As volunteers with GMO it is important that we remain anonymous as we minister to contacts. Not all contacts writing to GMO have good intentions. Christians are being persecuted around the world and some who write want this ministry to end. Others desire to take financial advantage or steal your identity. More recently, we have seen evidence that GMO is becoming better known by those wishing to take advantage. Revealing clues to your identity poses a security risk.
The system GMO uses for communication with contacts is designed to protect OMs by preventing those you write to from getting your email address or any personal contact information. For security reasons, GMO has a policy to not share personal contact information (including social media) or details about your identity with contacts. Contacts have been known to search on Facebook and other social media to bring the conversation outside of GMO’s secure system.
If possible, please choose a public name to use other than your real name in your correspondence. Consider using a gender neutral name which helps when ministering to contacts from cultures where gender can be a barrier. Avoid sharing other details such as information about your family, your location, your job, or anything specific that can help a contact identify you.
Contacts who ask for material aid should be told that you are a volunteer at an online ministry and policy does not allow you to send any material aid. Never send money or credit in any form to a contact. If they want a Bible, share the Bible link or website, but also check OM Resources for other options. Local churches may also provide a Bible in some circumstances.
If a disciple in a sensitive country wants to be connected with local Christians, obtain contact information from the disciple, and ask your leader to pass it on so it can be given to local Christians in that country. Never offer your disciple contact information for local Christians or confirm that there are Christian workers in their country. Doing so could put them in danger. Local believers will initiate contact if it is safe to do so.