Weak Dollar hurts missionaries

If you've been paying attention to the Presidential debates, you may have heard a lot about economics and the falling value of the dollar. Do you find yourself wondering what that has to do with anything? Wonder no more!

"Unlike most U.S. exporters who benefit from a weak dollar that makes their goods cheaper on international markets, our export is our missionaries — who are spending U.S. dollars," Steverson told Baptist Press in November.

The main challenge is the strength of the euro. In 2002, the dollar and the euro were equal. It takes $1.47 to match a euro — a loss of more than 35% in buying power. The cost of everything from saltine crackers to the monthly heating bill has skyrocketed.

In response, missionaries have cut back wherever they can.