We ought to thank God always for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith flourishes more and more and the love of each one of you all for one another is ever greater. 2 Thessalonians 1:3

Please join us in celebrating a big accomplishment this month. You are a big part of this achievement and we want to applaud this occasion with you. One of TJH guests just graduated. She has achieved so much during her time with us. We thank God for your prayers and your gifts that make it possible to help individuals and families like this one move from hopelessness to healing. From dependence to interdependence. From brokenness to becoming whole.

J arrived 15 months ago with two daughters (one who arrived with her and one whom she has shared custody) and some clothes and toys. She was coming out of a toxic environment with significant anxiety resulting from her trauma. Once she had a stable living situation and no longer had food insecurity, she was able to begin to heal. As she began to trust us through her budgeting, life coaching, parenting and Bible study classes, as well as through daily positive interactions, J began to thrive and not just survive. She became involved in TJH community, began to show her wonderful sense of humor, and often said “I love you” to other guests and staff.

She worked hard and was able to secure her first car, stable childcare, and complete a phlebotomy course through a Learn to Earn program that she qualified for. She is currently working at UVA hospital after receiving her certification. J has grown in her faith and trust in God in amazing ways. When she recently experienced car trouble and the possible expense of repairs, she stated “I am not going to get anxious like I used to, but instead remind myself to seek God because He has got it! I have learned in my budgeting class to put aside emergency funds, so I am ok.”

J and her family have flourished at TJH in so many ways. As she was doing her exit paperwork, J shared that her time at TJH has brought her closer to God through the Bible studies, devotions and interactions with staff and volunteers. She also said she has learned life skills that have prepared her to be on her own now. This family is grateful for your investment in them. The faith and love you have shown have enhanced the ability of this family to flourish in their own faith and love.

Thank you for your faithful commitment to TJH. We are so grateful for the blessing of joining with you in God’s work as He transforms lives.

Please mark your calendars for upcoming opportunities to bless TJH. The Annual Yard Sale that benefits TJH will be hosted by Louisa Baptist Church on June 14th. We appreciate you thinking of TJH as you do your Spring cleaning. More information will be coming soon about when to donate items and when the yard sale will be open for bargain shopping. Note the date for TJH Annual Banquet is Saturday, August 23rd. We are really looking forward to the fellowship and to updating you on God’s amazing work at the home.

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.

Prayer requests

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

· 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 a vehicle, jobs, and childcare for our guests.

· For God to give us discernment regarding applicants. Several are in the

process.

· 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 your growing faith and love,

Debby

Debby Read
Executive Director
The Journey Home