I love water. I drink my 8 required glasses a day, I stand in the shower longer than I should, and when I really need to think, I find myself drawn to the water – not just a river or ocean, but also to the living water of Christ. From the water of my infant baptism to the holy water as I enter Mass or the sprinkling rites of the Easter season, water is a cornerstone of my faith and my life.
As we live in a world with daily, unlimited access to clean water, it is hard for us to imagine what it is really like to walk miles to the only water source available and then to have that source be contaminated. But our Life Teen family has done more than just imagine, we have been moved to respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters. The living water of Christ is moving through us!
I have been deeply moved as email after email has arrived over the last week. Give It Away Now: Thirst for Change has grown beyond our expectations, beyond our hopes and dreams. God is moving and together we are awed at what he has done!
As I write this, the Life Teen family has raised over $63,000. Our goal was $50,000, enough to build 4 wells at $12,500 a piece. We thought 4 wells was ambitious. We are now at 5 wells with no signs of slowing down!
As daily updates of totals are being emailed between Life Teen, W.A.T.E.R. and Catholic Relief Services, know there is much rejoicing and thanking God for all of you and all you have contributed. For every teen that dug through their car, purse and pockets for change: thank you. For every parent, teacher and parishioner who contributed and supported the work of the teens: God bless you. For every youth minister and Core Member who organized and implemented the Give It Away Night: thank you for your continual gift of serving teens.
For the parishes that have sent in their photos and totals – be sure to check out www.lifeteen.com to see your parish’s photo! If you haven’t yet, please send them to giveitawaynow@lifeteen.com. In addition, please share your stories – how did you collect change? How did this effect your teens and your parish?
Keep checking back to l see how many wells we end up building! We’ve only just begun!
