Combined Federal Campaign 2007

"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased" (Hebrews 13:16, NIV).

Every Fall, federal employees get an opportunity to fill out a form in order for deductions to be made from their paychecks to the charities of their choice. Several hundred charities are listed in the brochure. Both military and civilian employees may participate in the program, the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC).

This week, I brought the brochure and form home to discuss with Janet. After some thought, we decided to donate to the same charities we have designated for years: Christian Relief Fund (http://www.christianrelieffund.org) and Pioneer Bible Translators (http://www.pbtusa.org).

The Christian Relief Fund (CFC #11862) is an organization operated by members of Churches of Christ and Christian Churches. It works around the world to alleviate poverty. For a number of years, Janet and I sponsored a girl in El Salvador through the organization, until she left the sponsorship program. With so many needs around the globe, we believe it is important for Christians to help however possible, and the Christian Relief Fund makes it possible for us to help in a small way.

Pioneer Bible Translators (CFC #11481) is also run by members of Christian Churches and Churches of Christ. It works to translate the Bible into languages that have no Bibles at this time. In addition, its members teach native people how to read, because most of them are not only deprived of the Bible but of literacy as well. This group engages in frontier mission work, taking the good news of Christ to people who have never heard of him.

Every year, we are able to talk to the people who operate the Christian Relief Fund and Pioneer Bible Translators, because both charities have booths at the Tulsa International Soul Winning Workshop. (Next year, we may get an additional opportunity to visit with them when the National Missionary Convention of the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ meets in Tulsa.) It is good to be able to see the people who work with these organizations at least once a year.