[Episcopal News Service] Andy Russell from the Diocese of Southern Virginia has served as a Young Adult Service Corps (YASC) volunteer in the Diocese of Central Tanganyika, Tanzania, where he supported the diocesan communications efforts and the Carpenter’s Kids orphan support program.

The experience, Russell says, has helped him to grow and expand his outlook on life. “It’s all about relationships, walking together, building community, being a global family united by Christ,” he says. “One of the great things about YASC is that I feel like I have been really contributing to God’s mission.”

Bishop Dickson Chilongani of Central Tanganyika says it is his hope and prayer that the partnership between his diocese and the U.S.-based Episcopal Church will continue to grow from strength to strength.

“Partnership is about sharing our resources, sharing our experiences, and sharing everything that we have for the growth of the kingdom,” he says. “That is why this partnership is essential.”

Applications are open for 2017-2018 placements in the Young Adult Service Corps, with additional information and instructions available here. The application deadline is Jan. 6, 2017.

Currently, YASCers are serving throughout the Anglican Communion, working alongside partners in administration, agriculture, communication, development and education. Among possible placements for 2017-2018 are Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, England, France, Ghana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Japan, Jerusalem, Mexico, Panama, Philippines, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan and Tanzania.

“The Young Adult Service Corps offers young adults the opportunity to live out their faith in new ways and different contexts,” said Elizabeth Boe, global networking officer for the Episcopal Church. “They commit to spending a year learning from and working, living, and praying with other Episcopal and Anglican communities around the world.”

For more information contact Grace Flint, Episcopal Church staff officer for YASC programming, at gflint@episcopalchurch.org.