As many of you already know, I have officially retired as Executive Director of Faith Mission.

As I've thought about "passing the baton" I recalled my time running on the mile relay team in high school.  As I ran my leg of the relay there was always anticipation, exhilaration, and sometimes doubt - a whole range of emotions.  Then came the end of my part of the race when I would reach out and pass the baton to the next runner who was eagerly awaiting his turn!

I feel the same way today as I pass the baton to my son, Ross and his excellent staff.  The race is far from over.  In fact, there is probably a greater, more urgent need for the services provided by Faith Mission than there was 25 years ago when I began my work here.

Yes, the years have raced by, but the race is not won.

 There is still so much work to be done.  And we are encouraged to do that work just as the Hebrews were in the New Testament:  "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12:1-2a).

I'm grateful for the time I've been allowed to spend serving “the least, the last and the lost” as head of Faith Mission.

I'm also grateful that this work will be carried on, and that God in his grace has provided us with friends who give generously so those who are forgotten and neglected can receive the help He wants them to have.

My last request is that our faithful friends continue to support this great work as many have done generously, with your gifts, your time and your prayers!

Thank you and God bless you,

God bless you for caring,

Tobe Swihart, Executive Director