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Rick McPherson January Newsletter, 2023

In the coming months we’ll be talking about the ministry of Pacific NW Outreach, Inc., during the past fifty years.  Seems like a life-time, seems like yesterday.  Most of us can go back to 1973 and sort of remember what happened and where we lived and schools and jobs and ministries that affected us.  Then again, facts get fuzzy and details get lost.   However, here are some reminders if you’re yearning for the “good old days.” Think of gasoline at 40 cents a gallon.  How about 25 cents for a dozen eggs?  You could buy a new house for $32,500.00 or pay monthly rent of $175.00.  For dinner, a Morton’s frozen entrée was only 36 cents.  And, for the automotive aficionados, a Ford Galaxie 500 was $3,883.00, floor mats included. 

In the coming months we’re going to print a variety of photos that reflect this ministry that has helped thousands of Native Americans physically and told the story of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness.  The spiritual impact of this work will never be known fully in this life.  But, Heaven records the name of every one who has, “called on the Name of the Lord and been saved.”  Romans 10:13

I really don’t know the number of miles that have been driven, the diesel fuel that’s been burned, the tires that have been used, the sermons that have been preached, the prayers that have been said, the coffee that’s been drunk or the pow wows that have been attended.  I do know that all of it has been motivated by a love for Native American people and a desire to, “go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation.”  Mark 16:15

Thank you for your part.  You have cared.  You have prayed.  You have given.   Together, we have made a difference in the lives of Native children and their families.  Now, who’s ready for another 50 years?

*****

Rick McPherson December Newsletter, 2022

I’m no stranger to winter driving.   Born and raised in Canada, I know that bad weather starts in mid-October and lasts until the end of May.  Mosquitoes and humidity round out the calendar.  But there are two words that strike fear in my heart … black ice.  This time of year, here at the west end of the Columbia River Gorge, the precipitation from the Pacific Ocean can mix with the cold east wind to coat everything with a deadly ice layer, particularly the roads.  Sodium chloride is a “no-no” because the run-off affects the salmon, therefore motorists who venture out slip and slide and eventually, according to the physics involved, reach an immovable object.  Wisdom prevails for some and the old Ford Pinto station wagon stays in the driveway.

Well, this year we dodged the ice bullet.  The storm arrived just days after our last Christmas trips to the Reservations.  We were able to deliver toys, gifts, groceries, bottled water, clothing, household supplies and even warm, hand-knit hats.  Celilo Indian Village at The Dalles, Oregon, part of the Yakama Reservation and Quinault Reservation at Lake Quinault, Washington were the two groups that received the truck loads.  You can see in the pictures, Fred and Karen Whitford and their nephew standing in front of some of the groceries.  And, the little children with their gifts never stopped smiling!  Merry Christmas, indeed!

I realize that in many ways, I serve as your eyes, ears, hands, feet and heart as I drive the Peterbilt and deliver to remote Reservations.  If it wasn’t for you and the financial gifts that you send, this ministry could not continue.  So, consider yourself included on every trip, even though it’s a tad crowded in the cab!  You’re with me.  Remember too, at this Christmas Season, that giving is what our Heavenly Father is all about; “He so loved the world that He gave…”  John 3:16.  Your participation and generosity is so appreciated and reflects the Father’s heart.  Also remember, one of Mother Teresa’s favorite texts, which she often quoted to support her ministry to the poor; “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”  Matthew 25:40

From all of us here at Pacific NW Outreach, have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and may your NEW YEAR be filled with blessing, good health, music, friends, family and fun…oh yeah, and food!  Don’t forget the food!

*****

Joy to the world, the Lord is come

Let earth receive her King

Let every heart prepare Him room

And Heaven and nature sing

*****