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Message from Chief Executive

Andy Jong, CEO
December 2008.

Changing circumstances


If we are to believe what we hear on the news, Britain?s financial difficulties are just beginning and we are heading for even tougher times in 2009, when recession bites and unemployment is expected to rise to over 3 million.

In these uncertain times, the natural instinct for us all is to pull in the purse strings and cut back on our expenditure and indeed it is a wise move for us all to review our finances in the light of changing circumstances, including our charitable giving.

Even in these difficult times, it is good to remember the example of the Macedonian churches in 2 Corinthians, who were applauded by the apostle Paul for being richly generous in spite of their extreme poverty, giving as much as they were able, and sometimes even beyond. As a result of their generosity, Paul goes on to encourage all Christians to "excel in the grace of giving."

Giving in faith


For millions around the world, poverty and hardship is already a heavy and sometimes life-threatening burden and our duty and joy as Christians is to continually help those around us in desperate need. We are called to ?excel in the grace of giving? in times of plenty and times of hardship.

As we enter this Christmas season, and a new year possibly filled with financial challenges ahead, let us keep on encouraging one another to be generous people, giving all that we are able to the desperate and needy people in the world around us.

May the grace and peace of the Lord be with you all this Christmas season and throughout 2009 and thank you once again for your generous support of ROPE.
Andrew Burton
Chairman of Trustees


View previous messages from the CEO:

October 2008

May 2008

February 2008

November 2007

September 2007

May 2007