January 2010

Dear Friends of the Ministry,

A new marriage, a new baby, a new house, a new year—any of these can be a blessing or a challenge. It’s all in how you approach each one separately that determines the outcome.

The past year was a blessed one for CBH. We faced financial challenges head-on and found solutions that overcame the seemingly impossible. God was leading us there, for sure. We used our creativity to bring about a brand new product line for CBH, which is proving to be a wonderful help to us financially. God led us in wise spending and purchases that kept us in the black at year-end. All of these could have been disastrous—but they weren’t because we sought God’s leading.

The same is true of this New Year. We are seeking God in knowing what path to choose for our next programming to replace Down Gilead Lane, which ended its 12th and final season in December. Our radio stations have already begun replaying DGL beginning with the first season. We’ll be gaining new audiences as listeners hear the Morrison children grow through all their experiences. It’s a time to reflect and a time to plan for CBH. Pray with us as we take this next year and seek God’s hand in this mighty work. We want to be on His path, going His way, and choosing what He wants us to do. To make this happen we need your continued faithful support in 2010.

Our website is getting a big addition in April. We’re excited to unveil the new Bible study section of Camp Be-Yon-Key. With the attraction of virtual characters that go through the camp with you, kids will find all sorts of games to play, points to earn, and challenges to meet-all while learning more and more about God’s Word and the truths that lead to spiritual growth. You’ll want to check our website for more about this new adventure for CBH at www.cbhministries.org. We appreciate all of you who have donated, or will donate, to help accomplish this huge update. Thank you!

The new Seasons of Faith books are making an impact already. Since releasing them in November, our list of bookstores carrying the books has grown and we’re working on marketing plans to increase that number. If you have training as a marketer, we could sure use your help! In March, about 100 homeschooling parents will write reviews of the books on their online blogs, where even more homeschooling parents read entries and post their thoughts for all to see. In addition, The Old Schoolhouse magazine is publishing these reviews on their website. We’re excited to read what the blogger’s write about the series.

We’re currently working on the next two books in the Seasons of Faith series: the ones representing Spring and Summer. Kristen, our editor, has chosen two well-loved stories from our radio script files, and they are in the process of getting re-written to be in line with the picture book format. We’ve contacted two new illustrators and are expecting beautiful final products. The best part about these books is their impact on young lives for Christ. They’re not just good-looking—they have powerful messages, too! The cost for producing four new books this year is approximately $57,000. If you could help in this endeavor it would be greatly appreciated.

In honor of the winter season, we’re offering Braving the Storm FREE with any donation of $50 or more. Your donation will help to cover the cost of producing new books this year. You’ll find this offer and the code to use on our website at the end of this letter!

This next year we will continue to produce Keys for Kids bi-monthly printed devotionals and Keys for Kids daily radio broadcasts plus Storytime, as well as air Down Gilead Lane. Group this together with the production of four new books, marketing, developing a new section on our website, and the daily tasks we all do here…it’s a full plate of responsibilities.

As the director, I’m praying that our entire staff have the right hearts to do our work for the glory of God. Every year I choose a new verse to pray for the staff. For 2010 I’ve chosen Philippians 1:9-11: “And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Just because we work in a Christian environment does not mean we aren’t challenged by the world or never become discouraged. We all deal with life just like you do. I pray that we will be filled with the love of God and grow closer to Him on a daily basis. I pray that the things that are filling our eyes, mouths, and heads are things that are excellent and glorify God. Won’t you pray along with me for our staff? We would all appreciate and covet your prayers.

Whatever God allows in your path this year, meet it with a heart full of love for our Savior, Jesus Christ. Allow His strength to carry you through tough times and joyful ones, as well. Praise Him for all He’s done for you and your family, just like we are doing here.

We appreciate all you do for CBH all year long. It is so encouraging to know that folks are praying for us as we make vital decisions about the ministry. Please continue those prayers throughout 2010 and, if possible, continue giving what you can to carry us through. God knows your heart; even when you cannot give, you can pray! God bless you and your loved ones!

For His Children,

Mrs Terre K. Ritchie
Executive Director