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Hello Great Family,

Julie and I want to thank you again for sending us out west for a time of refreshing and renewal. We were blessed with a wonderful trip that we will remember for a lifetime. Words can't express our gratitude for your love and generosity.

Now it is time to turn my attention to a trip to Africa...we leave in one month.  Oakwood's mission team hosted a very nice event called, "A Night For Missions" on Wednesday evening. We wish more of you could have attended. At the event, the team going to Africa was introduced along with and explanation of the ministry we hope to have with Hope Endeavors in Milawi.  I wanted to give you an opportunity to participate with us through prayer encouragement and financial support. I sent the following letter to my family and now I want to share it with you.

This fall, I have the privilege of going on an exploratory mission trip to Hope Village in Malawi (Africa) with Hope Endeavors from September 23 through October 5. Hope Village is a mission that was founded and developed by Rod and Darcy McLane, a couple from Oakwood Community Church. Our team will consist of myself, Pastor Ted (associate pastor at Oakwood) and Jen Jones, and Rod and Darcy McLane (founders of Hope Village). Oakwood chose to send their pastors to see this ministry firsthand in order to consider future mission trips for our great family at Oakwood. We plan to serve Hope Village by helping with their Kid’s Club children’s ministry, preparing and serving meals, hosting a Pastor’s conference, and bringing much needed supplies. Most importantly, we will be sharing the hope and love of Jesus Christ through our words and actions.

 As I prepare for this journey, I would be so grateful for your support—both prayerfully and financially.  Oakwood is covering the cost of the trip for the pastors, but we need to raise money for the ministry opportunities while we are there. Here is what is needed:

  • $8,000 for food and supplies to run children’s Bible Camps (2 days serving over 1,500 children each day)

  • $1,000 for the Pastor’s Conference (Opportunity to teach and encourage many pastors coming from miles away)

  • $1,000 for Hope Buckets ($50 provides a bucket full of vital supplies to assist people)

I’m trusting that God will provide through the generosity of friends and family. If you feel led to contribute, you can donate by using the “QR” Code below, or send a check made out to Oakwood Community Church with “Missions” in the memo line to Oakwood Community Church 5791 Oakwood Rd. Ortonville, MI 48462. All donations are tax deductible. 

More than anything, I ask for your prayers—for safety, health, and open hearts in the community we’ll be serving. I’m excited to see how God will work in and through us on this trip.

Thanks for being a supportive and encouraging church. May God make us effective!

Hope for Malawi Giving

God Bless,
P.D. (Psalm 139)