For more than 20 years, the Lord has been faithful and generous in His blessing to the tour fellowship, WPGF. We have enjoyed times of wonderful fellowship; seen our "borders" expand beyond our expectation; witnessed the power and grace of God personally and in the lives of those around us; and enjoyed His protection and mercy.

Many have benefited by participating in the weekly fellowship meetings and small group times through the years. How exciting it has been to welcome some great rookies to fellowship this year and to welcome back some veteran players. Terrific speakers, special dinners, programs, mission trips, retreats and fun nights continue to be part of each fellowship year. The married couples, caddies, moms and children on tour have been a focus for ministry. Books, tapes and study resources are made available each year on a variety of topics to encourage spiritual interest and growth.

How thrilled we were to achieved the Drive for Life "goal" and provide assistance to a small village in Tanzania last year. In 2001, the Drive for Life was the official international charity of the LPGA and 110 pros participated in the various aspects of the Drive. Over $320,000 was raised and roads, medical facilities, school rooms, food supplies, clean water, farming and agricultural assistance, and teacher and health care workers were provided. God worked through the fellowship, bringing hope to those in need.

This year the Drive focuses on the needs of women and children in the United States and in underdeveloped areas of the world. The opportunity to sponsor children in Ruvu Remiti, Tanzania and to sponsor pros as "Playing Partners" continues in the 2002 season.

Another exciting happening this year is the opportunity to visit the Women's Senior Golf Tour (WSGT). The WSGT has three tournaments in their 2002 schedule and Cris has attended the first two events (the last event will occur after this update). What a treat to "re-connect" with many of the women who charted the way for the fellowship on tour. These women are at new places in their lives and careers, yet their joy of competition remains strong. Their faith has remained wonderfully strong too.

All of this does not just happen. Each year I am asked to explain how WPGF is supported and funded. God has used individuals throughout the history of the tour fellowship to pray for, serve and support His work on tour. It has truly been exciting to witness His wonderful goodness to us.

Generous gifts through the years have been the "nuts and bolts" of providing a consistent ministry and influence to the tour. Though minimal funds are received from "outside" the fellowship (churches and individuals supporting the tour ministry), most funds are received from those currently participating in the fellowship. Some support comes from retired pros who remember the personal benefit of the fellowship during their tour years, so they continue supporting the ministry. Individuals support the fellowship usually for two reasons: first, they are receiving spiritual support and encouragement from the ministry while on tour and second, they see the fellowship as a mission outpost on the tour and through the tour to local communities, churches and youth ministries.

Donations vary each year and are affected by level of participation, spiritual maturity, and earnings of those playing and caddying on tour. Therefore, contributions from outside the fellowship are important to the financial stability of the tour ministry. During the last few years, the fellowship has experienced a "changing of the guards" in terms of leadership and participation (several core participants have retired from tour) and we have experienced the joy of seeing both new and young believers participating. The basis of donations is affected in these times of transition; yet, the Lord in His goodness has provided through some generous donations. The costs of ministry continue weekly...that is why it is important to let those who participate in the fellowship and those who desire to see the ministry continue know the financial needs of ministry. People believe in what the Lord has done, is doing and desires to do on tour, and their generous support through prayers and financial gifts are God's way of providing.

May God continue to bless this ministry and those who so generously support it.