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Every year at Christmastime, we partner with a ministry to support their mission to make Christ known, "far as the curse is found!" This year we are partnering with Pastor Gabriel and Christ International Ministries to help rebuild one of their community orphanages in Central Africa.

Meet the Salo Family and Our Journey with Christ International Ministry

As the Christmas season approaches, we want to take a moment to introduce our family and share a story that has been deeply meaningful to us over the past decade. We are the Salo family — I'm Ben, and I’ve had the privilege of being married to my incredible wife, Mariya, for nearly 19 years. Together, we’ve been blessed with five amazing children: Ella (17), Lucy (15), Elijah (13), Ruby (11), and Silas (9). For over 16 years, we have been members of Coram Deo Church, where I’ve had the honor of serving as a deacon of finance for over 10 years. But it is through our connection with Pastor Gabriel and Christ International Ministry (CIM) that our passion for adoption, orphan care, and the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has truly taken root.

Our Journey with CIM

Our relationship with CIM began in 2012 when we had the profound privilege of adopting our son Elijah from the DRC. Pastor Gabriel played a key role in our adoption journey, helping us navigate the often complex and challenging process to bring Elijah home. His unwavering support and dedication to our family during that time were
nothing short of a blessing, and we will forever be grateful for his guidance. That experience didn’t just change our family forever with the adoption of our son—it also deepened our commitment to the work that Pastor Gabriel and CIM are doing in Central Africa. The blessing we saw in our own lives through adoption has fueled our passion for orphan care and for the mission of Christ International Ministry. CIM plays a vital role in providing support to orphans, training pastors, and planting churches
throughout the region.

Our Role with CIM Today

Since our adoption, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the director of finance on the board of CIM. Working alongside Pastor Gabriel and the passionate team of pastors
and staff who serve with him, I’ve seen firsthand the powerful impact that CIM is having in Central Africa. From providing education, shelter, and care for orphans to equipping local pastors to spread the gospel, this ministry is truly changing lives. One of the most humbling parts of our journey has been witnessing the impact of our collective efforts. Through CIM’s work, many children in the DRC now have access to a future full of hope, and churches are being planted that will spread the message of Christ to new generations.

A Christmas Invitation to Help

This Christmas, we are reaching out to you to join us in supporting the ministry of CIM. Your financial contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of children and communities in Central Africa. Whether you choose to give a one-time gift or commit to a monthly donation, your support will help provide essential items for one of CIM’s orphanages, which recently suffered a devastating fire. Funds will go towards replacing vital supplies such as furniture, bedding, clothing, and kitchen appliances. Every donation, no matter the size, helps provide hope for those who need it most. We believe that God works through His people, and your generosity can make an eternal difference in the lives of those we serve.

How You Can Help - DONATE NOW

In addition to your financial support, we ask for your prayers. Please join us in praying for:

• The people of the DRC and surrounding countries, that their hearts would be
  open to the gospel.

• The leaders being trained through CIM, that they would grow in wisdom and faith.

• The orphans we care for, that they would experience good health, safety, and the
  love of Jesus.

Your prayers and contributions will help continue the work that God is doing through CIM in Central Africa.

A Blessed Christmas

As we reflect on the gift of Jesus this Christmas season, we are filled with gratitude for His love and for the opportunity to serve others in His name. We thank you for being part of our journey and for your continued support of CIM. Together, we can make a lasting impact in the lives of many children and families in the DRC and beyond. Wishing you all a blessed Christmas season, filled with peace, love, and joy.
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In Christ,
The Salo Family

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