Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States.The CRS Briefing is a monthly service to our supporters. We aspire to keep you informed of our progress and up-to-date on issues that affect the people we serve in more than 100 countries around the world.
November 2019 ... Let's Walk Together
Our Monthly Prayer
Together in Grace ... Our walk with God is reflected in our walk with others ... And so we pray ...
Pray with us ...
Lead the Way
Lead the way with CRS to a more just world for all. Watch this video to find out how CRS and people of faith are working together to end global poverty.
Watch now ...
Visit our Virtual Chapel
Light a candle and say a prayer for your loved ones and our brothers and sisters around the world.
Light a candle ...
Food Security: Surviving Drought in Afghanistan — With Potatoes
CRS helps farmers use long-term storage that enables them to adapt to severe weather and poor harvests.
Read more ...
Around Midland and around the world, loving and leading all people to deeper life in Jesus Christ.
Monday, November 25, 2019
In the News ... "Photo Album: Healing Place Church had drive-thru turkey giveaway for needy families"
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| Courtesy Photo |
Staff Report
• El Paso Times
EL PASO, TEXAS - Healing Place Church members got up early to hand out the turkeys on Saturday morning to needy families ...
• Enjoy this EPT photo album ...
Labels:
In the News,
Photo Album,
Word From West Texas
In the News ... "Vitalant calls all donors for the holidays"
• Those who donate in the Midland and Odessa area will receive a free turkey
By Leatra Hernandez, Reporter
• KWES-TV
ODESSA/MIDLAND, TEXAS - Vitalant is calling all donors for the holidays to come and donate blood in order to avoid blood shortage.
The demand for local blood becomes extremely difficult to meet the needs during the holiday season.
With more accidents happening during holiday travel, the need for blood increases.
However, Vitalant wants to counter this trend by having a holiday blood drive.
In return donors will receive a free turkey.
If you are interested in helping out with blood donations, call 1-877-827-4376 or CLICK HERE for more information.
In the News ... "Historical marker unveiled at Lubbock’s First Christian Church"
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| LAJ Photo by Adam D. Young |
By Adam Young, Reporter
• Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
LUBBOCK, TEXAS - Noting the longtime congregation’s role in the community’s history, members of the Lubbock County Historical Commission and area leaders gathered to help unveil a historical marker at Lubbock’s First Christian Church ...
• Read the rest of this LAJ report ..
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer.
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| Photo by Rich Copley |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: November 25, 2019
PRESBYTERIANS FOR EARTH CARE - in addition to worship and workshops — and even some hiking, kayaking and gardening — Presbyterians for Earth Care handed out awards at its recent national conference ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
PRESBYTERIANS FOR EARTH CARE - in addition to worship and workshops — and even some hiking, kayaking and gardening — Presbyterians for Earth Care handed out awards at its recent national conference ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Sunday, November 24, 2019
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer.
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| Contributed Photo |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: November 24, 2019
LIGHT STREET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN BALTIMORE - Light Street Presbyterian Church in Baltimore has been home to a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregation for more than 160 years. Founded as a place of refuge for children who worked in factories, Light Street always knew it existed for the city’s working-class neighborhood ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
LIGHT STREET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN BALTIMORE - Light Street Presbyterian Church in Baltimore has been home to a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregation for more than 160 years. Founded as a place of refuge for children who worked in factories, Light Street always knew it existed for the city’s working-class neighborhood ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Saturday, November 23, 2019
Equal Exchange Blog ... "Trucks, Mules and Motorbikes: Traveling in the Dominican Republic"
Equal Exchange's mission is to build long-term trade partnerships that are economically just and environmentally sound, to foster mutually beneficial relationships between farmers and consumers and to demonstrate, through our success, the contribution of worker co-operatives and Fair Trade to a more equitable, democratic and sustainable world.
Trucks, Mules, Motorbikes: Traveling in Dominican Republic
“Bean to Bar” is a concept you may have seen on your favorite chocolate wrapper. But if you live in North America, like I do, you might have trouble picturing the steps in between. Raw cacao goes through a huge transformation, and it travels a long way to do it. This summer, on a trip to the Dominican Republic to meet with our partners at CONACADO, I experienced some of that for myself ...
• CLICK HERE to read the rest of this post
Trucks, Mules, Motorbikes: Traveling in Dominican Republic
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Equal Exchange Photo
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• CLICK HERE to read the rest of this post
In the News ... "San Angelo Faith Briefs"
• Here's what's going on at church near you
By Matthew McDaniel, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - From the Standard-Times, news of special events and programs from Concho Valley houses of faith ...
• Read the rest of this SAST report
In the News ... "Community invited to Thanksgiving feast"
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| OA Photo by Mark Rogers |
By Nathaniel Miller, Reporter
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Jesse Porras wants everyone in Odessa to be able to celebrate Thanksgiving, regardless of their background.
The Odessa businessman recalled a Thanksgiving meal almost a decade ago when his son was working in the oilfield. A few coworkers were saying they were unable to go home for Thanksgiving, so his son asked Porras if they could come to their house for the holiday ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
Labels:
Coming to Odessa,
In the News,
Word From West Texas
In the News ... "Odessa Church News"
• Today and in the days ahead, in Odessa-area houses of worship
Staff Report
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Coming events include worship services, classes, Bible studies, community outreach, fundraisers, mission opportunities and more ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
In the News ... "Lubbock Faith Briefs"
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| Courtesy Photo |
By Erica Pauda, Reporter
• Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
LUBBOCK, TEXAS - From the Avalanche-Journal, news of regular services, and special events and programs at houses of faith in Lubbock and across the South Plains ...
• Read the rest of this LAJ report ...
• More from the LAJ's "South Plains Faith Calendar" ...
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer.
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| Photo by Jewel McRae |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: November 23, 2019
NATIONAL BLACK PRESBYTERIAN CONGRESS - During this year’s celebration of the National Black Presbyterian Caucus’ 45th Biennial Convention in Atlanta, five outstanding Presbyterians were recognized for their efforts toward “seeking racial justice and equity” ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
NATIONAL BLACK PRESBYTERIAN CONGRESS - During this year’s celebration of the National Black Presbyterian Caucus’ 45th Biennial Convention in Atlanta, five outstanding Presbyterians were recognized for their efforts toward “seeking racial justice and equity” ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Friday, November 22, 2019
From Adam Nevins, ServLife International ... "I'm back from my trip!"
ServLife International is a movement defined by values of God’s kingdom, not programs built around human efforts and activities. The reign and rule of God should be made apparent to every person on the planet, despite their religion, race or socioeconomic status. We believe that issues of justice are inseparable from the good news that Jesus Christ came to proclaim. ServLife exists to take the gospel of Christ and the hope of a better, more just, world to the lives of people we touch. This happens through individual contributions of time, creativity, resources and dreams.I'm back from my trip!
I just returned from three weeks in India and Nepal! It was a full, busy, good trip. I had the honor of teaching at the pastor training school, speaking at their graduation ceremony, visiting pastors in far west Nepal in their remote villages, visiting every school and orphanage that ServLife works with, and had some great quality time with each of our in-country directors. Playing with the kids was a huge highlight, as was spending an entire day with our Nepal staff planning the next pastors' conference. God is on the move, and I'm grateful to play a small role in this amazing work.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support during this trip! My family did well, and I was able to spend time every day with Jesus, which always makes such a difference on these long trips. I also started reading a book about God's love that is having a powerful effect on my heart.
I'm grateful for your friendship and partnership in ministry. May God continue to bless it and blow us away with his grace and blessings.
From Adam Nevins
Executive Director
ServLife International Inc.
Join Our Mission
ServLife International propels reconciliation and justice by building global community to plant churches, care for children and fight poverty. Compelled by the message, life and love of Jesus Christ, we seek to care for the spiritual, physical, social, and economic areas of life in northern India and Nepal. Learn more about our latest news, featured stories, and how to get involved at servlife.org
Support a Pastor
Our church planters spread the love of Christ in some of the most difficult environments in the world. • Support Them ... |
Sponsor a Child
For only $30 per month you can help give a child food, education, care and, most importantly, hope. • Sponsor Now ... |
Fight Poverty
The HOPE Fund, our micro-finance program, provides start-up funds for a small business, paving a way out of poverty for families in need. • Learn More ... |
FBR Report: "Turkish Drones Rain Indiscriminate Death in Northeastern Syria"
The Free Burma Rangers (FBR) is a multi-ethnic humanitarian service movement. They bring help, hope and love to people in the war zones of Burma (Myanmar) and the Middle East. Groups send teams to be trained, supplied and sent into the areas under attack to provide emergency assistance and human rights documentation. Together with other groups, the teams work to serve people in need.
"Turkish Drones Rain Indiscriminate Death in Northeastern Syria"
Tel Tamir, Syria
22 November 2019
Dear friends,
Since the beginning of the Turkish/Free Syrian Army (FSA) attacks in northeastern Syria, drones have been used to attack the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), civilians, ambulances, and medical convoys. FBR vehicles have also come under attack from drones and Zau Seng, our Kachin medic/videographer, was killed when a drone strike that hit seven meters behind us on Nov. 3 ...
Read/watch the rest of this FBR report ...
... As we move forward into a new week, we continue to pray for a no-fly zone, for the airstrikes to stop, for the attack forces to retreat back to Turkey, and for people to be able to return home safely. We continue to encourage the involved governments to help those under attack and find a solution to the conflict so that no more lives are lost her ...
Thank you and God bless you,
Dave Eubank and the Free Burma Rangers
“LOVE EACH OTHER.
UNITE AND WORK FOR FREEDOM, JUSTICE, AND PEACE.
FORGIVE AND DON’T HATE EACH OTHER.
PRAY WITH FAITH, ACT WITH COURAGE, NEVER SURRENDER.”
• CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can get involved in FBR and its mission ...
"Turkish Drones Rain Indiscriminate Death in Northeastern Syria"
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| FBR Photo |
22 November 2019
Dear friends,
Since the beginning of the Turkish/Free Syrian Army (FSA) attacks in northeastern Syria, drones have been used to attack the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), civilians, ambulances, and medical convoys. FBR vehicles have also come under attack from drones and Zau Seng, our Kachin medic/videographer, was killed when a drone strike that hit seven meters behind us on Nov. 3 ...
Read/watch the rest of this FBR report ...
... As we move forward into a new week, we continue to pray for a no-fly zone, for the airstrikes to stop, for the attack forces to retreat back to Turkey, and for people to be able to return home safely. We continue to encourage the involved governments to help those under attack and find a solution to the conflict so that no more lives are lost her ...
Thank you and God bless you,
Dave Eubank and the Free Burma Rangers
“LOVE EACH OTHER.
UNITE AND WORK FOR FREEDOM, JUSTICE, AND PEACE.
FORGIVE AND DON’T HATE EACH OTHER.
PRAY WITH FAITH, ACT WITH COURAGE, NEVER SURRENDER.”
In the News ... "Feast of Sharing"
• Now in its 16th year; Served around 1,000 people last year.
By Aurora Sain, Reporter
• Fort Stockton Pioneer
FORT STOCKTON, TEXAS - The annual Feast of Sharing is happening the first week of December and everyone is welcome to attend.
The free holiday meal is hosted by area agencies and plates are limited to a first come, first served basis ...
• Read the rest of this FSP report ...
In the News ... "Mikeska Foundation's 54th mission to Nepal under way"
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| Photo Contributed by Terry Mikeska Foundation |
By Matthew McDaniel, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - Local philanthropist Terry Mikeska left for Nepal Wednesday morning on his 54th mission trip, and this time around, he is accompanied by his sister, RN Rebekah Ocker of Dallas. After a layover in Qatar, they will be on their way to Kathmandu ...
• Read the rest of this SAST report
Labels:
In the News,
Word From Asia,
Word From West Texas
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer.
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| Photo by Gregg Brekke |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: November 22, 2019
UNION CHURCH IN SEATTLE - Union Church in Seattle is “a church with a day job — a very involved day job,” says Scott Lumsden, Seattle Presbytery co-executive presbyter.
Stick around for a few days at 415 Westlake Ave. N., and you’ll see he’s right ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
UNION CHURCH IN SEATTLE - Union Church in Seattle is “a church with a day job — a very involved day job,” says Scott Lumsden, Seattle Presbytery co-executive presbyter.
Stick around for a few days at 415 Westlake Ave. N., and you’ll see he’s right ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Thursday, November 21, 2019
FBR Report: "Chin Rangers Support IDPs in Rakhine State’s Conflict Areas"
The Free Burma Rangers (FBR) is a multi-ethnic humanitarian service movement. They bring help, hope and love to people in the war zones of Burma (Myanmar) and the Middle East. Groups send teams to be trained, supplied and sent into the areas under attack to provide emergency assistance and human rights documentation. Together with other groups, the teams work to serve people in need.
"Chin Rangers Support IDPs in Rakhine State’s Conflict Areas"
In August, Chin Rangers supported restricted internally displaced person (IDP) camps in Rakhine State, western Burma, with food aid. The IDPs told the Rangers about a Burma Army prohibition for camps to receive support, though the Rangers and IDPs succeeded at smuggling in supplies. Widespread military conflict has also prevented most outside assistance.
The 2016-17 Rohingya refugee crisis that poured into Bangladesh originated from Rakhine State and has yet to be resolved. In 2019, a new conflict emerged between the Burma Army and Arakan Army (AA) of Rakhine State, increasing civilian displacement into IDP camps. Battles have been frequent and severe, and the Burma Army has used helicopter strikes against the Arakan.
“We need to send information to others for support and help. The IDPs lack food and medicines, and accessories. We want to help Chin IDPs from Rakhine State and Chin State,” the senior Chin Ranger said ...
• CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of this FBR Report ...
• CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can get involved in FBR and its mission ...
“LOVE EACH OTHER.
UNITE AND WORK FOR FREEDOM, JUSTICE, AND PEACE.
FORGIVE AND DON’T HATE EACH OTHER.
PRAY WITH FAITH, ACT WITH COURAGE, NEVER SURRENDER.”
![]() |
| FBR Graphic |
"Chin Rangers Support IDPs in Rakhine State’s Conflict Areas"
In August, Chin Rangers supported restricted internally displaced person (IDP) camps in Rakhine State, western Burma, with food aid. The IDPs told the Rangers about a Burma Army prohibition for camps to receive support, though the Rangers and IDPs succeeded at smuggling in supplies. Widespread military conflict has also prevented most outside assistance.
The 2016-17 Rohingya refugee crisis that poured into Bangladesh originated from Rakhine State and has yet to be resolved. In 2019, a new conflict emerged between the Burma Army and Arakan Army (AA) of Rakhine State, increasing civilian displacement into IDP camps. Battles have been frequent and severe, and the Burma Army has used helicopter strikes against the Arakan.
“We need to send information to others for support and help. The IDPs lack food and medicines, and accessories. We want to help Chin IDPs from Rakhine State and Chin State,” the senior Chin Ranger said ...
• CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of this FBR Report ...
• CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can get involved in FBR and its mission ...
“LOVE EACH OTHER.
UNITE AND WORK FOR FREEDOM, JUSTICE, AND PEACE.
FORGIVE AND DON’T HATE EACH OTHER.
PRAY WITH FAITH, ACT WITH COURAGE, NEVER SURRENDER.”
In the News ... "Tips for donating during Love and Care Ministries' Mission: Thanksgiving"
• Where do I donate? What is needed? More ...
By Laura Gutschke, Reporter
• Abilene Reporter-News
ABILENE, TEXAS - Organizers of Mission: Thanksgiving have made the donation system as efficient as possible for the 21st annual event Friday - TOMORROW - at Arrow Ford.
Here's what donors need to know to easily and quickly contribute to Love & Care Ministries' drive to collect goods needed through the winter for people experiencing homelessness or in need ...
• Read the rest of this ARN report ...
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| ARN Photo Ronald by W. Erdrich |
In the News ... "Albertsons Market and Market Street to deliver nearly 800 turkeys to West Texas Food Bank"
• With this help, many families across West Texas will be able to have a Thanksgiving meal
By Leatra Hernandez, Reporter
• KWES-TV
MIDLAND, TEXAS - On Nov. 21, Albertsons Market and Market Street will donate 788 turkeys to West Texas Food Bank.
The turkeys will be distributed through the food bank's network of partner agencies and mobile distributions. The turkeys will not be available at the West Texas Food Bank location ...
• Read/watch the rest of this KWES report ...
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