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What is SAMP?
Support A Mission Priest (SAMP) is a development program of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center that offers monthly financial assistance to indigenous priests in extremely poor areas around the world. Through SAMP donations, the priest is able to apply himself more fully to the needs of the parish and hierarchs are able to ordain more clergy to meet the growing needs of their flock.
Who are SAMP Priests?
As of 2008, SAMP supports 318 clergy in 18 countries. SAMP priests follow in the footsteps of the Apostles, spreading the message of Christ’s love to areas of the world where people hunger for the peace and truth of the Orthodox Faith. Many priests are responsible for several communities as the Church is growing faster than clergy can be trained. Since buses are very costly, travel among the communities is accomplished mainly by foot or bicycle. It is an arduous life; one dedicated to sharing the Good News of Christ with all people.
Why SAMP?
SAMP makes it possible for us to help our brothers and sisters around the world who are spreading the Gospel. Your donation to the SAMP Program will provide the basic needs of the recipients and their families as they nurture the growing number of Orthodox communities in these poorer areas of the world. By connecting donors in North America with mission priests abroad, indigenous leaders know that other Orthodox Christians are beside them in their ministry. This solidarity is the essence of the SAMP Program.
How does SAMP Work?
Individuals or groups in the United States and Canada pledge to give $600.00 annually to support a priest, deacon, or catechist. Donations will be forwarded to one of the 18 countries OCMC is serving through the SAMP Program. Partial-year donations are gratefully appreciated as well. Those who choose to make a $600 commitment may make donations on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis. Those who support a priest for a full year will receive a picture and biography of the priest and his family which includes information about his calling to the Orthodox faith and the status of Orthodoxy in his country.
Where is SAMP?
The countries of Argentina, Benin, Brazil, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Nigeria, Philippines, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe are presently receiving SAMP assistance on a monthly basis.
How Can I Get Involved?
Click here to make a prayerful commitment to SAMP and participate in bringing the Gospel to far-away countries where people still hunger and thirst to hear the Good News. If you would like more information, call us at 1-877-463-6784 or e-mail samp@ocmc.org.
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