This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:10-11

The Journey Home Annual Banquet was a great success. We are so thankful for the many people who made the evening possible – especially the planning committee, the many volunteers, those who donated a basket to the Silent auction and those who invested their time in attending the event. God truly blessed the evening.

Because of your amazing generosity, we raised nearly $24,000! But more importantly, over 240 people came to hear what God has done and continues to do at TJH. Sweet fellowship was enjoyed with faithful supporters and connections were made with new friends of TJH. We hope those of you who came enjoyed the meal, the fellowship, the auction items, and the update on TJH ministry. For those of you unable to attend, we missed you being with us and want to share a few highlights with you.

Several of our guests shared their experiences at TJH. These stories came from hearts very grateful for your investment in their lives. K shared, “After being accepted and moving in, I finally felt like hope was flowing back into my life. With the amazing resources, support team and love, I was ready to pick up the broken pieces around me. The classes, requirements and prayers surrounding me were exactly what I needed to believe in myself again. And to follow my spiritual path that has been needed to be followed for some time now. I am very grateful for Debby, Karen, Logan, Jen and Cindy for being by my side in this healing process. I also want to thank everyone who supports TJH to keep it running. It is more than needed for a family like mine to know there is a safe place to grow and rebuild.”

Another guest was out of town, but asked that her words be read at the banquet. She wrote, “After reaching out and going thru the application process we were all set to move in April 28th. That was the day our lives changed. I was nervous about being on my own and starting over at 46, it was a scary new beginning. Debby and her loving staff welcomed me and my girls with open arms and did everything to make this transition as comfortable as possible. Within these past few months of being here I can see the change in myself and my girls. We have a peace that surrounds us like never before. This program is amazing as long as you are willing to put the work in to make that change. The support and love we are surrounded by daily has shifted something in us from merely surviving, to living and growing as we build ourselves and grow closer to God. It has given me time to heal and work on things in myself that I wasn’t able to while in survival mode. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

I hope these words have encouraged you. Your investment in the lives of these families is indeed life changing. Thank you for joining us in God’s work as He transitions their lives from barely surviving to truly thriving. Thank you for partnering with us in showing God’s love to individuals and families at TJH.

Praises:

· For the faith of our guests that is flourishing as they experience God’s love.

· For the blessing of joining with you in God’s work as families and individuals rebuild their lives.

· For TJH staff and volunteers and for their commitment to the ministry.

· For TJH Board and for their spiritual leadership.

· For our faithful supporters of TJH.

· For the continued partnership in ministry with our community.

· For the successful Annual Banquet.

Prayer Requests:

· For wisdom as we seek God’s leading in helping our guests flourish.

· For our newest guests as they adjust to TJH and make decisions for their next steps in life.

· For relationships among guests and staff to be loving and God focused.

· For our new families who have many barriers to face in rebuilding their lives.

· For God’s provision of vehicles, jobs, and childcare for our guests.

· For God to give us discernment in selecting new applicants.

· For us to be an example of Jesus as we love and encourage our families and point them to Him.

· For new churches and individuals to join in financial and prayer support of TJH.

Thankful for God’s amazing love,

Debby

Debby Read, RN

Executive Director

The Journey Home