As we write these few words to you today, we are reminded of those wonderful words from the Prophet Micah: “Act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly” with God and one another. Both James and I want to share a couple of thoughts from our hearts as we step into 2025.
First, Deacon James, our Executive Director, would like to share the following with you:
“I don't know about you, but I'm still having difficulty accepting that it is already 2025. Admittedly, my perception of 2024 and how quickly it passed is no doubt skewed by the interruption of the accident I had last March. While I would not have wished to have this happen, it gave me valuable time to think, appreciate all the blessings I have in my life, and reflect.
One of the many blessings in my life is you, my Mission of Hope family. I see in you the hope that can easily be overlooked or forgotten in our fast-paced and sometimes dark world. Your willingness to reach beyond yourselves to provide for and serve others is a never-ending source of inspiration.
In 2024, you provided $366,000, which funded our vital medical, education, feeding, community development, Orphans Hope project, and emergency care programs in Nicaragua. You donated almost $35,000 in emergency funding for hurricane victims in the United States. You provided donations and funds for two 53' tractor trailers of goods sent to the Appalachia region of Kentucky and funds for a children's program in that region. We also had a group of volunteers go on our second Mission Trip to provide hands-on service to those in need in Appalachia. Your generosity also supported many other programs here in the North Country, Nicaragua, and around the globe.
Beyond your money, materials, and time donations, you gave so much more in terms of compassion and love. Every prayer and minute you offer up for others expresses your love of neighbor, which provides the necessary hope for so many who have little or nothing except their faith and hope for a brighter and more equitable tomorrow.
Thank you from all those you serve and support through the Mission of Hope, and may you have a blessed and hope-filled 2025.”
Second, I, Sr Debbie, as Executive Director Emeritus, would like to share the following with you:
As most of you know, this past year of 2024, was a difficult year health-wise for Sr Stephanie and for me Yet, we weathered those challenges not only because of support from our families, friends, and congregation of Dominican Sisters but also because of you, our Mission family
Even after the last 2 1/2 years since retiring due to cancer, I am greeted every morning with a WhatsApp text message from Magaly Velasquez, our Assistant Administrator of the Mission of Hope. She sends a message filled with Hope, love, gratitude, and a reminder that it is our God who guides our steps each day. Indeed, she is a messenger from God in many ways.
I’m also greeted every morning with a smile from my dear friend, Sr Stephanie no matter how ill, whether in the hospital or her own bed. She, too, is a messenger from my God that represents unconditional love. And never a day goes by when I don’t hear from one of you, our dear Mission family, or one of the Sisters of our Congregation, or one of my family members. You, too, are messengers of God’s generosity, compassion, and goodness.
What more could one ask for? Honestly, I do get lonely and I do miss the incredible challenges and responsibilities of leading the Mission of Hope, but as you can surely tell, Deacon James is doing a wonderful ministry of leading the Mission of Hope. Hopefully, you have been able to witness the smooth transition as well as the genuine love and admiration James and I have for each other. Your support and trust in the Mission of Hope is a blessing not only for all we serve but for all of us who are connected by the love of all our brothers and sisters. WE ARE HOPE FOR ONE ANOTHER!
It is in this context that I want to share the following Reflection, and Blessing with each of you. I encourage you to read and let the blessing nurture your soul and surround you in 2025. I invite you to print out this blessing and read it frequently or even post it somewhere, so it can be absorbed into your inner spirit!
Reflection: Boundless Blessings in 2025
May you discover an inner strength you never knew existed in the face of challenges, and may you navigate life's twists and turns with resilience, constantly emerging stronger and wiser.
May your heart and soul be rejuvenated and your spirit be restored.
May the New Year bring you moments of profound peace. May you find serenity amidst the storms and tranquility in the chaos.
May love, in all its forms, fill your heart and life abundantly. May you give and receive love unconditionally.
May your faith be unwavering as you journey through 2025. Trust in yourself, your dreams, and the Divine guidance that lights your way.
May your family bonds grow stronger with each passing day and may your home be a haven of love, laughter, and understanding.
May friendships be treasures that enrich our lives. May you be blessed with enduring friendships and unconditional support.
Gratitude is the key to a contented heart. May you find countless reasons to be thankful in 2025 and may gratitude be your guiding light.
The future is an open book waiting to be written. May your story be filled with adventures, and unforgettable moments.
May you embrace change with open arms, and may you step into the unknown with excitement and courage.
May happiness be your constant companion and may your days be filled with joy.
May you welcome the stranger with an open heart and may you allow others to enrich your journey.
Finally, may your year ahead be filled with endless blessings and a heart brimming with HOPE! (adapted from various writings from Purple Garden online)
Living in HOPE,
On behalf of James Carlin and me, Sr. Debbie
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