Hey Everyone!

I am writing to share some exciting news and extend an invitation to partner with me in an upcoming short-term mission trip to South Africa with my youth group for a mission trip July 21-August 1! This is my first mission trip, the first time going to another continent, and the first time being away from my family for so long. I am both nervous and very excited about this opportunity to serve the Lord and participate in the Great Commision. When I think about going on this mission trip, I recall one hero of the faith, Jim Elliot’s words, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” On a personal note, my grandmother on my mom’s side was born in Johannesburg and me having the opportunity to go to South Africa for a mission trip is coming full circle.

While in South Africa, we will be working with Impact Africa and Philile in Johannesburg. Impact Africa is in its 19th year serving the local community by teaching them English and life skills while providing a school for their children during the week. We aim to bring the gospel to them where they are through personal relationships. Philile is a school for inner city children who come from a struggling economic class. We will play games with them, sing for them, and bring much joy to their school day. We will also get to interact with the Youth Ministry of City Hope Church called City Yth. We will attend their ministry, build relationships with their students and worship the Lord together. I am excited to see how God uses us through this trip knowing that it will have an eternal impact on the lives of many!

If the Lord leads you, there are a few ways I would like for you to consider partnering with me. The first and most important area you can partner with me is by praying for me now, while preparing for this trip, and also while I am on it. Specifically, I would like you to pray that the Lord gives us courage, protects us, watches over our health, and empowers us to minister effectively. It would be my honor for all of you to support me and our team through prayer. 

Second, in order to make this trip a reality, I am seeking to raise the financial support required to cover the costs of travel, accommodations, meals, transportation among other necessities. I have joined the team a little later than the others so have less time to raise the funds. If you feel called to support this mission financially, would you consider making a donation? Any amount, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated. To donate, please click the donate button which is to the right of this letter. After clicking the button, go to Select Fund and choose “South Africa Watershed Trip: July 21-August 1, 2023” and then select my name “Smith, Zekariah.” Donations are tax-deductible and must be made payable to Perimeter Church.

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to read this letter and for your prayerful consideration. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and grateful for your partnership in this endeavor. May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.