Bittersweet

If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

1 Corinthians 12:26

I’m writing to you today with both bittersweet and exciting news. Bittersweet, because after graduating from Rice University and marrying my college sweetheart I joined Cru, formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ. Melanie and I served 24 years making Christ-centered disciples on the continents of North America and Africa. Returning to the United States after 12 years away, I shared with people that I wasn’t here during President Obama’s administration or President Trump’s administration, the spiritual landscape of my home country was different. After a sabbatical year, Melanie and I worked 18 months in the innovative space of Cru City.  These two and a half years allowed us time to seek God in what He would have us do next. With the Lord’s prompting, Melanie and I are excited about our next faith steps with God. We have resigned from our roles as full-time staff with Cru City effective September 1, 2024. Our goal is to remain as an affiliate staff to continue to strategically partner with Cru to impact communities.

While I’m deeply grateful for what I’ve learned at Cru and the incredible ministry accomplished during my time from Rice University to the University of Cape Town, we are passionate about the impact we will make in the Houston area through our new Christian nonprofit, Batho Pele Resource Center (BPRC).

Batho Pele is a Sesotho expression that means “people first”. It champions both the person and groups of persons by virtue of an interconnectedness. In the spirit of hope and innovation, BPRC forges connections by linking underserved communities to essential resources. Our mission is to empower, equip, and enrich lives, creating a tapestry of resilience and potential through the transforming power of the Gospel. Our vision is to develop underserved communities into Great Commission communities that draw people to Christ. Thank you for supporting us with Cru. Melanie and I are transforming underserved communities into Great Commission communities, which aligns with our foundation of evangelism and discipleship. If you would like to continue receiving our “Best Times” updates or have any questions about giving to BPRC please use our details below to contact us.

Sincerely,

Leon Best

leon.best@bathopelecu.org