This weekend I had the opportunity to attend a Compassion Advocates gathering and also be part of Compassion Sunday in Baraboo, WI. It was a great to be able to network, pray, and collaborate with other Advocates from around the state.
The weekend started with a viewing of 58: The Film. This is a powerful film that shows the lives of those in extreme poverty, and the hope that can be found in Jesus Christ. The film will be available to the public in October and I highly recommend seeing it if you have a chance.
Saturday morning we were able to see the start of the Ride Against Poverty. This was the second annual R.A.P. ride. There were about 25 bikers that participated in the ride. The course was about 100 miles and they raised $1,100 for Compassion’s AIDS initiative. That same day a group of children raised $480 for Compassion’s malaria prevention program. That was enough to by nets for 48 people! Our afternoon consisted of training, fellowship, and hearing from Owen, a formerly sponsored child who is now working on his master’s degree in accounting. It was amazing to hear from someone that had their life changed forever by the ministry of Compassion.
Sunday morning we worshiped with the congregation at Living Hope Church. Owen spoke to the congregation about his story and we had the opportunity to demonstrate the Water of Life system. After the service the congregation had the opportunity to visit the table with child packets and try water from the Water of Life system. The water was from the Baraboo River, which is not something you would typically want to drink from, but after going through the Water of Life system, the water was safe to drink. We had quite a few people try the water. We also had 17 children sponsored!
I’m so glad I had this opportunity. Now I need to ask God how I can increase my advocacy in my sphere of influence.
Chris
