Greetings from the Thumb of Michigan: 2013 has been a year of change for the Christian Amateur Radio Fellowship. We have adopted a set of changes to our by-laws that change the requirements for those that are eligible to hold office in CARF. During this year we also developed a standard form for those going to a mission field that need help with the purchase of communications equipment. This equipment is no longer limited to amateur radio equipment. CARF can now supply in addition the “ham” equipment, cell phones and/or computers as well as a variety of other items.
With these changes, information and applications have been sent to a dozen Bible Colleges or Christian Universities making our services known. In each case I contacted the schools to determine the person to whom I should send the packet. At this time we have not received any applications for assistance.
The new CARF officers for 2014 may want to consider a specific missionary or project to which CARF could send a one time financial gift. I don’t like using our financial income to sit in the bank and draw interest. There are a lot of missionaries that would be blessed with an unsolicited donation. I also think this should be handled under the direction of the new 2014 officers.
I would also like to thank Bernie and Cas for taking interim positions in CARF for 2013. This became necessary when CARF did not hold an election for officers for 2013. So I give a BIG, BIG THANK YOU. They have been a great support. Cas does a outstanding job with the prayer list.
Several times throughout the year we have needed a one-day net control station. It is an encouragement to see people willing to step up and accept this challenge. Serving as a net control operator can be a lot of fun as well as a growth experience. You do not have to be perfect at it; we are all Christian friends.
On a personal note, I relocated my radio equipment to the corner of the bedroom. It had been in this location many years ago. Now I do not have to go up to the second floor to get on the air, and I am closer to the coffee pot (good deal).
Just a few days ago Norm, KG0ND informed us that he will no longer be active in amateur radio. I would be remiss if I did not thank Norm for all the time and effort he has put in CARF over the years. To say that Norm will be missed is a huge understatement.
There is one other subject I would like to address before I close. The Dayton Ham-vention was always a blessing to CARF. At this event we always had people signing up to become members of CARF. For many years, Don, KB9UH was faithful in getting us a table and doing the set up. Since Don is no longer able to perform this ministry we have not had anyone else to step up to do this Kingdom work. I believe seeking one or two people that are willing to do this work should at the top of our prayer list. This is the single most important work CARF members can do in any given year. Is this your ministry for the Lord’s Kingdom?
Thank you for your support and commitment to the Christian Amateur Radio Fellowship.
Dave – WB8TLZ Interim President, 2013