Dear Friends,

Last week we began a series of letters we will write through the month of October.It is our way of encouraging participation in this year's World Mission Offering.The goal for this year is a total of $5.4 million, a 10% increase over last year's outstanding effort.It is a huge challenge but we "Abound in Hope" in the Lord that with Him, all things are possible.

In April this year, I attended the 50 Year Anniversary service of the Thailand Karen Baptist Convention.It was notable in that at over 4 hours in length, it set a new personal record for the longest worship service I have sat in.Sitting up on the crowded platform in front of the several thousand in attendance, there was not even an opportunity to sneak out to stretch my legs.

One of the things that made it lengthy was that a large number of commemorative plaques were handed out to people (or their relatives in the case of those who have already passed on) that have been important to the growth of the Karen Church in Thailand.Listening to the names and seeing those receiving the plaques reminded me of many others that also have dutifully served the church and might have deserved plaques as well.They will get their reward on another day.

All those being honored though, was a reminder to me that there isn't much we can do on our own.In fact, Jesus tells us "that apart from me, you can do nothing".Being an independent minded kind of person, sometimes that is hard to remember.The Karen church grew because many people listened to the Lord and followed His leading.One of the lessons we have learned, and are still learning, is that our feeble efforts are not possible without all of you, and none of us operating without the Lord, will accomplish anything that matters.

So we are very grateful for what you do and the part you play.Together, the American Baptist Churches have been following the Lord around the world in mission for over 190 years.We have a great history and if we keep following the Lord, an even greater future.We "Abound in Hope" that the people and churches we work with here will grow in the Lord.And we Abound in Hope for the future of International Ministries and that, together, you will help us meet the challenges ahead.

Yours in Christ,

Duane & Marcia Binkley