I am a Campus Minister with a Christian organization known as the CCO. I work at Bellefield Presbyterian Church, with a student organization called Cornerstone, to minister to students at the University of Pittsburgh and surrounding campuses.
Andy here. I just want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and give you a brief update on how finances are going.
In short, they’re going well! We’ve reached our goal for the year, which is wonderful. Thank you all so very much for your support.
That said, there’s still plenty of time to give if you’re wanting to contribute a “Christmas bonus,” so to speak, or even a birthday gift—my birthday is on December 28th! I’m still working to put a little extra cushion into our ministry account to make things a bit more comfortable. This money allows me to minister to students.
There’s still time to give if you’d like. Just click on the links below or in my bio. You can donate through the campaign or the regular giving method.
Again, thank you all so very much for your love and generosity. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!
Andy: Hey everyone, Andy here. I just want to introduce you to one of our student leaders, Linda. Linda, tell everyone about yourself!
Linda:
Hi, I'm Linda. I'm a third-year student here at Pitt, majoring in Information Science. I've been involved with Cornerstone since my freshman year, and this is my first semester serving on the OPS Team, which stands for Outreach, Prayer, and Service. We organize events to reach out to people who aren't involved in Cornerstone or our church, like handing out free tea or hot dogs and things like that.
Andy:
That's awesome! So how did you find out about Cornerstone?
Linda:
I found out about Cornerstone during move-in weekend. I was moving into a dorm right by Bellefield when I saw some Cornerstone students, including Andy, handing out water bottles with information about the ministry. I had already been looking for a campus ministry to get involved in, so it was really perfect. Honestly, I think it was the Lord working through it. I had just encountered these people on the street, and they were part of a campus ministry right next to my dorm. So, I started going to Cornerstone, and here I am!
Andy:
That’s awesome! Glad the water bottles worked! So, what has Cornerstone meant to you?
Linda:
Cornerstone has been where I’ve made my closest friends here at Pitt. I'm from Puerto Rico, so when I came to school, I didn’t have any family or friends here. It’s been really nice to build such close friendships with people who also love God, and I can grow closer to the Lord with them. Having a supportive community during this stage of life has been so encouraging and helpful.
Andy:
That’s wonderful! Is there anything you’d like to say to my supporters or friends who are watching right now?
Linda:
Yeah, I just want to say thank you for supporting Andy. Honestly, he’s been great. Thank you so much, Andy. It’s been a pleasure to know you, and I’m really grateful for all that you do around here, like the theology 101 study we just wrapped up. I don’t know if you’ve mentioned that yet, but it was really cool. You’ve been such a great resource, teacher, and support. Thank you!
Andy:
Thank you, Linda! I really appreciate that. And thank you for all your support, love, and kindness. There are so many ways you can give to the campaign or donate in the regular way. Thank you very much, Linda, and thank you to everyone watching.
I just wanted to wish you all a Happy Advent and a Merry Christmas! Usually, I post these kinds of videos on the 30th of the month, but today, I’m sharing it on Giving Tuesday.
As you can see, I’m joined by my faithful companion, Olive, who’s right behind me. You might also catch a glimpse of my other dog, Opal, wandering through the background.
I wanted to share a few life updates with you:
Some of you may have already seen this on Facebook, shared by my mom, Brenda Moore. My parents are officially moving to Pittsburgh! They recently sold their house in Oak Hill and stayed with us for a bit while looking for a new home. I’m happy to share that they found a lovely little house in Glenshaw, which is only about 15 minutes from us!
This is a big transition for them, so your prayers are greatly appreciated. My wife, kids, and I are all thrilled to have them so close.
Speaking of my kids...
For a while now, I’ve been teasing you about where Ben, my son, would go to college. Well, the wait is over—Ben has officially enrolled at... drumroll, please... The University of Pittsburgh!
Yes, Ben is heading to Pitt. Some of you might wonder how I feel about this, considering I’ve been a lifelong West Virginia University (WVU) fan. I’ve been going to WVU football games since I was a kid, and “Country Roads” was one of the first songs I ever learned!
Here’s my response: While I’m a diehard Mountaineer fan, I am an even bigger Benjamin Moore fan. I love WVU sports, but I love my son so much more. I couldn’t be prouder of him and this decision.
It’s not a huge surprise since Ben is a bit of a homebody, but I’m thrilled he’ll be close to home. Plus, I have the incredible honor of being his campus minister next year. Please keep him in your prayers as he transitions from high school to college life.
Today is Giving Tuesday, and there are many ways you can give. Our campaign is still ongoing, so that’s one way to contribute. You can also donate through the usual methods—links will be provided below or in my bio.
I’m praying for all of you this Advent season and asking that God blesses you richly. Thank you for your continued love and support as we minister to college students.
