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Faith Connections February 6, 2009

February 6, 2009

Dear Friends,

We received the sad news this week that Gelsomina Jenkins, dedicated friend of IPM, and spouse of Derek Jenkins, has died after a recent attack of pneumonia. Derek expressed his gratitude to me that between recent attacks of pneumonia, Gelsomina was able to celebrate Christmas and the New Year at home with those she loved. A Memorial Service in her honor will be held in England on February 11^th.

Gelsomina and Derek have been involved with IPM for many years, and Derek is one of IPM’s longest standing Partners. He served as a missionary for more than 15 years in India at the Trust Hospital and Mary Jenkins Hospice Center (Nagercoil, INDIA), and has been deeply involved with the Project and with IPM ever since. Donations in Gelsomina’s honor will be earmarked for our Partners in Nagercoil.

I had the opportunity to visit several times with Derek and Gelsomina at their home in England with members of my family, Doctor Vimala Charles from the Trust Hospital, and other England-based friends of IPM. I feel particularly blessed to have been able to spend time with Gelsomina, watching her light up as we spoke in her native Italian, even as she suffered from memory loss late in her life.

Please join us in praying both in thanksgiving for the spirit and light that Gelsomina shared with IPM and the world during her life, and in consolation for her family and friends. We pray that the strength of our ever-growing IPM Family may provide comfort and support to Derek and Gelsomina’s family and all those who are mourning her loss. Che riposi in pace (May she rest in peace).