I continue to be filled with gratitude for the tremendous outpouring of gifts of love from Iowa United Methodists in response to the Council of Bishops’ Hope for the Children of Africa. Our local churches have already contributed over $160,000 toward the Iowa goal of $230,000. As previously reported, your offerings are already at work for children in African countries such as Nigeria and West Angola, for ministry projects identified by our bishops there.

In spite of the already generous support of Iowa United Methodists, churches who have received offerings have expressed interest in doing more and some who have not yet received an offering have asked if it is too late to do so. I would prayerfully encourage any church wishing to either receive additional or first time offerings. With approximately $70,000 remaining to be raised in order to reach our goal, on behalf of the Council of Bishops and the children of Africa, I would welcome your assistance in making a bountiful Iowa response.

While Africa is a continent facing the death of its children from AIDS, war and hunger, it is also a land filled with hope. The United Methodist Church is an important source of that hope. I am confident the people of Iowa will continue to respond to the needs of our African brothers and sisters.

When you receive offerings for Hope for the Children of Africa, please have your church treasurer send these monies to the Iowa Conference Treasurer and clearly designate them for Hope for the Children of Africa. Thank you for your continued generous response to the love of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Grace and Peace,

(signed) Bishop Charles Wesley Jordan