From Whom All Blessings Flow

Growing up in the Episcopal Church, the Doxology was an oft-sung hymn of praise. Even now, its sacred refrain and familiar melody provide a place of center and focus in my ever-changing world. I recall a heavenly moment in Jamaica when a visiting team gathered in our new dining hall in the building below our apartment to conduct their morning devotions. Concluding with the Doxology, their unaccompanied voices resonated in the unfurnished hall, and the celestial sound echoed out of the open windows of the cement-blocked building. It seemed as if heaven itself joined their voices, as praises to God rang out across New Vision’s acreage. It was a holy moment.

At New Vision City of Refuge, we enjoyed the diverse ministry teams of college students and youth groups, construction workers and homemakers, teachers and mechanics. Although most teams were from our own fellowship, Lutherans, Episcopalians, Baptists, and Methodists were also among our visitors. Interestingly, even though each group preferred a particular style of music, the one song that everyone knew was the Doxology. Seemingly, when personality and preferences may conflict and divide, sacred anthems effectively transcend and unite.

I have been devoting much of my time recently meditating on the Doxology. When I consider the changes and transitions God is leading my family through, I need the Doxology to focus my attention on praise and adoration of the Holy One who transcends time and eternity. Recently, the Lord has made it clear to us that our season of ministry in Jamaica has concluded. I pray you understand what a difficult time we have had accepting this; we are grieving our loss.

However, the Lord has not left us without hope or direction. We are now preparing to reach the orphans and students of our neighboring country as missionaries to Mexico. I fervently ask that you continue to pray and support us through this challenging transition. We have much to accomplish before language school starts on August 26, in Costa Rica. Within the next few days, we are traveling to Jamaica to retrieve our personal belongings, sell our furniture, and say goodbye to our beloved New Vision family. Upon our return to Indiana, we will only have two days to pack for language school. We need you now more than ever.

I am so thankful for the magnificent God that we serve and for the Body of Christ; for no matter where we are in the world, right now we can all join and sing:

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow

Praise Him, all creatures here below

Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts

Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

First Honors

Dorothy Sayers’ observations on the presence of women in Jesus’ life and ministry are insightful and accurate. “Perhaps it is no wonder that the women were first at the Cradle and last at the Cross. They had never known a man like this Man - there has never been such another. A prophet and teacher who never nagged at them; never flattered or coaxed or patronized; who never made arch jokes about them . . .

“Who took their questions and arguments seriously; who never mapped out their sphere for them; never urged them to be feminine or jeered at them for being female; who had no axe to grind and no uneasy male dignity to defend; who took them as he found them and was completely unselfconscious.”

Correspondingly, the Gospel writers portray Jesus as unusually compassionate and sensitive towards women. Indeed, the incarnate Christ validated and respected women; never treating them as inferior or unfairly. We find in the Bible, a God who entrusts women with great responsibility and bestows on them the honor of many firsts.

Women were first at the cradle of Jesus. When confronted by the angel with the promise of the Christ-child, Mary believes the word of the Lord and humbly accepts this responsibility. This is no small matter. The Sovereign Lord could have chosen to allow the incarnate Christ to appear out of nowhere. Yet instead he chose to entrust a young Jewish girl with carrying his Son the Messiah, and raising him as well.

Later in life, Jesus travels through Samaria. Resting at a well he initiates a conversation with a woman in the middle of the day. Notably, the spiritual content of the dialogue between Jesus and the Samaritan woman is no less weighty than Jesus’ conversation with the rabbinically trained Nicodemas the chapter before. For her part the Samaritan woman asks some very spiritually perceptive questions and Jesus responds thoughtfully.

Jesus deems the Samaritan woman capable of comprehending and assimilating deep spiritual truths. Truths that prompt her to tell those in her town about Jesus and subsequently many believe. A Samaritan woman is her country’s first evangelist.

Women were also the first to arrive at Jesus’ tomb. They were the first to witness the resurrection, the first commissioned to go and tell, “He is not here, he has risen!”What a great honor God bestowed on women by commanding them to be the first preachers of the resurrection.

Two thousand years ago, Jesus modeled for us how to respect and value women for he knows their worth.

Why is it then that domestic violence affects 25% of the female population worldwide? Why is it then that 80% of Jamaica’s children are born out of wedlock? Why is it then that 3 million girls are at risk each year for female genital mutilation? Why is it then that human trafficking is the third most profitable criminal activity around the globe? Church, this should not be.

The value and worth God places on women is undeniable. But let me be perfectly clear, to validate and respect women is not to invalidate or disrespect men. Women and men together reflect the image of God, and in Christ, we share an immeasurable inheritance. All I ask Church is that we continue to do what Jesus began. For I believe how we treat women is a reflection of our relationship with and our understanding of God.

At New Vision City of Refuge we strive to model for and teach our young girls their value and worth in God’s eyes. Many have been abused and deal with the effects of abandonment. But with the healing power of the Holy Spirit, and your prayers and support, we can open their eyes to their God-given value and worth.

Imagine their potential.

A Good Investment

The economic conditions of today have forced many to evaluate and reconsider the way they spend, save, and invest their resources. This is not necessarily a bad thing. The Lord is our source and provider of our means, therefore it is our Christian responsibility to review our spending habits and judge the appropriateness of our purchases and investments. However, even in these tough economic times, we believe our ministry is a good investment.

The Mission of New Vision City of Refuge is simple: We strive to provide a home for needy children in a loving, Christ-centered, disciplined environment. We desire to witness the evidence of transformed lives through training, nurturing, and mentoring. Finally, we endeavor to raise up a generation of productive citizens for the community, the nation, and the church.

The return on this investment is immeasurable.

A total of $150 is needed each month to take care of one child. Your support enables New Vision City of Refuge to provide benefits such as education, health care, housing, childcare, books, food and clothing. We are on a quest for six sponsors per child that can give $25/month. Of course, a monthly commitment of any amount is appreciated and if you desire, you may give more.

In addition to your financial support, your prayers will be of great value to ensure your sponsored child’s salvation and success in life. Please uphold them in prayer for their spiritual, emotional, and physical needs.

Though not required for sponsorship, a letter to your sponsored child from time to time will be a welcome blessing. You can speak words of life to your sponsored child in the months to come that will guide them on the path to becoming a man or woman of God and an asset to His Kingdom.

To get started simply click Sponsor a Child under the links section to the right or follow this link: http://www.thecityofrefugechildrenshome.org/Christiana/sponsor.html

To give a one-time donation click here: https://secure1.ag.org/contributions/detail.cfm?LedgerID=1e00cfa8-7a1f-49e7-b126-cd547e73026d be sure to note New Vision in the comments section.

Always Remember

I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. Psalm 143:5

Our mind is a wondrous and yet mysterious thing. The scent of a particular perfume or a glance at an aged photo can nudge even the most stubborn memories from exile. We all hold dear certain tangible reminders of a special event -a ticket stub from our first concert, a coin from a foreign country, or the petals of a corsage.

But why do we save such seemingly inconsequential items?

Because we don’t want to forget. Additionally, the apparently insignificant token we cherish enhances the memory, as seasonings enhance the flavors of a culinary dish.

For each of my children, I filled a small shoe-sized boxed with novelties from their childhood. In each, I saved the front page of the paper from the day of their birth, some baby clothes, a stuffed toy, a silver spoon, and various notes and cards.

Recently, we opened those boxes and wondered at items we haven’t seen in about four years. We laughed at the pictures, recalled almost-forgotten events, and marveled at the growth and maturity of our children. Every item was like a locket holding a secret picture; when opened it released its hidden memory and consequently, the next generation learned and cherished the stories of long ago.

I believe we learn to treasure memories from God himself. Throughout the Scripture, God continually calls his people to remember, his Holy Spirit aids our memory, and the Lord even gives instructions on how to remember. His people have built altars after glorious victories, enjoyed yearly feasts and festivals, and even now, eat and drink at his table, all in remembrance of him.

If you are a sponsor at New Vision City of Refuge, you have a photo of your sponsored child. I know many of you display these pictures in prominent places to remind you to pray. Some of you look at these pictures and remember the missions trip to New Vision City of Refuge and the significant ministry you provided. Others may know your sponsored child only through their letters and pictures in our newsletter or blog. However, I am confident you cherish these photos as we cherish your faithfulness and support.

If you would like to invest in the life of a child at New Vision City of Refuge Children's Home please look to the links section to the right and click on Sponsor a Child to get started.

It Ain't the Sistine Chapel

But face painting is still an art form. Olivia had fun volunteering at Fort Wayne First Assembly's Harvest Party this past weekend with over 1500 kids enjoying our autumn alternative. That is a lot of faces to paint!

For an insightful article by Kenneth Samples on The Tricky Topic of Halloween, please follow this link: http://www.reasons.org/resources/fff/2002issue11/index.shtml#the_tricky_topic_of_halloween

Peaceful Dwellings

The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. -Isaiah 32:17

Quietness is a virtue I can appreciate -especially when surrounded by 25+ kids. However quietness is more than just the absence of sound, it is a state of being. Isaiah speaks of a time when a king will reign and his righteousness will ripple through his kingdom emanating calm assurance or peaceful trust upon all the people.

When praying for the children at New Vision City of Refuge I often pray for God to quiet their souls. Many of our children grapple with abandonment issues, loneliness, doubt, and learning disabilities. This at times leads to undesirable behavior even they do not always understand. In other words, their souls are restless and troubled.

But the Lord says, My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest. -Isaiah 32:18

We strive at New Vision City of Refuge to give our children a sense of security, peace, and worth. We protect, provide, and prepare them through devoted caregivers, wholesome food, pleasant surroundings, and solid academic and spiritual training. However, quietness and confidence will only come when they allow the righteous King to reign in the kingdoms of their hearts.

Please pray for our faithful staff at New Vision City of Refuge to nurture these children effectively. Pray for our wonderful missionary team, the Bushhorns and the Yoders as they sacrificially fill in the gap during our absence. And of course, pray for our children to know the quietness and confidence of God’s eternal presence.

Thank you for your continued support.

I Love my Mummy

Sophia worked hard on this project for Social Studies. She learned all about mummies, mummy cases, and how ancient Egyptians prepared for the afterlife. She did a great job!

To Seek and Save

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost. Luke 19:10

Have you seen the movie August Rush? It’s the story of a child prodigy who is inadvertently abandoned by his parents at birth. However, years of growing up in the system doesn’t dim August’s dream of finding his parents. Eventually, he runs away to seek what he has lost. In the course of his journey, he meets Wizard who recognizes August’s special gift and seeks to capitalize on it.

Wizard asks him, “What do you want to be in the world? I mean the whole world. What do you want to be? Close your eyes and think about it.” In a blink August replies, “Found.”

It’s a scary thing to be lost. Jesus taught at least three parables concerning the importance and necessity of searching for what is lost, because what is lost is highly valuable. Friend, there are at least 12,000 lost children in Jamaica; they are homeless, abandoned, and often abused and they need to be found.

Please consider supporting the City of Refuge Children’s Home in Christiana, Jamaica. Help us to find what is lost but highly valuable, to bring them safely back to the Father’s arms.

To make an on-line donation or a monthly commitment to the City of Refuge Home in Christiana, look to the Partner with us in Ministry sectiton to the right, and click on the appropriate link.

Even There

In Psalm 139, David poignantly expresses his wonder at the all-knowing, ever-present God: Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

The psalmist exemplifies the truth that we can never move beyond God’s scrutiny, provision, or care. In other words, we are never beyond God’s reach.

It was difficult for the staff, the children, and our family when we left the Christiana City of Refuge for our year of itineration. However, this separation has a purpose; and I am not just talking about raising funds. This is a learning experience for all of us that God is our source; because it’s not about our presence, it’s about his.

If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me; your right hand will hold me fast.

Although we may find ourselves on distant corners of the earth, God takes notice of our every need, every step, every prayer and he is there to lead and lend a hand. Pray for the Christiana City of Refuge and us this year, that we may discern God’s sovereign presence and provision as we seek to do his will.

Thank you for your continued support.

Happy Father's Day

Although, Stuart and I have many responsibilities at New Vision City of Refuge, we feel that, our primary focus is to model what a healthy, Christian family looks like. Admittedly, we are far from perfect, but Stuart and I are committed to one another and to our children. We didn’t realize the extent of our influence though until just recently.

Brianna* is a quiet, teen-aged girl, with a pretty smile. By her own admission though, she has no close friends and she doesn’t trust anyone, especially adults. It isn’t difficult to figure out why; Brianna bears the scars and physical disabilities that evidence previous abuse.

Over the years, Stuart has been a reliable, trustworthy, father figure to all the kids at New Vision. Being an affectionate person, he gives fatherly hugs and expresses his love openly. At first Brianna, although not resistant to affection, did not readily respond to it. Rather she seemed simply to endure it. Undaunted, Stuart continued to tell Brianna how much she is loved and that he was praying for her.

The day our family left Jamaica, it was a tearful parting as final goodbyes and prayers were expressed. Then a miracle happened: Stuart hugged Brianna and Brianna hugged back.

And Brianna wouldn’t let go.

We are not letting go either. For a season, we must be parted from our family at New Vision City of Refuge in order to raise funds and gather more sponsors. However, you can facilitate our reunion through your continued prayers and financial support. Thanks for being a part of the City of Refuge family.

*not her real name

Happy Father's Day!

We AIM to Please

Pastor Jimmy Johnston brought a great bunch of kids from Kentucky recently on an Ambassadors in Missions (AIM) team. Worship, sports clinics, games, and devotions were the order of the day. Our kids found the joy of the Lord in everything that they did. Local high schools also benefited from their ministry during morning devotions and wanted them to return.

The team painted the wall at the top of the property and inside the girls dorm as well. A registered nurse on the team stocked our shelves with medicines and advised our staff concerning normal childhood illnesses and boo-boos.

Thank you, Joe Girdler (KY district superintendent), Brian Neugent (KY district youth director), Pastor Jimmy, and everyone for a great week in Jamaica.

Check out the web album and videos of the team in the right-hand column.

We have the Victory

A wonderful team from Victory Christian Center, Terre Haute, Indiana visited New Vision City of Refuge this past week. Pastor Dana Coverstone and his youth pastor Shawn Riggs are shown here refereeing Bible Quiz. The Buzz Box was a gift from the church and a big hit with the kids.

This versatile team hosted an excellent Children and Youth Worker Training seminar at our local assembly. They imparted vision and taught about prayer, object lessons, puppets, and Bible Quiz. Keilah (Dana and Jennifer Coverstone's 10 year old daughter) took on the Assemblies of God Bible College in a Bible Quiz showdown. Everyone was impressed with Keilah's expertise. Each church in attendance happily received a Bible Quiz Fact Pack and an instruction booklet, complements of Victory Christian Assembly.

Two licensed child therapists on the team encouraged and enlightened our staff about the special needs of our kids. Pastor Dana also presented a very generous check to finish the first floor of the new boys dorm. Thanks, Victory Christian for a great week!

Pictures and video of the team are available under the Photo Album heading in the right-hand column.

Sports Day

Relay competitions and potato races pitted the red team against the yellow team at New City of Refuge sports day. View photos of this fun filled event under the albums section in the right-hand column.

Oink

Our sow had pigs last night and then promptly died. I guess the thought of raising 9 piglets was too much for her. So, here we are feeding our little orphan pigs. But where will they sleep tonight? I suggested they would feel at home in the teen-boys room.

Check out the link to the photo album and video in the right-hand column.

The Mom Song

www.anitarenfroe.com

The Great Debate

New Vision City of Refuge was honored to host a debate sponsored by the Child Develpment Agency (CDA) of Jamaica. These last few months four of our residents as well as children from Windsor Lodge and Hanbury Children's Homes (Salvation Army Ministries) diligently prepared and delivered their speeches at our respective homes on a rotating basis. This was a tremendous learning opportiunity for all those involved. Each participant received a certificate and first and second place trophies were awarded to the victors. Windsor Lodge was honored this year for their outstanding team. We look forwarded to more friendly competition and fellowship with our neighboring children's homes.

Voyagers

Following the light of the sun, we left the Old World. -Christopher Columbus

In May of 1494, Christopher Columbus sailed west and came upon the region we now know as the West Indies. Recently our own young explorers visited Columbus Park in St Ann’s parish where this famous voyager landed. Lorraine Beaton, our school teacher and pastor’s wife, led our band of discoverers to their hideaway at Chatham’s Cottage in Montego Bay and then on to a variety of places including the airport, the beach, and of course KFC.

The children enjoyed themselves immensely and appreciated the fun and spiritual guidance they received on a retreat designed just for them (no big kids allowed!). This could not have been possible without the gifts and financial support we receive from you on a monthly basis. Many local pastors and businesses also gave generously and for that we are rejoicing.

We have a busy summer scheduled with the teens attending the Assemblies of God Youth Camp next month while other children will be enrolling in summer school. The cost is approximately $50 per child. Would you please consider an extra offering this month to send a child to camp or to summer school? Use the City of Refuge account number, 6825046(42) and simply designate your offering.

The voyage of Christopher Columbus was a costly one. He needed others not only to believe in his dream but to invest in his journey. When you pray and give financial support to New Vision City of Refuge you not only believe in the dream to help wayward travelers find the New World you are investing in the journey as well.

The expedition continues.

Of Chickens and Pigs

Someone once said that the difference between involvement and commitment is like an eggs and ham breakfast; the chicken is involved but the pig was committed.

The month of May turns our attention towards a different type of commitment celebrated every year in honor of mothers. Each child, in every family, is encouraged to show in their own creative way their appreciation for mom. Pictures are drawn, cards are created and breakfast is presented in bed for mom on her special day.
Although the act of giving birth technically makes someone a mother that is not what is actually being celebrated on Mother’s Day. The celebration is in honor of the wonderful privilege and awesome responsibility each mom accepts in her commitment to raising a child created in the image of God.
This same privilege and responsibility has also been entrusted to us at New Vision City of Refuge Children’s Home. Although other women may have given birth to our children, we are committed to raising them in a way that honors God. Motherhood is a noble endeavor and we give thanks to our friends and sponsors who by their prayers and financial support help us to honor our commitment.

Happy Mother’s Day.

He Knows My Name

A Sunday school teacher relates how a class of youngsters she once taught had some problems repeating the Lord's Prayer. What they lacked in memory skills they made up for in imagination. One child sincerely prayed, "Our Father, who art in heaven, how'd you know my name?"
A few years ago, Tommy Walker, a well known worship leader penned the words to a simple but profound song:

I have a Father, he calls me his own. He’ll never leave me, no matter where I go. He knows my name, he knows my every thought. He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call.

If you were as fortunate as I to have an earthly father who exemplified the qualities of our heavenly father, then you know the above verse is true. But if you were not so fortunate, as so many of our children here at New Vision City of Refuge, you can rest in the truth that God is everything you have always hoped for in a dad.
When a child doesn’t have a family to call his own; then God calls on his family to fill in the gap. That is the heart and soul of our ministry at New Vision City of Refuge. This is the ministry you are a part of as well as you invest in the lives of these children through your prayers and financial support. Thank you so much for all you do.

Can You Feel the Love Tonight?

New Vision City of Refuge was visited by the students of the local Assemblies of God Bible College this week to help celebrate Valentine's day. The afternoon was spent playing cricket, football, baseball and other games. The night was capped off by a special dinner of Jerk chicken, rice and peas and wonderful treats like cupcakes and cookies. As Timon and Pumba crooned in the background the college students generously gave each child a small gift.
We appreciate the friendships that are being forged and the mentoring relationships being built between the college students and the New Vision kids. These college students are the future pastors and ministers of Jamaica and their hearts are already full of compassion for the orphans of their country. Praise God for their vision and insight!