Episcopal Relief & Development's program Gifts for Life is a
special way to change our world for the better by providing lasting
solutions that fight hunger, create economic opportunities, support
health education, and strengthen communities around the world.
As our diocesan
representative to Episcopal Relief & Development, I want to
encourage every congregation to consider partnering with me for a
special Advent focus that invites parishioners to make small offerings
(a pocket-full of change from each person is more than enough) that will
make a big difference in someone's life. Here is how your offering will
be used each week:
- Advent 1: a goat. Goats are hardy, reproduce quickly and can be raised in a variety of climates to produce staple items such as milk, cheese and manure for farming. One goat costs $80
- Advent 2: a Flock of Chickens. A flock of chickens is far more than some hens, a rooster and a daily supply of fresh eggs. This gift will help train families and community groups to raise poultry and sell surplus stock and eggs in the marketplace. A flock of chickens costs $135.
- Advent 3: a Hive of Bees. For small-scale farmers whose land is too poor to accommodate livestock, this gift can literally transform lives by providing bees, apiary training and a whole new source of income through the sale of honey and beeswax. A hive with bees costs $55.
- Advent 4: a Pig. This gift, which includes training on raising and selling pigs, gives families a better future fast. Pigs reproduce quickly and piglets are ready for market in just six months. A pig costs $100.
So for just $370
in change your congregation can buy a goat, some chickens, bees, and a
pig! This is a simple way for our diocese to put our faith into action
and make possible gifts that keep on giving. If your congregation would
like to partner with me, please e-mail me at keith@saintpauls-suffolk.org
to let me know. If you would like to know more about Episcopal Relief
& Development and other Gifts for Life opportunities, visit its
website at www.episcopalrelief.org.
