“Our human compassion binds us the one to the other – not in pity or patronizingly, but as human beings who have learnt how to turn our common suffering into hope for the future.” – Nelson Mandela

Imagine being incarcerated in a small prison cell on Robben Island off the coast of South Africa, isolated from family, friends and life for 18 years. If there ever was a reason to lose hope, Nelson Mandela had that reason. However, he didn’t lose hope. Instead, after he was released, he brought together different people groups and led his country through a challenging transition with grace and reconciliation. His unwavering hope now stands as a testament for all time.

Like Nelson Mandela, the apostle Paul also went through great tribulation and struggle. He wrote most of the New Testament while being under house arrest or in prison. Paul never allowed his circumstances to extinguish his hope. Instead, he taught the early church and the church of today that we must always have hope, despite our hardships.

Throughout the past few months, many communities here and abroad have had reasons to lose hope because of COVID-19 and the many ramifications it has had on society, namely sickness, fear, job loss, and the loss of a loved one. 

But like Paul, our hope remains the same because our work is motivated by the love and hope that is found in Christ Jesus. It is lasting and unshakable. 

During this season, the hope we share allows us to rise up and impart it to the world, despite all circumstances and risks. Partners International Canada has seen both individuals and churches unite with us in partnership to meet communities’ physical needs and spread hope to those who were once hopeless. 

Here are a few examples of what we have done together with our international partners:

  • Feeding programs for the elderly, homeless, children, and day workers with no opportunity to get food
  • Reaching rural communities to provide awareness programs, hand-washing stations, and access to healthcare and PPE 
  • Working with local and national authorities to provide relief to isolated communities 

As a result of these initiatives, hope is emerging and transforming people’s lives during this pandemic.

Canadians play a vital role in our work. You have come alongside us in partnership and enable us to make an effective impact. Your prayers and giving spread hope throughout the world. On behalf of Partners International Canada and our ministry partners, thank you for your faithful support. May you continue to increase in your hope and emanate it in your community as well as around the world. 

“Rejoice in HOPE, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (Rom 12:12)