One of the key distinctions of ASON International is our mission to incubate ministries and guide them toward self-sustainability. While achieving this vision in South Asia remains a long-term goal, we’re encouraged by the steps we’ve taken over the past few years. One significant milestone has been the purchase of land designated for economic development—a foundation for future growth and self-reliance.

As the Christmas season unfolds, we reflect on the profound meaning of Christ's birth. This year, let us hold close the words of the angel to the shepherds:

"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord" (Luke 2:10-11, NIV).

Over a year ago, we shared the story of a remarkable pastor in South Asia whose life and ministry deeply moved us. Today, we are thrilled to share a joyous update—thanks to your generosity and prayers, the much-needed well for this pastor’s home and church has been funded and recently completed.

As we approach the close of 2024, we find ourselves deeply grateful for the journey we’ve shared with you. Through your prayers, your generous gifts, your hands-on efforts, and your steadfast support, you have been the lifeblood of ASON International’s mission.

Meet Rafelito, a 24-year-old young man in the Dominican Republic whose life has been marked by challenges, perseverance, and a deep love for learning. Since he was 12, we have walked alongside him on his journey, helping him overcome the hardships of a life without adequate food, a safe home, and the ability to communicate. Rafelito is deaf, and for much of his early childhood, he struggled to make his voice heard—both literally and figuratively. However, with your support, his life has taken a new and hopeful direction.

In July, as Ellen Abramson visited the Dominican Republic, we reached out to you, our supporters, with an urgent request: to complete the construction of a home for a family in desperate need before the new school year began.

Your response was nothing short of remarkable. Within just one week, we raised the necessary funds, and thanks to your generosity, the home was finished on time.

At the beginning of the year, we needed $73,000 to complete Phase 5—the Senior High School. Today, I'm thrilled to report that thanks to your generous support, we've made tremendous progress and have reduced that number to just $32,600! This puts the project well within reach, and with your continued help, we can raise the remaining funds by the end of this year.

We are overjoyed to share this inspiring message from Maria, a young woman whose life was transformed through the support of one of our incredible sponsors. Maria recently graduated with a degree in Law, a dream that once seemed distant but was made possible through the unwavering support of her ASON International sponsors and the grace of God.

Ellen Abramson is currently on the ground in the Dominican Republic, and her recent visit with a family we've supported for many years deeply touched our hearts.

The story behind ASON International's Bolga baskets is the truest manifestation of how a small thing can make a huge impact over the decades. One of ASON's core values is our desire to make every one of our ministries self-sustainable over the years, so we can know for sure that the people in the field will thrive long-term without our support.

As they stand on the brink of completing Phase 5 of their education development project, the need is urgent. With just $73,000 needed to finish this critical phase. Adding the High School will allow these students to move on to higher education immediately upon graduation without need for remedial training.

Ellen and I recently journeyed to Caro, Michigan, to reunite with Colwood Church, a steadfast ally in our mission, whose support has been unwavering over the years. While in the area, we seized the opportunity to host an outreach event, aiming to connect with fresh supporters and seek out new partner churches.

On Easter Sunday, our ministry in Ghana celebrated a truly special occasion as six new believers were baptized. What made this moment even more remarkable was the unveiling of our new baptismal.

Let me share with you a remarkable tale that unfolded recently in the heart of South Asia. It centers around one of our village churches—a beacon of transformation for its community and a testament to the power of faith.

Community and music coming together at Music in Bloom. With a successful inaugural event that brought together 86 individuals from five different churches for a night of musical performances and powerful testimonies, we are already planning the second annual Music in Bloom in 2025. Join us as we celebrate the impact of music, testimony, and community spirit in supporting underprivileged communities around the world. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this growing tradition—stay tuned for updates on the next Music in Bloom event, where harmony meets action for a cause.

There is an unparalleled joy in giving and seeking purpose in bringing happiness to others. This joy is not fleeting or superficial; it is deep, fulfilling, and transformative. It's an invitation to each of us to look beyond our immediate confines and comforts, to reach out with generosity and an open heart. In doing so, we find a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment, discovering that in giving joy to others, we receive it manifold in return. Let us embrace this journey of giving, and in doing so, uncover the true essence of joy and purpose in our lives.