Hello all! As you almost certainly know, part of my work for YASC included fundraising with a goal of reaching $10,000. I’m delighted to announce that I have met that goal!
Fundraising was a huge challenge for me as I often saw my commitment as an individual one. I understood that I would be representing the Episcopal Church, especially the Diocese of Southern Ohio, but I normally thought of my sending organization only really extended as far as the YASC office. The fundraising process has reminded me time and time again that the interest in and commitment to my ministry extends far beyond the YASC office.
I have been surprised and overwhelmed repeatedly by others’ generosity and championship of me. Strangers who I had never met donated or promised to pray for me or both. I have been lost for words, wept, and shouted aloud in response to donations given in support of me.
I tried to personally thank every person who donated. For anyone I missed, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. Your support truly means so much to me.
Thank you to everyone who donated. Your championship of me gives me strength each day in my service. I promise to honor your donations by putting my whole heart into my time here and share with you all what I can.
I would like to especially thank the three congregations in particular for their generosity and love. St. Anne’s West Chester, Christ Church Springfield, and Christ Church Xenia reminded me over and over that they are ready and willing to participate in my ministry, and it is my honor to carry them with me through this year. In honor of that, I have been working on a friendship bracelet to remind me that I carry these congregations with me. It says “XCS XCX SAWC” the initials of those parishes.
Thank you again. Thank you for donating. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for your love and support. Most of all, thank you for reminding me that I’m part of something so much bigger and more important than my self, and thank you for coming with me on my journey.
With love and gratitude,
Marilee
A Year of Service in South Africa 
You are more than welcome! I can’t think of anyone more deserving! Just know that we love you and are always with you!!!
Becky
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How can we donate ?? Is there anything we can send , for the children in your ministry ? Like books , crayons, anything like that ? We’d love to donate something. Nigel and I , donated with the World Vision cause many years ago , when we first got married, Nigel knew I’d never be able to have children, so as a wedding gift to me . He sponsored 2 children from Mozambique. we did that for 11 years ,till we moved back to the states . Was something we had to give up sadly. and the children, had become at that age there were technically adults. But we got letters from there once a month. and greeting cards , and it brought us much joy. I love these stories . I was telling someone today about the story that you wrote about the Hippo , The person I had spoke to , was on a missons trip in Johannsburg recently too, but i do not know what church she was involved with . Was a therapist I saw today . so anyway . Wishing you a great weekend. Speak soon . Nigel is taking me on a bucket list trip , next week . Vegas baby!! I am just thankful that some people have made it possible for me to be able to go on this trip . I dont guess 5 0 , is gonna be so bad after all .
Have a good week.
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Way to GO !!! I just got home from my 50th birthday , vacation, I am exhausted, but reading your messages now I am back home and on line, How GREAT to reach your goals !!!
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