I hope this letter finds you and your family blessed as we begin a new year. I’m so excited to announce some really BIG changes in my life for 2011! I wanted to let everyone know that a job change and a move are ahead for me, as I’ve recently accepted a missionary nursing position in Cape Town, South Africa!!! God has been calling me to overseas mission work for many years now, and I’ve finally found the place where I can use both my nursing skills and my heart for people to know Christ as Savior. As my eyes have been slowly opened to the injustices and hardships experienced around the globe, I’ve become more and more convinced that our call as Christians is to care and to act, and this is my chance to do just that!
South Africa has a desperate need for nurses, due in part to the fact that they have the highest death rate of any country in the world from HIV/AIDS, and one third of ALL people infected with HIV/AIDS live in South Africa. My home church in Tennessee has a long-standing partnership with an organization called Living Hope, with whom I will be serving. Living Hope is a ministry that exists alongside a local church to aid in the prevention, care, treatment and support of people infected and affected by HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. One of the ways that my skills can be utilized in their ministry is to serve as a volunteer nurse, staffing their 500-plus home-based treatment program and staffing their 22 bed Health Care Centre.
My responsibilities will primarily consist of administering much needed care to patients enrolled in the home care program as well as taking 12 hour shifts in the clinic.
As of now I am set to leave for South Africa in March, for a minimum of one year, with the option to extend if desired. Friends, this is my dream job! I’m thrilled to even be asked to be a part of this hands-on ministry and excited for the new experiences ahead.
Like most missionaries, I am raising my own salary and cost of living. At first that was an intimidating thought, but I have now come to a place where I am moving forward with confidence knowing I have the support of my family and community of friends. God always has a plan to finance the gospel, and I believe that what He orders, He pays for. Many people have already been ready to give financially, but I am still in need of your help, and I need it soon! While most missionaries start fundraising a year before they leave, I have just under two months! I know that God’s timing is always perfect, and I’m choosing to trust Him completely to provide for my needs.
In order to raise the required funds, my goal is to secure 50 people willing to make monthly contributions in dollar amounts ranging from $10 to $100 or more. Would you be willing to give and be a part of this group of supporters? Many of you may never visit Africa, but you can still have a direct impact on many lives there, by helping to provide much needed health care. If you are willing, please visit Brentwood Baptist Missions to make your contribution. I assure you every amount helps. Your gift is 100% tax deductible, and you will receive a receipt from Brentwood Baptist for each gift.
For those of you who are already supporting me, I want you to know how much I appreciate you. I am humbled by your generosity and so thankful for your friendship.
Thanks to all of you for being a part of my life and letting me be a part of yours! I covet your continued prayers as I leave home and begin this journey. I’ll be sending a monthly newsletter, but below are some other ways to stay in touch. I know God has many exciting things ahead for all of us in 2011 and I can’t wait to see how God is working in your life as well!
Many Blessings,
Amy
