Be the Light that Shines in the Darkness A Special Note for UMHEF Supporters

United Methodist Higher Education Foundation multi-year scholarship recipient, Claire Amey, shares a special message with supporters as the end of another year approaches.

Dear Friend,

Advent is a season of waiting, hope, and holy surprises. It reminds us that God often shows up in the unexpected, and we are called to do the same.

Since 2019, when I started my bachelor’s in religion with a distinction in poverty studies at Birmingham-Southern College, I’ve been supported in ways I never expected. Over these years, support from United Methodist Higher Education Foundation scholarships has been a constant, helping me pursue my dream of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor and a United Methodist deacon.

Thanks to generous donors like you, I’m now in my third year at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, pursuing a Master’s in Pastoral Care and Counseling. My studies at Garrett bridge clinical training with spiritual care, something deeply needed in today’s world. Recently, I gained invaluable experience as a crisis and intervention therapy intern at Our Resilience Chicago, where I worked with survivors throughout the Chicago area, sitting with people in their pain and offering compassion. Unpaid internships like that are only possible because of people like you, and I am incredibly grateful.

UMHEF scholarships help students like me say “yes” to opportunities that make a real impact on our lives and the lives of those we serve. Your support isn’t just helping me and other students pay tuition, it’s an investment in churches, in communities, and in compassionate, theologically grounded leaders.

The generosity of UMHEF donors has made my journey possible—not just financially, but personally and spiritually. Knowing that people I’ve never met have invested in my call and my future is both humbling and motivating. I don’t take that lightly. It feels like a sacred trust to carry the light forward and to show up beyond what is expected.

UMHEF invites you to consider a year-end gift. Invest in the call and future of over 700 Methodist students each year whose faith and learning will illuminate the world through service and leadership in Christ’s name.

In the season of Advent, when we look for the light that shines in the darkness, you can help that light shine even brighter. May this holiday season bring unexpected blessings to you and yours.

Thank you,

Claire Amey