Tuesday, November 28, 2023

2023 November and December Newsletter

Financial Ask, Campaign, and Support Raising


Hello, everyone! Happy Giving Tuesday! I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the amazing support we've received so far, whether it be through monthly giving, one time donations, or through our campaign.

But here's the exciting part – we're relaunching our campaign to replenish my ministry account. We're currently at 61% of our goal, having raised an incredible $6,076.13! It's truly incredible. We're just about $4,000 away from reaching our target. Can you believe it?

Now, I need your help to make that final push. You can lend a hand by either making a contribution through the link below or, if you're unable to donate, simply sharing this newsletter. Your support can go a long way. Let's make this Giving Tuesday extraordinary. Thank you all so much for being part of this journey. Together, we can make a lasting impact on college students.

To Donate to the $10,000 Campaign: http://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/andy-moore-1 

To Donate Regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore

Now, to talk about actual support raising…

As a campus minister, I engage in support raising for my ministry. At times, people may view this practice with skepticism, perceiving it as a form of begging. Interestingly, this skepticism is not often directed at other non-profit organizations raising funds. It's important to clarify that support raising for ministry is deeply rooted in the Bible, and it carries a strong biblical precedent. Here are some detailed examples that affirm the biblical basis for raising support for ministry:

In 2 Corinthians 11:7-9, The Apostle Paul openly acknowledges the financial support he received from various churches and communities as he spread the Gospel in different regions. This partnership allowed him to focus on his ministry work.

The Levites, tasked with serving in the tabernacle and later the temple in the Old Testament, were supported through tithes and offerings, as outlined in Numbers 18:21. This practice reflects the concept of raising financial support for those dedicated to religious service.

The early church's practice of commissioning missionaries, as seen in Acts 13:2-3, emphasizes the financial support aspect of ministry. When the church in Antioch commissioned missionaries like Paul and Barnabas, it signified a commitment to both their spiritual mission and providing for their financial needs during their journeys.

In 1 Timothy 5:17-18, the Apostle Paul provides guidance on compensating those engaged in ministry, including elders, teachers, and preachers. Paul's statement, 'The laborer deserves his wages,' reinforces the idea that those involved in ministry should receive financial support, allowing them to dedicate themselves to their work without distraction.

Finally, Jesus was dependent upon the gifts of others. While (as far as we know) Jesus did not actively solicit support or raise funds for His ministry like Paul did, the Gospel of Luke reveals that Jesus and His disciples received support from certain women. These women, who had been healed of infirmities, provided for Jesus and His disciples 'out of their means.' This demonstrates that Jesus, in His itinerant ministry, received support from those who believed in His message and ministry, underscoring the concept of support for ministry in a biblical context.

So, you see, support raising is Biblical, and (I hope) you can see why I am not a financial beggar but trying to rely on the provision of God. I hope this clears up some stuff for you all. Thanks for listening and be sure to check out (and share) our campaign. God Bless!

To Donate to the $10,000 Campaign: http://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/andy-moore-1 



My Cornerstone Testimony - Part 3 - The Flood


Alright things are about to go down. Buckle up.

The school year kicked off with our first large group gathering of the semester. Anticipation filled the air as we gathered to reconnect with friends, welcome new faces, and embark on a year of growth and community. However, things did not go as planned. I found myself involved in an intense incident with a student, one that I won't delve into the specifics of. Though there are parts of this incident that I could have handled better, I can assure you that I was not in the wrong.

The incident, though unfortunate, had far-reaching consequences. It sent me spiraling into a whirlwind of anxiety, leaving me to seek therapy to navigate the emotional aftermath. Little did I know that more challenges lay ahead.

The following week, we were hit with a disaster of epic proportions. The church basement, which served as the gathering place for our large group, Cornerstone, had flooded. However, it wasn't just any flood; it was a sewage backup that brought excrement and chaos everywhere, causing significant damage. We were no longer able to meet downstairs in that now tainted space, and we were faced with a dire need to adapt quickly to the situation.

With our backs against the wall, we had to make the best of the situation. We found refuge in the youth room, located on the third floor of the church. Although it lacked some of the facilities required for a full band, it was spacious enough to host our group. Little did we know that this change in venue would set the stage for something incredible.

In this less-than-ideal location, a revival took place. A movement of the Spirit unfolded, and our group started to grow, not just in numbers but also spiritually. Christ's presence was palpable in that room, and we created countless beautiful memories during our gatherings there. It was as if God was taking a seemingly bad situation and making it better, reminiscent of the verse from Genesis 50:20, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”

In light of this verse, the challenges we faced in the beginning of the school year took on a new perspective. The incident with the student and the devastating flood were indeed difficult to endure, but they were also opportunities for growth and transformation. These trials served a higher purpose, bringing our community closer and deepening our faith.

Our journey through that school year was a rollercoaster ride of challenges and blessings. From the initial incident to the sewage flood and, finally, the pandemic (which I will write about in the next Newsletter), we weathered storms that we never saw coming. Through it all, we learned that God's plan is often mysterious, and even in the darkest moments, He can bring forth light and growth. Our faith and community were strengthened, and we emerged from that year with a deeper sense of purpose and a stronger bond that will endure any trial that comes our way.

But, as we know, the year wasn't over. Just when we thought we had overcome the worst, a global pandemic hit…


Moore News

Hello, everyone! It's the Moore family here, and we're excited to catch you up on our lives.

Emily continues to amaze us with her dedication. Not only is she excelling as the Communications Director of Haiti h2o, but she's also taken on a second job at the front desk of a dentist office, supporting our friend Gary Liberati. Her tireless work ethic and commitment to helping others are truly inspiring.

Benjamin is navigating the challenges of high school with determination. In addition to his academic pursuits, he's found joy and fulfillment working at Chick-fil-A. The positive environment and the sense of teamwork at his job have become a valuable part of his life. As he looks ahead to college decisions, he's embracing the uncertainty with enthusiasm and a readiness for new adventures.

Josh's recent football season has come to an end. As a wide receiver on both varsity and junior varsity, he led the team in touchdown receptions on JV, showcasing his talent and dedication. The coaches are optimistic about his future, and his dream of earning an offer from WVU is a driving force for him.

Asher is thriving at CAPA, immersing himself in the world of the performing arts. While he has made wonderful friends and enjoyed the experience, he's contemplating a move to Sci-Tech for high school. The pressure of a performance arts school has been tough on him, and we're hopeful that he'll find the right balance that suits his passions. Plus, he gets to join his brothers.

As for me, I'm in the final stretch of seminary. Juggling three classes this semester and two next semester, I anticipate graduating in May (Lord willing). The journey has been both challenging and rewarding, and I'm excited about the prospect of seeking ordination in the EPC and continuing in the world of campus ministry.

Life is a whirlwind of activities, and each family member is embracing their unique path. Your support means the world to us, and we're grateful to have you alongside us on this journey.

Wishing you all the best, and until next time! God Bless!

To Donate to the $10,000 Campaign: http://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/andy-moore-1 

In Christ,
Andy Moore

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

2023 August Newsletter

Financial Ask
Usually I have my Financial Update/Financial Ask in the middle of my Newsletter. Due to a recent strain in our monthly giving, I wanted to make sure you didn't skip over it. I know that a financial piece isn't as exciting as the rest of my Newsletter, and it can be easy to skim through, so I ask that you PLEASE WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW. Thank you!


To Contribute to the $10,000 via campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/andy-moore-1

To Contribute regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore

First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and generosity. With your help, we have experienced financial stability and growth in the past year, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve in such a meaningful capacity.

However, I want to be transparent and vulnerable with you all, and share that this past month presented some financial challenges for us. This past month we made approximately $4,200. The month before that, we made approximately $4,200. That is almost $1,000 less than what we need per month. A few years ago, we found ourselves in a financial struggle because I let our Ministry Account (the account that collects my fundraising, and where my check comes out of) dwindle without expressing our need. This time, I want to stop the bleeding. We need help replenishing our Ministry Account. To meet this need, I am starting a campaign through the CCO and striving to raise an additional $10,000, just to replenish our MA. This $10,000 is a one-time thing, and will be separate from the $5,600 we are trying to raise monthly. This $10,000 of extra cushion will allow us to continue pursuing our mission without financial distraction. You can find a link to the campaign, as well as a link for regular giving, below. If you plan on sending a check towards this $10,000 goal, kindly indicate "replenishment of MA" when making your contribution. This will enable us to allocate the funds accordingly and acknowledge your remarkable support.

I am humbly requesting your assistance in reaching this goal. Any gift, regardless of its size, will make a significant difference and contribute to the vitality of our ministry. Whether you can commit to increasing your monthly support or providing a one-time donation, your contribution will be immensely valued and appreciated.

I want to emphasize that your assistance extends beyond financial contributions. First, prayer. Please pray for our ministry – for our students, our staff, and my personal finances. Pray to bring God’s kingdom to Pitt. Second, you can help by sharing this newsletter on your social media networks. This is what I call a “Social Media Blitz.” By doing this, you help spread awareness about what is happening at Cornerstone and our current financial need. Your support, financially, prayerfully, and tangibly through the power of word-of-mouth, ensures that the Gospel message reaches students and that our personal needs reach those who are called to join us in our mission.

Once again, I cannot express enough how deeply grateful I am for your continued support. Your belief in this ministry and your commitment to its growth and impact fill me with immense joy and motivation. Together, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of the students we serve. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your friendship, generosity, and unyielding support. May God bless you abundantly in return for the blessings you bring to others.

Send checks payable to the CCO:
5912 Penn Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15206

Write "Andy Moore: Replenishment of MA" on the Memo

To Contribute to the $10,000 via campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/andy-moore-1

To Contribute regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore


My Cornerstone Testimony - Part 2 - Ch-Ch-Changes


After that fateful night at the pub, and many brainstorming sessions and reflections, we came to a unanimous decision to change the format of our large group sessions at Cornerstone We realized that our previous structure closely resembled that of a conventional church service. We had a repetitive cycle of worship, announcements, more worship, a talk, and further worship. This resemblance was not in line with our vision for Cornerstone, as we wanted to create an atmosphere distinct from the Sunday services at Bellefield. We did not want to play church.  We desired to offer something unique and different, an experience that would captivate and engage students in a meaningful way.

A pivotal factor driving this change was our recognition of the diverse ways in which individuals learn. We acknowledged the importance of catering to different learning styles, including auditory, visual, and experiential approaches. With this revelation in mind, we embarked on a new teaching methodology that sought to create an interactive and immersive environment. We aimed to foster deep connections between the material being taught and the students' own experiences and understanding.

The inaugural lesson in our revised format happened to revolve around the profound concept of Jesus being the bread of life. I had the privilege of leading this lesson, and it proved to be an incredible experience. After delivering the teaching, we encouraged the students to actively participate in a bread-making activity. The act of making bread served as a powerful illustration of the profound truth we had just explored. Witnessing the students engaging with the lesson firsthand and experiencing it tangibly was an immensely gratifying experience.

The new format displayed remarkable success, both in terms of facilitating meaningful learning and fostering an atmosphere of enjoyment for the students. We observed a genuine thirst for knowledge and spiritual growth among the students, igniting a sense of excitement and engagement. Moreover, we received answered prayers from God, as He brought forth students who were truly passionate about their faith and wholeheartedly desired to see His kingdom flourish at Pitt. Their presence and enthusiasm infused an extra layer of vibrancy and unity within our community.

Something was happening. God was working.

For a while, things progressed fairly smoothly as we continued to walk in alignment with our vision. However, it is often that when you are doing something right, and glorifying to God, you will be attacked. And, we were about to be…


Moore News


We are thrilled to update you on the latest happenings in the Moore household. The biggest news is our unforgettable vacations.

Our journey began with a trip to the magnificent Badlands in South Dakota. It was a special place for me, as I had visited 20 years ago on a National Parks tour with my parents, right before Emily and I got married in Colorado. The Badlands truly showcase the stunning artistry of God's creation. The rugged landscapes, unique rock formations, and vast open spaces left us in awe. Our boys had an absolute blast hiking and immersing themselves in the beauty that surrounded us.

From there, we ventured to Custer State Park, where we were treated to sightings of bison, prairie dogs (which are everywhere), antelope, and weirdly wild donkeys.

We then made a special stop (on my account) in Deadwood, a town of significant historical and cultural significance and is most noted for the town where Wild Bill Hickock was murdered while playing Poker. I am a huge fan of Westerns, which I inherited from my Dad, and I couldn't resist the chance to visit this iconic place, especially after recently finishing the HBO show. While the town is famous for its rich history and captivating stories, I was surprised to find it had transformed into a bustling tourist attraction. It reminded me of a mini Nashville except with numerous casinos. I don’t know what I expected, but it wasn’t that.

The next day, we traveled to Eaton, Colorado, to spend quality time with Emily's family. We had a wonderful week with her father, LeRoy, and her two sisters, Leslie and Polly. It was a week filled with a lot of board games, laughter, and catching up on each other's lives. During our stay, I had the honor of giving an update at Emily's beloved church, the Evangelical Free Church of Eaton. The church holds a special place in our hearts, as it is where God found Emily in their youth group, and where we were married. It was awesome reconnecting with many familiar faces in the congregation and share updates on our lives and Cornerstone.

One of the highlights of our time in Colorado was experiencing Top Golf for the first time. For those unfamiliar, Top Golf is an entertaining and interactive golfing experience where players aim for targets on a large outfield, earning points for hitting specific areas. It was a thrilling and enjoyable experience for all of us. It was a memorable experience for all of us, and we couldn't help but have a friendly competition. Josh managed to hit the farthest shot, but I was not far behind.

A week after we got home from Colorado, we traveled to my parents house in Oak Hill, WV. It was great to be back home and spend time with my parents – whether it was watching a movie, or swimming in their pool, or eating, we always have a great time when we return to my hometown.

We are grateful for the opportunity to explore new places, create cherished memories, and strengthen the bonds of family. As much as we loved our time away, it is also wonderful to be back home.

Lastly, we want to express our deepest appreciation for your continued support, love, and friendship. Your presence in our lives is a true blessing, and we are deeply grateful for the unwavering care and encouragement you provide. As we reflect on our recent experiences, we are reminded of God's abundant blessings and the beauty that surrounds us in every season of life.

Also, please feel free to share this Newsletter on your social media accounts. And, as a reminder, be sure to listen to that podcast, “Lessons of Hope” from Haiti h2o which Emily helped to produce and direct. Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1q1RZhmoykCbZSyOkUPnaq?si=c329788cb0c04fec

We pray that your lives be filled with God’s love and joy, and adventures of your own. God Bless!

To Contribute to the $10,000 via campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/andy-moore-1

To Contribute regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore


In Christ,
Andy Moore






Wednesday, June 14, 2023

2023 June Newsletter

My Cornerstone Testimony - Part 1 - A Pub, Pints, and Prayer

Usually, this part of my Newsletter is dedicated to student Testimony. I decided this time to do something a little different. I wanted to share my testimony of how God is working within Cornerstone.

In 2018, I was visiting my best friends (Clay Fuller and Will Coulson) for a weekend in Morgantown, WV to watch the NFL draft together – something we’ve been doing together for almost 20 years. During those days, we drove around the town, visiting our old college haunts, and I started to get nostalgic. Morgantown is a very special place to me - a place marked with growth – a place where Jesus found me. I thought to myself, “It would be great to move back here. God would have to provide a way.”

A few days later, I kid you not, I got a phone call. It was from a pretty well-known church in Morgantown asking me to apply for the position of Director of College Ministry. Was this a sign from God? Afterall, I had just said “God would have to provide a way.” Seeing no harm in listening to what the church had to offer, and the appeal of moving back to West Virginia, I decided to apply. After a strenuous interview process, where they wined and dined me, I was offered the job. On paper, the job seemed pretty prestigious: it was a big-time job (for a pastor) at a big-time church, with an easy way to work my way up the pastoral ladder. The pay was about the same, but I wouldn’t have to raise half of my salary anymore. However, I turned down the job. There were a few reasons for turning down the job was 1. I wasn’t called to the job, I felt called to stay in Pittsburgh, continuing my job. I felt that I had unfinished business. I also didn’t want to leave behind an already established community. Now some of these reasons have left many puzzled. Couldn’t God use you in Morgantown? Well, yes. God can use anyone anywhere. But power, fame, and money aren’t reasons for leaving. My wife, Emily, felt the same way.

You see, I realized that I was deeply unsatisfied with job at Pitt. I was near burnout, and the once-joyful experience had lost its luster. It wasn't solely Morgantown that I desired; I craved change. It was evident that a significant shift was necessary. Instead of simply informing my coworkers via text, I opted for a more personal approach. Hence, we convened at our beloved local pub to share the news.

Over a pint or two, I informed them that I was staying, and they seemed happy and relieved with the decision. However, I didn't stop there. I felt the urge to express my deep concerns about the stagnant nature of our work. It seemed like we were trapped in a monotonous cycle, repeating the same motions endlessly. Let me clarify, there's value in following a familiar routine, but only when it's infused with passion and purpose for the Lord. Sadly, that was not the case for us at the moment. I felt a spiritual drought, and it was evident that our students were far from reaching their full potential, which was disheartening for all of us.

I was fairly emotional, and started to tear up – literal tears in my beer. Both of my coworkers looked at me, with complete empathy, and said that they felt the same. We collectively recognized the pressing need for change. However, we acknowledged that the power to initiate true transformation did not lie within us alone. Our students' renewal required a higher force—only God could orchestrate it. So, in that humble pub setting, we made a resolute decision to turn to prayer. Our heartfelt plea resonated, “God, we are asking for change. We are asking that you just show up!” And do you know what? God showed up! Just not in the way we were expecting…

Financial Update

To Donate:
https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore

I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and generosity throughout this incredible, continued journey. Thanks to your amazing help, we have experienced significant financial blessings over the past year. I am delighted to share that I have also been blessed with a raise, which allows me to continue pursuing my passion of reaching college students for Christ. As we strive to do this, I am reaching out today to ask for your assistance in raising $5600 each month to support our ongoing efforts. We are excited about the prospect of increasing monthly support, while recognizing that one-time donations are equally impactful. Additionally, I am seeking to replenish my Ministry Account with an extra $10,000. Please remember that any gift, regardless of its size, is immensely valuable and appreciated. On a side note, any contribution towards the goal of “$10,000” should be marked on the check or as a side note, as "Replenishment of MA" to ensure proper tracking. If interested in donating, you can click on the link above. Your incredible kindness fuels our mission, and together, we can make a lasting difference in college students’ lives. Thank you again for your unfailing support and unwavering belief in this ministry. Thanks, and God bless!

Moore News

To Donate:
https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore 

Haiti h2o Podcast, "Lessons of Hope":
https://open.spotify.com/show/1q1RZhmoykCbZSyOkUPnaq?si=c329788cb0c04fec

First and foremost, I want to apologize for the lack of updates recently. It's been a whirlwind of activity, but I am committed to sending out a monthly newsletter for the rest of the year to keep you all in the loop. Your support means the world to me, and I want to ensure that you stay connected and informed about the exciting happenings in our lives.

Now, let's dive into the biggest news of the past year - we've moved! Well, not too far, just 12 houses down from our previous address. We went from 1104 Portland St. to 1144 Portland St. It may seem like a small change, but the new house offers us so much more space, and we feel truly blessed to have it. Also, the dogs love it. If you're curious about how we came into possession of this wonderful home, it's actually a cool story. Feel free to reach out to me, and I'd be more than happy to share the details with you.

I would like to provide you all with an update on my seminary journey. As some of you may remember, I had initially planned to take a sabbatical. However, I am grateful to share that I was granted permission to extend my required campus life to two years instead of one. This wonderful opportunity has allowed me to balance taking classes and continuing my work simultaneously. With this adjusted timeline, I am on track to complete my degree in May 2024. Looking ahead, I hope to pursue ordination in the EPC (Evangelical Presbyterian Church) while also continuing my work with college students.

On the professional front, Emily, my incredible wife, is thriving as the communications director at Haiti h2o. She has recently been involved in producing, directing, and editing a podcast called "Lessons of Hope." If you're interested in getting a glimpse of her remarkable work and learning more about the inspiring mission of Haiti h2o, I invite you to click on the link above to listen. It's a fantastic opportunity to see firsthand the impact she's making and to gain insights into the incredible work happening at Haiti h2o.

Now, let's talk about our boys. Benjamin, who is now in 10th grade, and Joshua, who is in 9th grade, are both attending sci-tech, which happens to be conveniently located across the street from Bellefield. Benjamin is currently an active member of Boy Scouts, where he is dedicatedly working towards achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. As he prepares to enter the next phase of his life, Benjamin will soon be embarking on the exciting journey of exploring college options. Joshua had an eventful year, as he joined the football team, but unfortunately experienced a separated shoulder that limited his playing time as a Wide Receiver and Cornerback. Determined to contribute, he found a new way to shine on the field by volunteering as a punter and kicker, and he thrived in those positions. As for Asher, he continues to pursue his passion for visual arts at CAPA. He's really enjoying it, and is quite the artist. Although he does have one complaint - those flights of stairs he has to climb every day!

In closing, I hope this update finds you all in good health and high spirits. I sincerely pray that God's blessings continue to shower upon each and every one of you. Thank you for your unwavering support, and I look forward to sharing more exciting news with you in the coming months. Thanks, and God Bless!

In Christ,
Andy Moore