Looking back on this semester, there have been many times of sorrow and stress in my ministry and my own personal life; however, there have been even more times of joy and encouragement! Listening to students’ stories, being far away from family and friends, and feeling the weight of where I lack in this job have created many stresses and burdens this semester, but then I am reminded that “the Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want”!

A part of my weekly routine is to sit down and look at my yearly budget and spending for RUF to gauge how I am doing financially. I do this every week, holding my breath and praying for God’s provision. Fundraising is scary. It has forced me to trust our Lord completely for my finances and for my daily bread. Although I am not fully funded yet and still have a ways to go, which can cause anxiety, I am filled with joy. You all have been my biggest encouragement while working in this ministry! As I look at my donations from the past couple of months, I am able to see that some of you have given extra, whether it’s an additional $5 a month or $200 one time. Throughout this semester, I have received emails and text messages from some of you just checking in or thanking me for what I do, but I want to thank you! While the stresses of this job and life have been hard, your encouraging words have been a light for my feet. As I hold my breath when I look at my budget, I can begin to breathe easy, seeing that you all are right behind me, supporting this work that God has called me to.

It is by God’s hand that I am in Clemson and that you and I have been given this opportunity to work together as laborers in His fields. I am reminded of 2 Corinthians 4:7: “But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” I praise God that the ministry of RUF and the salvation of the students at Clemson is not completed by my work or even your support but by His power.

I want you all to know that your work in this ministry has not gone unnoticed. Just the other day as I paid for a student’s coffee when we met, she thanked me and I told her that I am only able to do this because of my donors. Because of you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you would like to chat. I thank God for each of you!

I am still looking to raise an additional $16,000 for this year. As you are looking at your own end-of-year budgets, I ask that you prayerfully consider giving a one-time gift this month. That can look like $100 or $2,000. Every dollar is helpful and brings me closer to this goal. Thank you!

Thank you so much for the ways that you all have loved and supported me. If you have any questions, or prayer requests, or would just like to chat, please call or text me at (423)453-6249.