When Farmers Put Faith Into Action – by Scott Fischer

Scott Fischer of Wisconsin presented at the FCFI annual conference. He shared the following: About two years ago, God began stirring in my heart a desire for disaster relief ministry. I had long been familiar with the Fellowship of Christian Farmers, having read about them back in the 1980s in Successful Farming. One day, I felt led to attend the Fellowship of Christian Farmers conference in Dubuque—and it turned out to be the most impactful conference I’d ever experienced. What made it so powerful was the genuine love of Christ I saw in the way people cared for one another. I returned home deeply inspired to become part of the fellowship.

Not long after, I announced my retirement from the University of Wisconsin, a decision that surprised even my wife. But as it often happens, God had other plans. Shortly after, I faced serious health challenges with my eyesight—requiring three surgeries and ongoing treatments. This restricted my ability to join disaster relief efforts as I had envisioned. Yet, God redirected my path in an unexpected but fruitful way.

Discovering the Walking Stick Ministry

I was invited to help with the Walking Stick Ministry at an air show in Milwaukee, along with two other retired farmers from my church. What we experienced there was incredible. We met people who had never heard the gospel, yet stood before us and received Christ as their Lord and Savior. The response was so overwhelming that we never had time to sit down. We left that event with our hearts soaring, and that enthusiasm sparked the birth of the Fellowship of Christian Farmers in Central Wisconsin.

From Disaster Relief to Recruitment

While I once thought disaster relief would be my focus, God called me into recruitment—building a team and encouraging others to serve. Drawing from my experience as a volunteer fire chief, where recruiting was essential, I began seeking out younger families and individuals with a heart for ministry. Today, our central Wisconsin fellowship is thriving, bringing together people of all ages and skills for Kingdom work to further the Great Commission and demonstrate the love of Christ.

Serving in Unique Ways

Our mission aligns with the Fellowship of Christian Farmers’ statement:
To encourage Christian farm families and agricultural professionals to proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior around the world, and to provide opportunities for farmers and others to use their God-given talents in service.

With that in mind, our group has pursued creative ministries:

Every Gift Matters

We are reminded that the Body of Christ is made up of many parts. Not everyone preaches, but each person has God-given skills that can be used for His glory. Whether fixing equipment, building bunk beds, or delivering potatoes, every act of service is a testimony of Christ’s love.

Continuing the Mission

Our prayer is that others would be encouraged to seek out ministries “outside the box” in their own communities. Sometimes it’s as simple as checking with local leaders, reaching out to food pantries, or asking God to reveal where help is needed. As farmers and followers of Christ, we are called to plow the “untilled fields” that others may overlook.

Like the old farmer who prayed at breakfast, thanking God for lard, flour, and baking soda that together made delicious biscuits—we don’t each have to be the finished product. But when we come together, God creates something beautiful and life-giving.

Let’s continue to serve, love, and proclaim Christ—in the fields, in our communities, and wherever He leads.