Dear Friends & Family:
I hope this letter finds you well and filled with joy. I am writing to share some exciting news with you all—a significant shift in my life’s journey that I believe is guided by faith and purpose.
After much prayer, reflection, and consideration, I have decided to embark on a new chapter of my life. For years, I have felt a deep calling to utilize the gifts that God has bestowed upon me in a more profound and impactful way. It is with immense gratitude and excitement that I announce my transition from being a full-time entrepreneur and business owner to stewarding over a new endeavor: Estuary Ministries. This decision has not been made lightly, but rather through a discernment process filled with faith and trust in God’s plan for me.
Estuary Ministries is a 501(c)(3) organization that will allow me to serve others in a more meaningful capacity, utilizing my skills and resources to make a positive difference in the lives of those in need. Estuary Ministries operates with a board-run structure, ensuring transparency, accountability, and wise stewardship of resources. Our dedicated board members bring diverse expertise and a shared commitment to guiding the organization towards its mission of empowering others through entrepreneurship and to follow Christ in all of life, which includes business.
I am filled with a sense of purpose and enthusiasm as I embark on this new journey. While entrepreneurship has been a fulfilling path, I believe that God is now leading me towards a deeper calling—one that involves serving and uplifting others in their entrepreneurship journey.
I understand that this transition may come as a surprise to some of you, but I assure you that it is a decision made with careful consideration and faith. I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and encouragement that you have always provided me with, and I humbly ask for your continued prayers for myself and my family, as we make the necessary changes required to focus full-time on this new venture.
As I transition into this new role, I am reminded of the importance of community and the power of faith. I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you, and I look forward to sharing this journey with you all.
Additionally, I want to share that as part of this transition, I have made the decision that all the business ventures I have an interest in or currently own and operate will now contribute directly to Estuary Ministries. By doing so, I am aligning all aspects of my life, my life’s work to date and my personal finances with the vision of helping others in entrepreneurship. This strategic decision reflects my commitment to channeling resources towards meaningful causes and maximizing the impact of our collective efforts in serving others.
Furthermore, I am excited to announce that I will be starting a local group here in Acadiana, guided by the model of Faith Driven Entrepreneurs and under the mentorship of Share Hope International. This group will serve as a platform for like-minded individuals to come together, share experiences, and support one another in their entrepreneurial journeys. If you are interested in joining us or contributing in any way, whether through financial means or other forms of support, your participation would be deeply appreciated. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and advance Kingdom work.
Thank you for your love, support, and understanding. May God’s grace continue to guide us all as we embark on new beginnings and adventures.
With love and gratitude,
– Eric Smith