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The Hope Story for December, 2004
December is when we celebrate the Good News of the
birth of Jesus Christ, Emmanuel— 'God with us'.
One of our former Bethel children, Devorah is still
sharing this Good News. She shared her Bethel experience at
our 50th Anniversary Banquet in October.
At 16, Devorah heard about Bethel from a friend and
asked if she could live here. She had been staying at the homes
of some of her friends because her home was not safe. Her mom
had an addiction and her step dad was abusive.
Devorah finished high school while at Bethel.
During high school she also worked and saved money to buy her first
used car. After graduation, Bethel helped her enroll at Columbia
Bible College in South Carolina. There she met her now husband
Joe. Joe is the son of missionaries to South America.
After college Dev and Joe served as house parents
at Bethel for a couple of years. Then Joe became a Chattanooga policeman
and Dev became mom to four wonderful children.
About four years ago, Dev and Joe felt the call
to become missionaries to Central America. Today they are doing
youth work on the mission field in El Salvador, bringing the Good
News that 'God is with us' to children in many towns
and villages.
What a wonderful Christmas gift story: 'a broken
cycle of addiction, abuse and neglect. Devorah and 'God with
her' have created a new cycle of love, caring and glorifying
God.
For 50 years (since 1954), Bethel has been God's
House for 1,310 'orphans of the living': teaching children
like Devorah the Good News that God is with them
through His Son Jesus Christ.
This Christmas Season, please pray for the security
of all children of families in crisis. May God use you to be
His channel to help them find a safe and nurturing place like Bethel
Bible Village.
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The Hope Story for November 2004
November is when we celebrate Thanksgiving!
Our Bethel children have much to be thankful
for.
One of these children is Jonathan, age 12. Before coming to
Bethel in September 2003, he and his mother were homeless.
The only roof over his head was at the home of one of his mother's
'druggie' friends or at one of mom's abusive boyfriends.
Jonathan had become angry.
Jonathan's mother did love him enough to know he needed a better
environment, so she asked Bethel to take him in until she
could get her life together. He was behind in school.
He had only attended school for sixty days the previous year.
He only had one set of clothes.
The first day he arrived at Bethel, Jonathan was thankful
that he had his own bed with a bathroom close by. His
eyes grew large when he saw the full pantry of food and the
fresh brownies his house mother had made in honor of his coming.
At first he did not know how to accept all of the positive attention
he was getting.
He was used to being yelled at a lot.
It took several days for his house parents and counselors to get
him to go to school. He was afraid that he would be made
fun of because he was not as smart as others. Soon he
entered school and became accustomed to it with the daily encouragement
of his house parents. Jonathan is thankful
that soon, with help of Bethel's tutors, he will be up to
proper grade level.
Jonathan is thankful for the local
YMCA, where he and his cottage get to swim free.
For 50 years (since 1954), Bethel has provided a safe place to
call home for 1,305 'orphans of the living'.
What a glorious Golden Thanksgiving.
Let us all give Thanks to God for all the
neglected children who have found refuge and hope
at Bethel.
May God direct those children who are not yet safe to
a place like Bethel Bible Village.
Help spread the word today. Inform your friends
and your church of the needs of children in crisis.
(Click here to send them an e-mail
link to this web site today).
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The Hope Story for October, 2004
On October 2, about 250 of our Bethel alumni and
former staff returned to campus for our annual homecoming. It
was good to see them and their children and grandchildren.
This year our homecoming was coordinated with our
Country Fair, which allowed everyone to have a really fun day. Some
of them shared from our Country Fair stage about how grateful they
are now that they had the opportunity to live at Bethel during
the crisis time in their lives.
One of these alumni, Rose (not her real name) shared
with me how important Bethel is to her. She recalled that her
mom could no longer care for her as a young teenager. She went
to live with her aunt. Her dad was living in another state and was
incapable of caring for her.
Rose remembered that her aunt and uncle tried hard
to make a place for her in their family, but they soon learned
that their own two children were all that they could handle. They
found out about Bethel through their church and arranged
to place her here.
Rose said she looks back on what Bethel did for her
as a teenager and she is so thankful. She said if it were not
for Bethel, she does not know where she would be today. She
said, "I had good clothes to wear, a good school to attend,
had to attend church each Sunday and house parents and counselors
who cared about me. She regrets that her older brother did not come
to Bethel. He struggled for years with substance abuse and died
a tragic death last year.
She said it is so meaningful for her to come back
to Bethel and thank everyone that helped her and to see her
old friends. She told me that she prays that God will continue
to bless Bethel so other children like her will have a loving
family when their own family is unable to function.
For 50 years (since 1954), Bethel has provided a safe
place to call home for 1,298 'orphans of the living'. Thank
you for warming their hearts with the flames of Jesus' love.
Please pray for all of the children in crisis who
face life without the loving arms of a family. May God direct
them to a safe haven like Bethel Bible Village.
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The Hope Story for September 2004
School is now in session. Remember those days?
Walking or riding to school; lifetime friends;
favorite teachers; red-faced embarrassing moments; the smell of
hamburgers for lunch; the moment some math problem finally made
sense; notes passed to our sweethearts; games at recess; the ringing
of the final bell in our ears; dreaming of what mom is cooking for
supper; will I ever graduate? etc.
For most of us, the end of the school day was something
to look forward to. But for many children in crisis in our communities,
the end of the schoolday brings sadness. They know that the
next several hours will be filled with uncertainty, fear, and
anxiety about what faces them at home.
This was the case for each child now entrusted to
Bethel Bible Village. One of these is Aaron (not his real name),
age 13.
Aaron came to Bethel because his dad is in prison
and his mom is not emotionally able to care for him. He had
been living with his uncle's family for about 3 years before
coming to Bethel. They could no longer cope with Aaron's behavioral
problems at home. The juvenile judge suggested they seek
help from Bethel before petitioning the court to assume custody
of Aaron.
At first, Aaron continued to have behavioral problems
at Bethel, but his behavior at school was good, except for his grades.
After a couple of months at Bethel, Aaron's interpersonal behavior
began to improve. He began to feel safe and accepted.
Soon his grades began to improve. He received extra
tutoring after school in Bethel's Howard and Marie Russell learning
center. His house father's encouragement has made a big difference.
He has encouraged Aaron to try out for football. He is a
very athletic boy.
We believe that parents are first teachers.
In Bethel's case, this role is filled by house parents.
For 50 years (since 1954), Bethel has been providing
a safe learning and living environment for neglected children.
Bethel helps to open their eyes to a brighter future.
Please pray for all of the children in crisis
who face an unsafe home situation at the end of their school day.
May God direct them to a secure place like Bethel Bible Village.
Become an educator today. Inform your
friends and your church of the needs of children in crisis. Send
them an e-mail link to this web site today.
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The Hope Story for August 2004
You may ask, 'What impact does Bethel Bible Village
have on the lives of children."
I want share with you a recent experience I had that
may help you answer this question. Back in June, I met the daughter
of one of our Bethel alumni. She was my waitress at a local
restaurant. She knew I was from Bethel because I was wearing my
Bethel nametag.
Betty (not her real name) told me that her dad
and his four brothers and sisters spent several years at Bethel.
She shared with me that her dad was fostered by one the then Bethel
Board members (now deceased). Betty referred to him as her grandfather.
Betty was so pleased to meet someone from Bethel.
She expressed such gratitude because Bethel was there to
care for her dad and her aunts and uncles when they needed help.
She shared with me a few of the interesting experiences that
her dad had shared with her about his days growing up at
Bethel.
Bethel's house parents and counselors are helping
to create experiences today that will build memories that
can be shared with generations to come. Yes, and even more than
memories: decisions made by children that will have an eternal
impact on their lives, and the lives of their children.
Since 1954, Bethel has helped to create happy memories
for nearly 1,300 boys and girls.
Please pray for all of the children in crisis
in this country. Many have not yet found a safe place. May God
guide them to a calming refuge like Bethel Bible Village. With
God's help, they too will be able to say someday, "Thanks for
the Memories".
Become a memory maker. Encourage your
friends and your church to help bring peace of mind to
these 'orphans of the living'. Send them an e-mail link
to this web site today.
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The Hope Story for July 2004
July is the month we celebrate our independence
and freedom.
Our forefathers paid a tremendous price for these precious gifts.
Today Bethel Bible Village is taking a stand to provide
a place of freedom for neglected and abused children. Bethel is
a home where boys and girls can pursue happiness without fear.
Bethel recruits trains and supports substitute fathers
and mothers—cottage house parents. These Christian
soldiers are on the front lines everyday in one of our six cottages,
living with children in crisis. They are bringing these children
needed supplies of tenderness, understanding, patience, longsuffering,
availability and wisdom. (Click
here to help keep the supply line going)
As a result of the work of these Christian soldiers
over the past 50 years, nearly 1,300 'orphans of the living'
have heard freedom ring in their hearts.
Many of these rescued boys and girls have gone
on to serve in the U.S. military. They have helped to preserve
the freedoms we all enjoy.
You can pray for our alumni who are presently serving
on active duty in Iraq and in other parts of the world: Daniel,
Zig, Michael, John, Robbie, John, Teresa, and Nathan.
Please remember all of the children in crisis in this
country. Many have not yet heard freedom's call. May God raise up
more freedom finders for these forgotten children.
You can recruit other freedom finders.
Encourage your friends and your church to help bring freedom
to the 'orphans of the living'.
Send them an e-mail link to this web site today.
P.S. It costs $1,200 per month to recruit, train and
provide direct support for the Christian soldiers (house parents)
caring for a cottage of six 'orphans of the living'.
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The Hope Story for June 2004
The heart of Bethel's ministry is JESUS
CHRIST, and the HOPE that HE gives to neglected, abused and in-crisis
children.
You can HELP bring CHRIST to these 'orphans
of the living' today. (click
here to help financially).
Making life worth living and dreams
come true for at -risk children
June is the month we honor our fathers.
Bethel Bible Village also has a founding
father. In 1954, a judge in Murfreesboro, TN placed six homeless
brothers in the hands of prison evangelist Rev. Floyd Hipp.
Bethel was born. Since then, Bethel has provided substitute fathers
and mothers to nearly 1,300 boys and girls.
Most of the children at Bethel do
not have their dad's involved in their lives.
One of Bethel's
children writes (his words and name with permission) about his father.
 "All
of my life I lived without a father, There was no one there
for me to talk to when I needed fatherly advice. There was
no one there to help me with some my male problems, or
that I could discuss them with me. I thought it was going to be
impossible to find someone to be a father figure in my life until
the summer of 2003.
When I moved to Bethel Bible Village in the summer of 2003,
I found the person I needed. Today I call this man my father.
He has come to become the most precious gift in the world to
me. I found out I can talk to him when I need help, or just
when I need someone to talk to when I am down. He has become
the father in my life. We have been through good times and
bad times together. He has been more of a father to me than anyone
in the world.
I think it is just kind of amazing the way God can
put you in a place where people love and care about you. I think
it was God's will to put me here so that I could have a father
figure in my life. I would like to say I greatly appreciate everything
Mr. Floyd (my house parent) has ever done for me. I would like
to say that I love him and I greatly appreciate everything.
That's why he is the most precious gift in the world to me."
"Corey"
For 50 years (since 1954), Bethel has
been coming along side 'orphans of the living' like Corey. Bethel
is there when their fathers and mothers fall by the wayside.
Corey and other at-risk children
need you to stand in the gap beside them. (Click
here to take your stand.)
Please pray for Corey as he matures into
young adulthood. His Bethel housefather, 'Mr. Floyd', is faithfully
and gracefully guiding him. Ask God to direct other children
in danger, to a place of safety like Bethel.
Honor
your father today. Encourage your friends and your church
to help bring fathers to the fatherless.
Send them an e-mail link to this website
today.
P.S. It costs $1,200 per month to provide
'the most precious gift in the world' to Corey: a caring dad; (and
mom) and all of the other needs of his daily life.
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The Hope Story for May 2004
The heart of Bethel's ministry is JESUS CHRIST,
and the HOPE that HE give to neglected, abused and in-crisis children.
You
can HELP bring CHRIST to these orphans of the living.
Making life worth living and dreams
come true to at risk children
May is the month we honor our mothers.
Most of us are blessed by God to have had a caring, loving mother.
We are indebted to her. Unfortunately many boys and girls don't
have moms who value them. Some of these come to Bethel.
One such boy, Barry (not his real name),
age 12 came to Bethel in September 2002. He has not seen his mom
in more than two years. He knows that she has been in and out
of jail. Barry lived with two of his uncle's families for four
years before coming to Bethel. One could no longer afford to care
for him. The other uncle's family became unable to handle this rambunctious
young man.
Barry truly is an 'orphan of the living'.
Barry seldom talks about his mother.
Of course there are those moments when he admits to his house mom
and dad that he still worries about her; her safety and her drug
addiction.
He still remembers when she used to
hug him, laugh with him, and make all things better. Barry 's
heart still yearns for her touch. Apparently she did love him, but
valued other things more.
No one can replace the years of Barry's
childhood deprived of the love, caring, and valuing of a mother.
But Barry's Christian house mom (and dad) do worry about his safety
and happiness and pray for his soul every day. Your
gifts bring mothers to the motherless.
For 50 years, (since 1954) Bethel has
been stepping in when children's mothers (and dads) have stepped
out of their lives. Will you
step forward and make life better for these children with incapacitated
mothers.
Please pray for Barry as he heals from
the emotional wound inflicted by his mom and dad. Ask
God to empower people (possibly you) to lead other at-risk children
to a place of safety, like Bethel Bible Village.
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The Hope Story for April 2004
The heart of Bethel's
ministry is JESUS CHRIST, and the HOPE that HE give to neglected,
abused and in-crisis children. You can HELP bring CHRIST to these
orphans of the living.
Making life worth living and dreams
come true to at risk children
One of these children is Carmen (not
her real name), age 15. She came to Bethel in June of 2000 as a
private placement. In the eyes of the juvenile judge, Bethel was
the best place for Carmen. Her uncle, who had legal custody, petitioned
the court for help. He and his wife have two other teenage children
and felt they could no longer allow Carmen to live in their home.
Carmen had lived with them for four years, after two previous foster
homes. Her uncle's family does call and visit her often. He also
makes occasional modest payments to help cover her costs at Bethel.
Carmen does not know her biological father. Her mother abandoned
her when she was one year old, and she never shows her face.
At first, Carmen demonstrated sneaky,
dishonest behavior as well as poor personal hygiene. With the encouragement
of her house parents and pressure from her cottage mates, she has
made strides in these areas. However, she still faces issues with
her hygiene and her schoolwork. Carmen's heart has been broken because
her mother abandoned her, and her uncle's family could no longer
keep her. Your gifts help heal
broken hearts.
She is a beautiful young lady. At her
best, she is energetic, joyful and enthusiastic. I wish you could
see the glow on her face. Some of her hygiene problems stem from
her lack of proper early childhood development. Not having a mother's
love leaves a great void for a young girl.
Carmen enjoys singing and performing.
I wish your eyes and ears could capture her in action. She seems
happiest when she is involved in these artistic activities. She
is involved with chorus and theatre at school, and has sung at church.
Her Bethel house parents and social worker are encouraging her in
these areas. Our education coordinator has Carmen in English tutoring
in our on-campus learning center after school. She does well in
math because she loves her teacher. Carmen loves riding the school
bus to the local high school. Her two best friends ride the same
bus.
Our happiest moment for Carmen was when
she prayed to accept Jesus Christ as her Savior last summer. Her
decision to accept Christ came after she questioned her house parents
for several weeks about Jesus.
Please pray for Carmen as she blossoms
in her God given talents. Trust God to keep His protecting hand
on other 'orphans of the living'. May someone (possibly you) guide
them to a place of safety like Bethel Bible Village.
P.S. It costs $1,000 per month per child
for Christian House Parents and their other direct living needs.
In honor of Bethel's 50th Anniversary
(2004), please consider a gift today in a multiple of $50: such
as $50,000; $5,000; $1,500; $1,050; $750; $500; $250; $150; $50,
etc.
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The Hope Story for March 2004
The heart of Bethel's ministry is JESUS CHRIST,
and the HOPE that HE give to neglected, abused and in-crisis children.
You can HELP bring CHRIST to these orphans of the living.
Making life worth living and dreams
come true to at risk children
Through a series of wacky (and undoubtedly
divine) events, Francisco (aka "Chico") arrived at Bethel
about three years ago, a young teenager who had managed somehow
to travel alone from Guatemala. Unable to communicate in English,
he was often misunderstood and teased by other residents and chose
instead to communicate clearly in the universal language of fists
and other nonverbals.
However, soon after his arrival, Chico
made a profession of faith to follow Christ. He attended the
Kids Across America Camp and was chosen to take part in the Champions
of Destiny, a program that includes a yearlong commitment to daily
devotionals and weekly Bible studies. Completion of this intensive
discipleship program qualifies the participant the opportunity to
receive a full scholarship to Asbury College in Kentucky. Though
he does not have his high school diploma, Chico has been asked to
continue his participation due to his growing character and love
for the Lord.
Chico has worked hard in learning to
read and write English. He entered his school's spirit contest wearing
a self-designed American flag T-shirt. He won first prize. Currently
Chico is working hard to achieve his GED. Though his educational
background is weak, he continues to study hard. He refuses to give
up on his dreams of achieving his GED, becoming an American citizen,
and getting a good job. Chico desires to end his journey from Guatemala
as an American citizen who loves the Lord. We have been honored
and blessed with the opportunity to help him along.
As you pray, please ask God to protect
all of the innocent children in our community facing neglect and
abuse. With the support of faithful friends like you, our staff
stands ready and able to minister to these children.
P.S It costs $1,000 per month per child
for Christian Houseparents and the other direct living costs. In
honor of Bethel's 50th Anniversary (2004), please
consider a gift today, in a multiple of $50: such as $50,000; $5,000;
$1,500; $1,000; $750; $500; $250; $150; $50, etc.
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The Hope Story for February 2004
February is the heart
month. But let me tell you about a 'diamond'
'in-the-rough'. Danny (not his real name), age 16 came to
Bethel a year ago. He had been habitually skipping school. Through
the concern of one of his teachers, the juvenile authorities intervened.
At the judge's request, Danny's dad agreed to let him come live
at Bethel.
Your
gifts ensure that children like Danny have a safe place to turn.
Danny's dad worked at night, leaving
him to wander the streets, and hang out with the wrong crowd. His
mom had abandoned him and his dad when Danny was six.
At first, Danny refused to bath, or to
do his chores in his cottage, and he continued to skip school. After
much prayer, coaxing and follow-up by his cottage house parents,
Danny has made remarkable improvement. He now has a good relationship
with his house parents.
He loves to play football with the other
boys in his cottage and circle, but has been reluctant to try out
for his high school team. He is not skipping class now, and his
grades have improved from D's and F's to C's and an occasional
B. God is working!
A couple of months ago he was reunited
with his dad. After two weeks, Danny asked if he could come back
to Bethel. He knows his dad loves him, but he is never home.
Back in November, he told his house parents
that he would like to accept Christ. They prayed with him. He later
made his decision public at the local church where his cottage attends.
Your gifts create opportunities
that impact eternity.
Danny has a quiet, hard exterior, but
really he is a gentle, and often-scared lad. He loves to laugh and
to smile. He is a gem, a 'diamond-in-the-rough'. His sparkle is
worth the dusting. Danny needs Christian nurturing.
Danny needs you.
Please pray for Danny as he realizes
his true worth. There are many precious hidden gems like Danny living
in crisis in their own homes. Pray that a
teacher, bus driver, policeman, neighbor or someone will lead
them to a safe place, like Bethel Bible Village.
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The Hope Story for January 2004
Making life worth living and dreams
come true for neglected children.
One of these children is Cindy (not her
real name), age 15. Cindy, when 14, was brought to Bethel in July
of 2002 by her grandmother, with whom she had been living in downtown
Chattanooga. She could no longer care for Cindy, due to health issues.
Cindy had moved in with her grandmother in 2000 at the suggestion
of state authorities.
Cindy's teachers had reported suspected
abuse in her mother's home. Cindy's mom did not contest the move
to her grandmother's house. Her natural dad disappeared when she
was three years old. The only father figures she has known are step-dads
and live-in boyfriends. Your
gifts provide temporary Christian substitute fathers and mothers
at Bethel Bible Village Children's Home.
Cindy had a tough time adjusting to Bethel
at first, as most children do. At first she missed her grandmother
terribly. She called her grandmother everyday for the first two
weeks, and continues to call her at least once a week. Cindy's mom
comes to visit about once every three months or so. She would like
to go back to mom, but mom is not yet ready for her.
Cindy was behind socially and academically
when she arrived at Bethel. She still struggles in these areas.
Learning and interacting with people is hard for her. Living in
a house with 7 other children helps her learn to interact with her
peers. She enjoys writing notes to her friends at school and in
our other six cottages on Bethel's campus.
I wish you could have seen her recently
when the U. T. Chattanooga 'Lady Mocs' basketball team came out
to our gym to do a clinic. At first Cindy was reluctant, but the
players encouraged her, and she had a wonderful time. When you see
her smile and her beaming eyes, you just know there is something
inside her waiting to blossom. Thank God she is at Bethel where
that seed is being nurtured. Your
gifts create opportunities for children to grow!
Cindy has expressed interest in becoming
a teacher. Every child should be able to nurture their dreams.
We are rejoicing because Cindy prayed
to receive Christ into her heart this summer. She asked several
of us staff, in addition to her houseparents to come see her baptized.
Please pray for Cindy as she matures.
Pray that God will open her mother's eyes. There are many children
like Cindy still living in danger from neglect and abuse within
their own homes. Pray that someone will lead them toward a place
of safety, like Bethel Bible Village Children's Home.
P.S It costs $1,000 per month per child
for Christian Houseparents and the other direct living costs. In
honor of Bethel's 50th Anniversary (2004), please
consider a gift today, in a multiple of $50: such as $50,000; $5,000;
$1,500; $1,000; $750; $500; $250; $150; $50, etc.
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The Hope Story for December 2003
Betty (not her real name), age 16 traveled
with her mom to Bethel this past January from their small town in
north Georgia. She had become increasingly incorrigible at home.
Her single mom had to petition the juvenile court to help her with
Betty. Dad is nowhere to be found.
Betty's mom was stressed out; trying
to work two jobs, and be both a dad and mother to her. Betty was
running with the wrong crowd, failing school and getting into trouble.
Her mom and the juvenile judge both agreed that Bethel appeared
to be the best place to turn for Betty.
On Betty's first trip to our campus,
her eyes caught a glimpse of how the other children lived in the
cottages. She reluctantly agreed that Bethel would be a better
route than being confined to a youth development center ran by the
state. Your gifts provide
this Christian alternative.
Betty struggled at first; frequently
crossing the lines laid down by her houseparents. She was not accustomed
to sharing attention, and a bathroom with seven other girls. But
after about a month, she began to develop trust in her housemother.
Even though her housemother demanded a lot out of Betty, her
housemom also listened to her and treated her with respect.
Betty now is an encouragement to other
girls on campus. She emphasizes to them how blessed they are to
have a temporary refuge like Bethel. Betty is not on the honor roll,
but she headed in the right direction. She will be 17 next year
going into the 11th grade.
Betty and her mom are both planning for
her to return home next summer. Please pray that Betty will continue
in school and graduate when she leaves Bethel.
Her mom calls Betty regularly, and
drives up to visit her twice a month. Her mom is doing everything
she can to prepare herself for Betty's return. Mom gives as much
money as she can to help Bethel care for her daughter. Your
gifts help families in crisis!
Please continue to pray for Betty as
she grows toward adulthood. Pray also for all the precious, but
neglected children who live at risk every day. May God direct
them to a safe haven like Bethel Bible Village Children's Home, before something
bad happens to them.
P.S It costs $1,000 per month per child
for Christian Houseparents and the other direct living costs. In
honor of Bethel's 50th Anniversary (2004), please
consider a gift this Christmas Season, in a multiple of $50: such
as $50,000; $5,000; $1,500; $1,000; $750; $500; $250; $150; $50,
etc.
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The Hope Story for November 2003
Benny (not his real name) arrived at
Bethel three years ago. His state caseworker drove him down from
a small mountain community about 40 miles away.
He was 13 and had disrupted his third
foster family. They did not have the patience to deal with his
acting out. He was becoming a teenager. He was also trying to cope
with all the heartache in his young life. His parents had abandoned
him and his younger sister when Benny was only nine. Benny’s younger
sister was more fortunate. She has been adopted. They are among
an increasing number of ‘orphans of the living’.
Benny fought being at Bethel initially.
He had grown to distrust adults. He soon bonded with his
assistant houseparent; a recent Christian college graduate. They
spent a lot of time shooting basketball in the boys’ circle. Benny
still treasures their talks during walks down and back to
our fishpond after supper. Your
gifts buy times like these. Thank you!
School was a struggle for Benny at first,
but now he makes mostly B’s. That special assistant houseparent
is gone now. Benny now has good friends at his school. Benny still
has occasional bouts with depression when he reflects about
his parents. He has no grandparents or other family; except
his sister. He does see her occasionally. His faith in Jesus Christ
and the encouragement from his houseparents and counselors keep
him strong.
Please continue to pray for Benny as
he grows toward adulthood. Pray also for God’s protection for
all children who have been left behind and forgotten. Thank
you for remembering, so they won’t be forsaken.
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The Hope Story for October 2003
Beth (not her real name), came to Bethel
two years ago from a town 80 miles away. She was 15, with an
infant child, no husband and parents incapable of caring for her
or her baby. Beth learned of Bethel's Mother/Child Program and
asked a friend to bring her for a visit. Immediately she knew that
she would have to radically adjust her lifestyle to live at Bethel.
But Beth was driven by her desire to keep her child.
A few weeks later, Beth came to Bethel
to live. Beth was immediately taken to her cottage to meet her houseparents
and cottage-mates. When she saw the large kitchen, she asked, "When
do I get to cook"! Beth had always loved cooking. With
the encouragement of her houseparents, she has had the opportunity
to exercise her talent for cooking many times. You can't go into
any of our staff offices without hearing the praises of Beth's cooking.
Her talent for cooking has been allowed to blossom in the nurturing
environment of Bethel. Your gifts
help to maintain this environment.
Beth struggled at first getting used
to the structured rules in her cottage. But now she is a leader
among the other young moms. She is a good mom; reading and singing
to her son and taking her for walks around campus. Beth also
volunteers to help in the on-campus daycare where her son is nurtured
during the day, while Beth attends high school. After being exposed
to God's Word each Sunday, involved in weekly cottage Bible studies,
and seeing the Christian lifestyles of her houseparents, Beth
accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior about six months ago.
Beth wants to be a chef. She wants to
attend a culinary college. The tuition is expensive, and she needs
to get her grades up. She needs to maintain a 3.0 GPA during her
senior year. She is in tutoring each afternoon after school. She
has signed up for a SAT class at a local community college. She
is entering several cooking competitions looking for scholarship
money. Your help keeps all these
opportunities open for Beth.
Please continue to pray for Beth, and
her son. Pray also for God's protection for all children who are
in families who will not or can not adequately protect and nurture
them. Thank you for 'being there' for these 'orphans of the living'.
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The Hope Story for September 2003
Sonny (not his real name), age 12 came
to Bethel from an emergency shelter about a year ago. Sonny had
been placed in the shelter by state authorities because his mother
and father had neglected him and his three brothers. His parents
were involved in substance abuse to the extent that they were not
protecting their children. One of his brothers came to Bethel for
a short while before going to a foster home. The other two brothers
found a place in the hearts and home of their aunt and uncle.
During the first two months at Bethel,
Sonny had horrible nightmares. During the day he was in complete
defiance of his cottage houseparents. He was indeed a handful. With
much love and patience of his houseparents and counselors, Sonny's
heart and mind found peace. He has learned to express his feeling
in a more rational manner. Now he is a sweet-spirited lad who loves
to ride his bike and play basketball on the court in the boys' circle
at Bethel. His grades at school have also improved. You are a vital
part of Sonny's recovery.
Sonny's parents, to their credit, have
taken appropriate steps to get their children back. They are doing
well in their drug rehab program, and should get all of their children
back within a few months if they continue on this path.
One of Sonny's dreams and prayers while
at Bethel is to be able to leave Bethel arm-in-arm with his mom
and dad. Sonny has accepted Christ as his Savior while at Bethel.
This has helped him deal with his hurt and loss, and through God's
Holy Spirit, he will be able to face life's future challenges.
Please continue to pray for Sonny, his
brothers and his parents. Pray that they will once again be a united
family. Pray also for God's protection for all of the children who
are at-risk, but who have not yet found a place of safety like Bethel Bible Village Children's Home. Thank you for caring.
Sonny's and our other children's needs
are met by gifts from individuals like you. To make a tax deductible
gift, please call or write us or give
your gift online. Thank you.
P.S. Your can introduce others to Bethel's
ministry to children by asking them to visit our web site.
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The Hope Story for August 2003
Our August Hope
Story tells of one of our girls whose eyes have been opened to her
inner potential, and her hands directed to develop all of her gifts.
Lucy (not her
real name), age 18 came to Bethel along with her four brothers 6
years ago. Two of her brothers still live at Bethel. Her 2 younger
brothers are now living with their grandmother in Georgia. Lucy
and her brothers were placed at Bethel because of continued abuse
and neglect by their parents. To this day their dad is legally restrained
from having any contact with these children. Their aunt tried, but
it was just too much for her to raise them in her home.
Since being at
Bethel, Lucy has really blossomed. She loves to sing and has entered
and won several choral contests on the state level, in addition
to being involved in chorus in high school. She was voted "most
school spirit" in her high school her last two years. She was the
school mascot during her junior year, and was at almost every sporting
event. Even with all this extra curricular school activity, she
has maintain a "B" average in school. After being at Bethel about
two years, she accepted Jesus into her heart as her Lord and Savior.
Lucy has been a Christian witness to her brothers, other children
here at Bethel, and to her classmates at school. She has won honors
at Christian camp for the past 3 years.
Lucy is willing
to try her hand at about anything. With the help of her housemother,
she learned to sew and made her own dress for a school function.
It was beautiful.
Lucy has been
living with her sponsor family since she graduated from high school
in May. With the guidance and assistance of her housemother, she
has been accepted to a college in a neighboring state. She will
be going there about mid August. She wants to be a sports therapist.
She has matured so much this past year. There were rumors that she
and one of our Bethel alumni young men were going to get married
after she graduated high school. However, she told one of our counselors
that she is not ready to get married. She said, "I am not ready
to marry. I have four years of college facing me, and I want to
make sure I marry a man who is spiritually mature."
Please pray for
Lucy as she goes off to college. Like any parent or close family
member, we are always concerned when one of our young people step
out on their own. But thanks to your generous heart, children like
Lucy can reach their potential living in the safe and nurturing
environment of Bethel. Pray that God will direct other hurting,
endangered and parentless children to a place of Christian refuge
like Bethel Bible Village Children's Home
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The Hope Story for July 2003
Your monetary gifts and prayers help
to provide a temporary home to homeless and lonely boys and girls
who are 'orphans of the living'.
Let me share about one of these children.
David (not his real name), age 12 arrived for his final placement
at Bethel early on a Friday morning back in May. He had come once
before to meet his houseparents. But this day was different. He
would not be leaving with his mother. As he reluctantly stepped
out from the back seat of his mom's car, he, his mom (a recovering
drug addict), and her new live-in boy friend were met by David's
social worker, Jackie and his house dad and mom. After settling
into his cottage, his mom gave him a big hug and left. His face
was pale from fear and anxiety, as he watched her drive away.
Over the next two days, David learned
all of the rules and the routine of his cottage, while getting acquainted
with his other seven cottage-mates. His houseparents had assigned
another child to be David's buddy for the first week. David is a
quiet and thoughtful young man, but as yet has not made a close
friend. Where he and his mom had been living for the last few years
(a drug recovery program facility) was not very conducive to meeting
a lot of boys his age. That is where David's mom found out about
Bethel. His older brother was fortunate to go live with his grandmother
near Chicago. David, his brother and his mom had all lived in Chicago
until mom found herself in trouble in Chattanooga, back in 1999.
Unfortunately grandmother was unable to care for both of the boys.
David has never known a father.
David is involved with our summer school
and summer enrichment program. He chose to learn about golf in the
enrichment program. There is a lot of wide-open space on our 68-acre
campus to hit a golf ball, without breaking a window. In July, David
will be attending the "Kids Across America Kamp" in Branson,
Missouri. Thanks to a faithful donor, most of our children get to
enjoy this Christian experience. Each year many of our children
make decisions for Jesus Christ at this camp. Please pray that David
will accept Jesus into his heart.
This fall, David will be entering 7th
grade at a new school. He is aware that he will be at Bethel for
at least another year, until his mother is able to care for him.
Of course, being a private placement (state human services not involved),
she may come and get him at any time.
Please pray for David, his mother, brother,
grandmother, cottage houseparents and his counselors here at Bethel.
As you pray, also ask God to protect all of the innocent children
in our communities facing neglect, abuse and fear daily, but who
have no sanctuary like Bethel.
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The Hope Story for April 2003
Home alone no more. Sherman (not his
real name), age 11, was living with his dad just prior to coming
to Bethel several months ago (if you could call that living). He
rarely saw his dad. His mom died when he was just a toddler, robbing
him of a mother's touch. Due to his dad's lifestyle, Sherman was
being neglected, and had to fend for himself. He often went without
proper food and hygiene for days. Seeing him come to school dirty
and hungry, Sherman's teachers informed their school's social worker.
She in-turn met with Sherman's father and encouraged him to place
Sherman at Bethel, or she would have to file a neglect complaint
with the Department of Human Services. To his dad's credit, he did
place Sherman with Bethel. Now he goes to school clean and well
fed every day.
Sherman has one adult brother who he
gets to see occasionally. He gets to stay with his dad one weekend
each month, and talks to him three times a week by phone. Other
than one aunt, Sherman has no other family.
Sherman, not having a mother figure,
has really bonded with his housemother. He is a very affectionate
young lad. He loves to draw and enjoys playing basketball out on
the playground in front of his cottage. Since he had been used to
living alone, he has struggles interacting with his cottage mates.
He does love to talk and often gets into arguments with his peers.
However, he has expressed that he is happy that he doesn't have
to be alone all the time.
Before coming to Bethel, due to the stress
in his life, Sherman was not doing well in school. With daily after-school
tutoring in our on-campus classroom, his grades have improved. But
he probably will have to repeat the 4th grade next year. He continues
in the same school that he was in before coming to Bethel. It is
much farther away than the school where his cottage mates attend.
But changing schools would not be best for him right now.
Sherman will probably be at Bethel for
at least a couple of years. He has no other relatives willing to
make a home for him. Depending on his father's future choices, Sherman
could return to live with him. One of Bethel's social workers is
working with Sherman's dad, encouraging him to modify his lifestyle
so he can provide a safe and nurturing home for him.
Please pray that Sherman will continue
to improve in school, and that he will receive Jesus into his heart.
Pray also for God to change his dad's heart, so he will become a
caring dad to Sherman. Remember all of the children out in the world
who face loneliness and danger every day. Thank you for ensuring
that none of the children at Bethel are home alone.
Sherman's and our other children's needs
are met by gifts from individuals like you. To make a tax deductible
gift, please call or write us or give
your gift online. Thank you.
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The Hope Story for March 2003
As I reflected on which child's story
I should share with you today, my mind could not forget a very sad,
yet enlightening experience we here at Bethel had just a few days
ago. One of our alumni, Jimmy (not his real name) died a very tragic
death. As I arrived at work on Monday morning, Ray, our food manager
shared with us about Jimmy's death that previous weekend. He was
only 28 years old.Both Jimmy and his younger brother, Butch (not
real name) were here for about four years back in the late 1980s.
Ray and his wife were their houseparents at that time. They were
both very rambunctious boys, always getting into mischief, but nothing
serious. I remember when they both arrived at Bethel; they could
both stare a hole right through you with their piercing eyes. It
was like they had no soul. But that steely-eyed stare went away
after about four months at Bethel.
Both had their problems after leaving
Bethel, but both communicated that they had accepted Jesus Christ
into their hearts at some point. Jimmy, needless to say, had the
most unsettled issues in his short life.
Several of us attended Jimmy's funeral
Monday, and we heard his pastor talk pretty straight to the surviving
family members. He lovingly admonished the family to refrain from
placing blame on each other for this tragedy, but to use it for
their good. He asked them, and all others present that wanted to
see Jimmy again in Heaven, to pray a simple salvation prayer. Several
of them did.
This may not seem like a Bethel success
story, but in God's economy I believe it is a success. We have some
assurance that Jimmy left this world, though tragically, knowing
Jesus Christ as his Savior. At his funeral, his family and friends
heard a clear call to change, and make the remainder of their lives
count for God.
The seeds of God's love were sown in
both Jimmy and Butchs' lives while they were at Bethel. More seeds
were sown at Jimmy's funeral. Please pray for Butch and the rest
of Jimmy's family that their memory of Jimmy will keep them focused
on seeking the fullness of God's Holy Spirit in their daily lives.
Pray also for God's outpouring on each of the young lives currently
entrusted to the houseparents in our nine cottages.
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The Hope Story for February 2003
Last April, Carlos (not his real name)
age 14, was placed at Bethel because of his young age, and the fact
he is not an American citizen. He had no family in this country
who could care for him.
As you might imagine, initially Carlos,
his houseparents, and cottage-mates struggled to cope. He could
speak some English, but communication was difficult. Because he
could not be understood, he acted out both in the cottage and at
school. Carlos' houseparents and cottage peers persevered, and have
successfully worked through many of the initial conflicts.
Carlos went with his cottage and other
Bethel residents to the Kids Across America Kamp this past
summer. While at camp, Carlos prayed to receive Jesus Christ into
his heart. Since that time he has become more patient with others
when they don't fully understand him. But he still has a struggle.
Carlos realizes that he may be returned
to his home country soon. When asked about his uncertain future,
he said, "I just keep praying and praying. God hasn't answered
me yet, but one of these days He will."
Thanks to your involvement, Carlos has
found a temporary refuge at Bethel until his future in this country
is determined. He has not only found love and safety, but he has
found eternal security through his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Carlos also has God's Holy Spirit to guide and comfort him no matter
what lies ahead.
Please pray for Carlos and all of the
children at risk (both those placed at Bethel, and those still facing
neglect and abuse in their lives every day). Pray that many others
needing protection will find their way to Bethel, or some place
safe.
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The Hope Story for January 2003
In April of last year, Sherry (not her
real name) age 16, came to one of Bethel's two "mother-child"
cottages, along with her one-month old son. Sherry was defiant and
rebellious when she first arrived because her parents had rejected
her. They did not accept her son's father at all, and had the court
issue an order forbidding her from having contact with him. Sherry's
parents wanted her separated from her baby, but her one deep desire
was to keep her precious little one. After coming to Bethel, Sherry
called her son's father, which violated the court order. Her parents
then initiated a violation complaint in hopes that Sherry's baby
would be taken from her. Instead, the judge ordered four months
court probation…NO PRIVILEDGES! Sherry had to have a staff
member with her at all times, no phone calls, etc. If she broke
probation, she would be sent to a youth detention facility, and
her son would be placed in a foster home. She didn't want that to
happen!
The good news is that Sherry accepted
Christ at her cottage's local church back in July, and a genuine
change has occurred in her life! She now willingly, and without
complaint, accepts all the consequences of her actions. Sherry said,
"The most important thing is to stay with my baby". At
the end of her probation period, the judge ordered her to write
a two page report sharing what she had learned during her probation
experience, and what would keep her from violating the Court's order
again. According to her Bethel social worker, Sherry wrote a very
inspired report, telling of her spirit of rebellion against her
parents, her relationship with her baby's father…revealing
that she realized she was really rebelling against her Heavenly
Father. Her heart's-desire now is to reach other young girls before
they have a baby out of wedlock. She wants to save them from the
hurt that she has experienced.
Sherry is involved with parenting classes
two Tuesday nights each month, and meets with a one-on-one "Parents
are First Teachers" tutor on the other two Tuesday evenings.
Sherry has a good relationship with her Bethel housemom, who says
that Sherry is a good mother and takes excellent care of her son.
Sherry continues to work on her relationship with her parents. However,
there is very little hope that she and her son can return home to
live with them. Consequently Sherry will probably live at Bethel
until she graduates high school (where she is now a "B"
/ "C" student in the 10th grade). While at school, Sherry's
son is being nurtured by the loving Christian workers in our Bethel
on-campus Day Care. Her goal is to finish high school, and possibly
become a master chef and own her own restaurant. She also loves
animals, and volunteers at a local animal shelter.
Please pray for Sherry, her son, her
parents, her son's father, her houseparents, and her social worker,
as they face their many challenges each day. Pray also for all those
hurting boys and girls out in our society who need a safe refuge
like Bethel.
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The Hope Story for December 2002
Over three years ago, four siblings (ages
10-13) found a safe haven at Bethel, after enduring an unbearable
family situation. All of them had been abused by a family member.
One of them was an adorable 13 year old
girl. She was outwardly quiet, but in her heart, she was battling
with anger and distrust. Becky (not real name) is now 16 years old,
and still living at Bethel. What a change has taken place in her
life these past years. After about a year at Bethel, Becky received
the Lord Jesus as her personal Savior. She has a deep desire to
walk with God. We see her grow in her faith month by month. Becky
is very tender toward others, and is quick to say, "please forgive
me". She has integrity and can be trusted fully. Becky's houseparents
say she has matured a lot emotionally over the past year! One of
Becky's struggles has been her grades at school. However, her last
report card had all As and Bs, with only one C. You should have
seen the glow on her face.
This past weekend some of the girls in
her cottage went to a college campus for a visit, and Becky was
invited to go along. She came back with her mind set on going to
Bible college. After college, she thinks she would enjoy coming
back to Bethel to serve as an associate houseparent. What a vision
for such a young lady.
Please pray for Becky, her houseparents
and teachers as they all work toward nurturing her into young adulthood.
And please pray for all of the new "Beckys" and "Billys" who come
to Bethel seeking refuge from their stormy lives.
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The Hope Story for November 2002
Some time back, Beth (not her real name)
was placed at Bethel because of truancy, run away, and a breakdown
in her family. She was very adept at manipulating adults. But soon,
her houseparents saw that she was working hard at making positive
changes in her life! Her goal is to finish high school and then
return home. Later Beth received Christ into her life, and there
have been even greater changes!
Soon after Beth arrived, Carol (not her
real name) came to live in the same cottage. Carol was a very angry
young lady, and felt hopeless because of being removed from her
family. To say the least, she had a very rough first few days! Beth
and Carol have become very close. After a few months, Beth lead
her best friend, Carol, to Jesus. I would like to say that these
two girls have no more problems, but that isn't life! I know I can
say that both young ladies have God's Holy Spirit to guide them
in the midst of all that they face.
As you pray, please remember Beth and
Carol and their loving houseparents who minister to them each day.
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The Hope Story for September 2002
After 12.5 years of being executive director
of Bethel, this is my last thank you letter. My total 22.5 years
at Bethel has been a most exciting and rewarding experience. I am
grateful to the Board and the Lord for giving me this wonderful
opportunity. The thing I will miss the most will be seeing how God
works in the hearts of the children, bringing salvation and wholeness
to their shattered lives.
One of the boys Jewel and I had in the
dorm at Old Bethel in the 1960s hugged our necks at Homecoming and
thanked us for our influence in his life. He is in top administration
in a Georgia company. He and his wife are faithful leaders in the
church, and he is involved in a gospel quartet, and his son is following
in his footsteps. I received a note from a grateful father for Bethel
rescuing his daughter two years ago. She is married with children,
and attending Chattanooga State and doing great!
These are just two letters out of hundreds
I have received. All thank yous must be passed on to you. Without
you and friends just like you, Bethel could not exist and have this
great ministry to hurting families.
As I said, my number one highlight has
been seeing the changed lives of the children. My number two highlight
has been signing thousands of thank you letters these last 12.5
years. I have not picked up my box of letters to sign without being
moved emotionally because of the love and kindness of Bethel supporters.
Like the Apostle Paul, "I thank my God
upon every remembrance of you." Bethel has a great future. Please
continue to pray and support this ministry as our God directs you.
I will always be grateful,
Bob McFarland
Executive Director
PS Jesus Christ made the difference in
my life, and He is making the difference in the lives of many children
who walk through "the Bethel doors"
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The Hope Story for August 2002
Don (not real name) came to live at Bethel
along with his brothers in 1989. He was eight years old at that
time. After graduating, at age 19, Don decided to leave Bethel and
make it on his own. While he was away, Don made some bad choices.
He placed himself back at Bethel again in April 2001. He knew he
needed to learn more independent living skills, progress educationally,
and learn to save money, etc. It wasn't happening on his own!
Don began to make changes in his life,
and these changes are noticeable to all who come in contact with
him. He is attending a local community college, and doing very well
in his studies. He held a job in a local fast food restaurant for
a long period of time. Currently Don is involved in an apprenticeship
to become a chef at a very fine local restaurant. The management
is pleased with his good attitude, hard work, and his skills.
Don is involved in the College and Career
Class at a local church. He attends regularly and seems to be growing
spiritually. He is certainly a role model to the other boys in his
cottage, and to all the kids on campus. We are grateful to have
had an opportunity with Don for all these years. Please pray for
him as he pursues God's best for him.
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The Hope Story for July 2002
Summer School is winding down, and the
kids are eager to go to camp, Bible Schools, cottage vacations,
etc. We're excited for them. For many, this will be their first
exposure to vacations, etc.
Jeannie, (not real name) 15 years old
has been with us only two short months. She had been suspended from
school for fighting and other things. Jeannie always knew that if
there was a problem and she was anywhere close, they would all blame
her. She had a knack for trouble! As you can imagine, her home life
left a lot to be desired!
When Jeannie arrived, she was expecting
to get a fresh start in life. She has really made a good effort
to stay away from situations that might get her into trouble. In
fact, she was promoted to the next grade at the high school. Jeannie
is a good role model to the others in her cottage. Her attitude
is fantastic!
If you should ask her if she likes it
here, her comment is "It's a pretty good place. It's not like any
other place I've been. They treat me like I am a person, and they
treat me like I am a good person, and not some other bad kid." Hopefully
Jeannie will respond to God's love as she continues to work on her
behavior and on her goals. S
he would like to be a doctor some day,
perhaps in the Air Force. She is in the ROTC Program in her high
school. In the mean time, she volunteers at a local assisted living
facility (Jeannie approached them about what she might be able to
do to help). We're very proud of this young lady!
Please pray for Jeannie's salvation,
and 17 other children on the campus who need to believe on the Lord
Jesus Christ.
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The Hope Story for June 2002
Summer is upon us! The kids are so excited
to finally be done with school and to get on with their summer.
Of course for some there will be summer school before summer really
begins, but the cottages are planning their vacations already, and
excitement is building. The children will be keeping on track with
their education, and also having fun going to camp, Vacation Bible
School, and cottage vacations, etc.
A year ago, Connie, an 18 year old mother
arrived on our campus without her toddler. There wasn't an opening
in our Mother/Child Program, and so we took her into another program
until two beds opened. Little Tina was in a foster home for several
months. This really did give Connie an opportunity to work on her
anger, without the mother responsibility. What was causing her anger,
and rebellion toward authority? She and her five siblings were being
abused in the family situation with their mother. Each of the children
had different fathers. When they were removed from the home, the
plan was that each should go live with their dads. All the others
were able to, but Connie's dad wasn't able to take her into his
home. Through a lot of one-on-one, and group counseling, Connie
gradually learned to deal with her anger in appropriate ways. Her
housemother says there is a tremendous difference in her attitude.
She really is working on it. In fact, just recently she was overheard
talking to a younger sister and saying, "You need to come to Bethel,
they will help you!" What a change!
We are very encouraged as she leaves
us this month. Connie is on track with her schooling. An aunt and
uncle have taken an interest in her, and have offered their home
to her and Tina while she continues to get more education. She really
worked hard to get her high school diploma. It isn't easy juggling
a baby, and school, but Connie did it! She even worked and got extra
credit hours just to be sure she would graduate. She is already
getting the paper work done for help with the day care, insurance,
and applying for a Work Study Program. Hopefully she will be entering
a junior college in the fall.
Many thanks to the many of you who have
helped a young person like Connie through the ministry of Bethel Bible Village Children's Home.
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The Hope Story for May 2002
Just recently there was a Creative Arts
and Writing Contest conducted by an association of child care agencies
in Southeastern Tennessee. The Art Contest was for every age group
of children, and they were encouraged to try, even if they didn't
think they had any talents. You can imagine that most of our boys
and girls feel very lacking in these areas.
Who were the winners? Of course everyone
was that put effort into the project. But let me bragÉ
Porsha - Visual Art Work: Ages 7-12 - 1st Place
Jessica - Visual Art Work: Ages 13+ - 1st Place
Kasey - Visual Art Work: Ages 13+ - 2nd Place
Charnessa - Handicrafts: Ages 7-12 - 2nd Place
Whitney - Creative Writing: Ages 7-12 - 2nd Place
Marquitta - Creative Writing: Ages 13+ - 1st Place
Jessica - Creative Writing: Ages 13+ - 3rd Place
The awards were given these young people
at a very special luncheon with State Representative Tommie Brown
presenting them. What a great experience! On the bulletin board
in the hallway of the office, we have the names and a picture of
the winners. I wish you could see the happy expressions of accomplishment
on their faces! For most of them, it is the first time they have
succeeded in anything!
We love to see the "I can do all things
through Christ"É attitude.
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The Hope Story for April 2002
Feeling good about yourself is something
we all need. Fourteen year old Sammy (not his real name), is walking
much taller, and has a great smile when you greet him. Sammy has
come from a very dysfunctional family situation. His dad is out
of the picture, and his mother has mental issues. He is the youngest
of three. Sammy was getting into trouble at home and school, when
the State stepped in and removed him. We are very grateful that
we had an empty bed for him.
Sammy is one of the members of the newly
formed Chess Club. They are taught the techniques and moves of chess,
and are taken to tournaments all around our area. Recently they
were in a State Championship Tournament, and Sammy was the number
one unranked player! He placed 20th in the entire Tournament! We
are very proud of him, but what this has done for his self esteem
and attitude is beyond description. Sammy now has a positive attitude,
and his houseparents see a big difference in him. If things work
out, Sammy is hoping to go live with a family member. We are sure
that his chances of making a success of living with family are much
greater today than they were nine months ago, when he arrived on
our campus.
Pray for Sammy that he will understand
who he is in Christ Jesus.
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The Hope Story for March 2002
Talk about a crisis, five months ago.
three precious sisters arrived on our campus. We're so grateful
that there were three beds available together. They were removed
from their mother's home because they had shared with someone that
she had a drug problem, and wasn't able to care for them. In fact,
the oldest one was really taking care of them, because their mother
was gone for long periods of time. Each girl has a different father,
and none of them take responsibility for their child. The State
removed them to another agency, and then gave custody to their grandmother.
There was a problem in their grandmother's home, and they were removed
and placed here. The goal is to help their mother have the time
work on her drug problem… as of this writing, she is clean,
and has been since the girls arrived! Right now their mother is
recovering from major cancer surgery. To show you how serious she
is about getting her girls back with her, she refused pain medication
after the surgery so she wouldn't get back on drugs again. What
strength! The plans are to be reunited with their mother at the
end of school, if all continues to go well. The girls are settled
in, and are changing.
Helping the girls keep their hopes up,
and not worry about mom is one of the major things for their houseparents.
The mother is making progress, but it is slow, and the girls can't
understand why it is taking so long. Please pray with us for this
family, and especially that they will all be touched by God's love
and be changed inside out! He is able!
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The Hope Story for February 2002
CHOICE - (Caring Help Offered In Cottage
Evaluation) is the name of a Program that is operating in one of
our cottages. Annie, 13 years old, came to us a few weeks ago on
a temporary 72 hour emergency placement. The hope was that the family
problems would ease, with some counseling, and that she would be
able to go back home. One of the secretaries relayed this story
about Annie (not real name). Annie came into the office during her
stay, and she looked entirely different. She was asked what was
the difference and she smiled broadly and said, "I got saved
yesterday!" She sure made the best CHOICE!
Annie was down to go to the classroom,
and this same secretary saw her, and she was very upset. She took
her into her office, and asked if there was anything she could do
to help. Annie said, "They can't find my mother. I was supposed
to go home today, and they can't find her anywhere." The secretary
asked if she would like to call herself. She called her home number
only to find out it was out of service. She looked frantic. She
called where her mother worked, and talked to her. It was obvious
that the conversation wasn't going well. Annie was straightforward
with her mother, and when she hung up she asked, "would I be
able to stay here?" The secretary told her that she would have
to check. In checking, she found out there was a bed available,
and Annie was thrilled. She wondered if they would let her call
her mother and let her know that she wanted to stay here? She was
allowed. Apparently another good CHOICE!
Thank you, for allowing us the opportunity
to care for children in their time of need, and not only that, but
to help them make choices concerning their welfare.
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The Hope Story for January 2002
We have some excited girls …excited
about a way they can do some community service. Teaching the children
to reach out to others is a monumental task. They are usually the
ones receiving. I would like to tell you what happenedÉit was during
the holidays that an activities coordinator of a local adult day
care center called to see if there were any children that would
like to come and spend some time with their elderly adults. It was
during a very busy time, but two staff members decided that it would
be a great idea. Four young ladies volunteered to go. On the way
they discussed just what they would sing and do. It was a surprise
to the staff that they didn't know the good old hymns or choruses.
So there was a challenge to find something that was appropriate.
Of course the girls were willing to learn, and I'm happy to report
they know more hymns now then they did last month. When they arrived
at the facility, the girls hung back while the two staffers gave
out lots of hugs, pats, and kisses. Soon the girls were doing the
same, and when it was time to go, they weren't ready. On the drive
back, one of the girls said, "I think it would be a great idea
to take on those old people as a Community Service Project."
That is exactly what they are going to do.
We are always grateful when the boys
and girls learn to reach out to others in need.
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The Hope Story for December 2001
One of our 18 year old mothers is very
excited! Gracie (not real name) and her 20 month old baby girl have
been with us almost a year. She was experiencing a lot of physical
abuse in her home, and so she turned herself in to the authorities.
This meant that they also had to take her baby into custody in order
to protect her. Gracie never intended to lose custody of her child,
and knew that she would work to get her back no matter what it took.
We were able to offer her a bed and one for her baby. Gracie has
thrived over the year. She is working hard at school and is expecting
to graduate this year. The teachers are very encouraging and of
course we are! She is on target working toward her goal...in fact,
she is taking two extra courses just to be sure she will have enough
credits to graduate. Gracie had some emotional issues to deal with
(abuse and relationship with her mother). She is working hard! Recently
we went to court with her, and she was awarded full custody of her
baby! She said "this is the best gift I could ever receive!" She
was connected with a great church before coming to Bethel, and they
are committed to her now. They come by and pick her and the baby
up and take them to the services, and do all they can do to help
her.
Please pray with us for Gracie as she
considers where she should go to college. She has applied several
places and has received letters, but Gracie realizes going to college
with a baby girl will be hard.
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The Hope Story for November 2001
Susie is eleven years old, and is in
the LIFE Program. Susie's parents were unable to take care of their
children. She was living with her aunt and uncle who love her dearly,
but were unable to control her. Susie was getting into trouble at
school, cutting classes, smoking, and getting into fights. Her relatives
felt that if she didn't get help now, her behavior would continue
to get worse, and she would end in a bad situation.
When she arrived, the social worker didn't
quite know what to expect. In fact felt that she should write a
note to the teacher to help her be aware of some of her behaviors.
She was on medication for ADHD, but was put on behavior management
to help her be accountable for her behavior, and is doing very well
now. Susie is not the same child! She made passing grades, and the
teacher reports that she is doing well in the classroom. She has
had a few scuffles in her cottage, but overall is very eager to
please the houseparents, teachers, etc.
Do you need PRAYER? E-mail your prayer
request to me. Our staff begins each week with a prayer meeting.
We will pray for your prayer request and pur your e-mail prayer
request on our prayer board for two weeks. E-mail bobmc@cdc.net
If you prayed to receive Christ and would
like a booklet to get you started in your walk with God, e-mail
me at the address above and I will send you the book free. God loves
you and His love never changes. Hey, we love you too, your Bethel Bible Village Children's Home friends.
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The Hope Story for September 2001
Sally (not real name) is almost 18 years
old, and is needing to make a very hard decision. Needless to say,
she is struggling. Now that she is an adult, she is able to make
her own decision about going home to live with her parents. She
says "it's scary being an adult!" Since coming to live here, she
has developed great work skills. In fact she is in the Management
Training Program at a local restaurant, and is planning on becoming
a manager. She has a car, and is earning the privilege to drive
it. I know she would appreciate your prayers. Tammy (not real name),
wants to be a cartoonist at Disney. She is enrolled in a local community
college and is taking an 18 month computer drafting course. She
has worked a year and a half at a local grocery store.
Both girls are Christians. They are both
loving the youth group in a little church just down the road from
us. They have come a long way in the two years they have lived here.
Please pray with us that they will keep their focus on the right
things – especially on the Lord Jesus, as they work toward
being successful in life. We appreciate you.
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The Hope Story for August 2001
GOD,
LEAD ME
Psalm 139:19-24
David says, man this
is great. God knows me and sees me all the time. God even made me
and planned a beautiful life for me. Just think, God loves me. Wow,
I can face anything because it is God and me. The last thing David
says in this Psalm is to pray, "O God, lead me that I might
always please you."
Holly is a beautiful
girl. She came to Bethel when she was sixteen. Her story is so sad.
She was sexually abused as a young girl and then later as a young
teenager. Both times the abuser was a family member. When she lived
with her family they would also slap her around. She began to live
a wild life of rebellion, drugs, and sex. In all the mess, God came
to her and saved her. Jesus became her Lord and Savior. Then her
family made fun of her for being a Christian and the world even
thought she was crazy. God in a miraculous way brought her to Bethel
a few months after she was saved. Holly is now doing great. Saying
no to drugs, and making a promise to wait for marriage to have sex,
are her convictions now. She is a leader in her high school and
a Christian witness. She is making A's and even taking some college
courses as she finishes high school. She believes that God is leading
her to do some missionary work when she becomes a young adult.
Related Bible
Story
John 4 tells the story
of the woman at the well. Jesus met this woman and treated her with
respect. He let her know that He knew about her lifestyle. She had
been married many times and none of them worked. He loved her with
God's love and offered a drink from God's well of salvation and
she took it. She ran back to her town and told them she had met
God's Messiah, the Savior. The woman at the well found a love that
would not misuse her. She found truth that would not excuse her
sin. She found forgiveness that would not accuse her and she had
found God's Man that would not abuse her. Holly found the same things
when she asked this same Jesus into her heart, and now Holly is
telling everybody about her Lord.
THINK ABOUT IT
How did the woman
feel about herself after she talked with Jesus at the well? What
do you give to God everyday? How does God lead you each week?
PRAY
– that all Christian kids will let God lead them. Pray
that they will understand that no matter what has happened in their
lives, God has a bright future for them. Ask God to show you each
day what He wants you to do. Tell God you will do your best, with
His help, to obey the Bible and obey your parents so you can please
Him as He leads you.
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The Hope Story for July 2001
GOD
MADE ME
Psalm 139:13-18
David
discovers the most wonderful truth. God made him. God knew him even
when he was in his mother's belly. God decided how tall he would
be, what color his hair and eyes would be and even if he would have
freckles. God even planned out his life before he was born. David
said, "This is so wonderful that God made me, and how He has made
me."
His
dad had moved 1,500 miles away and mom was messed up living in bars
and on the streets. The state authorities took Sean and sent him
to Bethel. He was only 11. Sean had been abandoned and felt very
rejected. He was a smart, good-looking kid but was he ever "hyper".
His houseparents had a big job keeping him calmed down. Sean, though
smart, was having a hard time in school. No one had ever made him
go to school every day or do his homework. An assistant houseparent
was able to befriend Sean and worked with him for three years. Sean
was able to catch up in school and learn how to control his emotions.
As a teenage, he became very good with a computer and even worked
at Circuit City in the computer department in Bethel's older teen
work program. Sean became a Christian and a leader on the Bethel
campus. He graduated and became a Marine. He is the lay chaplain
leader for his platoon. Sean understands that God made him and even
planned out his life, although as a young child it was a hard life.
Related
Bible Story
Matthew 26:36-27:5 tells the story of Jesus when the temple guard
came and led Him away to be crucified. In this story there are four
main characters and each have something in their hands. Marcus,
a temple guard, came with a club in his hand, demanding his rights.
He was running his own life. Judas came with a bag of silver in
his hand. He sold out his life and tried to buy happiness. Peter
had a sword in his hand and tried to defend his rights. He was always
trying to help God run his life. God does not need help. Then there
was Jesus who had the cup from the garden in His hand. This was
a cup of surrendering His rights and letting God, His father run
His life. This was a life of service to God and to others. Sean
in 9 years at Bethel had the club, the bag of money, and the sword
in his hands at different times. But Sean learned that God calls
all of us to a life of service. Now he is serving his God and his
country in the military
THINK
ABOUT IT
What do you have in your hand?
What is there about you physically that God made different?
Have you thanked Him? What do you think God is planning for your
life?
PRAY
Ð that teenagers will see that God made them and even planned
a wonderful life for them before they were born. Pray that they
will understand that this wonderful God-planned life begins with
them believing on the Lord Jesus and being saved. Thank God that
He made you. Thank Him that He gave you the right parents and for
all He has done for you. Ask God to help you serve Him.
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The Hope Story for June 2001
GOD
SEES ME
Psalm 139:7-12
David, looking into
the sky that night, understands that God sees everything. God sees
him. He cannot run and hide from God. Wherever David makes his bed,
God sees him. He sees him in the morning, in the afternoon and even
in the darkness of the night. David is glad that God sees him because
He will always hold David in his hands.
They came to Bethel
on a stormy day. Ben and Anna, brother and sister were 8 | 
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