by Heather Warkentin
The Christmas Card Campaign theme for 2024 is “Jesus: Hope of the Nations.” You will be given the opportunity to support three different ministries: Living Bible Explorers, Pathway Camp Ministries, and Far Corners Ministry.
The Old Testament prophet Isaiah reminds that the heart of God is to give good news to the poor and disadvantaged.
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favour has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory. Isaiah 61:1-3
By purchasing a Christmas Card, you will make a significant impact in the life of children in India, Northern Manitoba, and Winnipeg’s inner city. In addition to children, this campaign will make a difference in the lives of Pastor’s in India.
The Christ Card Campaign will run from November 30 to December 21, 2014
Living Bible Explorers
Living Bible Explorers has ministered to thousands of children in Winnipeg’s inner city neighbourhoods. Many of the children who attend their programs are being raised in the midst of poverty and brokenness. The desire of LBE is to see each child come to know the hope they can have in Jesus Christ and grow in their relationship with Him.
$10 • Two Duffel Bags
The children who attend summer camp through LBE each receive a personalized duffel bag. A duffel bag is a practical but much appreciated gift. The bag provides each child with something to bring their items to and from camp as well as carry belongings throughout the year. More importantly, this bag provides a child with a sense of pride and dignity. They now have something of their own.
$50 • Send a Child to LBE Weekend Camp
Camp gives LBE leaders the opportunity to plant seeds and speak truth into the lives of children. This time is important to their growing relationship with God. An added benefit is it gets them excited for continued involvement in year round programs.
Pathway Camp Ministries
Pathway Camp Ministries provides faith-based curriculum and programs to youth in Manitoba’s aboriginal communities. They are committed to furthering the Kingdom of God by taking camp to “where they’re at.” PCM offers Summer Day Camps, Saturday Sports Days, Gym Nights, lunch time Bible Clubs, Youth Groups, and special events.
$25 • Sponsor Youth to Attend Youth Quake at Briercrest
Youth Quake has brought the Gospel to thousands of young people throughout the years. During the retreat, youth are challenged to become dedicated, authentic followers of Jesus Christ. A weekend at Youth Quake is an important ministry opportunity Pathway Camp leaders.
PCM is committed to walking alongside aboriginal youth. They foster God honouring relationships. They build the children up to become disciples amongst their peers and be a part of a strong network of support. The youth come from areas of isolation. Key to their discipleship is having them understand they are part of a greater community of Christians, both aboriginal and otherwise. Sponsoring someone to attend Youth Quake will help make this a reality.
Far Corners Ministry
Far Corners Ministry supports the growing church in Northeast India by training pastors and lay leaders, helping the poor, and building churches.
$10 • Blankets and Mosquito Netting
Blessing a family with a blanket offers protection from the cold. Mosquito netting helps prevent sickness and provide comfort and security in a life that has so little.
$25 • Sponsor a Pastor to attend Pastoral Training
Pastoral Training by FCM has met a critical need in a part of India where the church is experiencing tremendous growth. This growth, if it is be strong and have longevity, needs to be appropriately rooted and grounded. Pastoral training is essential to this.
$200 • Sponsor a Pastor’s Child’s Education for One Year
When a father in India answers the call to become a pastor, he also commits his family to a life of poverty. Pastors in India make very little money. They are often ostracized from their communities with little hope for a second income. This results in an inability to pay for their children’s education. Providing an education to a Pastor’s child allows dreams to come true. Your gift will allow a child to realize their full potential.
Artwork Donated by Rosalie Olson
The artwork for the Christmas Cards has been graciously donated by Whyte Ridge Baptist’s very own, Rosalie Olson. Rosalie’s expression of God’s heart is evident in the images she brings to life on canvas. Humbly we offer these cards as gifts. May God be glorified and many more blessing flow this Christmas season.
Thank you for making this opportunity accessible to us. We have so much and receive so much at this time of year and it is good to know that what we give to these ministries is a tangible expression of God’s justice and mercy to some of the least of these. My prayer is that through the gifts we give and the relationships we cultivate, the love of Christ might be felt.