HOPE worldwide Encouraged by Response

Church leaders meeting at the International Leadership Conference in Denver last month rallied to the cause of the International Day of Giving, a new church wide fundraiser to sustain HOPE worldwide's humanitarian work in 2010. HOPE worldwide is hearing from churches and disciples from across the U.S. on a daily basis about their creative and exciting efforts to support this initiative.

Here are a few examples:

Boston – The church's recent Harvest Walk, a congregational fundraiser that is an annual tradition, provided a fast start.
» Click here to read the article

Los Angeles – Congregational Evangelist Bruce Williams prepared an inspiring Day of Giving video for his church.
» Click here to view the video interview

San Antonio – A variety of innovative approaches are being used to raise funds from the community for the Day of Giving.
» Click here to read more

The International Day of Giving plan originated with the HOPE worldwide and Benevolence Service team chaired by Mark Templer and John Causey. The objective is for each U.S. church to achieve Pillar of HOPE status by raising at least $52 per member each year to sustain HOPE worldwide's work. Non-U.S. churches are asked to give as they are able. This year the International Day of Giving is scheduled on or around November 22nd.

HOPE worldwide CEO Randy Jordan spoke in Denver of the financial challenges of these times, saying the organization has already been forced to cut $1 million from its 2009 budget. The good news is that HOPE worldwide programs serving more than 1 million poor and needy people each year have not yet been affected. But Jordan warned of a "looming crisis" that threatens to result in "fewer poor served and fewer saved." He spoke of important programs and leadership positions that remain at risk.

In discussing the International Day of Giving recently, Jordan said churches are adopting a variety of approaches for the Day of Giving. Many are organizing collections and fundraisers in November. Some are continuing their existing practice of contributing throughout the year. What matters, he said, is the encouragement and generous support he sees from churches around the world. "You have truly responded not only as great brothers and sisters but also in the spirit of Jeremiah 22:16 - 'He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me?' declares the Lord."

Visit us at www.HOPEww.org to learn more about all of HOPE worldwide's programs and see how you can be a part of global change to bring hope to some of the world's most needy.

To read more articles from HOPE worldwide on Disciples Today:

	United We Serve as Chapters Click here
	True Health Care Click here
	Join us on the 2009 Compassion Tour Click here