So I haven't been very good about keeping up with my blog this summer. Sorry. I don't have really any very good excuse either. But there's someone I met this summer, a true friend. I've been wanting to share his story, but haven't done so.
At the benefit concert we had last week for Rising Hope he gave a testimony to how the church has impacted his life. I figured, who better than to have him tell it:
"Hello to everyone and God Bless all of you. My name is Dwayne. I look around and see that a lot of you don’t know me! But then I look around again and see my friends from Rising Hope and it gives me the strength and faith to do this.
Pastor Keary asked me if I would like to say a few things that I like or love about my Church, Rising Hope. There are more than a few things that I love about Rising Hope. And it’s my honor to tell you about them.
When I was homeless I didn’t know what to do. So, I went and slept in the woods on Richmond Highway, Route 1. I didn’t become homeless because of Drugs, Alcohol, or mental problems. It just happened. There’s a stigma about homeless people having one of the problems that I just mentioned. But it’s not always true.
I met a lot of homeless people like myself and all they could talk about was a Church called Rising Hope. When they told me about the Hypothermia Program there, I didn’t go! I didn’t go because I was ashamed of being homeless. They went - I stayed in the woods.
It started getting colder and they kept telling me, “No one there will judge you about your homelessness.” So, I swallowed the little bit of pride I had left and went there with them. I stood outside in line and waited to get inside.
There’s only room for 25 people and I was one of the luck ones to get in that night. But for the people that didn’t get in, Rising Hope called other shelters and tried to find places for them to go.
Getting into Rising Hope that night changed my life. There were two women there named Ollie and Sherry who are still friends of mine. I will never forget the first time there I was asked to sign a paper saying that I would treat Rising Hope and all of the people in it with respect. I did, I still do to this day, and I always will.
That first night, once we were all inside and had settled down there was a prayer said for all of us that were there and for all of those who weren’t. Another prayer was said for the food and for the Church volunteers that provided us with it. I was amazed at what happened next: A HOT MEAL! Then afterwards we got to watch a MOVIE!
We all know we take simple things for granted like turning on a switch and getting light. Twisting a knob and getting hot water to take a shower. Having the electricity to watch a movie. We need to step back and think about these kinds of things and the people that don’t have them.
I came back to Rising Hope every night until the Hypothermia Program closed. I felt safe there. I felt love there. I felt that Rising Hope cared about me and when you have no one else, that’s a good feeling.
I continued coming to Rising Hope after the Hypothermia program closed. I found my housing through the Church and New Hope Housing – which is a great organization that I am still a part of today.
Thank God for the things that Rising Hope does for everyone up and down the Route One Corridor and all over. It’s unbelievable. I will never be able to pay Rising Hope back for what they have done for me. There are many other people that feel the same way.
I wake up every morning and look forward to going to Rising Hope as much as I can. Not just to volunteer however I can, but also just to feel the warmth inside the Church.
Rising Hope is a non-profit Church and we survive on donations and volunteers. If there is any way you can help us we would truly appreciate it. I hate to think of a day when I would go to Rising Hope and the doors would no longer be open. It would affect so many people in a negative way.
I want to thank Ms. Venisa for her daily prayer services. She takes from the Bible and breaks it down so we all can understand what she’s saying. I also want to thank Ms. Deborah, who always has the time and dedication to listen to everyone and help them on the path they are seeking. And to Ms. Jennifer who always looks out for the needs of the homeless with a great passion. I also want to say a prayer for Linda and the work that she does in the Food Pantry. And for Marilyn whose Journey is taking her to a righteous path of Youth Ministry. Also, I want to pray for Bekah who is an intern at Rising Hope and for all the good things she does. Please pray for Pastor Keary for the strength, wisdom and faith to continue to do the great things that he does.
Now, I would like all the staff and volunteers from Rising Hope to stand up and be recognized for all the good they do for our Church. Let’s give them a hand!
Rising Hope not only provides spiritual healing, it also provides food for the hungry; clothes for those that need them; and true friendship to all those who walk through their doors. I love Rising Hope and what it stands for. Please don’t let this church fail. Thank you for letting me tell you my story and share how much I care about my church. Everyone here should know that everything I have said tonight has come from my heart!
Now, I hope you understand why my church is called Rising HOPE!"
What Dwayne didn't share in his speech is how much he does for Rising Hope. This summer the church's custodian had an injury. So, Dwayne took on the position and he was there everyday before and after his shift, volunteering at least as much time as he was on the clock. The custodian has returned to work and Dwayne still comes most everyday, ready to lend a helping hand wherever needed.
I misplaced my water bottle this past weekend. After it'd been missing a couple days I asked him if he'd seen it around the office. He hadn't. I came into work on Tuesday morning and there was a plastic bag sitting on my desk with my name across it. I opened it up and inside there was a brand new water bottle, much like the one I'd lost. (I found my water bottle that day, but I don't have the heart to tell him). For someone who lives dollar to dollar, who is still in a housing program after being homeless, buying a gift like a new water bottle is very generous and heart felt.
There is more to Dwayne's story than he shared. He was in a horrible state when he first came to Rising Hope. And as I think about where he was to where he's come, I am astounded. God's work is powerful, and He's used Rising Hope to touch this man's life (and the lives of many others) in meaningful ways.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
what do i do?
It has occurred to me that over both last summer and this one I talked very little about what I was actually doing here at Rising Hope.
So, I guess I'll share a little...
This summer we've been out a children's coordinator - which is primarily where I worked last summer - so I've been doing that again. Currently we are doing "Camp Rising Hope" which is a week long day camp for kids from our church and those we minister to. Another UM church in the area puts this program on. For the past fourteen years we've had this partnership going. From our end, we just coordinate and organize the children and take care of some transportation. But it's still great to see how much the kids - who usually wouldn't have such an opportunity - get out of it.
Today I was talking to the mother of Miguel and Stephanie while they were being picked up. I asked her how they had enjoyed their first day. She lit up when she told me how much fun her children had the day before. They'd never been to any type of camp before and coming home they were asking, "When do we get to go again? Can we go back next year?"
We also are getting ready for Vacation Bible School - like every church. We have probably forty kids signed up so far, and we'll surely get more! We average between 4 and 6 children in Sunday School each week at church - so to get so many children signed up for the program is amazing! It's a lot to put together, but it'll be great!
Speaking of Sunday School, I teach that each week, too!
Sometimes, a little lift me up is just what I need when I'm feeling stressed out with work. Well leave it to one of the characters at Rising Hope to encourage me... he said, "I like you. You're my buddy. Them kids, they like you, too. Kids are innocent. They know a good people when they see one. And they crazy about you!"
Working with the children is such a joy! But they're just a part of my job...
For the second year in a row we're having a big benefit concert for Rising Hope. Jeff Majors, a gospel/jazz artist is doing a National Tour for the Homeless, and he's doing a concert for us! It's a huge fundraiser for our church. The tickets are free with a donation of one can of food, and then we'll take a love offering at the performance to raise money. We also have a number of churches, businesses, and individuals who sponsor it. It's a chance for the community to come out and support our ministry, but it's also a chance to honor those whom we serve. The homeless and sponsors alike receive reserved seating. In the hustle and bustle of concert season, I get to be in charge of handing out tickets, contacting the sponsors, and putting together the program... it's a lot of work. But it'll be great.
One thing I love participating in at Rising Hope is the choir. It's not like any choir I've ever sung in, but we have a blast! Every Tuesday night is rehearsal, and although it makes Tuesday a 12 to 13 hour day at the church, it's well worth it. Our choir is actually opening for Jeff Majors at the concert! :)
So, that's a lot of what I'm up to. And, being the intern... And being a 20-year-old... I do a lot of errand running and copy making and random task performing. There's never a lack for something to fill my time!
My favorite part of the week is noon prayer service. I'm sure you remember me talking about it last year. Everyday at noon we hold a service. We usually have a song and a small lesson or a devotional, and then we share and pray together. I have the joy of leading this service once a week or so - usually on Fridays. This is one of the ways I really get to know our people. This is where they share their struggles and their heartaches. This is where they bring their triumphs and their praises. This is where we worship together, pray together, visit together... it's our family time.
Last Friday was humbling... I was taking prayer requests... for death in families, a young couple had a miscarriage, an older couple's health wasn't doing well, someone couldn't get the medication they needed, a nephew was lying to try to get a job, someone was injured and couldn't work, someone was dealing with depression, people are locked up or in drug situations, people are struggling with homelessness and addictions, people are searching for jobs and praying for interviews, people are seeking to be closer to God - and these were just Friday's prayers. As I'm finishing up writing these all down, one more hand raised...
"...And I'd like to say a prayer for you. You know, God's using you. I'd like to pray that you continue to allow Him to use you and work in your life..."
...these people are at Rising Hope because they need some extra support, they need a hot lunch, or some clothes on their back, food for the week, financial support, recovery from addiction, or spiritual restitution... yet in the midst of all of their problems they lift me up.
Today in prayer, I witnessed something beautiful. A recovering crack cocaine addict, who suffers from depression, mental illness and permanent damage from drug use, and who seeks restored relationships with her family members... she felt led to pray for another woman there who is still consumed in alcoholism to the point that she previously chose imprisonment over a half-way house... That prayer was powerful. It was real and heartfelt, filled with understanding and hope...
What do I do at Rising Hope?
Sure, a little office work and coordinating... a little praying and singing, too...
mostly, I get to witness God working through his people - broken though they may be - as they seek to minister to each other.
So, I guess I'll share a little...
This summer we've been out a children's coordinator - which is primarily where I worked last summer - so I've been doing that again. Currently we are doing "Camp Rising Hope" which is a week long day camp for kids from our church and those we minister to. Another UM church in the area puts this program on. For the past fourteen years we've had this partnership going. From our end, we just coordinate and organize the children and take care of some transportation. But it's still great to see how much the kids - who usually wouldn't have such an opportunity - get out of it.
Today I was talking to the mother of Miguel and Stephanie while they were being picked up. I asked her how they had enjoyed their first day. She lit up when she told me how much fun her children had the day before. They'd never been to any type of camp before and coming home they were asking, "When do we get to go again? Can we go back next year?"
We also are getting ready for Vacation Bible School - like every church. We have probably forty kids signed up so far, and we'll surely get more! We average between 4 and 6 children in Sunday School each week at church - so to get so many children signed up for the program is amazing! It's a lot to put together, but it'll be great!
Speaking of Sunday School, I teach that each week, too!
Sometimes, a little lift me up is just what I need when I'm feeling stressed out with work. Well leave it to one of the characters at Rising Hope to encourage me... he said, "I like you. You're my buddy. Them kids, they like you, too. Kids are innocent. They know a good people when they see one. And they crazy about you!"
Working with the children is such a joy! But they're just a part of my job...
For the second year in a row we're having a big benefit concert for Rising Hope. Jeff Majors, a gospel/jazz artist is doing a National Tour for the Homeless, and he's doing a concert for us! It's a huge fundraiser for our church. The tickets are free with a donation of one can of food, and then we'll take a love offering at the performance to raise money. We also have a number of churches, businesses, and individuals who sponsor it. It's a chance for the community to come out and support our ministry, but it's also a chance to honor those whom we serve. The homeless and sponsors alike receive reserved seating. In the hustle and bustle of concert season, I get to be in charge of handing out tickets, contacting the sponsors, and putting together the program... it's a lot of work. But it'll be great.
One thing I love participating in at Rising Hope is the choir. It's not like any choir I've ever sung in, but we have a blast! Every Tuesday night is rehearsal, and although it makes Tuesday a 12 to 13 hour day at the church, it's well worth it. Our choir is actually opening for Jeff Majors at the concert! :)
So, that's a lot of what I'm up to. And, being the intern... And being a 20-year-old... I do a lot of errand running and copy making and random task performing. There's never a lack for something to fill my time!
My favorite part of the week is noon prayer service. I'm sure you remember me talking about it last year. Everyday at noon we hold a service. We usually have a song and a small lesson or a devotional, and then we share and pray together. I have the joy of leading this service once a week or so - usually on Fridays. This is one of the ways I really get to know our people. This is where they share their struggles and their heartaches. This is where they bring their triumphs and their praises. This is where we worship together, pray together, visit together... it's our family time.
Last Friday was humbling... I was taking prayer requests... for death in families, a young couple had a miscarriage, an older couple's health wasn't doing well, someone couldn't get the medication they needed, a nephew was lying to try to get a job, someone was injured and couldn't work, someone was dealing with depression, people are locked up or in drug situations, people are struggling with homelessness and addictions, people are searching for jobs and praying for interviews, people are seeking to be closer to God - and these were just Friday's prayers. As I'm finishing up writing these all down, one more hand raised...
"...And I'd like to say a prayer for you. You know, God's using you. I'd like to pray that you continue to allow Him to use you and work in your life..."
...these people are at Rising Hope because they need some extra support, they need a hot lunch, or some clothes on their back, food for the week, financial support, recovery from addiction, or spiritual restitution... yet in the midst of all of their problems they lift me up.
Today in prayer, I witnessed something beautiful. A recovering crack cocaine addict, who suffers from depression, mental illness and permanent damage from drug use, and who seeks restored relationships with her family members... she felt led to pray for another woman there who is still consumed in alcoholism to the point that she previously chose imprisonment over a half-way house... That prayer was powerful. It was real and heartfelt, filled with understanding and hope...
What do I do at Rising Hope?
Sure, a little office work and coordinating... a little praying and singing, too...
mostly, I get to witness God working through his people - broken though they may be - as they seek to minister to each other.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Welcomed Home
After one year away, I've been back at Rising Hope United Methodist Mission Church for a week now... it feels like I never left.
There are changes, sure. Many improvements in the church itself, new faces, old faces (that I had never encountered) resurfacing... but the mission is the same, and the love and heart of these people is the same.
Some of the friends I told you about last summer aren't around now... one has gone home to Jesus, another is incarcerated, others - well, who knows? Some are the same as always...
Remember my good friend who spent most of his time loitering on the corner drunk? You know, the one who 'gots my back?' He's still around and still drunk - but boy was he ecstatic to see me! I got to talk to him yesterday, and although his eyes were bloodshot, his speech a little slurred, and he reaked of alcohol, he shared his heart. He told me, "Now, Bekah... I don't have much. But what I have, I give you. I give you my best. I give you my love... Anybody ever mess with you? They come through me. Anybody ever try to hurt you, they come through me. You get me, Bekah? I give you my best. I give you my love." He may be a poor alcoholic... but he's a baptized believer and brother in Christ. He may not be worthy of the world's attention, but he's worthy of God's love.
Tears were brought to my eyes a handful of times this week as I was greeted again and again by old friends. Each surprised, excited look of recognition and following warm embrace was a confirmation of God's placing me here. I was told that it was great to have me back... wonderful to have me home... it's so good to see me again... "God is so awesome to bless us with you again..." It's humbling, because I know that these people are impacting me far more than I can do for them...
What can I do for the man who came here from another country with his family? He is educated, and was successful, had his own company... one day he was driving an employee and was pulled over. His employee was carrying drugs, but because he was driving the car, he was arrested, too. When he was released from prison, he had lost everything. His wife and family were gone, his house had foreclosed, his degrees stripped from him, his company no longer...
What can I do for the man with a PhD. and an M.D. who is now a homeless alcoholic? He has two broken feet. He was picked up by an ambulance twice this week because he almost died laying outside in the 100 degree weather...
What can I do for my good friend who was abused by the police? Racially profiled and suspected of using drugs, so he was unjustly arrested and beat up to the point he was hospitalized, when he was innocently out for a walk and didn't have an ounce of illegal substance on him...
I learned last summer that I can't fix their greatest physical struggles or deepest hurts, but God has called me to love them. That's what we do at Rising Hope, and that's why God has called me back. We accept them as they are, and help however we can... and sometimes all we can do is share the love of Jesus - yet that is the most powerful thing.
"This is real love. It is not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love has been brought to full expression through us." 1 John 4:10-12
There are changes, sure. Many improvements in the church itself, new faces, old faces (that I had never encountered) resurfacing... but the mission is the same, and the love and heart of these people is the same.
Some of the friends I told you about last summer aren't around now... one has gone home to Jesus, another is incarcerated, others - well, who knows? Some are the same as always...
Remember my good friend who spent most of his time loitering on the corner drunk? You know, the one who 'gots my back?' He's still around and still drunk - but boy was he ecstatic to see me! I got to talk to him yesterday, and although his eyes were bloodshot, his speech a little slurred, and he reaked of alcohol, he shared his heart. He told me, "Now, Bekah... I don't have much. But what I have, I give you. I give you my best. I give you my love... Anybody ever mess with you? They come through me. Anybody ever try to hurt you, they come through me. You get me, Bekah? I give you my best. I give you my love." He may be a poor alcoholic... but he's a baptized believer and brother in Christ. He may not be worthy of the world's attention, but he's worthy of God's love.
Tears were brought to my eyes a handful of times this week as I was greeted again and again by old friends. Each surprised, excited look of recognition and following warm embrace was a confirmation of God's placing me here. I was told that it was great to have me back... wonderful to have me home... it's so good to see me again... "God is so awesome to bless us with you again..." It's humbling, because I know that these people are impacting me far more than I can do for them...
What can I do for the man who came here from another country with his family? He is educated, and was successful, had his own company... one day he was driving an employee and was pulled over. His employee was carrying drugs, but because he was driving the car, he was arrested, too. When he was released from prison, he had lost everything. His wife and family were gone, his house had foreclosed, his degrees stripped from him, his company no longer...
What can I do for the man with a PhD. and an M.D. who is now a homeless alcoholic? He has two broken feet. He was picked up by an ambulance twice this week because he almost died laying outside in the 100 degree weather...
What can I do for my good friend who was abused by the police? Racially profiled and suspected of using drugs, so he was unjustly arrested and beat up to the point he was hospitalized, when he was innocently out for a walk and didn't have an ounce of illegal substance on him...
I learned last summer that I can't fix their greatest physical struggles or deepest hurts, but God has called me to love them. That's what we do at Rising Hope, and that's why God has called me back. We accept them as they are, and help however we can... and sometimes all we can do is share the love of Jesus - yet that is the most powerful thing.
"This is real love. It is not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love has been brought to full expression through us." 1 John 4:10-12
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