This letter is from Joe Pennel, Jr., the Richmond Area Resident Bishop.
Dear Church Leaders,
We live in a world in
which there is great suffering and
need, yet we are a people of Hope. We serve a God which
brings
life out of death, joy out of sorrow and who offers us the opportunity
to be the bearers of that good news. Throughout the
years
the people
of Virginia have risen to the challenge and reached out in
various
ways to meet the needs of the poor and hurting. We have been
involved
in a wide range of mission opportunities linking us to many
parts
of our world.
I would now like to
invite you to become a part of INITIATIVES
OF HOPE.
Initiatives of Hope is the primary mission
focus of the Virginia Conference. For the next quadrennium
Initiatives of Hope will offer us opportunities to be in mission as we
develop long-term relationships at home and around the world.
For
the first time,
as a conference, we will focus our attention through Initiatives of
Hope
in three (3) specific areas of the world in order to have a greater
impact
with a sharper focus. Initiatives of Hope will concentrate on
Mozambique, Russia and disaster readiness and response.
I want every church to
see all that is does through the eyes
of mission. The Initiatives of Hope is a wonderful
opportunity
for
you and your congregation. May God continue to bless you as
you
seek to reach out to those in need.
In Christ,
Joe E. Pennel, Jr.
Manassas, VA 20112-8805 
popumc@comcast.net
Hosted by Aspiring
Technologies..