Not sure if it is 11, 12 or more times, as I have lost count of how many years/times Jill has traveled to Romania and other countries to serve. In a week Jill returns from another summer in Romania leading volunteer teams to Camp of the Good Shepherd, working at the Home of Hope, and performing a variety of key HHMI roles. The majority of those reading this message have first hand experience serving in Romania and know far better than I all that Jill does for the kids and care providers HHMI supports.
Along with her partner and colleague, Debbie Marshall, Jill spends tireless hours year round supporting HHMI's mission to embrace orphans, widows and families in desperate need with the love of Christ, easing their suffering and ultimately restoring their hope. Each year I gain more insight and understanding of the commitment Jill and the other volunteers have toward the HHMI mission. Every thought Jill puts toward the ministry has the best interest of the Romanian children and young adults in mind. Perseverance, lasting commitment, unwavering faith, relentless hard work and yes, hope, are but a few of the virtues Jill bears as she pours herself into her work and calling. Again, I expect this is nothing new to those reading this message.
Something you may not know is the great deal of thought and prayer Jill puts in to recruiting camp team members targeted to fill specific needs of the team and campers. It's by design and not by chance members are sought out and enlisted that leads to such incredible team results. Jill takes much personal responsibility and pride in the impact camp teams make in Romania as demonstrated by the allegiance she carries for the teams.
It's with clear vision, dedication, desire to provide sustainable service, AND love for the kids Jill moves in her HHMI work.
Jill ... All of those who know of, have witnessed, and have been fortunate enough to be part of your leadership of hope have truly been blessed. All the best in your up coming week of work in Romania and safe travels home.
With love and a world of admiration,
---Brian
Brian, that was beautiful! And so very true! It may not be new, but it is great to have it in writing to see what an amazing person Jill is! To get to work with and watch Jill work with the kids in Romania and all the things she does for them definitely has blessed and inspired me. I've missed being there this summer and can't wait to hear how everyone was and see lots of photos! Jill and Heart of Hope have been in my daily prayers since Jill left - continued prayers for a great last week and a safe and comfortable journey home.
ReplyDeleteLove, Tracy
Well said, Brian. Not sure I can add anything to that. It was a pleasure to be part of the team this year and I'm quite impressed with what Debbie and Jill have been able to accomplish over the years. What a gift for the Romanian children that Jill serves.
ReplyDeleteWell written Brian, and the only thing I might be able to add to that is, you rock my face off Jill! It's a pleasure to work and serve side by side with you, and as I look back over the years we've had some funny experiences! You can take the good with the bad, make crafts like none other, throw yourself under the bus, and put on band-aids like nobody's business. We've had venting sessions, escaping up the road walks, eaten cupcakes in one bite, and made fools of ourselves in skits. But the thing about you Jill is that you always hold up your head, tell us to make it a good day people, and move forward no matter what comes. Not everyone has this gift. And not everyone can lead a team like you do. So that means you are invaluable. That means the work you do does not go unnoticed. And that means God's children are better provided for because of you. Even if no one notices or says anything, He notices, and you Jill are doing His work. Keep it up. Don't back down. Fight for those who have no voice. And know that we are behind you, praying for you, lifting you up, and with you 100% of the way. Let's make it a good day.
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