Where are They Now?

 Tuesday, Sept. 13

We always wonder what happens to people after some time has passed, like winners of the lottery, celebrities once fame has subsided.  One aspect of assessing the efficacy of ministry projects/programs is to see how people are doing several years down the road….has there been growth, personal and spiritual?  Is their condition improved, etc….especially when there have been major events in the meantime.  So it was especially meaningful today to meet with 45 women who completed the sewing/discipleship program at Homecare in the past years to see how they are doing, how they have managed especially these past months with so many losing jobs, businesses closing and the economy plummeting.

Before any stories were shared, there was a rousing time of praise and worship!  They were delighted to be together!  It is obvious that there is an enduring heart connection in the Homecare family-once family, always family.

Their first consideration was to Praise God for His sustaining grace; then great gratitude for all He did in their lives during their active time at Homecare.  It’s where many met Jesus, where they all found family and learned that they were not “rejects,” but women of value.  Their most valued possession is their own Bible that they received at the center and the teaching of His Word that was implanted into their hearts.  This is of the utmost value to them, and for this they are forever grateful.  It is still the anchor of their lives.

A constant theme was gratefulness to those who support the ministry, have prayed and continue to pray for them, even though most have never met them.  “Hugs and hugs and hugs to those in America who have been God’s means to give us these opportunities; we are alive and doing well!!  We cannot thank these friends enough and pray for the time when we will meet face to face, even in eternity.  Thank you for standing with us; we know we are not alone!”

They know that ALL good things come from God, through His people, and never take anything for granted.  Contrary to what so many have experienced, these women are working!  They shared about God’s protection, for how He provides clients for them, has given them safe areas to work.  They proudly share about how they are able to pay rent, continue to keep their children in school, buy food, pay for medical care…..buy their own glasses.  “I am no longer a begger; I have work, and the respect of others who used to despise me.”  “I can afford to give my children meat “ (usually considered a luxury).

“When things have been hard, I remember what Mama Mary taught us; I go to the scriptures and remember that God’s plan for me is good and wait to see how the Lord will work, and He does.”

Many are not only taking care of their immediate family, but also extended family.  One woman is now caring for 10 children who had no home.  Many have married and now have children; several announced their engagements to the joyous response of the group.  They are not just surviving – they are thriving! 

You may remember an early video highlighting a few of the students at the center, one of whom was Micheline.  It was a joy to see her today!  Once shy, despondent and hesitant to make eye contact, she held her head high today as she gave testimony to God’s goodness since she graduated four years ago.  She reminded us of the desperate state she was in when she first came to Homecare, despairing and feeling as though she was losing her mind.  She’d never had parents, care or affection.  She experienced much healing during her time at Homecare and has continued relationships with those who lovingly cared for her at the center, as many of the women do if they are still living in the area.  The story of how God provided a good place for her business was a great testimony of God at work; she has done well!  She has adequate clients, is able to care for her four children well, and she radiates JOY.  Jesus has indeed raised her up “from the trash heap” and given her new life.

What great confirmation of the lasting impact of the ministry as seen in these women’s lives!  Even in harsh circumstances, God has proved Himself faithful to them and their families.  For all this we praise Him!

On behalf of these women who have been blessed by the ministry, who are productive, advancing and ministering to others, we share their heartfelt thanks to you…..as they said for us to tell you, “Hugs to you in the Name of Jesus.”

With lots of smiles.