The Pastor’s Corner

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In September I opened an envelope addressed to the Oakland UMC. The enclosed letter was a thank you to the people of the Oakland UMC for their generous contributions to the PET project.

In April of this year our third Sunday special offering was designated to go to the PET Project. If you were able to be at the worship service on April 22, you may remember seeing a PET during the service. PET is an acronym for Personal Energy Transportation vehicle.

The PET Project began in 1995 in response to a need for three-wheeled, hand-cranked wheelchairs for victims of polio and landmines. Reverend Larry Mills, missionary in Zaire (now Congo), Africa, told Reverend Mel West of this great need. Mel contacted Earl Miner, product designer, and the process to create a sturdy, simple, and low-cost vehicle to serve the needs of those with limited mobility began.

Millions in our world have been disabled by landmines, accidents, disease and animal attacks. Many of these people live in areas where the typical wheelchair cannot go. The PET is designed to go where normal wheelchairs cannot. PETs are made in both child and adult sizes. All PETs are built by volunteers.
The Mission Statement of the PET Project is as follows:

The Personal Energy Transportation (PET) Projects mission is to provide mobility for all of Gods children.  We seek to provide first for those in greatest need and with the least resources in poor or underdeveloped countries. The PET Project is a part of the ministry of Jesus Christ, whose disciples said, In the name of Jesus Christ, arise and walk. Acts 3:6.

As disciples of Jesus Christ, we give because we know it is what our Savior has asked us to do. We give trusting God to use and even multiply our gifts in order to do the good w are called to do.  Often times we do not know how our gifts has blessed others.  The letter on the following page to all of you from the PET Program is a story of how your gifts have been a blessing to others.  Enjoy and thank you for giving!

And All God’s Children Said,

“Amen.” – Pastor Karen