Download - Summer 2015 Messenger
Throughout history we have
dealt with what Mark Manson
refers to as scarcity. During the Industrial
Revolution the scarcity was labor, in the 20th
century it was knowledge, and the new scarcity
is attention. Attention has been referred to as the
allocation of limited processing resources, and
our attention is closely related to our distractions.
The word that we use to describe, in a positive
light, the enormous amount of distractions to our
attention is multitasking.
Did you know that your brain was not created
to multitask? The Bible and science tells us that
processing large amounts of abstract thoughts at
the same time is a recipe for disaster. I could go
into quantum physics and the science of thought
but I am sure you get the point. It is important to
note that we all face the challenge of distraction
and we all multitask at times to try and make sure
we take care of all our responsibilities. Eron Green, President and CEO
The area in which we need to spend more time is
singular focus. This singular focus is important for
us in all areas of life but especially when looking
at our relationships. Here at STCH Ministries we
see children and families that are living with
significant distractions as well. Many times these
distractions have torn the family fabric into pieces
that seem irreparable.
As you read through this Messenger I challenge
you to think of the singular focus that was needed
in the stories you read. The singular focus of
those we serve, our volunteers, and also our staff.
I encourage you to make an effort for singular
focus in your relationships as well!
Thank you for taking the time to hear and see how
God is working at STCH Ministries.
An Era of Distraction
STCHM is a Texas Baptist agency affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas.2 Summer 2015
Family Counseling - Rockport 361.575.5151
Family Counseling - Stockdale 361.575.5151
Family Counseling - Victoria 361.575.5151
Jobs for Life - Corpus Christi 361.452.3046
International Ministry - Corpus Christi 361.994.0940
President’s Office and Development 361.375.2417
Homes for Children - Beeville 361.375.2101
Homes for Families - Goliad 361.575.5151
Family Counseling - Corpus Christi 361.991.8680
Family Counseling - Gonzales 361.575.5151
Join us on www.STCHM.org [email protected]
CoMMuniTy RelaTionSHipS
Our Jobs for Life ministry puts in a
great effort to build relationships
with people in the community to
benefit our students. We want the
ladies we serve to have connections
with people that can help us ensure
their success after graduation. STCHM
staff are very diligent in developing
partnerships with area businesses and
community leaders that compliment
our ministry. Workforce Solutions
of the Coastal Bend is one of those
partnerships that just works. They
can offer our graduates service
resources, like childcare vouchers,
case management, and locating job
openings. Gino Vargas, Job Readiness
Leader at Workforce Solutions stated,
“We now have a partnership for life.”
As part of our mission at STCHM,
we enable others to join us in this
ministry, so now they are committed
to helping us impact a community
and restore the dignity of the families
in need of our help.
contentsSTCHM Snapshots
Jobs for Life
Bling BouTique
When students first graduate from
our Jobs for Life ministry, they are full
of encouragement and confidence.
As they step out armed with the
tools needed to be successful and
self-sufficient, there is one thing
that can cause them to pause. What
to wear to the interview? Our goal
at STCHM is to help prepare these
women with all the tools they need
to make the best first impression.
As our students approached
graduation, we accepted donations
of clothing that would be appropriate
for interviews. Thanks to generous
supporters, now we can offer our
students a Bling Boutique. The room
full of dresses, skirts, pants, and
blouses was debuted before the
graduation ceremony this past spring.
Volunteers had thought of everything!
Accessories were hung along the wall
with a mirror nearby. Shoes and purses
were lined up on racks. Everything was
organized and ready for shopping.
www.STCHM.org 3
ViSiT STCHM on FaCeBookConnect with us on Facebook for an up-to-date, as it happens, snapshot of what we are doing daily. There is always
something post-worthy. We encourage you to share what we are doing with your Facebook friends, so check us
out and tell others about us, www.facebook.com/stchm.
P3STCHM SnapSHoTS
P4TogeTHeR
P6TRapped By HeR FeelingS
P7paSSionaTe VolunTeeRS
P8ladieS FoR THe leaST
P9iT’S a STCHM FaMily THing!
P10lineTTe’S SToRy -
god FiRST
P11pRepaRing THe
FoundaTion
P12Two MiSSion TeaMS, SaMe
paSSion... SeRVing oTHeRS
P142015 gRaduaTeS
P15Two woRdS:
HuMBled and BleSSed
ince we first opened South Texas
Children’s Home Ministries (STCHM) in
1952, we have focused on working together to
serve hurting children and families. Laura Boothe
Overby heard God’s call to provide the land for an
orphanage and Reverend Jess Lunsford served as the
first administrator, together starting what is now the
largest, privately-funded Baptist affiliated children’s
home in the United States. As time has passed and
the needs of the children of South Texas have changed
our ministry has adapted, from orphanage to Homes
for Children.
Our purpose is to come alongside families and work
together to heal whatever it is that needs mending, not
to replace the family of the children we serve. Our Homes
for Children ministry is a beautiful reflection of God’s
commandment for us to love one another (John 13:34).
This ministry allows us the opportunity to not only care for
the day-to-day needs of children placed in our care, but
their spiritual needs as well. With that said, it is never just
about that child. It is about the family as a whole. As we
love each of these children as God loves us, we also love
their families; creating a
special relationship and a
lasting bond.
Each family’s need is
unique, but before we can
address their situation
the child’s placement must first be made.
This brings us to the most popular question
people ask. How do these children come into
our care? Some children are placed voluntarily
by parents or guardians, while others are placed by
Child Protective Services (CPS). Then there are the rare
occasions. Jennifer and her children, Allison and Cavin,
came into our care through a special relationship between
STCHM and CPS. Through the years, our organization has
worked with this state agency to care for children whose
home life is not ideal. With trust and understanding,
together we created a unique opportunity to help
families like Jennifer’s. She was doing the best she could
to take care of her children. There was no doubt that she
loved her children, but she was battling a drug addiction.
When CPS entered the picture, they realized that Jennifer
needed help as much as her children did. Instead of just
removing Allison and Cavin, they offered her a chance
to place them with STCHM voluntarily. This arrangement
would allow her time to deal with her addiction while
Allison and Cavin were kept together and taken care of.
Two years ago, when Allison and Cavin first came to
live at the Boothe Campus in Pettus, they were both
very quiet and withdrawn. Allison was intent to not let
anyone in at first, “I decided I was not going to talk to
anyone. I just wanted to go home.” Her Houseparents,
Terry and Virginia Wilkins, remember her being very
moody in the beginning and noticed she never talked
4 Summer 2015
“People here spoke to my potential, that allowed me to strive to be who He wants me to be.” Jennifer
TogetherS
healthy families and see them reunited together,
we work diligently to make this occur,” stated Eron
Green, President and CEO. Brenda Whitfield, Director
of Counseling Victoria and Karen Knowlton, Family
Therapist both provided counseling services for each
of the children, as well as for Jennifer. At first each
member of the family had their own personal session
and overtime they also met together. Galilee Bowden,
Caseworker for the children kept mom in the loop on
things and made sure the children kept appointments
and arranged home visits with mom. Jennifer expressed,
“STCHM has allowed my children to find their voice and
included me in everything.” She continued, “In one of Max
Lucado’s books, he references that there comes a time
when separation is
necessary to finish
the job. That is how
I felt. I wanted my
kids with me, but
I knew I needed
that time to heal.
Without this place, I
wouldn’t have been
able to take the
time I needed.”
The heart and
mission of South
Texas Children’s
Home Ministries is
to honor God, reach
hurting children
and families with
His love and truth,
and to enable
others to join us in
this ministry. That
is exactly what we
did and we did it…
together.
www.STCHM.org 5
about her home life. Virginia immediately started loving
on Allison, as she does with all the girls in Barnes
Cottage. Terry, on the other hand, realizes that most of
the children in his cottage either do not have a father in
the picture or not a very good example of one. So, he
patiently builds their trust and allows them to come to
him when they are ready. He was pleasantly surprised at
Allison’s comfortableness with him from almost the very
beginning. Allison recalled “It didn’t take long for me to
start opening up to the people in my cottage. I felt like I
was part of a family.”
Terry and Sheila Backen, Housparents at Foster Cottage,
welcomed Cavin into their home full of boys. Immediately
Sheila recognized some differences in Cavin’s behavior
compared to other boys who lived in the cottage. Cavin
wouldn’t look at anyone, he didn’t talk, his need for
personal space was very large, and he appeared very
anxious all the time. As time went on, Terry and Sheila
worked together patiently to understand Cavin’s needs
and how they could help him open up. It was discovered
that Cavin is on the autism spectrum and keeping things
consistent really helped him to feel more comfortable
and relaxed. Overtime, Cavin began to minimize his
personal space and was more open to talking, playing,
and interacting with other children.
For the two
years that
All ison and
Cavin called
the Boothe
Campus home,
our Homes for
Children staff
and our Family
C o u n s e l i n g
staff worked
together to
help reunite this family. “Allison, Cavin, and mother
Jennifer’s story is one filled with the power of working
together as a team and family. Our desire is to build
“Allison, Cavin, and mother
Jennifer’s story is one filled
with the power of working
together as a team and family.
Our desire is to build healthy
families and see them reunited
together, we work diligently to
make this occur”
“I feel stronger, happier than before because of STCHM and closer to my brother…and I am proud of my mom.” Allison
6 Summer 2015
FAMILY COUNSELING
divorced. She began
rebuilding her life and was
horrified to realize that
she was still attracting
“losers.” Counseling
helped her to distinguish
between acceptable and
unacceptable behaviors,
to set boundaries, and to
say no and mean it. She
also came to realize that
trust must be earned and forgiveness
is different from reconciliation.
It took a long time and consistent
practice for Maria Estella to get
comfortable with healthy boundaries
but eventually, God brought Craig
into her life. He was as different from
her past as her dark eyes and olive
skin were from his blond hair and
blue eyes…a man who loved God and
would cherish and care for her, a good
provider. They dated patiently and
sought wise counsel from their pastor
and even their Christian therapist
before they married. Now, fourteen
years later, they are happily married
with three beautiful children!
Maria Estella often shares her
experience as an encouragement to
others. One of her
favorite verses is
Proverbs 15:22:
Plans fail for lack
of counsel, but with many advisers
they succeed. Her life is a beautiful
testimony of this truth and of God’s
power to change and restore – no
matter how difficult the path has been.
Maria Estella was married to a drug addict. She was only 17 years old when she first met and fell
in love with D. He loved her too and passionately pursued her, even moving from Panama to be
with her. As she matured and grew in her faith, D also seemed to have the same goals. But staying
clean never lasted and the cycle continued–relapse, repentance, more promises…then relapse again.
ne period of sobriety lasted for
18 months, and in spite of Christian
counseling to the contrary, Maria
Estella thought it was safe to marry
him. After all, by this time he was
employed in a Christian ministry
position. Six months later he
relapsed again.
As a committed Christian, Maria Estella
had vowed she would never divorce.
As her husband’s addiction spiraled
out of control, she pleaded, cried,
trusted, got angry, and threatened to
leave. But confusion and her feelings
of love, guilt, and fear of the unknown
kept her trapped in the same cycle.
Mar ia Este l l a
continued to seek
Christian counseling.
“I made a chart with
facts on one side
and feelings on the
other,” she shared.
“As I journaled
over time I realized
that the facts stayed the same. I was
trapped by my feelings.”
When behaviors escalated to
violence, Maria Estella reluctantly
“As I journaled over time I
realized that the facts stayed the same. I was trapped by my
feelings.”
o
TRappedby Her Feelings
Maria Estella
advices, “Seek
spiritual counsel.”
Julianna, Joshua, and Jamie
by Joanna Berry
HOMES FOr FAMILIES
Passionate Volunteers
VolunTeeR youR TiMe and TalenTS!
omes for Families of South Texas Children’s Home
Ministries (STCHM) has created a warm, cocoon for
women and their children to heal, grow in their trust
and faith, and learn to become independent slowly. In
order to do this, we need to provide a safe environment
on our Marshall Ranch Campus, just outside of Goliad,
for families to live and to be encouraged in building
relationships with people in the community. We couldn’t
do this without the help of our passionate volunteers.
“Our volunteers make this program possible,” shared
Theresa Klacman, Program Coordinator. The campus is
very secluded which
provides a sense of
safety, but can feel
isolated at times. It is
important for us to
allow the families and
volunteers to come
and go, to reassure
them that this is their
home and they are
not stuck here. The
volunteers mostly
come from churches in
Goliad and Victoria to
fulfill different needs in
our ministry. Officially
we have volunteers for
Bible study, computer
and communication
classes, shopping, and
children’s activities. However, the hats each wear are
many and depend on their passion and skills.
The Bible teachers hold a lesson once a week and
facilitate a Bible study three times a week. Sometimes
it is one of our volunteers that introduce these women
to God’s word for the first time. “The ladies here are
hungry,” shared Diane Mulligan, current volunteer. “It is
such a blessing because how I reach out to them carries
over to their children and then the seed has been planted
in both.” Building their confidence and trust in God
and themselves is vital to each woman’s success. This
goes hand-in-hand with the other classes offered. The
computer, communication, and etiquette classes build
their self-esteem and job skills, allowing them to prepare
for life after they leave our ministry.
The additional volunteers fulfill roles of necessity. For
instance, they drive families to appointments, purchase
groceries, and provide children’s activities while the
mothers are taking classes. Irene Gutierrez, now on
staff started out as a volunteer by providing children’s
activities during the Bible study classes. “It is a beautiful
ministry to be a part of. To see the transformation in
the moms and the children first hand, see them build a
relationship with God. It is beautiful!”
“We want our volunteers to come alongside us, people
who can mentor these families through their journey,”
expressed Theresa. As our ministry grows, so does our
need for volunteers. In Galatians 5:13, Paul tells us that we
are to serve one another in love. If you have a servant’s
heart and are passionate about volunteering, then we
invite you to join us in our ministry.
www.STCHM.org 7
Thank you!Cathy Reeves – Grace Temple Church, Goliad
Diane Mulligan – First Baptist Church, Goliad
Doloras Garcia – Grace Temple Church, Goliad
Johnna Krawietz – Faith Family Church, Victoria
Laura Duprie – First Baptist Church, Goliad
Susan Nelson – Trailhead Cowboy Church, Goliad
H
Individuals and groups volunteer throughout the year at our Boothe and Marshall Ranch Campuses, Jobs for Life location, or by joining us on a mission trips.
Volunteer Today!
www.stchm.org/serve
t South Texas Children’s Home Ministries (STCHM) we
are dedicated to our mission to honor God, reach hurting
children and families with His love and truth, and to enable
others to join us in this ministry. In an effort to provide an
opportunity for others to join us in what we do, we invited
ladies out to our beautiful Boothe Campus just outside
Pettus for a special event, Ladies for the Least.
Ladies for the Least is a society of women who are
passionate about impacting children and families in need.
As the ladies gathered in the Lunsford Chapel on Saturday
morning, they were
greeted by STCHM
President and CEO,
Eron Green. Eron
welcomed the guests
and recognized each
of the Ladies for the
Least committee
members: Shelley
Green (Chair), Cara
Luke, Gina Sugarek,
Jodi Parker, Kathy Stockton, and Ruth Brewer.
Lil Abshier, who was one of the first children to come
into the care of STCHM back in 1952, was the mistress
of ceremonies for the day. Growing up on the Boothe
Campus, along with nine of her siblings, and serving on
staff from 1978 to 2014, she provided a unique insight of
our ministry. With the addition of Cindy Richey, Worship
Leader at Christian Worship Center in Beeville, we had a
beautiful and moving kick off to the event.
The keynote speaker was our
very own Jenny Broughton. At
age 11, Jenny and her siblings,
originally from Corpus Christi,
became orphans after a murder/suicide. It was 1963 and
even though there was a two year waiting list at the time,
God provided a way for her to come into the care of
STCHM. She Did What She Could was the message Jenny
brought to share with the ladies. She reminded us that God
knew each one of us and had a plan for us before we were
even born. All unique, we each have a purpose to fulfill.
Ladies were invited to have lunch on the lawn of our
Piper Children’s Center, followed by cottage tours given
by our Housemoms before heading back into the Chapel
for the most crucial part of the event. A project costing
an estimated $50,000 was presented from each of our
five ministries for the ladies who committed to become
members to vote on. Once the projects were reviewed,
the ladies cast their votes, and the project chosen was for
our International Ministry. The donations received through
this event will help our International Ministry assist with
building the new Betesda Orphanage for boys in the
Dominican Republic.
Our continued vision at South Texas Children’s Home
Ministries is to show the love of Christ to each and every
child and family we minister to each day. The Ladies for
the Least will help us grow our STCHM family which will in
result impact even
more families for
His Kingdom. “Truly
I tell you, whatever
you did for one of
the least of these
brothers and sisters
of mine, you did for
Me.” (NIV, Matthew
25:40)
8 Summer 2015
Ladies for the Least A
Jenny Broughton and L i l Abshier
Ladies for the Least committee members
Save the date The next Ladies for the Least event wi l l be on Saturday, Apr i l 16 , 2016.
During the program portion of the
day, all guests were blessed by the
STCHM Girls Choir performance led by
Galilee Bowden, Caseworker for our
Homes for Children ministry. Diane
Gryseels, former STCHM Director
of Social Services, served as the
keynote speaker. Diane spoke to the
alumni present about the importance
of family, “You are here because God
picked you up from where you were
and brought you here to be the person
He created you to be, not the person
you wanted to be.” Diane echoed the
theme of the day by stating, “Family
is not only blood, it is the ones who
want you in their lives. STCHM is a
family thing!”
Just before dinner was served, the
group took a moment to recognize
those who have passed and a few new
children to our STCHM family. Sisters,
Mary and Edna, were presented their
bricks that will be placed in front
he Boothe Campus of South Texas
Children’s Home Ministries (STCHM)
has been home to children since 1952.
Just like any family, we like to stay in
touch with our kids. Our 2015 STCHM
Family Reunion
was a beautiful
day of reminiscing
and catching up.
With 323 alumni
children and staff
in attendance, the
campus was full
of excitement.
Outside water-
slides were set up, the pool was
open, and the photo booth captured
treasured moments. Children enjoyed
fresh popcorn, snow cones, and
cotton candy. While the adults
gathered in a room full of scrapbooks,
yearbooks, and old photo albums…
tears flowed and laughter echoed
throughout the gym.
www.STCHM.org 9
of the chapel.
Each child that
comes into the
care of STCHM
receives a brick
with their first
name and year
that they came
into care. Once
the bricks arrive,
they are placed in the sidewalks
in front of the chapel and Piper
Children’s Center. As we continue
our ministry the number of bricks will
increase, along with the number of
children that will forever be a part of
our STCHM family.
Special thanks to Diane Gryseels and Sanay Lewis-Parker for organizing a special surprise for the kids currently living at the Boothe Campus. Thank you to all the STCHM Alumni who
brought school supplies for our kids!
never admitted he was wrong and now he was penniless
and very sick. He was still my husband.” Before they could
truly reconcile, Linette’s husband passed away. “I became
depressed. I asked God, ‘What did I do to deserve this?’”
For two years, Linette did what she could. However, she
only went deeper and deeper into despair. Until the day
she stumbled upon a brochure for South Texas Children’s
Home Ministries (STCHM), Jobs for Life. “All I had ever
done was in nursing. I decided to sign up for this program
because of the computer classes. I had completely missed
the part that this was a ministry,” Linette laughs. “I had
no faith, no love for God.” One morning, Pastor Mario
Quezada, Lead Pastor at CrossBridge Fellowship shared a
scripture from 2 Timothy for the God First devotional time.
“Linette was crying. Here she was, broken and alone. All
the people she had ever helped were not available.” Pastor
Mario continued, “She realized that in the end we will be
accountable for our own race.” In that moment, Linette was
ready to surrender.
“During the semester, we started
every day with God First. Now that
classes are over, I still start everyday
with God first.” Linette is focused
on God and being prepared for His
blessings. She gets up early every
morning and ready for work even
though she does not have a job…yet.
Linette has accepted that she may
never get to be a nurse again, but is
comforted that God has a plan for her.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I
have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown
of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will
award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all
who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8 NIV)
inette had been married for 25 years, had four beautiful
children and almost two dozen grandchildren when her
world came crashing down around her. Without warning
Linette’s husband announced he was leaving her for
another woman. Linette was a Licensed Vocational Nurse
(LVN) at the time and the “other woman” had no education
and lived in the projects. Linette was hurt, confused, and
over time she became angry.
Disappointments came one after another. Not long after
the separation Linette went to stay with her mother who
was very sick. Saddened by her current situation, she
decided to go out drinking with friends. Realizing she was
in over her head and intoxicated, she was desperate to
leave. Linette was pulled over and given a DUI, resulting
in her nursing license being revoked. Nursing had been
Linette’s dream and all she had ever done. Shortly after her
mother passed, leaving Linette completely heartbroken. “I
was so angry…angry with God! I was no longer a nurse, I
had lost my mother, and I felt like I had lost my husband.”
Just when Linette lost sight of her old life, her husband
asked to come home. However, he seemed to be more
worried about hurting the “other woman” than he was
concerned for Linette’s feelings. “I was confused, but
willing to forgive him and put it behind us even though he
10 Summer 2015
L
JOBS FOr LIFE
Linette’s Story -God First
“during the semester, we
started every day with God First.
now that classes are over, i still start everyday with god first.”
to love him. “I had real anger issues. I
got into fights all the time.” Schedules
and routines just made Tim even
angrier. “Chapel every Wednesday,
Church every Sunday…the staff just
kept loving on us and praying with us.
I remember Homer Hannah, Boothe
Campus Director at the time,
saying, ‘Oh God is working
in you!’” Homer, as well as
Mark Childs, Vice President
of Homes for Children had a
strong impact on Tim, “They
were the strongest male
role models for me, the way
they can love kids who are not their
own. They put up with my anger,
my resentment, my frustration with
God…they just held on to me.”
In the summer of 1983, Tim accepted
Christ and was baptized. Shortly after
he joined the worship team at church
and began pursuing worship music.
“By the time I was a senior, the cottage
I was in started to feel like a family
or at least what I imagined it would
be like. My Houseparents, John and
Patsy Freeman, as well as Homer and
Mark, taught me so much about being
a dad and a husband. STCHM also
helped me go to college.” Graduating
from Howard Payne University with
a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast
Journalism, Tim achieved his dreams
of becoming a TV newscaster. “When
I was in high school I wanted to be
ALUMNI UpdAtE
W hen Tim Glenn was only five years
old, his mother abandoned him and
his five siblings, never to be heard
from again. His father, who had been
very sick for some time, passed two
years later. Tim’s grandmother and
other relatives took care of them as
long as they could, but the burden
was too much. Looking back, Tim’s
biggest memory during that time
was from when he was 12,
“I didn’t want anything to
do with God. I had never
prayed before. I called out,
‘If you are real, kill me. I
don’t want to go on.’” Living
in Three Rivers, mostly in
government housing, Tim
had not been very far from
where he was about to call
home. “I was terrified as we drove
over the cattle guard,” remembers
Tim. “I honestly thought my family
was trying to scare me. I really didn’t
think they were going to leave me.”
Tim came to the Boothe Campus
of South Texas Children’s Home
Ministries (STCHM) in 1983, he was
15 years old and angry. Now he sees
things a little clearer, “They sent the
trouble makers,” laughed Tim. “Myself
and only two of my sisters were sent
to the Children’s Home. At that time
I was very angry, even mad at God.”
Tim fought against any kind of
structure and with anyone who tried
a news anchor like Walter Furley on
KIII during the week and a rock star
on the weekend.” Tim in fact became
an award-winning news anchor with
KRDO and a singer, songwriter of
progressive Christian rock music.
However, Tim realized he was sharing
only the bad things that were
happening, “It was turning
me into someone who
thrived on the negative. It
was hurting me as a believer.”
Immediately after resigning
from KRDO, Compassion
International called Tim.
“I went from reporting on the bad
things happening to working with
an organization that does something
about it.” Looking back, Tim can see
how God was laying the foundation
and preparing a way for him, all in His
time. “I grew up being a child in need
to helping children in need.”
Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I
have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans
to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future.
“I grew up being a
child in need to helping children in
need.”
www.STCHM.org 11
FoundationPreparing theLinette’s Story -
God First
INtErNAtIONAL MINIStrY
he International Ministry of South Texas Children’s
Home Ministries (STCHM) offers a unique opportunity,
always focusing on the talent and strength
of each individual and most importantly on
the passion of the group as a whole. Bear
Creek Baptist Church from Katy, Texas has
some experience serving with STCHM in the
Dominican Republic, so this time they came
with a focused determination to use every
minute to minister…including their down time.
“Our group was so different,” shared Zeke
Avelar, leader of this diverse group of young
adults and Director of Student Ministries (Leadership &
Discipline) at Bear Creek. “Walking down the streets of
Santo Domingo, we attracted attention because here
we were walking side by side: a Philippine, a Mexican,
an Asian, American, and a Dominican, but we all are
common in purpose and in Christ. Our goal was to
spread the Gospel and people were intrigued by us.”
On the schedule
the group had each
morning devoted
to construction
projects, answering
the prayer for
several Santiago
orphanages with numerous picnic tables and toy boxes.
In the afternoons, they traveled to the Girasoles Church
to host a sports camp. The Dominican heat required
numerous breaks, but this energetic and enthusiastic
group of servants saw opportunities to minister and steer
conversations to Christ. They used simple games like wall
ball as analogies of how we should all look to Christ. They
even used a walk down the street to a corner store to
evangelize.
“Thanks to STCHM staff we knew what we were walking
into. We were prepared and felt at home since we landed
in the Dominican Republic,” stated Zeke. “This allowed
us to be fully engaged in our purpose. We gave of our
resources, our energy, our time, and of ourselves. What
we received in return was so much more and we get to
take that home with us.” Blown away by the openness of
the Dominican people and their willingness to hear about
the Gospel, Jose Luiz
echoed the feeling of
the group when he
expressed on their
last night, “When we
get home, I want to
live like a Dominican
in the United States!”
T
12 Summer 2015
Two MiSSion TeaMS, SaMe paSSion…ServinG OtherS
Bear Creek Baptist Church
www.STCHM.org 13
specialty of our International Ministry is to tailor
each trip to the interests, gifts, ages, and skills of the
people involved. As with First Baptist Church (FBC)
of Beeville who has a strong family oriented ministry
the passion of the group was to serve others with their
families while in the Dominican Republic. This group was
made up of husbands and wives, as well as, families of
grandparents to grandchildren.
This large group made it possible to take
on many different projects during the
week, including kids Bible classes, sewing
classes, medical clinics, and more. The
most intense projects were in construction!
The first construction project was at the
location of Glenys’ Bible classes. On a
previous trip, FBC had built an enramada
(tabernacle). The plan for this trip was to build her a
kitchen and bathroom. Glenys, who owns the property,
felt led to use the lot to minister to her community. She
had been praying to feed the children she serves as well,
but did not have the facilities to do it…until now.
The other large construction project is a first for STCHM,
solar panels. Brother Greg Traylor, pastor of FBC,
mentioned the idea to STCHM staff when he met with
Joanna Berry, Vice President of Family and International
Ministries and Russell Jerez, Projects Coordinator. Brother
Greg’s son, Caleb Traylor, recent Mechanical
Engineer graduate from Baylor University
has done this project in the mission field prior
to this trip with the group Engineers with a
Mission. The solar panels were installed on
top of the Children’s Ministry Building of
the Iglesia Bautista Quisqueyana site. “The goal is for this
system to be a test system of sorts, allowing Russell to
learn how the system operates and what maintenance
is required,” shared Caleb. “This project will allow for
electricity even when the city grid power goes down
and should decrease the electricity bill for the ministry.
Hopefully the next step would be to implement similar
systems at other sites.”
With both groups, a total of 56 participants serving
during this one week it was crucial that schedules were
meticulously laid out. This created a week of overwhelming
emotions for both Dominicans and Americans as they each
were impacted by the experience. The bonds that are
formed on trips like these are hard to comprehend. After
returning home Joanne Barris expressed, “It was exciting
to see our adult children and our precious grandchildren
working together each day to serve the Lord. They were
growing spiritually and
creating memories that
will last a lifetime.”
Two MiSSion TeaMS, SaMe paSSion…ServinG OtherS Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a
multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve
others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If
anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words
of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God
provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus
Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
(1 Peter 4:8-11 NIV)
aFirst Baptist Church
14 Summer 2015
HOMES FOr CHILdrEN
2015 GraduatesAnna, at STCHM 5 yearsWants to major in Biochemistry at
Texas A&M University
Marisol, 2 years at STCHMPlans to go to Tarleton State University
and major in Communications with an
emphasis in Radio Broadcasting
“I have had many opportunities through STCHM that I would not have gotten otherwise. People in this organization are full of love, care, and tenderness. The people that surround me have truly blessed me more than I can put into words. I am thankful for the opportunity to go to college and do what God has planned for me to.”
“I am so thankful for my Houseparents and my Caseworker because my life was completely changed when I came to STCHM.”
Mateo, 3 years at STCHMPlans to attend Blinn College and
then transfer to a university
“I am thankful to STCHM because they helped me overcome the obstacles I have been through and without them I wouldn’t’ be able to go to college.”
“I am thankful for STCHM because I wouldn’t have graduated if it wasn’t for them.”
“I am thankful for the help of my Houseparents, Mr. and Mrs. Lee and for Galilee Bowden, my caseworker for helping me get where I am today.”
Jasmine, at STCHM 3 years
Plans to attend Blinn College and then
transfer to Texas A&M University to
major in Child Development, with an
emphasis on Equine Therapy
“I am thankful for STCHM because I have grown spiritually.”
Rhea, at STCHM for 2 yearsPlans to attend CBC, then transfer to
Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi
Would like to be a Caseworker
“I am thankful for the Children’s Home because everybody wants a normal situation. When I came here it was so much better than normal. The Houseparents are full of love and it makes life enjoyable.”
Mia, at STCHM 3 yearsWants to study Cosmetology at
Coastal Bend College in Beeville, Texas.
Ray, 1 year at STCHMPlans to attend Coastal Bend
College and transfer to a university
the Marshall Ranch Campus in Goliad,
which was a working boy’s ranch. He
has seen the boy’s ranch transform
into our Homes for Families ministry
providing a safe home for mothers
and their children. John witnessed
the birth of our Jobs for Life (formally
Christian Women’s Job Corps) and
Family Counseling ministries. The
counseling ministry started with an
effort to prevent children from having
to come into our care. John shared,
“This is a tremendous ministry, we
provide a home for children once the
wheels come off and the counseling
ministry helps the family stay together
before the wheels fall off.”
As for our International Ministry in
the Dominican Republic, John felt it
was a natural fit. “We were incredibly
blessed to have an opportunity to
continue to grow our ministry.” With
part of our mission to invite others to
join us in our ministry, “This allowed
us to get STCHM out to a larger area
and no one does it better.” John has
been to the Dominican Republic
several times, visiting each school,
orphanage, and church where STCHM
is providing ministry and he cannot
wait to go again.
“The beauty of our ministry is that
in all areas we are dedicated to
children and their families. Each
program is equal and compliments
each other.” John is very passionate
as he compliments great leadership
and staff for the positive impact and
success STCHM has seen since the
ministry began in 1952. “We have
been blessed with the right people in
the right places
at the right time.
Each person
on staff has a
job, each has a
responsibi l i ty
that is important,
and they do it
with purpose.”
John continued,
“They all could
b e d o i n g
something else,
somewhere else.
The Lord has put them here and each
do their part beautifully. As a board
member, I am humbled and blessed
to be a part of it.”
ohn has the longest running service
record to date, totaling 28 years as a
board member and he’s not finished
yet. John is currently in between
terms as he has rotated off the board
a few times during his time of service,
always returning to serve again.
John has seen our ministry grow from
a Children’s Home to what you see
today. “I have seen the whole thing
and it has been a humbling experience
the entire time,” expressed John. At
the beginning of John’s service it was
STCH…South Texas Children’s Home.
At the time we had two campuses,
the Boothe Campus in Pettus and
J “the beauty of
our ministry is
that in all areas we
are dedicated to
children and their
families. each
program is equal
and compliments
each other.”
www.STCHM.org 15
Humbled and BlessedTwO wORDS:
If you ever get a chance to visit with John weber, former
STCHM Board Member, about his service with South Texas
Children’s Home Ministries (STCHM) you will hear two
words...“Humbled and blessed!”
Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage
PAIDPermit No. 3656San Antonio, TXP.O. Box 759
Beeville, Texas 78104-0759
Address Service Requested
golF ClaSSiC 2015
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Monday, oCToBeR 26, 2015 • 1 pM
la CanTeRa Hill CounTRy ReSoRT • San anTonio, TexaS
RegiSTRaTion deadline: TueSday, SepTeMBeR 18, 2015 • www.STCHM.oRg/golFClaSSiC
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