Dear Friends,<\/p>\n
I have been in the States just over three months. The days have flown by, and I seem to speak to you from a different spot each time! Today I am enjoying a few days in Oceanside, CA, where I have connected with old friends, visited favourite places, and spent hours doing homework (did I mention I\u2019m working on a Masters degree through Barclay College?) whilst enjoying an ocean view \u2013 through the generosity of a good friend.<\/p>\n
I\u2019ve traveled many miles in the past months, but I have no more travel scheduled. I plan to be with my family for the holidays. If you are local in S. CA I would be glad to meet with you if that works out.<\/p>\n
I am thrilled to share that I have reached 94% of my fundraising goal. I am so grateful to those of you who have responded with new commitments, continuing financial commitments, and increased support. I\u2019m thankful for one-time gifts from churches and individuals that have covered the costs of deputation. And I am thankful for large, designated, end of the year giving that will supplement my support over the next few years.<\/p>\n
I\u2019m so close. If you would like to help close the gap and get my support to 100% in time for Christmas \u2013 which is what I\u2019m hoping so that I can rest and enjoy the last weeks with my family before I return to Ireland early in January \u2013 you can do that a number of ways\u2026 a monthly commitment to my ongoing financial support (this can be paid monthly or it can be paid in one lump sum annually where it will go into an account and be paid out over time). If you are looking to make a generous \u201cend of the year\u201d donation specifically for \u201cKathi Perry\u2019s support\u201d, that would also go into an account to be paid out over time and will count toward my ongoing support.<\/p>\n
You will find links to set up this kind of giving in the email that brings you this video.<\/p>\n
Advent has been my favorite celebration with the \u201cLittle Friends and Family\u201d group, and in week three, I say this to the kids: Do you see that the candle is a different color this week? It is the color of roses. This reminds us that while this is a serious time, it is also a time of great joy and celebration.<\/p>\n
Christmas smells and Christmas songs, lights, and movies with lines like, \u201che is not poor who has friends\u201d. Families gather, and we long for those who are gone. Advent is about hope and preparing for the arrival of the long-promised Messiah. Advent is about joy.<\/p>\n
My joy is in gratefully partnering with you. My joy is the work God has given me in Ireland, and the community there. Thank you. And, as we say in Ireland, Happy Christmas.<\/p>\n