Dear Sisters and Brothers,

When I left for vacation at the beginning of August, my last act was to alert you of the need to save thousands in Sudan from immediate starvation.

I return to find that this need has been responded to with generosity and compassion. Some of the stories of individual and parish response will stay with me forever. Your witness to Christ's love is powerful. I write this brief message to acknowledge and thank you for your commitment. In August, the month when churches see the fewest people and the least money, we have done something very important and done it in very impressive numbers.

While a few persons in Sudan did die, sadly, the first shipments of food reached Kajo-Keji in time to prevent mass starvation, and the funds we provided will continue to feed the refugees for the immediate future. To date we have contributed $53,000 within the diocese. Episcopal Relief and Development has added another $10,000. While the need will continue, we have made enormous progress. In the economy of Sudan, this amount of money will buy a lot of food.

One of our correspondents in Sudan has written : "Thanks to our true friend and partner, Diocese of Bethlehem. What can we say? What they have done will enter the history books of Kajo Keji. They have wiped our tears and tapped our backs. Their actions have given our people hope that they are not alone. They have made us see the light at the end of the tunnel. They have become the first source of finance to KK Diocese. We are very thankful for their commitment."

There is nothing to add to that statement but praise to God that the spirit of Christ's compassion lives among us. Our World Mission Committee will continue to keep us informed of our opportunities for continued ministry, but to them and to you I say that your witness is a vital one, and I am deeply grateful to be your partner in this mission. God keep you in his love.

Faithfully,

Bishop Paul
September 1, 2004