May is a month of celebrations, including events such as graduations and weddings. Most recently, we observed Mother’s Day. This day can be so sweet as we reflect on our mothers who loved us in many wonderful ways. Or, it can cause great sadness to those who want to be, but are not able to be a mom; to those who have lost a dear mom; or to those who have had a mom who has caused much turmoil and sorrow in their life. Many of the guests at The Journey Home fit into this last heartbreaking group.

However, they are not hopeless. They are learning about God’s love for them and great healing is taking place. The staff is seeking to model a kind and caring female figure to them. I received a sweet text on Mother’s Day from one of these guests, who has a difficult relationship with her mom, which said, “I hope you have a fantastic Mother’s Day. I feel like you’re my spiritual mother”. Not only did this warm my heart, but it encouraged me that what we are doing at TJH is making a huge difference as we help people to heal and pass on God’s love to the next generation as they truly love their children.

Two weeks ago, the kids from the “Dig In” ministry at Mineral Baptist Church blessed our guests with $700.60 they had collected since January towards making an area in the kitchen for the kids to sit and do puzzles, crafts, read, color and play while the moms are cooking and cleaning up. We are so grateful for the way they showed God’s love to our guests. It was so fun to have the kids come for the evening to present their check.

Thank you for the many ways your fervent prayers, commitment of time, and sacrificial gifts are enabling TJH to impact lives now and for the future. We can’t do what we do without you. God continues to provide for our needs through His grace and His work though you. Please join us August 24, 2024, to hear testimonies from some of our guests about the difference you are making in their lives. A flier is attached with the details and you can begin making reservations on June 1st. You might want to consider sponsoring a table so that you can invite others to learn about the amazing things God is doing at TJH.

We are thrilled to give you an update on our Matching Grant Campaign that we began in February. Our goal is to raise $40,000 by the August Banquet to match a $40,000 pledged grant that we already have secured. Currently, TJH has received $20,026 towards the Match. Praise God. That means every dollar donated to this campaign will be doubled! If you would like to contribute to the Match, please designate your gift for this purpose. If mailing a check, you can write “Capital Campaign Match” in the memo line. Or, if giving online at our website, you can choose the dropdown menu during checkout to designate your gift.

Praises:

  • For the growth in their faith and in their independence that many guests are experiencing.
  • For the provision of a vehicle for a guest through our partnership with Giving Words.
  • For the generosity of many who contributed to our Matching Gift Challenge.
  • 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 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 and jobs for our guests.
  • For God to give us discernment regarding applicants. Several are in the process.
  • For God’s provision as we work towards paying off the remaining debt.
  • 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.

 

Blessings,

Debby Read, RN
Executive Director
The Journey Home