December Newsletter

Moore News: December 2025

My Campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/confirmation/MooreChristmas
Donate Regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore

Hello friends, Andy here. Merry Christmas.

As I reflect back on 2025, I can’t help but think what a wonderfully blessed year it has been for me and my family. It started with taking the ordination exams, which were very difficult, and, by the grace of God, passing them on the first try. That led to my ordination at Bellefield and stepping into my new role as Assistant Pastor for Campus Ministry. That role has opened the door to various preaching and speaking engagements, which has been such a wonderful opportunity and a real blessing for me and my family.

Emily is still absolutely killing it as the Director of Communications for Haiti H2O and thriving in that role. She has taken to it like a duck to water.

Benjamin graduated from high school, finished his final semester there, and has now completed his first semester at Pitt. He’s doing incredibly well, majoring in civil engineering.

Josh is currently looking at colleges and hasn’t quite decided yet, but he had an incredible football season. His team, USO (University SciTech Obama), won the city championship, and he scored a touchdown in the semifinals. He’s had a wonderful year and is doing so well.

Asher is thriving at Allderdice. He’s doing exceptionally well, taking Japanese as a language, and even earning college credit for it. He’s also started an esports club, I think I’ve mentioned that before, and is just doing wonderfully there.

All in all, 2025 has been an amazing year. Ministry has been such a blessing, and the only reason I’ve been able to do what I do is because of supporters like you. None of this would be possible without your prayers and your financial support.

As you know, I’ve had a campaign going over the past couple of weeks, and we’re currently at 12%, which is wonderful. I know that when I post frequently, it can be easy to scroll past or ignore these things, but I’m asking for your help. I’m asking for your help in replenishing the ministry account.

Because of supporters like you, and yes, because of finances, something we don’t always like to talk about in the church, I’m able to do what I do. I’m able to take college students out for lunch. I’m able to invest in Bible study resources and pour into their lives. It has been such a blessing.

So I ask that you don’t skip past this video. I ask that you take some time and prayerfully consider donating to the campaign. Together, we can start off 2026 just as strong as 2025 has been.

Thank you all so much. I love you all. Thank you for a wonderful year, and Merry Christmas.

My Campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/confirmation/MooreChristmas
Donate Regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore

Meet the Students: Hudson Ayre

My Campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/confirmation/MooreChristmas
Donate Regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore

Andy: Hey friends, Andy here, and I’m with student leader Hudson. Hudson, tell everyone a bit about yourself.

Hudson: Hi everyone. I’m Hudson, a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh. I’m studying Law, Criminal Justice, and Society, and I’m part of the freshman ministry team.

Andy: And Hudson, how did you hear about Cornerstone?

Hudson: I heard about Cornerstone in two ways: first through the church bulletin on Sunday, which advertised the Thursday night Bible study, and second through a good friend, Eliza, who recommended that I come to the Wednesday night large group. I’m really glad I did.

Andy: And we’re glad to have you. What would you say Cornerstone has meant to you?

Hudson: Cornerstone has helped me grow immensely—both relationally and in my relationship with God. I’ve grown in spiritual maturity, learned how to pray, and learned more about who God is and what He has for me. It’s also helped me learn how to love and interact with others better.

Andy: Lastly, what would you like to say to all my friends and supporters who are watching?

Hudson: First of all, thank you to everyone who donates and supports Andy. I know he works incredibly hard to create a great environment for college students, and it wouldn’t be the same without him.

Andy: Thank you all so much for your giving and generosity, and thank you, Hudson, for joining us. There’s still plenty of time to give. The campaign runs until the end of December. The links will be provided below or in my bio. Thanks for listening, and thanks again, Hudson!

Hudson: Bye!

My Campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/confirmation/MooreChristmas
Donate Regularly: https://ccojubilee.org/staff/amoore

Financial Update (February 2025)

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

Hey everyone, I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to give you a quick financial update on how things are going.

I don’t have all the final numbers yet—I’ll have those at the end of the month—but so far, it looks like I’m on track to earn more this month than I did last month. Thank you all so much for your generosity! Your support truly makes a difference.

That being said, I could still use your help, and there are a few ways you can support me:

1. Give – You can make a one-time donation or set up a recurring monthly gift. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference!
2. Share – Spread the word about my needs. Sharing with friends, family, or others who might want to help is a huge way to support me.
3. Tithe from Your Tax Return – It may seem early, but as you think about filing your taxes, consider setting aside a portion to support this ministry.
4. Pray – Please pray for this ministry, for my financial needs, and most importantly, that college students would come to know Jesus Christ.

I’m incredibly grateful for each of you—thank you again for your generosity and prayers. I’ll continue praying for you as well.

God bless!


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

Financial Update: September 2024

 

To Donate to my campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/Moore-Campaign

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

Hello friends, Andy here! I just want to give you a quick financial update.

Over the past few weeks, about half a dozen people have either approached me or texted me, asking, "How are you doing financially? I know you have a campaign going on." The answer is, for the past couple of months, I’ve actually been doing pretty well. I’ve raised quite a bit through the campaign, a few people have generously donated through the usual means, and I’ve also gained some new donors, which has been amazing — a true testament to God's provision. I’m incredibly grateful to those of you who’ve been concerned about my financial situation, who’ve been praying for me, and to everyone who has supported me. 

However, I’m not entirely out of the woods yet. I still need to raise a little more to have a comfortable cushion in my ministry account. That’s where I need your help. I’m asking you to prayerfully consider donating to my campaign or sharing this message to help spread the word. 

I know that fundraising isn’t the most glamorous thing in the world, but it’s a powerful reminder of God’s provision. It can be a little scary at times — we can become so self-centered that we think everything depends on us. But trusting in God and relying on His provision is essential, and that’s what I’m striving to do.

So, thank you to everyone who has supported me and to those who will continue to support, whether through prayer or financial contributions. I humbly ask that you prayerfully consider giving to the campaign or sharing this video.

Thank you, and God bless!

To Donate to my campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/Moore-Campaign

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

July Financial Update

 

To Donate to my NEW campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/Moore-Campaign

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

Hey everyone, Andy here.

As you may have seen from my last video, I have started a new campaign and wanted to talk about it a bit. I'm reaching out with a heartfelt request to replenish my ministry account, which has dipped a little due to my focus on another campaign, the Cornerstone campaign. I'm aiming to raise about $6,000 to provide a cushion as I seek new monthly donors to sustain and expand our ministry's impact.

A healthy account allows me to dedicate more time to campus activities for meaningful ministry, reducing the need for support raising. It also covers personal expenses related to ministry work, ensuring effectiveness and our presence in the mission field. Importantly, it enables us to assist students, making a tangible difference in their lives.

Support raising might be a foreign concept to many, but I believe it is vital. It transforms ministry from an individual effort to a communal mission, inviting others to join in a sacred partnership. By pooling resources and prayers, we further the kingdom of God. Raising support helps us cultivate a network of believers united in a purpose, each playing a unique role in the ministry's success. This collective endeavor not only sustains me but also allows supporters to actively participate in God's work, creating a shared legacy of faith and generosity.

Through support raising, we embody the truth that ministry thrives best when carried on the shoulders of many, echoing the early church's spirit of unity and shared mission. So, I ask that you prayerfully consider donating to the cause. Your generosity will directly impact our ability to minister effectively and support the students we serve.

If you're interested in donating, the link to the campaign will be below. There is also the regular way of donating listed there as well.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers, support, and commitment. God bless.

To Donate to my NEW campaign: https://ccojubilee.org/campaign/4398/Moore-Campaign

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

2020 March Newsletter

Cornerstone and COVID-19

Link to Biblical Touchpoints

I was standing in the hot Fort Lauderdale sun at a Habitat for Humanity work site when I got the text from a friend, “It looks like Pitt is going to be shutting its doors.” Because of this “inside information,” I had the chance to prepare the 34 Pitt students that I was with. When the official announcement came, the tone was somber but expected. Even in the midst of their grief, many students could not focus on themselves. Many came up to me and asked, “What does this mean for you or Cornerstone?” It was because of their selflessness that I too had to ask myself the question they asked me, “What does this mean for me and Cornerstone?” Obviously I would still have a job, but Cornerstone would have to adapt and look drastically different.

Our world, within a matter of days, has been flipped upside down. Humans, who I believe are wired to be communal creatures, are now told to isolate. Businesses are being shut down, whether it be temporary or permanent, and cities and towns look vacant. People are dealing with the disease by either denying it, or by hoarding. These are strange times, for the world has changed. But our God, he does not change. As Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” A true solace we must rely on.

And now, a digital world has become our means to communicate. Cornerstone large group and small groups will now be held online. Instead of meeting people face to face, I will now meet them screen to screen. My blog will probably be updated a lot more, since I am now (mostly) working from home. I am now creating a weekly video series, called “Biblical Touchpoints” in order for students to become Biblically literate and theologically astute (link). The world has changed, and we must adapt. Yet, God’s truth will remain...even digitally. So stay safe, adapt, and rely on the Lord.

Cornerstone Student Testimony

Meet Mike Stolarz, and listen to how God has been ministering to him through Cornerstone.

Cornerstone has had a major impact on my life over the past year. I began attending Cornerstone just over a year ago after being recommended that I attend by various members of my home church Hebron Presbyterian in Penn Hills. I had been raised going to church for the majority of my life, but, because of some struggles I went through in high school, I started coming less and less to the point where I stopped coming entirely (unless my parents forced me to go). By the time I started college in August of 2018, I wanted nothing to do with the church or God. I saw signs for Cornerstone around campus, but I wanted nothing to do with them. I thought they were lame, and if I wanted to be a cool college student I had to party and live recklessly; smoking weed and drinking instead of anything God related.

During this time, I was in a rock band with some friends from high school and I was in charge of the band's money. My drug use became so bad that I no longer could afford my habits. So, I began to dip into the band’s money, and by the end of 2018 it was all gone. I felt an intense shame at all times based on these actions, as I knew full well at the time that I had sinned greatly. But, I hid this sin and shame from everyone. In hiding this shame I went into a deeply depressed state where I felt trapped and with no way to get out. Eventually my band found out that I had stolen all of the money, and I became even more depressed. I had told my mom what I had done, and she prayed with me every day that week. By the end of the week, I had been kicked out of my band, lost the majority of my friends, but somehow miraculously was able to pay back all of the money that I owed. That Sunday I went to church with my family, and I felt extremely convicted of my sin but at the same time loved and forgiven by God and the members of my church. After the service some members came up to me and asked if I was at Pitt, and they recommended that I come to Cornerstone which they had attended and loved years ago. That night I gave my life to Christ, and that Wednesday I attended Cornerstone for the first time.

The first time I went to Cornerstone the theme for the month was “shame.” I found this to be a true sign from God, as it was exactly what I was dealing with at the time. That night we were asked to discuss with our tables any experience we had with shame, and I felt called by the spirit to share all of my testimony with people who were complete strangers at the time. That night the music also had a major impact on me, and I asked one of the worship leaders if they needed a drummer. It turns out that they had been praying for a more consistent drummer for that entire year! Soon after, I was able to attend the Jubilee Conference which was truly life changing and eye opening. Now, a year after this all took place, my life has completely changed all thanks to the grace and love of Christ. I am now part of Cornerstone’s worship team, playing drums and leading worship every week. I have been able to stay clean and sober from drugs for over a year now, and plan on staying sober long term. This would not be possible if it weren’t for my support system that God has provided in my friends and family. God has completely changed my life through Cornerstone, the leadership that Andy, Mark, and Bobbi have provided to me, and the love and encouragement I have received from all people in Cornerstone, through Christ.

Spring Break Testimony

Meet Ethan Pohlman, and listen to how God ministered to him through the Habitat for Humanity Spring Break trip.

My Cornerstone campus minister, Andy Moore, reached out to me in the fall semester one night after Cornerstone. He asked me if I wanted to go to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for spring break with Panther Habitat for Humanity. I was a little skeptical at first, but it wasn’t a lot of money and seemed like it could be fun. The catch was that he needed the commitment and money pretty much the next day. Somehow, he convinced me to go for it. God was working through him that night, because, while I didn’t know it then, this trip to Florida would end up being what I now consider the best week of my college experience so far.

The Saturday of the spring break trip I got into a van with Mike, a friend from Cornerstone and also the only other person I knew on the trip, and 5 strangers. Honestly, I was a little nervous. I had no idea what to expect, and I was trapped in a van with these people for the next two days. But I very quickly came to realize that I had nothing to worry about. We jammed to a ton of different genres of music, played ridiculous car games, and began to open up about our lives. That first car ride was very symbolic of this trip as a whole- God challenged me with obstacles, tasks, decisions, new people and new experiences, but He also gave me the tools to overcome everything that I was faced with, and in the end turned it all into a rewarding experience. The main focus of this trip was the workdays, where we built homes for low-income individuals. This presented a challenge, simply due to the nature of the work. Patience was key. Often the tasks that we were accomplishing seemed small and insignificant, but the fact is that each of us was a small part of achieving a greater goal. For me, the most rewarding point on the trip was after finishing laying the tarpaper on a roof. It had taken a day and a half to complete, and afterwards we were able to stand back and know that we accomplished something real that was going to help someone who needs it.

This spring break trip was full of accomplishments. God challenged me, either by placing me in an uncomfortable position, or surrounding me with unfamiliar people, or by presenting me with a physically demanding task. Yet out of that, he inspired friendships that will last a lifetime. He filled my heart with a love for service. He opened my eyes to a great organization made up of caring people. He inspired conversations about Him. I had the blessing many times on this trip to share with others my involvement in the church, and what my faith means to me. God was at work in my life this trip, and was working through me to help others, starting with that seemingly impulsive decision to say “yes” to going on this trip.

Donating to Our Ministry
Because of this pandemic, we realize that finances are tight for many of you, but we could use your help now more than ever.  If God leads you to donate, we ask that you click the following link:

https://secure-q.net/Donations/CCO/15954

Thank you, stay safe, and God Bless!

In Christ,
Andy Moore

2019 Fall Retreat Testimony

A Quick Cornerstone Update:

In lieu of my usual Newsletter, I have decided to share a testimony from Jorge & Breaunna Villapier on our Fall Retreat, which happened October 4-6 at Ligonier Camp and Conference Center. Approximately 40 students heard Caleb Musselman & Juliet Casinelli give three meaningful, memorable, and challenging talks on "Meekness." Listen to what Jorge & Breaunna had to say about the retreat:

If interested in donating to our ministry, click here: 

https://ccojubilee.org/about/our-team/andy-moore/261/

October 2019 Newsletter

A Thank You from Sam Smallwood

One of our leadership students, Sam Smallwood, wanted to write you all a special thank you:

Words cannot express how much Cornerstone and Andy’s ministry has meant to me during my time at Pitt. Frankly, I don’t know where I would be today had I not decided to walk through the doors of Bellefield Church on Wednesday nights. Yes, I was always planning to attend church there on Sundays, but I wasn’t sure how large of a role faith would play in college outside of that. I felt called to explore things further, however, and get involved in some sort of Bible study. After meeting Andy, I knew Cornerstone was where I was meant to be. He talked so passionately about what he does, what campus ministry meant to him in college, and the many ways in which Cornerstone pours into its students every day. And now, as a junior, I am so glad I took that extra step and am truly grateful to have found such an amazing place full of fantastic people who love Christ and love each other.

Cornerstone has allowed me to grow in so many different aspects, not only strengthening my faith in God but also helping me to develop my leadership skills and grow to know myself better. Whether through leading Freshmen Bible Study every week, the CCO’s annual Jubilee Conference, or any of the multitude of conversations had with other students, I have discovered new and exciting ways to apply my faith in college, spent more time in the Word, and have grown much stronger in my prayer life. God is constantly putting new opportunities in front of me and without Cornerstone, my time at Pitt would be lacking purpose.

Andy has been such a huge influence not only for me, but for so many of the students who attend Cornerstone. He is a great mentor, teacher, and spiritual guide, but he is also an amazing friend. It is because of your generosity that we are able to experience his gifts every week and why our campus ministry is so outstanding. We all greatly appreciate your continued support of Andy, and for those of you who do not yet donate towards his ministry, we would be so thankful if you considered doing so. You play a big role in making Cornerstone so great!

Financial Update
Do to various reasons, our ministry account as dwindled down; it no longer holds the financial cushion that puts my mind at ease. I know that God has provided, and will continue to provide. There is no doubt about that. Finances can always be a worry, however. Especially when one support raises.

We need your help financially. I need help putting that cushion back into my ministry account, especially since I have received a raise. We have been about $600 (a month) short for the past few months. Having this cushion helps me to minister to students, and see how God uses them at Pitt. Yes, I will continually need to seek financial help as long as I’m a campus minister, but having a balance to work with frees up my time a bit more. Working with College students (like Sam) and seeing God transform them, is a true blessing. It is my ministry. Seeing how God has worked through you all to provide financially is a true blessing. It is my ministry. I thank you all for that.

If you would like to help this ministry, we are always looking for new supporters. This is what makes ministry possible. Now this is as important than ever! If God leads you to do so, we would love for you to be a part of this ministry through gift. I am asking that my current supporters give an extra $10 to $50 on top of their usual giving. We are also looking for some one time donations of $100 to $500. If that is too much, then that is fine. Any gift is a good gift. This will help to make up the difference and reach my goal.

In every Newsletter I preach that God has always provided, and he always will. This is something that I not only preach to you, but (like the Gospel) preach to myself daily.

We thank you, and pray that God will bless you richly because you have given to advance His kingdom! Please be in prayer that God will continue to build our support team and that we would be faithful in doing our part.

If you would like to donate, click on the following link: https://ccojubilee.org/about/our-team/andy-moore/261/

Moore News

As I mentioned in our last newsletter (a while ago), Emily I took our 15th anniversary trip (a bit late) to Tennessee. We stayed at a little Air B&B in Dandridge (home of Bush’s Baked Beans) and spent most of our time exploring the small town, as well as visiting Knoxville and Gatlinburg. Knoxville was amazing. We hiked at Ijam’s Nature Center, went to World’s Fair Park and the Sun Sphere, explored the very large University of Tennessee Gardens, and finally ended up in Old Town. Needless to say, we loved Knoxville. There is so much to do there! Gatlinburg, on the other hand, is too touristy for our liking. We enjoyed ourselves there, but preferred Knoxville a lot more. It was great to get away for a few days.

While Emily and I were in Tennessee, Benjamin took his first mission trip to Charleston, South Carolina. He, along with 16 other youth spent their week helping the elderly at a nursing home. He had a blast. There is also another piece of big news for Ben: as of September 8, Benjamin became 13! That’s right, we officially have a teenager in the house. Where has the time gone? He is a sweet young man with a big heart, and we couldn’t be any more proud of him.

While Ben was in South Carolina, Joshua and Asher spent their week with my parents in southern West Virginia. Though not quite as structured as Ben’s trip, Asher and Josh always enjoy spending time with Gammy and Pops.

Asher is now in 4th grade, and continues to enjoy Fulton. He is the artsiest of the three, and has started taking some lessons through a local church. Also, he turns 10(!) on October 6th. It seems to be a year for milestone birthdays. It’s cool to see his personality grow, and he continues to be the most empathetic of us all.

Joshua has started a new school: Schiller STEAM Academy. So far, he has given nothing but rave reviews. He has also joined the flag football team, and is a starting wide receiver for them. That’s pretty impressive, since there aren’t too many 6th graders on the team. He’s had a few nice games, and continues to get better. It’s difficult managing the schedule of three boys at three different schools, but they all seem to love it.

Thank you for reading our (late) Newsletter. We pray that you continue to seek God.

In Christ,
Andy Moore

June 2017 Newsletter

Meet the Students

Meet Jack McAuliffe, a sophomore that has been involved in Cornerstone, and read his testimony…

Starting college is truly overwhelming. It’s a place where you are forced to make choices that shape who you will be and what your future will look like. You’re away from your home for the first time and students must choose between so many different facets of life to find their foundation. After applying to nine schools, I really questioned if coming to Pitt was the right choice of where I was supposed to be. I remember researching the campus ministries at Pitt and coming across Cornerstone. I mentioned it to my mom and she said, “Oh I know what that is, that’s where I went at Pitt.” I was blessed to grow up in a Christian household and upon going to school I knew I wanted to make God the priority in my life. Immediately upon walking into Cornerstone I felt welcomed into the community with friendly faces and interesting ice breaker questions from some of the students. I really enjoyed my first Cornerstone nights and Freshman Bible Studies and decided to go on the fall retreat.

The fall retreat provided me an opportunity to work on new friendships but more importantly to strongly feel God’s hand on my life. On the last day of the fall retreat weekend during our quiet time I came across Matthew 6, specifically the section “Do Not Worry.” This section calls us to trust’s God provision for our life which I realized I needed to do for my life. I read, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” This is when I first realized that Pitt is where I was supposed to be. I thought of all the amazing, accepting people I had made friends with the Cornerstone community and knew that through all of my uncertainty, God had gone before me and had what was best for me planned. I was aware that God is unchanging and would continue to be my rock in college and that this community will allow me to grow closer to Him.

My freshman year of Cornerstone continually challenged me to reexamine my priorities, trust, and understanding of God and scripture. Freshman Bible Study went through the Sermon on the Mount this spring and I really valued every discussion we had about how God calls us to live our lives. When Jesus gave this teaching, it was very counter cultural and that stands true today. My faith and the support from Cornerstone makes me want to pursue being a better person each day even when it’s not the easy path. I was blessed to be part of a discussion group with two other Cornerstone guys who had so much knowledge of the scripture that I truly benefited learning from them. I’m thrilled by my opportunity to be a part of Freshman Ministry Team next fall and hopefully be a friendly face to help new freshman feel comfortable joining this community. As someone who is generally quieter, I will be challenged out of my comfort zone. But, no one ever grew in their faith or as a person without challenge. And that’s what Cornerstone is all about.

Financial Update

Every so often, I write a newsletter largely dedicated to support raising. As you may have guessed, this is one of those Newsletters. Support raising has been one of those things that I have been descent at. I make my asks and I write my newsletters, and God puts the wheels in motion. I no longer view it as a “necessary evil” as some often do, but as a necessity for living and to see God’s provision. This, however, does mean that support raising is always easy, or that I don’t hit bumps in the road. Lately, it seems that I have hit quite a few bumps.

Do to various ministry expenses, our ministry account as dwindled down; it no longer holds the financial cushion that puts my mind at ease. I know that God has provided, and will continue to provide. There is no doubt about that. My mind is not worry free, however. The thought of providing for my family always pops up. I don’t have sleepless nights over it, but it is a pin prick in the back of my mind. I know that I need to pick things up, or that pin prick might become larger.

To put it bluntly, I need your help financially. I need help putting that cushion back into my ministry account. Having this cushion helps me to minister to students like Jack, and see how God has worked in his life during his years at Pitt. Yes, I will continually need to seek financial help as long as I’m a campus minister, but having a balance to work with frees up my time a bit more.

Working with College students, and seeing God transform them, is a true blessing. It is my ministry. Seeing how God has worked through all of you to provide financially is a true blessing. It is my ministry. I thank you all for that.

As you can see from the chart, we made $3,221 in the month of May; 82% of where we need to be. If you would like to help this ministry, we are always looking for new supporters. This is what makes ministry possible. Now is as important as ever! If God leads you to do so, we would love for you to be a part of this ministry through your giving. I am asking that my current supporters give an extra $5 to $25 on top of their usual giving. This will help to make up the difference and reach my goal.

In every Newsletter, I preach that God has always provided, and he always will. This is something that I not only preach to you, but (like the Gospel) I preach to myself daily. I will say it again, “God will provide. He always has, and He always will.”

Remember that any gift is a good gift. We thank you, and pray that God bless you richly because you have given to advance His kingdom! Please be in prayer that God will continue to build our support team and that we would be faithful in doing our part.

To donate, go to: http://ccojubilee.org/donate/

Moore News

I am happy to say, that the Diamondbacks (Benjamin and Joshua’s Little League team) are in the World Series again for the second straight year! How they got there is quite the story. Going into the playoffs, we were the first seeded team, so we got a first round bye and were automatically in the semifinals. During the semifinals (against the Dodgers), we started out to an early lead of 7-1. The Dodgers soon mounted a comeback, and took the lead of 11-7 going into the final inning. The Dodgers got the first two outs quickly, and things were looking bleak. That did not stop us, however! We started to rally from behind, and soon we were down 11-10 with the bases loaded. Who came up to bat? None other than Benjamin. I can’t think of a higher-pressure situation for him. On the first pitch, he cranks a ball over the left fielder’s head and gets the walk-off double! The team dog-piled him, and he won star of the game! Now he and Josh are in the World Series. I’m not sure how the season will end, but I can tell you that both Joshua and Benjamin have had a tremendous season. I couldn’t be prouder of them!

Speaking of proud parents, all three of the boys had a great school year! Asher was accepted to the gifted program, Joshua was nominated and accepted to the National Youth Leadership Forum, and Benjamin won Student of the Semester in the gifted program! I always got good grades growing up, but never applied myself. Emily always got good grades growing up, but applied herself. I am glad that they got Emily’s work ethic!

We pray that that you are well, and that God is doing amazing things through you. Have a good a relaxing summer!

In Christ,
Andy Moore

January & February 2017 Newsletter

Cornerstone Update
As with every new calendar year, there comes new leadership. This year, however, Cornerstone will be having its smallest leadership team...and I don’t say that as if it’s a bad thing. The thought of supervising a lot or people can seem daunting, so the lesser number will be much easier to manage. This year, I will be in charge of the planning team and the worship team, supervising the team and trying to figure out new ways to organize, facilitate, and worship in our large group fellowship on Wednesdays.

The Planning Team (led by Zack Miller, Nathalie, and Jules Saviola) is responsible for everything a student might encounter from the time they arrive at Cornerstone to the time they leave. This includes facilitating the overall flow and quality of Cornerstone, meeting weekly with staff, working with the worship team on planning center, supporting other AoM’s on Wednesday, coordinating tech, updating the Cornerstone Calendar, and designing creative ways to foster relationships either during or after Cornerstone. They are certainly a busy (and well organized) group.

The Worship team (led by Sophie Cosentino, Sean Justice, and Morgan Medvedz) is dedicated to praising God using the spiritual gifts he has bestowed upon each of us. They forge strong relationships with one another while sharing their love of music and their passion for God with our brothers and sisters in Christ, engaging the congregation in glorious praise. Through worship, they grow deeply not only as friends, musicians, and leaders, but as followers of Christ.

It is an honor getting to serve and help plan the Cornerstone service with the planning team, as well as use my musical gifts (which few know I have) to serve the worship team.

Meet the Students

Read more about one of our students, Nate Flick:

1. What is your favorite childhood memory? My favorite childhood memory was when my grandparents took my parents and I out west when I was 8 years old. We visited Las Vegas in Nevada, the Grand Canyon and Death Valley in Arizona, and ended the trip with LegoLand in California! Being a huge Lego fan, I felt like I died and went to heaven! I also remember staying in a hotel in Vegas with a roller coaster that went around it, and spending one afternoon with my grandmother while bawling my eyes out in fear of my parents going on it!

2. What has been your involvement in Cornerstone? With Cornerstone, I have been involved with several service and outreach events, such as ALIVE with Living Ministry, small volunteer events, and several Bible studies and D-groups. Now that I have assumed a leadership position as part of the C.O.P.S. (Cornerstone Outreach, Prayer, and Service) team, I hope to play a strong role in organizing and helping with all sorts of events, especially those that reach out to other service groups on campus and to those in need. Also, being a prayer leader, I hope to be involved in ways that strengthen the church’s pursuit of meaningful prayer.

3. How has Cornerstone helped you during your years at Pitt?  Originally from the Pocono Mountains in eastern PA, I transferred to Pitt from Bloomsburg University and began my studies, and my involvement with Cornerstone, in the spring of 2016. Having already been a Christian before coming, I knew what to expect, but have still grown in ways that I wouldn’t have imagined. I wouldn’t have thought I would make the friends that I have, and uncover the wisdom that I did, while adjusting to a new lifestyle and handling increasingly difficult academics. Being in Cornerstone has shed more light on following Christ in all areas of life, not just in my career. So far, I have gained the most wisdom in actively pursuing the good of Christ’s Kingdom, and being the one to step out in love for those in need. I hope to be transformed in so many more ways!

Financial Update

God has blessed us recently in the past few months by helping us reach our monthly goal. Now, we are asking for help on a unique way of giving. If you are interested in learning more, please click on the picture below.

Habitat for Humanity Spring Break Trip
As many of you know, I am the adviser for the Pitt Habitat for Humanity. This role has given me the unique opportunity to meet and work with students. One such opportunity is taking part in an amazing Spring Break trip Birmingham to help work on houses. The trip costs $300 per student. The expenses include transportation, housing, and food for the week. If you are able and willing, I’m asking for your support or help to cover trip expenses. If you would like to help support students on this trip, please go to the following website: https://engage.pitt.edu/project/4661.

Moore News

We had a fantastic Christmas (and Emily and I also had great birthdays)! It started when we joined my parents and sister’s family at Beulah Beach. It is always a good time when we get together, especially at Christmas…and especially at Beulah Beach! We spent Christmas day at home in Pittsburgh. It was the fantastic and relaxing break we all needed. Joshua, however, did get a concussion on Christmas Eve, which is never fun.

In other exciting news, Joshua has had the privilege of being nominated by his teachers to participate in the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF): Pathways to STEM, which is to be held in Trenton, NJ on June 26 through June 30.

We whole-heartedly support Josh in this fantastic achievement! This opportunity, however, is a costly venture. Joshua is fundraising $2,500 to be able to attend. This price includes the program as well as traveling, food, and hotel costs.

We know that we cannot afford to send Joshua entirely by ourselves, so we are asking that you consider donating by May 31st, so that he may be able to attend the NYLF program. If interested in donating, please go the following website: goo.gl/eS08Rz.

We Pray that his letter finds you well! Thank you, and God bless!

In Christ,
Andy Moore

November 2016 Newsletter

Cornerstone Update
Quite a lot has happened within the Cornerstone community. First, we had our annual Fall Retreat. Due to some scheduling conflicts, we had to move our retreat from its usual location, Suncrest (a C&MA camp), to the new location of Ligonier Camp and Conference Center. It was a great change of scenery. Sixty students heard John McElwain (the CCO Staff Director for Southwestern Pennsylvania) give three meaningful, memorable, and challenging talks on Scripture. We played various games, grew in community, and ate…a lot. Honestly, it was one of the better Fall Retreats we have had.

Second, we have introduced something new to Cornerstone on Wednesday nights: discussion times and “O” Nights. After every Cornerstone large group, a handful of students get together for a discussion time. Here, students ask questions to the speaker, make their own points, or discuss the talk. At the end of every talk series, we have taken our discussion group to “The Original Hot Dog Shop” (aka The “O”) for “O” Nights. The owner of the “O” (Bruce Simon) as graciously opened the top floor of the “O” for us to provide this Bible Study space, and has also provided food. It has been a fantastic time, and students love it! If you are ever in the Oakland area, give the “O” some of your business as a thank you for ministering to students!

Habitat for Humanity Spring Break Trip
As many of you know from reading past newsletters, I took over as the advisor for Habitat for Humanity two years ago. This role has given me the unique opportunity to meet and work with students. One such opportunity is taking part in a spring break trip to Birmingham, Alabama to help work on houses. I cannot, however, do this alone. The trip costs $400, so I would like for you to prayerfully consider supporting students and me in this endeavor. The expenses include transportation, housing, and food for the week. If you are able and willing, I’m asking for your support to help to cover trip expenses for students and me. I realize that some of you already support me and I am thankful. So, I am asking that you to pray about giving an extra $10-$50 on top of your usual contribution. If you would like to help support me on this trip, please make a separate check out to:

Bellefield Presbyterian Church
Attn: Habitat Trip
4001 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pa 15213

Meet the Students

Meet Will Leisner, a sophomore Mechanical Engineering major from Oaks, PA. Will has been a part of our ministry since orientation week his freshman year. Read more about him:

1. What is your favorite childhood memory? My favorite childhood memory has to be with my grandmom, Nan, and my Grandpop, Captain Bill, when I was 5. My family went down to visit them in Florida for a week over the summer, and one night my twin brother and I were out on the porch with them. Captain Bill turned on the sprinklers and him and Nan tried to convince us to play in the sprinklers…naked! They finally convinced us by telling us it was legal to run through sprinklers naked on Sunday night in Florida!

2. What has been your involvement in Cornerstone? I have been involved in Cornerstone since first semester freshman year. I started sporadically attending in the fall on Wednesday nights and at freshman bible study. Chris Ansell encouraged me to stick with it and he even convinced me to do leadership and the NAOMI spring break trip. Now this year I have been on Freshman Ministry Team as a leader, and I attend prayer team meetings as well!

3. How has Cornerstone helped you during your years at Pitt? Cornerstone has definitely helped me during my time at Pitt. It’s really the first time I've witnessed and been involved in Christian community that is so immersed in and lives out the Gospel. It has helped me to grow in my faith immensely and has equipped me for ministry in the Church Universal. At Cornerstone, I finally realized what loving thy neighbor really looks like!

Financial Update

As you can see from the chart, we made $3,331 for the month of October; 84% of where we need to be. We are so thankful for all of our supporters! The Christmas season is rapidly approaching, and we know that many of you are looking for some place to give financially. If that is the case, we are asking that you prayerfully consider giving to our ministry. Whether it be $10 or $100, any gift is a good gift. It is through your generosity, and willingness to listen to the Holy Spirit, that makes this ministry possible. If you are interested in giving, go to www.ccojubilee.org/donate. We are thankful for what God has done, and will continue to do, through you! Please be in prayer that God will continue to build our support team and that we would be faithful in doing our part.

Moore News

It is the end of the Fall baseball season. Ben and Josh’s team only lost one game, and had a spectacular season! Benjamin became one of the starting pitchers, and led the team in strike outs. He doesn’t have the fastest stuff, but he is very accurate. Joshua got his first taste of kid pitch baseball, and held his own. There were few growing pains here and there for him, but he adjusted nicely. The highlight of his season is when he made a sliding catch in center field. It could have been a web gem! Both Ben and Josh are dynamic baseball players.

Asher finished his art class, and absolutely loved it. He is a gifted drawer, and very creative. He also loves a good story, and has found numerous outlets for that as well. I was fairly artsy growing up, so it’s awesome to see one of my sons be so as well. We are very proud of all three of my boys!

In other fun news, Benjamin entered an art contest for Attorney Edgar Snyder and won! The theme of the contest was “My Holiday Wish.” Ben wrote that his holiday wish was, “That the world will be reunited as friends. To me, there is no world without love.” The drawing consists three pictures of The United States, France, and Italy uniting as friends. Ben won $250, $1000 for his school, and his picture and drawing will be on a local billboard! We are extremely proud of him! As Emily said when she posted the picture on facebook, “Nearing the end of a harrowing political season, God is showing me that there is always hope. Especially if our younger generations are thinking such great thoughts.”

We thank you for taking the time to read this newsletter, and pray that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

In Christ,
Andy Moore