Holy Myrrhbearing Women
Antiochian Orthodox Church
PO Box 1025, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805
V. Rev. Fr. Gregory Horton – Pastor
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ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA
December 1, 2009
Dear Friends and Supporters of the Matthew Gallatin Ministry:
Christ is in our midst! This is a letter that I have prayed I would never have to write. Still, I am hopeful even as I write it.
As many of you know, Matthew and Alice Gallatin have sacrificed much for the sake of Matthew’s full time ministry to the Holy Orthodox Church. This ministry has included writing, teaching, speaking and creating podcasts on a multitude of subjects. It has also included countless hours of answering the questions of numerous emailers who have been searching, questioning, struggling and gaining insight from this very gifted teacher. It has been a full time ministry indeed…but without much to show by way of material support.
The Gallatins are literally down to their last few dollars after three years of throwing themselves into this vision. Alice works full time but her income cannot sustain their modest needs. They have even considered dropping all health insurance and probably would if Matthew did not need to purchase his ongoing heart medication. I won’t share all of the details…it is enough to say that they now face an extremely difficult reality. Matthew may need to STOP doing his work for the Church and seek full time employment…probably teaching at a college somewhere around the country. He has clearly stated that he cannot satisfy the demands of a full time ministry AND full time employment at the same time because of his health…we do not want to bring on a second heart attack! So if things continue unchecked, Matthew will be shutting down his website and sending his “farewell” podcast to Ancient Faith Radio. I personally know that this possibility is heartbreaking to this beloved and humble steward of the Church. This letter represents what we consider the eleventh hour alternative.
Basically, if the Gallatins can raise about $750 per month over the next few years, they can continue doing this important work. They have decided to “test the waters” by allowing me to send this letter to see if Matthew’s work will continue. The request is simple: If you wish to continue hearing the “Pilgrims from Paradise” podcast, having Matthew come and speak in your area, writing him a personal question in an email, etc, then PLEASE send a pledge in any amount (even $10 per month is not too small if enough of us can do this) for the next two years (make it three if you are able). This will go a long way in showing the Gallatins if this ministry should continue with the blessing of the Church and the endorsement of the faithful. If you would like to participate, please contact me directly at abounagregory@mybluelight.com or call me at the number above with your pledge. All donations for this particular appeal will be handled through our local parish. Simply mail your monthly donations to the address above. If you wish, I will make certain that your pledge remains anonymous…simply let me know if you would like anonymity or if you would like us to share your name with Matthew so that he and Alice know how much you care.
That’s it. May the Lord’s will be done and may you have a glorious Nativity season and enjoy the most radiant and triumphant winter feast day of His Nativity in the Flesh!!!
In Christ’s Holy Love,
Fr. Gregory Horton