Jan. 30
Barbara Feb. 14
Hilary Apr. 23
Tim Nov. 22
Amanda Nov. 22

Anniversary: Oct. 16