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You pull up to the gas pump and at first glance 1.05 looks too good to be true.  But then you realize you're looking at 1.05 euros per liter (approximately one quart).  You quickly do the math to convert to dollars and gallons and what do you get?  Just over $6 per gallon!

You've seen the news.  The dollar is hitting new lows.  In fact, in New York City, stores are happy to deal in euros rather than dollars because they're worth significantly more! 

In North America, we see the effects of the weak dollar on imports like gasoline.  But missionaries overseas feel the impact every time they pay a bill or make a purchase.

Combine the weak dollar with rising inflation, and you have a recipe for disaster.  Missionaries are receiving consistent support from U.S. donors, but their purchasing power is eroding.  For example, last year missionaries in Spain suffered the equivalent of a 10.5% pay cut because of the weak dollar, while their costs rose 2.4%.  In Brazil, it was as if missionaries took a 22% pay cut, and costs went up 4.5%.

For our missionaries around the world the situation is becoming critical.  Here are some of the things they are saying:

"Our buying power has decreased by about 50% while prices go up and up.  It has made it necessary to use savings and sale of assets to make ends meet."

"You sometimes just can't help going into debt because no matter how much you economize it still costs more than the money you have coming in."

We cannot leave these servants of God stranded in grim circumstances caused by the state of the world's economy, over which they have no control.  These missionaries need our help, now.  We must give them an economic reprieve.

Therefore, if a missionary you support has indicated a need, please, step up and help them.  Most missionaries understate their situations.  Whether you wish to give a one-time gift or increase your monthly support, you can let your missionary know you are responding specifically to this economic predicament.

Or, better yet, I urge you to send a gift to our "Missionary Economic Reprieve Fund."  Your gift will make an immediate difference for missionaries and families who are hurting most. 

The long, progressive erosion of the dollar has simply reached the critical stage. Please, prayerfully consider what you can do for these missionaries on the brink.