Rain!

     Do you remember the old children's rhyme: its raining, its pouring, the old man is snoring?  Well, praise God, it IS raining tonight, it IS pouring - and many parts of our parched area have seen it.  I cannot think of better weather to snore away - and sleep like a baby while listening to it!  Thank you, God, for refreshment!
     Refreshment comes in many forms.  At the ministry center, it is refreshing to see volunteers welcoming new faces to partner in the work there.  This summer, Charlotte and Jordan have been warmly welcomed by volunteers and guests alike, and they in turn have taken a young woman under their wings who as a new Christian has a strong desire to minister to others in similar circumstances as she has found herself.  It is a beautiful picture of God's growing kingdom to watch these young women sharing Christ's passion for others, transcending barriers of culture, economics, race, and even life stages.
     Recently, a young mother-to-be visited the center and was welcomed and encouraged by E.  When her baby was born, J. visited her and gave her a beautiful layette from the center's Layette Ministry.  When her husband was laid off from his job and the rent was behind, E. sought assistance from her church and Ladies' Prayer Group.  This week, the unemployment and other stresses proved too much for the husband, and he left this dear lady and their baby.  E. was there to pray with and encourage her at a time of crisis in her life, and we have been able to follow up with information about counseling services available through the center.  What a tremendous example of God using many hands, many hearts, to minister to one of His children!
     The counseling services that are now available through Forest Park Ministry Center mark one additional step taken as we seek to help people who need to be directed toward God's purpose and plan for their lives to desire His will and guidance.  In addition, there are many outreach opportunities, including literacy for children and for Mixtec moms, sports for boys at Southlawn Commons, and the M&M's Bible Cafe that continues every Tuesday.  In June, over 140 families were reached through the food pantry which distributed nearly 4,000 pounds of food and around fifty volunteers plugged into the various ministries and outreach opportunities.  Thanks to all who invested self, time, talent, finances, and other goods.  May you each know the assurance of God's love and plan for your life, too.  It is a joy to partner with you to reach our community for Christ.
                                                                                             Donna