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Dear Church Family,
December is the month we focus on international missions by placing flags of the nations in our sanctuary and by receiving the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (LMCO). In 1873, Lottie Moon was sent out by the SBC to pioneer Great Commission work in China, and her experience led her to see firsthand the most significant problem in the world – LOSTNESS. Nearly 150 years later, this problem still exists, and we remain committed to sharing with the world the only solution to this problem – the gospel!
During her time on the field, Lottie often sent letters back to her supporting churches asking for continued prayer support and financial gifts, which were essential in keeping a gospel presence among the lost. Those foundational elements of our Great Commission work – prayer and finances – are still needed today, not only to sustain our current global workers but, Lord willing, will enable the SBC to send out even more laborers into the harvest fields.
Last year alone, because of the generous support of fellowships across the SBC, nearly 600,000 people heard the gospel because of the efforts of 3,600 field workers scattered across the world! Out of those witnessing opportunities,176,795 people became believers, which helped to establish 22,744 new fellowships. Will you join us in continuing the work of solving the world’s most significant problem? Through the collaborative efforts of the SBC, we hope to send 500 additional workers to the nations by 2025.
Every year we try to set an ambitious LMCO goal. In 2018, we set a goal of $60,000 and received $83,530.00. In 2019, we set a goal of $100,000 and received $105,583.30. In 2020, we set a goal of $120,000 and received $147,900. In 2021, we set a goal of $125,000 and received $158,157. Once again, this year, we will set our goal at $125,000. That is ambitious, particularly during rising prices and record inflation. I believe that the cause of missions ought not to be the first thing to ‘quit’ when times are challenging. Instead, I believe God’s people will rise to that challenge! I hope you and your family will join my family in giving generously to the LMCO this year!
I look forward to worshipping with you this Sunday, either in person or on Livestream. This week we will conclude our sermon series from the book of Nehemiah called “Vision and Grit.” Please read Neh. 8:1-12 in preparation for worship. I hope to see you with a Bible in your hand, a smile on your face, and an unchurched friend by your side!
It is a joy to be your Pastor,
Pastor Rob
Eph 3:20-21
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