Appendix 5a: Sample Letter A

 

[Your Photo Here]   

 

[Today’s Date]

Dear __________________,

I am writing to let you know how God has decided to use me this summer. 

But first let me share a bit of background. Last summer, I attended InterVarsity Christian Fellowship's Chapter Camp in Colorado with our chapter's leaders. While we were there, God confronted us with the idea of missionary service this summer. One by one, God led us through our prayers, and on January 15, I applied to Inter­Varsity's Urban Program in Chicago.  A month later, I was accepted to go on the program.

What is this program?  The Urban Program is InterVarsity Christian Fellowship's way of giving college students first‑hand experience living in a different context and serving the urban poor. We will have a time of orientation in Chicago, and the next five weeks in Chicago will be devoted to partnering with local inner-city churches and building relationships with the children in the community.

And what do I expect to gain? First, I will be (and already have been) learning more about God's Kindgom and his love for the urban poor. Second, I will learn what it is like to live in a different context and relate to people with a different perspective in life. I also hope that you will learn more about urban ministry as you are involved in it through my experiences.

How can you get involved?  First, pray for me. I feet this is the most important aspect of learning from my experience. God can change things by His will as you and I pray. You can also help by giving financially to the Urban Programs in my name. I am responsible for raising $1,600 through gifts from friends, family and churches before I go. Would you consider giving $25, $50, or $100 towards this ministry? Please give and pray toward my goal, as God leads you.

I will be calling you to answer any questions you may have in the next few weeks.  Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your name and address]

P.S.  Please use the envelope enclosed to send financial gifts to me.  I will then send the gift to InterVarsity’s national office. All checks should be made out to “InterVarsity” in order to be tax-deductible.