Christmas will be here sooner than you think! Children’s ministries are among the most fruitful outreaches across the CIS. We are now busily engaged in follow-up ministries from summer camps and conducting further ministry with our campers and their caregivers. I ask you to keep praying that the Lord will continue to use us in His work. When we meet the needs of those who are hurting or lost, God gives us opportunities to share the Gospel and we give Him all the glory.
Preparations for this year’s Christmas outreaches are proceeding full speed ahead. There is much to do and much for which to pray I never cease to be amazed and thankful for what our missionaries accomplish despite their meager resources. It is a blessing and privilege to serve with them in the cause of Christ. “…useful to the Master, prepared for every good work” (2 Timothy 2:21).
We are praying for enough resources to tell more than 500 children about the true Jesus this Christmas. Many family members will also hear. Your help will show these children, who have been abused, abandoned or neglected, that somebody truly cares what happens to them…that there is a warmth and love in this world through our Lord. Additionally, it will be an entry point for long-term discipleship, church growth and strong lives based on solid Bible teaching that transforms through Christ’s power.
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- Holiday programs that will include games, singing of Christmas songs, special treats and Bible lessons to explain the love and light of Christmas. “Let your light shine before others…” (Matthew 5:16).
- A Children’s Bible –many their first ever—or other Christian literature to help as church workers continue with their follow up interactions.
- A special Christmas gift—purchased locally, lovingly prepared, and presented by our church workers and our missionaries.”
Let your heart open to the goodness and peace that shines a bit brighter at this wonderful time of the year. Please help us reach as many children as possible in 2017. Any donation you can send is greatly appreciated and will be put to good use. May God richly bless you as we begin the preparations to celebrate Christmas and the birth of our Savior. Thank you so much for joining us in this exciting, powerful work.
I believe that God gave us the material world to enjoy. At Christmas time, I think He expects us to delight our hearts in the scents, sights and sounds of the holidays.
But material things in and of themselves do not bring happiness, emotional fulfillment, or a sense of connection to others or to God.
Christmas is not only at time to share our love with our families; it is also a time to spread Christ’s love throughout the world around us.
God’s unfailing love at Christmas is a source of strength in all seasons. We are reminded it’s all about God’s Gift-giving: His perfect, sinless Son, born in a manger, to save us and give us life eternal. That is the good news of Christmas.
May the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you and yours always.
Pastor Vitali Yuchkovski