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Local Reach
Bobby and Lois Jones serve in rural communities throughout central Arizona, where everyone knows each other and outsiders are most often viewed with suspicion. These small community fellowships vary from ranching, mining, and farming communities to small towns located around recreational areas and seasonal residencies.
The Joneses support over a dozen churches in their ministry, and each church community has its own unique history. Crown King Community Church is located in a historic mining community, in the midst of the Prescott National Forest. The size of this community doubles on weekends due to the influx of people from Phoenix who enjoy outdoor activities like four-wheeling. On the other hand, New River Bible chapel is located in a rural desert community just north of Phoenix, and is comprised of residents who want to be close to the city for work but enjoy the pleasures of rural life.
There are many needs among residents of these rural communities, who face challenges related to demographic changes, job creation, infrastructure, and land use. Churches in these communities are often in need of equipment to enable them to better serve the surrounding communities. Others have pastors who need to connect with other rural pastors for moral support and encouragement. Experiencing the feeling that someone is willing to be there to help can make a world of difference.
After seeing the need in their community, the Joneses continued the ministries established by Bobby’s father with the following mission in mind: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). Their number one priority is coming alongside pastors of rural churches to mentor them, pray for and with them, listen to their heart and vision, offer encouragement, and provide practical help from a spirit of compassion.
Bobby and Lois also strive to build up the leadership of local InFaith churches and fellowships to transform how they seek and connect with each other. With a focus on prayer and encouragement, they help pastors and church leaders understand their unique gifts so that each is equipped to disciple others and walk together in everyday ministry.
During the summer, the Joneses also provide instruction and aid in children’s ministries throughout their Arizona field. “There’s nothing like walking alongside a child as they move closer to this milestone on their spiritual journey,” Bobby writes. “As much as we love leading kids to Christ, it is an even greater joy to witness local volunteers experience this empowering act.”
The communities impacted by this ministry include Christopher Creek, Strawberry, Nutrioso, Crown King, Hillside, Bagdad, Skull Valley, Black Canyon City, New River, Sedona, Aguila, Ehrenberg, Spring Valley, and Humboldt.
The Joneses live in the Payson, AZ area and have served as InFaith field staff since 2010.
Having been born into missionary families, both Bobby and Lois have served their entire lives in different ministries. Bobby’s parents, Bill and Marna Jones, were longtime InFaith missionaries. When Bobby’s father was no longer able to continue the ministries he had started with InFaith, Bobby and Lois joined InFaith to continue reaching the rural Arizona field.
Bobby received a Bible certificate from Arizona College of the Bible and a secondary education degree in industrial arts from Northern Arizona University. Lois received a Bible and elementary education degree from Arizona College of the Bible.
