My return to Hungary was quite joyful and a true welcome home. I was able to jump back in almost as If I never left with a few significant changes: First, I have new English-teaching colleagues and second, we opened a new school building welcoming high schoolers.
I am enjoying working with my two new partner English teachers. I laugh because they are totally on the opposite ends of their teaching careers. This year, our lead teacher is celebrating her 50th anniversary teaching and she still has the desire to serve children in this way. My other partner teacher is still in training and starting her career. The joy of collaborating with them is truly a merging of wisdom, creativity, and innovation.
Moving into the new building has meant many challenges with repairs, limited resources, and a long wait list of needs. One of the best days of this year was giving my students a Christmas gift before leaving for the holiday. Because of you and your financial support, Thursday, December 14th, I experienced one of the most amazing days in my ministry!!! We were able to tangibly meet a technology need. We provided the last three smart TVs needed in the classrooms for grades 5, 7 and 8. The students clapped and cheered! The teachers cried! I smiled! The joy was indescribable.
Watch the Video to Experience the Joy
Looking back to look forward seems to be what I’m doing a lot these days. This year being home for Christmas was very different for me. My family gathered on Christmas Day, which is a new idea for us. Some of you may know my family tradition is to celebrate Christmas at Thanksgiving. In the past, it has been a big joy-filled, holiday weekend and a tradition we have held as a family since the early 1990s.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will hope in him.”
Lamentations 3:22- 24
Getting Ready For A New Assignment
I am looking forward to my upcoming time in Liberia. I leave on January 15th, and I am feeling a growing excitement and anticipation for what God has in-store. I am looking forward to working at the clinic at Ricks Institute, I am looking forward to visiting the government hospital, JFK Hospital in Monrovia. Additionally, I will tour in the community surrounding the Ricks Institute.
Support Our Mission In 2024
As you may know, I must raise 100% of my needed funds. With rising costs, unfortunately, over the past few months the support that has come in has not been enough to meet my Personal Support Goal (aka PSG or monthly budget). We need your help to continue the work God has called me to do in Hungary and now also in Liberia.
I have prayed that God will help us raise $55,000 for 2024 in order to meet the needs of the children and families we serve. I know seeing that amount is a bit overwhelming. But I also know the power of prayer and community.
To help with this shortfall, I am calling on this community, specifically:
♦50 individuals who are able to give $50 per month
♦20 churches that have the ability to give $100 per month
Would you consider contributing towards this goal?
If you are unable to give at that level, please know any amount of new monthly support is greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your continued support and ongoing prayers for the work that God has called me to do. Together, we are truly making a difference on multiple continents.
Serving with God’s gifts, grace and strength,
Carmella
You can also call our Donor services office: 610-768-2323 or mail a check to our mailing address. Our mailing address is:
International Ministries
11003 W. 9th Ave
King of Prussia, Pa 19406