Dear Friend,

The psalmist wrote "Happy are those who are concerned for the poor; the Lord will help them when they are in trouble". (Psalm 41:1 Good News Translation). One of the coolest parts of my job is that I get to meet and work with a lot of people who fit that description. Here are some examples:

Marc and Nick, twenty-something guys from Springfield, Illinois originally came to Belize as part of a school function, but while they were there, they wanted to help the community. We arranged for them to do some repairs at the school in St. Margaret. This year they want to have a much bigger impact by encouraging others to serve alongside them in their week long "Belize Community Education" project in July.

Sherri, a teacher in Fremont, California volunteered for our first Teacher Training Conference (TTC) in 2008. She later returned to serve in the TTCs in 2009 and 2010, sponsors one of our high school students and serves on our Advisory Board. Recently Sherri has established a pen-pal program between her class and one in the village of St. Margaret.

Jim and Marge, from Rocklin, California may be retired, but are certainly not idle. Their first exposure to Belize was at the 2009 TTC. Like Sherri, they continue to be involved in the teacher training program. In addition they sponsor a PathLight student and encouraged their bible study group to sponsor another student. Later this month they will be leading a team to Belize to teach in the classrooms and do a construction project.

You may wonder how these people developed such a deep passion for the poor. I think it started with their willingess to "go". By going, they developed personal relationships in Belize with students, parents or teachers that changed their perspective. It's that personal connection that has fueled their compassion and desire to serve.

By giving their time, treasure and talents, they have received the joy that God promises. If you have connected with the poor somewhere in the world you know what I am talking about...and if you have not, then I'd like to challenge you to consider it...you may discover the truth in what the psalmist wrote!

Blessings,

Mark

Mark Parcher
Executive Director

PS: Join with three or more others and we can create a service project in a local school at almost any time of year. Or consider joining us on a Vision Trip where you can learn about the culture and challenges in Belize, and the work that PathLight is doing there.




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