Dear Friend in Christ,

“Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21).

This very Gospel is at the heart and center of the LCMS's work of mercy throughout the world. Never an end to themselves, acts of mercy that provide relief for the body and emotions provide an entrée to proclaim the Gospel which addresses the spiritual needs of those who receive this mercy.

We mimic the love of God in Christ Jesus (Eph 5:1) as we care for body and soul, bringing help and hope in Him. The Holy Spirit works as He will, using these opportunities for people to hear the Gospel and save the lost: through examples like in Minot, ND where Hope Village was founded to help those in need after the 2011 floods, where ten families were helped by a local Lutheran congregation and they have begun to attend services in that congregation; that congregation now has the largest adult instruction attendance they have had in over 20 years; people learning of this Jesus who does “exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think.”

In the International mission field we are partnering with the India Evangelical Lutheran Church to bring nutritious food, school books, and after school Scripture teaching to a largely Hindu village, six families have been baptized into Christ and are members of the local IELC congregation; through the work of LCMS international staff, a Muslim boy who benefitted from scholarships to attend school also wanted to learn of Jesus and now is baptized, confirmed, and wishes to be a Lutheran pastor.

You are an integral part of this work together. In response to your prayers on our behalf, our Lord blesses abundantly as resources are multiplied beyond our comprehension. Your supportive and encouraging notes to us are deeply appreciated and give us a lift.

Your gift of $50, $100, $500 or more will be used where it is needed most by LCMS World Relief and Human Care. Your generous gifts enable us to extend our reach into communities that are often overlooked by others, bringing help and hope in Christ.

Thank you for making a world of difference for so very many in our country and throughout the world who need our tangible expressions of mercy. “To Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.”

Peace be with you in Christ,

Rev. John A. Fale
Interim Co-Executive Director
Office of International Mission
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod