Ruben Rodriguez's Mission
by Walla Walla University 350 Lives Impacted Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands
Dear family and friends, It is my pleasure to let you all know that I was approved to participate in the Walla Walla University Student ...
Dear family and friends,
It is my pleasure to let you all know that I was approved to participate in the Walla Walla University Student Missions Program, so I have decided to take a year out from my college studies to serve in a third world country.
Next year, I will be going to Majuro, in the Marshall Islands to serve as a 6th grade teacher at Delap Seventh Day Adventist K-12 School. This school is completely run by student missionaries and missionaries from other parts of the world. If there are not enough volunteers a certain year, the school cannot continue to run. Though teaching is my main job, student missionaries are also expected to help in the church adjoint the school and also to serve outside in the community.
I chose to serve this year because I believe that giving one year of my life to serve overseas will not only benefit the children and community which I choose to serve, but that there are plenty of benefits for me as well. I have learned from other missionaries that this experience taught them humbleness, to overcome challenges and to trust in God. It will also be a great way to get a bigger worldview and learn how others live outside of the United States.
I am told my year as a missionary will be challenging and rewarding—the experience of a lifetime. I have accepted this assignment in the Student Missions program because I want to give my life to God for a year as I share His love with others. I am so excited about the possibility, and now I am growing in God as I face the fundraising challenge.
There are several costs associated with this experience: travel costs, visa costs, mailing costs, living costs while I’m out, and the list goes on. Each year, the student missionaries are required to raise the money needed. We do that by working in the community for donations, asking for donations from mission supporters, working with our local churches for help, and by earning as much as we can in addition to the money given. The funds are used to get us to our location, to make sure we’re cared for while we’re there, and then to bring us home. A portion of the fundraised money ($500) goes toward training and support offered through the SM office. Any excess funds I raise help other SMs to go, provide emergency aid, as well as help support SMs in the field.
Will you consider joining me in this by giving as generous a gift as you’re able? Any amount you share will be deeply appreciated! Each of us has a goal of $3,500. Donations will be deposited into the Student Missionary fund to help turn our dreams of being missionaries into the satisfaction that comes from serving others.
Please keep in mind that I am not paid for teaching or any of my services. The money that you help me raise will also help cover my monthly stipend to pay for food and living supplies while I am there, so I am greatly counting on you.
I’m at a time when I can accept this opportunity and give this year of my life to God.
I am asking you to share in the blessing by helping financially. I appreciate your prayers to help me face the many challenges I will face as I live away from family and friends, adjust to a new culture—its people, food, and way of life—and serve as an ambassador for Christ.
Thank you so much for your help. I’m delighted to have you share in this experience with me.
In His love and for His service,
Ruben I. Rodriguez
Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands
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