I hope this post finds you well in preparations for celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior. In September, I had the opportunity to travel to Zambia to meet the international partner with whom I'll be working, the Baptist Convention of Zambia (BCZ), and to see ministries and projects in various parts of the country. Members of the BCZ and I moved about together and visited a youth retreat, camp meeting, children’s events, community projects, Sunday school, and church services.   One thing is clear: there is a lot of need in Zambia. But there is also a lot of potential. I met with members of a community who expressed their desire for a health clinic and a church. The nearest clinic is a two-hour walk (one hour “if you walk fast”) and the nearest church is an hour by foot. I also talked with an association of churches whose women had taught each other bead-making, reading, and knitting. One woman testified that previously she was unable to read her Bible and now she can. Others told of being able to put their children through school through the sale of beaded jewelry. One of the churches even spoke of having organized a savings group. While the physical needs are great, so also are the spiritual needs as so many need to know the love and grace of a Savior.   As I met with leaders of the Baptist Convention, I was asked if there is any way I can shorten the length of time before my return. One of the biggest factors in determining how quickly I can be commissioned for international ministry is securing financial support. Currently, 58% of the support goal has been committed. The remainder of the goal can be reached through 15 commitments of $100/month and 22 commitments of $50/month.   Will you prayerfully consider whether God is calling you to partner with this ministry? I am hoping for 15 new or increased commitments of $50-$100/month by January 1, 2016. Any amount you commit to giving will help in achieving the support goal. This page provides information on how to give, including electronic and postal mail options. Want to do even more? Find out how, with little time commitment, you can become an advocate for this ministry by telling others about it. Click here for more information, or send an email to  Kathy.Charland@InternationalMinistries.org with “Advocate” in the subject line.   Thank you for your consideration of this ministry. May you find rest and renewed joy in the upcoming holiday season.   God’s blessings, Kathy P.S. If you would like to learn more in person, I am available to speak with your mission committee, small group, Bible study, men's/women's ministry, or other group. Just contact me to schedule a date! Women with beaded and knitted projects With BCZ leaders Latrine Collecting water Agriculture Worship Meeting with community members Entrance to a home

Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10-11, NKJV Be sure to visit the Reason2Hope Facebook Page! Click Here to Support This Ministry Facebook Website Email Give Share Tweet Forward Become an Advocate - Click Here!