Dear Friends,

Heritage is an interesting word. Webster defines heritage as "something passed down from preceding generations, an inheritance or a tradition." As the new Director of NCF, I realize what a great heritage NCF has. A solid foundation stands today because of those who preceded me in ministry, especially former directors Tressie, Grace, and Mary. In addition to a foundation, we have an inheritance of biblical and professional values and standards that has been passed from generation to generation. What a blessing!

As I met with the InterVarsity leadership team during my first official week as the Director of NCF, the Lord reminded me that our godly heritage extends beyond NCF. God has given us a larger organization (InterVarsity Christian Fellowship) to which we belong. The IVCF heritage is a godly one that continues to reach and change many lives.

As I ponder the concept of heritage and inheritance, I am reminded of our great and awesome spiritual inheritance. 1 Peter 1:3-4 says it all. "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade-kept in heaven for you."

It is because of you that this ministry can move forward. We value and covet your prayers. Pray that we will be faithful to the Word and to our calling.

As we complete the first quarter of our fiscal year, there are some specific financial needs:

• The web ministry-we need increased funds to hire an additional person to assist with our web based ministry
• The internet ministry is growing rapidly and we need funds for the additional hours that Bonnie works to cover this aspect of the ministry
• The JCN editorial staff need additional funding to carry on their responsibilities
• It is our goal to hire additional staff in the next year to do student ministry. We have groups starting and no staff to support them.

If you have been touched by any of these aspects of the ministry would you consider supporting them financially? Thanks.

am excited to see where the Lord is going to take NCF, and I am humbled to be part of this incredible NCF inheritance.

Because of His grace,

Pat Emery, MS, RN
NCF Director

NCF needs your financial support. To give online see Donate to NCF or mail your donation to the Madison office. Thank you for standing with us in ministry via your contribution. We can't do it without you.