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The founders report is being written at a time when the Iraqi
war is drawing to a conclusion. Fortunately it has not been a long drawn-out
war. Coalition casualties have been kept to a minimum and genuine efforts have been made to
reduce civilian casualties. Nevertheless there will be many mothers and fathers,
brothers and sisters, sons and daughters mourning the loss of family members in
Iraq and others who believed in jihad. The anger and fear residing in the hearts
of many believers of Allah will be uncomfortable for them but will also have an
effect on us. Peace will come to Iraq, but the threats of international
terrorism will continue.
It is estimated that the cost for the Iraq war in Britain is approximately £4 billion and in the USA $365 billion. It is difficult to put a price on freedom and no one, other than those of evil intent, will fail to be delighted on the day that the Iraqi's gain their freedom. Yet much of the money has been spent on armaments whose primary purpose is to destroy, not create or preserve life. We recognise that it requires a vast amount of money combined with generosity to create a just society where people are well fed and housed. We also know that mission is costly. At Easter we remember the price Jesus paid to gain our freedom. Although the Amos Scripture Care Trust has over the years proved its worth to many churches and individuals, it is facing a difficult future. The continuing production of our Scripture Cards is achieved through the commitment of our volunteer teams. Ruth’s help in administration and banking contributes greatly to the smooth running of our work. Yet, as we have no wish to abuse the talents and good will of our volunteers we have a policy of limiting the hours they give to our Trust. This means that much of the burden of the work relating to the Trust’s development and future falls on my own shoulders. However, as my health is not as it was, the need to find a successor is becoming urgent. It is not realistic to expect someone to work the hours that I do on a voluntary basis. Therefore my successor will be salaried, possibly on a pro rata basis of 20 hours a week. The voluntary donations that we receive, although generous, are not sufficient for us to employ a ‘Trust Co-ordinator’ at present. We ask you to prayerfully consider whether you are in a position to make a special donation to the Trust through a bequest in your will or a ‘one off donation'? Bruce Crerar |
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