John Elmore Update, Mission Volunteer Coordinator in Chile
John Elmore, a native of Richmond Virginia, was a self-employed carpenter until 1995, when he began his work as a missionary. He says of this time, “When I felt God calling me to serve, it was definitely the most exciting time in my spiritual life – I could hardly catch my breath! . . . God loved me so much, he knew that I was seeking him, he knew that I was ready.”
John worked two years in the Dominican Republic helping to construct a hospital and clinic He then served 12 years in Northern Chile. He and his wife Maria Cristina Hurtado have served over 10 years in Angol in Southern Chile where they are currently based. There they teach Sunday school and are part of the music ministry at the Villa Emmaus Methodist Church. John is the mission volunteer coordinator at the Methodist Agricultural School for Mapuche Indians, which has over 200 students receiving training in agriculture and animal husbandry as well as studying the standard high school curriculum. John welcomes mission volunteers from outside Chile and coordinates work projects for the volunteers who work along with the students – often doing construction!
A recent email from John says in part, “Hello. I hope this letter finds you in good health and thanking God for all he has done for you. God tells us to pray constantly, which is hard to do. In order for me to keep God present, not just on Sunday or in a church activity or meeting, we pray every time we sit down to receive food. It does not matter if we are at home or in a restaurant, we pray and thank God. I don’t know why I wrote this to you – I just felt a need to do so. Anyway, the reason I am writing is to share with you a need for hot water heaters for the boys’ and girls’ dormitories . . . the cost is about $1000. Thank you for all your support and prayers.”
Money raised for John Elmore at Heifer Plus has been sent to him to help buy the water heaters. Of course this man of prayer will appreciate not only the money but also our prayers for him and the volunteers and students in his care.
Mission Gifts – Your contributions make a difference!
The Missions Committee thanks the RHUMC family for their compassion and great generosity. Here are a few excerpts from correspondence recently received from our mission partnerships:
Amigos Sin Barreras – Raised $1,400 and provided 4 tables and 40 chairs with the balance sent to Amigos for lunches. “The tables and chairs that you gave to Amigos are such a blessing. Thank you kind souls.”
Toberman Neighborhood Center – Raised $12,836 for their 2014 Winter Appeal. “Thank you for your dear contributions to our programs, families and kids! It is because of your generous gift that Toberman continues to be a great success.”
The YMCA – Gift of $2,000. “Heartfelt appreciation for your gift to the Torrance-South Bay YMCA’s Senior Nutrition & Socialization Program. The impact of your generosity is felt every day. We thank you for making a true difference.”
Project: Needs – Gift of $2,000. “We are so blessed to have your congregation as partners in our ministry. Thank you so much for being a vital part of our hunger outreach ministry of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.”
