Dear Friends in our Missionary Partnership Network:

We are blessed and honored to be part of what God is doing in Costa Rica.  As our supporters, you are partners with us in pastoral and lay leader training and in the new family life center project in La Guacima.  Motivated by Christ’s compassion, the people of La Guacima are offering life-giving options so their youth won’t be lured into the sex trade.   These and other ministries have us looking forward to returning to Costa Rica in June to continue serving.

We know that you and many of your friends and family are experiencing a sense of loss, uncertainty and fear because of the worldwide economic crisis.  That’s why we’re especially grateful for your giving to our ministry.  In spite of economic challenges, we are seeing lives changing and people giving generously. 

In light of the economic downturn, International Ministries is asking missionaries to do everything we can to encourage financial gifts so that we reach 100% of our support goal by September 30 of this year.  IM may not be able to maintain missionaries that are not at 100%.   Our support levels for the end of 2008 were strong and we praise God for His provision.  However, keeping us on the field requires consistent, sustainable support throughout the year and the years to come. 

If you are one of those people who now support us through your gifts to IM, thank you!  For those of you who support us primarily through prayers and letters, would you consider becoming a regular financial supporter as well?

Between now and June 30 we have a special opportunity to double support gifts from new donors.  A group of generous donors has created a “Matching Funds” grant that will double any new gifts to International Ministries toward our support.  (That is, new donors giving $200 to $2000 between now and June 30, either as a one-time gift or a pledge to be completed before June 30)  If you are interested, you can go to “Double Your Gift Now” on our website (internationalministries.org).  Or, you may send your gift to:

International Ministries (Double My Gift)

P.O. Box 851 Valley Forge, PA 19482

Please indicate that it is for the support of the Baits and include your name, address and e-mail address so they can send you a receipt.

Whether you are a new donor, a regular giver, a prayer partner or part of a church that supports I.M., we thank God for you.  We’re thankful for your “partnership in the gospel.” (Phil. 1:5)

Gracias,

Gary and Mylinda Baits

Serving with International Ministries-ABCUSA and the Baptist Federation of Costa Rica