A month ago I was listening to a podcast about churches and individuals making a difference in the world. I listened as pastors chronicled their experiences in being a part of something bigger than themselves. Congregations were challenged and churches made impacts that were far bigger than they could have ever imagined! I was encouraged and challenged as I listened to their reports. Later that week I realized that three out of four days I had heard people speaking about Compassion International and the ways that the organization was meeting the needs of children all over the world. My last wake up call was from, Janet Stearns who approached me on a Sunday morning wondering if we, as a church, would consider talking about the organization and encouraging people to sponsor a child. I took the information to staff and we unanimously decided that it was something we wanted to be a part of. We couldn't stand by and not play a part.
Steve, Brent and I talked about how many kids we could sponsor as a church. On an average Sunday, we have about 45 kids that attend our Base Camp and First Look ministries. We have the chance to impact those kids, for Christ, each and every week. Brent suggested that we think about matching the number of kids attending our weekly programs with sponsorships of kids. This determined our goal of sponsoring 45 kids!
The preparations were under way, Janet ordered materials, we recruited people to help in facilitating a table, we talked about it as a staff and Steve decided to highlight the needs and organization in his sermon. This past weekend, we were able to present to you the opportunity to sponsor a child for $38/month. Included in the monthly payment is:
- Food and clean water
- Medical care
- Educational opportunities
- Important life-skills training
- The opportunity to hear about Jesus Christ and be encouraged to develop a lifelong relationship with God.
I am thrilled to report that we are on our way to our goal. We had 30 kids sponsored and we are 15 away from matching the kids we get to minister to each and every week. The pamphlets we received are good through October 10th and so we are still accepting sponsorships for the next two Sundays. I pray that you will consider being a part of something that is bigger than us! We can celebrate lives that will be forever changed because we gave to a cause with no expectation of receiving anything in return. Thank you for your part in making that a reality!
Don't forget, FUSiON is kicking off this weekend and our parking lot will be teaming with activities and excitement! We use this ministry and outreach as an opportunity to connect with those in our community and to help people in discovering the beginnings of a meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ! I hope you will join us and bring your friends!
God Bless You!
See you Sunday!
Elizabeth Volz
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