When you see the word Encoura(ger) stretched across a volunteer's shirt, you’re seeing more than branding—you’re seeing a picture of God’s heart.
At GoTEN, we call our volunteers Encouragers because they reflect the compassion and courage of God Himself. Each week, they sit beside refugees and immigrants learning English, giving not just help, but hope. The Encoura(ger) Tee was created to celebrate that calling and remind us why we serve.
What’s in a Word?
The word Encoura(ger) blends two beautiful truths:
- The English word “encourager”—one who gives courage, comfort, and strength to another.
- The Hebrew word “ger” (גֵּר)—meaning stranger, foreigner, or sojourner.
In Scripture, ger appears 92 times, always reminding God’s people to remember the stranger. "You shall treat the ger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself" — Leviticus 19:34
Throughout the Bible, God identifies with the outsider. From Abraham leaving his home, Israel wandering as foreigners, and Jesus Himself—fleeing with his parents. Giving comfort to the marginalized and welcoming foreigners has always been part of God's story.
To love the ger is to reflect the heart of God.
Encouragers Give Courage
Our model for teaching English was inspired by Gary DeVelder at Abounding Service. He pioneered a method that uses computer-based language learning tools so that volunteers don’t have to be teachers—they can simply be Encouragers.
This approach allows refugees to learn English independently while building relationships with volunteers who come alongside them. It’s simple, but powerful. Encouragers don’t just help students pronounce new words—they help them find their voice, confidence, and belonging in a new community.
Each time you serve, listen, or smile, you are giving courage to the ger.
More Than a Shirt
The Encoura(ger) Tee is a symbol of that mission. The front design defines the calling. The back declares God’s command:
“Love your neighbor. You shall treat the ger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself.” — Leviticus 19:34
Wearing this shirt reminds us—and tells others—that welcoming the stranger is not just good work.
It’s God’s work.
A Gift and an Invitation
We’re giving this shirt to all of our GoTEN volunteers as a thank-you—for living out God’s heart in word and deed. Every time you wear it, may it remind you that what you do matters eternally.
And if you’re not yet an Encourager but want to join this story—or simply wear your heart for the nations—you can purchase your own Encoura(ger) Tee at GoTEN.org/shop.
Because when we encourage the ger,
we reflect the heart of God.