"Finally, I suspect that it is by entering that deep place inside us where our secrets are kept that we come perhaps closer than we do anywhere else to the One who, whether we realize it or not, is of all our secrets the most telling and the most precious we have to tell." Frederick Buechner
Thursday, January 21, 2010
St. Paul's ERD Haitian Pledge Challenge
The rector, wardens and vestry of St. Paul's voted unanimously at their meeting on Wednesday night to contribute $2,500 from the earnings of our Christmas Bazaar to be earmarked as a contribution to the Episcopal Relief and Development efforts in Haiti.
We would like to challenge the congregation to match that grant through their individual contributions and make that a total of $5,000.
To members of St. Paul's (and, even if you're not and want to be part of this effort): If you have already sent in a check to the ERD, please let us know the amount.
If you would like to contribute to the ERD, there are two ways to do that:
1. You may make out a check to St. Paul's and earmark it "ERD - Haiti Relief Effort"
2. You may make out a check to ERD and earmark it "Haiti Relief Effort" and either send it to the church or place it in the collection plate in church on Sunday. We will forward all checks, along with our own, and a report of the contributions that have already been sent in to ERD. We will also send a report to the Diocese of Newark which is keeping a tally of our efforts to help Haiti through ERD.
The Diocese of Newark has dug deep and contributed $10,000 to ERD. Already, churches in the diocese have added to that amount. The "unofficial" running total to date is over $50,000 pledged.
I trust we can follow the urging of St. Paul and "outdo each other in generosity". (2 Corinthians 9:1-5)
Please take a moment to watch the video of a WSJ interview with Jean Zache Duracin, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti. The devastation is heartbreaking to see.
Bishop Durcain looks very tired, but he keeps saying, "We must keep the faith."
If he can, we must.
3 comments:
Comment Code of Conduct
I will express myself with civility, courtesy, and respect for every member of this online community, especially toward those with whom I disagree—even if I feel disrespected by them. (Romans 12:17-21)
I will express my disagreements with other community members' ideas without insulting, mocking, or slandering them personally. (Matthew 5:22)
I will not exaggerate others' beliefs nor make unfounded prejudicial assumptions based on labels, categories, or stereotypes. I will always extend the benefit of the doubt. (Ephesians 4:29)
I understand that comments reported as abusive are reviewed by the Blog Owner and are subject to removal. Repeat offenders will be blocked from making further comments. (Proverbs 18:7)
(With thanks to Sojourners)
Elizabeth, I sent $50.00 last week and would be proud to stand with your congregation in this challenge.
ReplyDeleteSue Taber
Wow. Thanks, Sue. I know the people of Haiti are Very Grateful.
ReplyDeletePrayers for Haiti!
ReplyDelete