January, 2001 newsletter

Contact! President’s column

By Jim McConnell, President, Pilots for Christ International

In case you are wondering about the word, "Contact," heading this edition of our newsletter, let me explain. Back in the days before aircraft had electrical systems, aircraft engines were started by "hand propping." The ground crewman would pull the prop through several times, with the switch off, to prime the cylinders. The pilot would then call, "Contact!" and turn the switch on. This would be the last command, because with the next swing of the prop, the engine would start and the flight would begin. I believe that expresses where PCI is today. We are starting our engine and are ready to fly for the Lord.

Last January, when I accepted the position of President, PCI was not in good condition. We were broke, in debt, and some wondered whether PCI would survive. In prayer, I told the Lord three things: I was looking to Him to save PCI, I would not ask anyone for money and finally, we would go wherever He led. Thanks to the Lord, PCI is out of debt, we have some money in the bank, our membership is growing and new ministries are opening up in South America, Asia, Africa and the USA. There is also a very exciting ministry that everyone in PCI can participate in to become a part of the Lord’s outreach to the hurting and desperate.

We often get calls for air transportation from people in need located in areas where we don’t have a chapter. You can be part of the solution and help someone in need. Bill Starrs, PCI founder, has written an article appearing elsewhere in this newsletter. Read it and if you’re interested in mercy flights in your area as pilot or non-flying organizer, send me your name, email address (if you have one) and phone number. If you fly and have access to an aircraft, I need your aircraft type and how far you can transport someone for the Lord.

Next article: A matter for prayer

January 2001 Contents