In response to the special challenge given to us on October 14th to multiply our talents and further God's Kingdom through missions, I have seen many blessings that God has given us and how our simple actions impact others. With the help of many Christian friends, I responded to the challenge after the first sleepless night with two plans of action: 1.) A letter to family and friends requesting their suggestions and support for our mission, and 2.) A special party was held for friends to request their support and explain our mission.
- Letter requesting suggestions and support for our special kingdom mission
On October 17th, I issued a letter with the theme of the "Power of Ten" in mind to some dear Christian family and friends for guidance and help. Their response to my request was overwhelming. It made me more aware that we as Christians place bounds on the power of our Christian action. As only one example of many, I had a friend from work who suggested support be given to the 5th Street Ministries in Statesville. He then responded further to my request and then multiplied his request in the form of a personal contribution to our missions by the "power of ten".
- An International Tasting Party for a PPC Kingdom Mission Assignment
A special invitation was issued for a party which was held on November 17th. The guests were invited to bring their favorite hors d'oeuvre from around the world and share an evening of good food, drinks, and fellowship with friends. The intended mission (Heifer Project) was described using a video and various descriptions from their brochure. The guests responded by providing generous contributions to the mission while have a wonderful evening of fellowship.
The Results of the PPC Kingdom Mission:
Including the original $100, the two above plans multiplied the talents via generous contributions, a 50-50 raffle, and a company matching gift plan to total of $1800.00.
The following missions were selected to benefit from the collected talents:
Heifer International Contribution = $1395.00
The contributions and a matching gift plan allowed the following animals to be purchased through Heifer International: 1) A heifer, 2) A water buffalo, 3) A sheep, 4) A goat, 5) A pig, 6) A llama, 7) A trio of rabbits, 8) Honeybees, and 9) A flock of chicks.
B. 5th Street Ministries of Statesville Contribution = $50.00
As requested by one of recipients of my October letter, a contribution was made to the 5th Street Ministries of Statesville. The many programs of these ministries include an emergency and a night shelter, a battered women's shelter, soup kitchen, Open Door medical and dental programs, a clothing closet, after-school and summer children's programs.
C. Second Harvest Food of Metrolina Contribution = $100.00
The worthy program provides needed food supplies to many within Mecklenburg County.
D. Camp Biloxi Contribution = $125.00
A Lutheran sponsored Katrina relief program which is restoring faith, homes, and community to victims of the disaster in South Mississippi through spiritual care, physical recovery and leadership development. This outreach program which has had over 16,500 volunteers since September 2005 and has served up to 500 families per month.
E. PhilaNOLA III Mission Trip Contribution = $130.00
The contribution will assist the PPC outreach mission program which will be returning to the New Orleans area in March 2008.
In closing my report, I would like thank our entire church family for their prayers and support during this challenge. I have been amazed by the enthusiasm generated by this challenge within our church.
