Many sincere thanks to those who have financially supported this music ministry in the past, to those who continue to contribute, and to the new supporters who have recently pledged. There are so many ways that even the smallest amount multiplies to fill specific needs and challenges.
If you would like to learn more about the Ministry of Aaron's Rainbow Project, and how you can become a montly contributor, or simply offer a one time gift, just read through the letter below, and click on the link to learn how you can make a difference.
A SPECIAL LETTER: 2008 ARP Pledge/Contribution Drive
"So, how does a music ministry work anyway -- and where do all those love offerings go? And don't the churches pay for guest musicians to visit? Why does anyone need to make contributions?"
Good questions! I don't know how other music ministries work, but mine is pretty basic: I'm grateful to have the opportunity to visit churches to share in music and ministry, and I do not require fees, ticket sales, or minimum guarantees on love offerings. Yes, some churches enjoy visiting ministries so much, that they actually have a budget for honorariums, and will provide a set amount to come to their church -- and other churches are also able to assist with travel expenses and even housing and food, which I consider a major contribution to this ministry in itself. However other churches and organizations rarely have the opportunity to have outside ministries visit because of lack of funds. I am thankful to be able to say that I have not ever turned down an invitation to visit because of money. Through ARP, (my host ministry organization), I offer scholarships to smaller churches or churches with limited resources. Traveling and recording continue to be my full time work, and the love offerings received at church concerts and services on my behalf are what make it possible to continue. Every dollar received is an affirming gift which I am honored to receive.
Providing for scholarship churches and production and travel costs is a way that some have chosen to support this ministry on an ongoing basis. Regular expenses include gas, airfare, hotel, food, production/recording equipment, sound/performance equipment, duplication of product, and cooperative outreach programs with other ministries and churches. In 2008, two new aspects of production will be added including video production/editing, and printing/duplication of a new songbook to accompany a Praise & Worship CD to be released mid-year. The hope is that the songbook and CD will provide a needed resource for churches without regular musicians or song-leaders to accompany or lead them.
This ministry needs the help and support of individuals and churches and organizations, and I am very grateful to the many who have and continue to provide that support. I encourage you to visit the webpage listed below to see the list of names of those who are contributors. In addition, I'm very excited to announce the addition of a new "level" of sponsorship specifically for churches and organizations. Recently a few churches have supported The Ministry of ARP in ways beyond my visits, concerts, and love offerings, coming directly from their own budgets either through gifts in kind or direct financial contributions and regular gifts. You can view those churches on the site below as well, but I would like to list them for you here as an acknowledgement of thanks and gratitude to them:
Metropolitan Community Church of the Palm Beaches (Florida), North Star Cathedral of Hope (Massachusetts), Open Door Community Churches (Arkansas & Colorado), Third Lutheran Church (Kentucky), Christ's Church United (Georgia)
If your church or organization, or your name should be listed here or on the page below, please let me know and I will include it immediately. I thank you for your consideration of including this ministry in your monthly and yearly contributions and giving. If you would like to begin supporting ARP for the first time, or continue a pledge from last year, please read and fill out the form listed below and mail it to the address provided. There are opportunities for one time donations or monthly pledges in amounts from small to large, because every gift really does make a difference. If you have questions or need more information, please feel free to contact me at info@shawnthomasonline.com. I'm happy to communicate with you.
Many blessings to you,
Shawn
LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS AND ARP INFO:
http://www.aaronsrainbowproject.com/contribute.htmlDONATION FORM:
http://www.shawnthomasonline.com/ARPDonationForm.doc
Labels: pledge drive
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