THE TALENT ADVENTURE
 
Six weeks ago Pastor Gish spoke about the parable of the ‘talents’ as explained by Jesus in Matthew 25:14-30 emphasizing the two who multiplied the talents given to them by their Master according to their abilities. It was quite moving and at the end of the service the ushers came forward with the offering plates. No, not for a second offering but for a "Reverse Offering" much to the surprise of everyone. The offering plates were filled with unmarked envelopes containing either $10.00, $20.00 or $50.00. Everyone who wished to participate, and most did, took one envelope. The challenge was to take this money in order to multiply and grow it, the proceeds to be used for the orphan children at Hanna’s Orphan Home as well as a way of sharing God’s love and our love for the children. This project was named, "The Talent Adventure". Sunday May 4, Harvest Sunday, we celebrated our “Talent Adventure” by the return of ‘talents’ with the increase. Thanks to the tremendous effort put forth by so many, over $40,000.00 was raised! All proceeds are going to HOE Ministries, which is turn will be used to provide housing for the children at Hanna's Orphan Home in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
 
Needless to say, this project has created a great deal of interest and enthusiasm amongst the people of Hope Church. A wonderful opportunity to put our faith into action. And as in the parable of the ‘talents’, the Master's response is the utmost blessing. "Well done good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your Master."

A special thanks to Mario and Alan for opening their restaurant (AJ’s Burger’s, North Avenue, New Rochelle) to sponsor one of the several “Talent Adventure” activities. They provided a great meal and wonderful accommodations!
AJ’s Burgers 


 

Behind all the goodies that was collected is Kathy Wurster, Tom Mustico, Nicole Cagna and Beth Fray.


HIGH SCHOOLERS PITCH IN FOR
ORPHANS

Robbie deVilliers and I were invited by Nicole Cagna, teacher at Washingtonville High School in Washingtonville,NY to share with some the students about our experiences in Ethiopia. We addressed the students Human Rights elective class and their student Community Club group. The students exhibited much enthusiasm and concern for the poor and impoverished children throughout the world as well as their desire to become involved in the work of bringing hope and relief to the children. We are very grateful not only for their concern but also for their hard work and time in raising money and gifts presented to HOE Ministries for the Ethiopian orphan children.

April 11, 2008 at Washingtonville:
* Beth Frey and Kathy Wurster are the Community Club Advisors.
The club is an after school voluntary group where kids try to make a difference in the community and their world.
* The Human Rights class is an elective at Washingtonville High School taught by Kathy Wurster. Its purpose is to inform students of the various conditions that people live in around the world. 
 
“When the Community Service Club at Washingtonville High School was made aware of the conditions in Ethiopia, they immediately took action. Through various meetings and exchange of ideas, we decided a bake sale would be best. Many baked goods were donated for the sale and flower pens were donated for sale as well. Staff and students chipped in to purchase as well as bake cookies and cakes. Flower pens were made by creative people to help the plight of Ethiopia's children. Pictures of the children were posted, and students donated money even after the baked goods were gone. The bake sale lasted 80 minutes. 80 minutes is all it took to make a difference. I can't wait to see what can happen in one day, one year, one lifetime.”
Thanks Tom! Look forward to next time!-Nikki