Dear Friend,
I don’t know anyone who believes Jesus was born on December 25th. I understand celebrating Christmas has always had some degree of controversy within Christianity, but isn’t the point of our celebrations that He did come and become flesh? For the League (and all followers of Christ) the essence of our existence and purpose began in that manger. Therefore, because of that purpose and all the hope this season represents, I unapologetically wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas.
Our December newsletter always announces the year-end campaign. As the end of each year approaches, I pray and ask the Lord to direct me in determining a financial goal for the year-end campaign. Last year, we saw $60,000 come in the last four days to help us exceed our goal of $125,000–our largest year-end total ever. God blessed us despite my fearfulness and worrying. It was a tremendous way to celebrate the League’s 125th anniversary.
I’ve been transparent with you, our ministry partners: asking for money is one of my least favorite responsibilities. As I sought God’s direction for this year‘s campaign goal, I was hoping for a “modest”, maybe “reasonable” figure as our target, but that hasn’t been the case. Since late October, there has been a number before me that no matter how hard I try to run away from it–that figure will not leave my mind.
That number is $200,000.
This is not a random figure; $200,000 is needed for us to address:
- developing a new website
- updating and improving our communication strategies (texting, emails, social media, general media)
- funding our Community Impact Team [CIT] program
- expanding our Church Ambassador Network [CAN]
This goal also would allow us to make sure our tremendous team is properly and fairly compensated for the good work they do. In other words, $200,000 is what we need to make sure we can responsibly plan for 2024 and the years beyond.
I simply ask you to pray for two things. First, pray we meet our goal. At this time, we do not have a commitment for a matching grant. Maybe the Lord will provide that in the next few days, or maybe He is going to accomplish this by increasing our number of participants. I would also ask that you pray about what part you can play in helping us reach this goal.
By all accounts, 2024 is going to be a pivotal year here in Maine and in our nation. You are on this mailing list because you love the League. Please do what you can to ensure we have the resources necessary to continue to be a positive influence to the glory of God and for the good of our fellow citizens.
