Sri Lanka is an important cause for us as we send funds overseas to help 2 children's homes, education opportunities, and the building of futures for many we impact through our care and support. See letters below for more information on current status and impacts we are making with Sri Lanka.
We are in this together.
We worked hard on the Christmas Appeal for the Children's Homes in Sri Lanka. As of January 2023, we donated $3140 to the Children's Home and are doing good work on helping those in need.
Dear Friends,
Christmas greetings to all of you from Batticaloa. I hope that the year ends peacefully and that you look forward with hope to the new year, though there is much conflict and warning signs regarding our environment to concern if not alarm us. Here the situation continues to be catastrophic for the majority of the population due to the economic crash. But like many we strive to continue to do our best to support vulnerable communities, and particularly children and youth.
A particularly challenging responsibility is managing residential programs due to the explosive rise in food prices. Therefore, this years Christmas appeal is to raise funds for the meals at St. John's Boys Home and Herman Girls Home. Details of the appeal and how to send funds are in the attachment. Please do share with all who would be interested in it.
I would like to thank again all of you who have so generously supported our work here over the last 13 years, all that we have accomplished would not have been possible without your generous support. This mail is to also remind you that as of December 31, 2022 I will be stepping down from my position as Director of Diaconal Ministry. My role will be taken by Rev. Danial Selvakumar, who you can reach at cacmdiaconal@gmail.com. I will be shifting my work to St. John's Vocational Training Centre and the task of developing a Community College there. I will continue to lead and manage our youth and scholarship program. I will also retain a connection to the two children's homes and the centre for children with mental disabilities.
Thank you again for your solidarity and support these, and wishing you all the best this Christmas and New Year.
Special Mission Offering through St. John's UCC
Monies can be given through St. John's Sri Lanka Mission offering online ("DONATE" button on our homepage), dropped off at the church or through snail mail P.O. Box 794, Belvidere, IL 61008.
You may also send monies directly by following the instructions below.
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P.O. Box 794, 401 N Main Street, Belvidere, IL 61008