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The Championship Team: AACF
by Paul Hayase
 My
son and I love basketball. Laker basketball. We usually catch a few games at the
Forum. We were especially looking forward to seeing Shaquille O'Neal and the revamped
Laker team. But by the close of the first day tickets went on sale, nearly all the
seats were sold out for the entire season! This despite the Lakers raising their
ticket prices dramatically to help cover the $120 million and change they dished
out for their center.
When
I think about the Lakers two things come to mind. First, the Lakers have done a great
job communicating their championship vision. People are genuinely excited about the
Lakers because they have assembled a team of championship caliber. Second, because
the fans believe in their Lakers, for decades now they have gone to great lengths
to encourage them. This year they have demonstrated their loyalty by strongly supporting
their team financially through ticket sales.
Another
organization very dear to me is AACF. College is a critical time for young adults.
Not only are collegians exposed to challenging educational curriculums and various
social forces, but they are also learning to make decisions that begin to cement
their values and beliefs. They are often away from home for the first time and are
exposed to new philosophies, beliefs, lifestyles, and friends. In the midst of this,
AACF plays a crucial role in the lives of thousands of students each year, pointing
them to the eternal truth found only in Jesus Christ.
This
year, AACF has entered into its 25th "season". What began as a small group
bible study at UCLA has today become an important part of the spiritual life of thousands
of collegians - an entire generation of believers that in number could easily fill
every seat in the Forum. In addition to these students, many families, churches and
communities have been blessed. Chances are, you probably know a number of people
who became Christians through the AACF ministry.
If
AACF is at the center of God's will, it will enjoy a "championship season".
As a part of JEMS, AACF believes that its supporters must first fulfill their financial
obligations to their churches. Support for AACF cannot replace one's support for
the local church.
Yet
it is our feeling that there is much more that AACF can and should do. Through the
generosity and faith of its parent organization, JEMS, AACF has been able to operate
its programs - though in reality our expenses usually outweigh the organizations
financial support. Almost all of AACF's staff workers are currently at less than
full financial support. Even were the Lord to raise their support levels, we calculate
AACF would still be at a deficit, due to some overhead expenses not passed on to
staff workers.
AACF
is currently on 18 campuses and is ministering to approximately 1,500 students. In
order to continue an effective ministry, we believe AACF needs to begin better communications
with its supporters, enlist their prayers and, if God leads, their financial support.
If
you have ideas or suggestions on how AACF can improve its communication with you,
or would like more information about AACF regarding a decision to become a supporter,
please contact Tommy Dyo at the JEMS office.
We
think we have a championship team! We have God's Spirit on our side as well as many
gifted servants. Please consider supporting us. We appreciate your prayers and financial
support. A pledge card is enclosed for your use.
(Paul Hayase serves on the JEMS Board of Directors and is the Chairperson for the
AACF Board of Directors. He is an attorney for a pharmaceutical distribution company
in Southern California and attends Rolling Hills Covenant church in Palos Verdes).
Front Page
1...Living With Uncertainty
2...The Championship Team: AACF
3...The In's and Out's of
Telecommuting
4...Profile of Harvest Community
Church
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