Compassion for Those in Need
A note from Pastor Leckie
 
When I see the pictures of Haiti on the news I am reminded of the following verse: I John 3:17  But whoever has the world's goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?
 
I have been thinking that we should try to help these folks during this terrible time of death and destruction. I would like to suggest that we focus our help on a Christian ministry we have confidence in.  One of the best organizations that I have confidence in is Samartian's Purse, and they are already sending help to Haiti.  You can access their donation website at https://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/Giving/Project_Donations/?pc=13942

Their website also gives instructions about donating by phone or by mail. So, if you would like to help by making a contribution you can do it yourself directly, or if you would like, you can make a check out to Bethany  and the church will forward anything received for Haitian relief to Samaritan's Purse in North Carolina.  This may be something we want to be very generous with, realizing this is an extremely poor country.  Put your gift in an offering envelope and mark it "Haitian relief" and we will forward it to Samaritan's Purse for that purpose as an expression of love and help. 
 
Because I've spent some time in this country in the past, I have contacts with some former missionaries who still have contacts in Haiti and I've seen some firsthand reports. One was from a Christian School. The building just fell apart. Many were able to get out, but two students were calling out for help. After hours of digging, the cries stopped and they had still not reached the students. They are presumed dead at this time. I don't need to recap what you are seeing on the television.
 
Just read the verse at the top again. It seems so vivid in light of this situation.
 
Sincerely in Christ
Pastor Chuck