Spreading the dream

"When I was a little girl," recalls Rebecca St. James, "I wanted to have a home for the poor in inner-city Sydney so they could get washed up, have a meal and a bed, and pay little or nothing for it.

"I especially wanted to help needy children. Compassion is a way I can fulfill that dream and spread that dream to others.

"I saw Compassion's work firsthand when I went to Calcutta, India. In Calcutta I was able to visit Anusha, the child I sponsored.

"The whole family shared one bed. They didn't have much, but they took delight in what they had. And Anusha was thrilled that I sponsored her. Our visit to her house really sums up what Compassion is about.

"The defining moment came when her mother asked if she could pray for me and ask God's blessing on my singing. The gratitude and grace of Anusha and her family were a response, in part, to how Compassion was affecting their lives.

"Sponsorship not only affected Anusha and her family, but also her community. When I visited Calcutta Immanuel School in the neighborhood, the children had prepared a performance for us and sang Christian songs in English. I sensed that these kids had a hope, a future and a purpose for living.

"My involvement with Compassion has expanded my worldview. It also expands the worldview of those who come to my concerts. Compassion offers a practical way to share the love of Jesus with some very precious children."