A special anniversary is approaching for me. On January 1, 1993 I started serving as a missionary throught the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. It has been an amazing ten years. God has led me to places I could not have dreamed of going and to people who have shown the love and grace of Jesus Christ in exciting and powerful ways. Serving an international assignment in Bulgaria allowed me to observe and participate in the rebirth of the Methodist Church in Bulgaria. Returning to a national mission appointment as a Church and Community Worker in Miami, I had the chance to learn from and serve with Haitian United Methodists as they worked to witness and serve in their communities. It has been a joy to work with volunteer in mission teams from many places whose heart for serving others always inspires me. My current appointment as a Church and Community Worker in Orlando is challenging and exciting. Our ministries include working with the homeless, children and youth who are at risk, new immigrants, job training programs and emergency services.

It is the financial, spiritual and practical support of local United Methodist Churches that helps mission to to happen all over the world. Please express my appreciation to your congregation for their continued support and encouragement. I thank you for including me in your church family this year as a covenant partner in your mission ministry.

I look forward to keeping you informed about the work we will be doing and the points of connection for your congregation. I am available to fit into your mission education celebrations and would be happy for a group from your church to visit and see some of our ministries.

God has been so faithful over these last ten years. I can't wait to see what opportunities the next year and future years will bring as I continue to serve in this very special Church and Community Ministry for our Church. Thank you again, for your support.

Merry Christmas!

Marilyn