Uncategorized Archives - HHFHFM https://hhmin.org/category/uncategorized/ Helping Hands For Hope Foundation Ministries, Inc. Tue, 03 Dec 2024 16:51:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 Restoring Hope at My Warrior’s Place https://hhmin.org/restoring-hope-at-my-warriors-place/ Tue, 03 Dec 2024 16:51:54 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=289015 In the heart of Ruskin, FL, My Warrior’s Place stands as a beacon of hope for veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families. Founded by Kelly Kowall, whose life was forever changed after her son’s tragic death in […]

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In the heart of Ruskin, FL, My Warrior’s Place stands as a beacon of hope for veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families. Founded by Kelly Kowall, whose life was forever changed after her son’s tragic death in action in 2009, this retreat center transforms pain into purpose. Every year, it provides support, counseling, and camaraderie to over 10,000 individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving others.

When Hurricane Helene struck, the facility suffered devastating damage, jeopardizing its mission to heal and uplift. Thanks to the generosity of the SW Florida Tech Hurricane Relief Fund, led by Jennifer and Chris McDaniel of vTECH io, My Warrior’s Place received $16,000 to aid its recovery. Their onsite assessment revealed the urgent need, and their swift action ensured the center could rebuild and continue serving those who need it most.

Kelly Kowall shared her heartfelt gratitude for the support, noting how this assistance renews the hope and strength she works so tirelessly to provide for others.

As My Warrior’s Place rebuilds, it reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community to make a difference. Visit their website at www.mywarriorsplace.org to learn more or contribute to their inspiring mission.

 

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Dan Baker’s Visit to the Orphanage and Day School in Nashik, India https://hhmin.org/dans-visit-to-nashik/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 21:52:52 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=288938  A Glimpse Into the Ministry’s Ongoing Work: In late October, Dan Baker, a member of the Sharon India team, had the opportunity to visit the Orphanage and Day School in Nashik, India, to check in on the current […]

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 A Glimpse Into the Ministry’s Ongoing Work:

In late October, Dan Baker, a member of the Sharon India team, had the opportunity to visit the Orphanage and Day School in Nashik, India, to check in on the current state of the ministry and the progress being made. For many years, the administrators of the Orphanage and Day School maintained open, transparent communication with their partners, but recently, that had tapered off due to various challenges. The team at Sharon India was eager to reconnect with the ministry and see firsthand how things were progressing, especially under the leadership of Vivek and Sanjeevani Naidu, the children of the late Brother Lazarus.

A Family Committed to Service

Vivek and Sanjeevani took over the oversight of the Orphanage and Day School following their father’s passing. Along with their roles at the school, they are also actively leading a local church in Nashik. Despite the immense responsibilities, they remain deeply committed to serving the community and furthering the work their father began. Dan and his wife, Danny, had planned to attend a church service with them on Sunday, but a delayed flight meant they missed the opportunity. However, they were able to spend time with Brother Lazarus’ widow at the family home, where they had a heartfelt conversation and learned more about the ongoing ministry.

Tour of the Day School and Orphanage

On Monday, Dan and Danny joined Vivek and Sanjeevani for a tour of the properties, beginning with the Day School. The school, which serves over 200 children ranging from preschool to 10th grade, was in full swing when they arrived. The students were gathered outside, singing and pledging in unity. It was a beautiful moment to witness the enthusiasm and commitment these young students bring to their education.

During the visit, Vivek shared that the Indian government had approached the school about expanding its facilities to accommodate several hundred more high school students. This was an exciting opportunity, but it would require a substantial investment—around $2 million USD—for construction and expansion of the school buildings. Dan listened attentively, offering his insights on the importance of stewardship. He encouraged Vivek and Sanjeevani to ensure they were properly managing the resources they already had before seeking additional funds. For minimal investment, simple maintenance like regular painting and upkeep of the current buildings could go a long way in preserving the facilities. Stewarding well what they already had could set the foundation for long-term growth.

Dan also suggested conducting a thorough financial review to ensure the ministry was on solid ground and operating efficiently. This would give the team a clearer understanding of their resources and allow them to create a strategic plan for future growth, including an expansion of the Day School and other services to the community.

A Celebration at the Orphanage

After their visit to the Day School, Dan and Danny crossed the street to visit the Orphanage, where they were warmly welcomed by the children, staff, and elders of the community. It was a joyous occasion, with children performing songs and dances, celebrating the ministry’s work and their shared commitment to faith. The event also recognized the pastoral team that Vivek has been training in rural villages—12 pastors and their wives who are actively working to expand the reach of the ministry in surrounding areas.

One particularly touching moment was seeing the “Orphanage Mom,” a young woman who had actually grown up in the care of the Orphanage herself. She now serves as a mother figure to the children and is dedicated to ensuring they are loved and cared for in a safe, nurturing environment.

A Changing Landscape for Christian Ministry

During their visit, Dan and his team learned more about the challenges the ministry has faced in recent years. The political climate in India has shifted dramatically, especially under the current ruling government. The BJP Party, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has become increasingly active in certain regions, including Nashik, and has placed greater restrictions on Christian activities, including intercepting communication and limiting outreach. This has made it difficult for ministries like the Orphanage and Day School to maintain open lines of communication, as emails and newsletters have been halted out of concern that they might be tracked.

Despite these challenges, Dan was encouraged by the resilience of the ministry team. The Orphanage and Day School are still making a significant impact, and their commitment to serving the children and families in the community is unwavering.

Stewardship, Leadership, and the Way Forward

While Dan was inspired by the work being done, he also saw areas where the ministry could improve in order to better steward their resources and increase their impact. One key observation was the need for a dedicated administrator to manage the Day School. Vivek and Sanjeevani, both trained engineers, have a deep passion for the ministry, but their skills are better suited to other areas. The Day School could greatly benefit from someone who has a passion for education and the administration of such an institution.

Dan shared that, as someone who loves cars, Vivek clearly takes great pride in maintaining his vehicles. However, the same level of attention to detail wasn’t always reflected in the upkeep of the Day School’s facilities. This insight led Dan to recommend bringing in a skilled administrator who could ensure the school operates efficiently and is properly maintained for the long term.

In addition to this recommendation, Dan proposed that Sharon India conduct a full financial review of the ministry’s operations. This would help ensure that funds are being used effectively and in line with the mission of the ministry. With this insight, Vivek and Sanjeevani would be better equipped to make decisions about future growth and expansion.

Looking Toward the Future

In conclusion, Dan left Nashik feeling encouraged by the work being done but also optimistic about the future. The Orphanage is thriving, with children being cared for and loved. The Day School has enormous potential for growth, but proper stewardship and administrative leadership are essential for it to reach its full potential.

Dan and Danny remain committed to supporting the work of Vivek, Sanjeevani, and the entire ministry team. They are excited about future opportunities for collaboration, including the possibility of offering training and mentorship to the pastoral team in the rural villages. As always, they are praying for wisdom and guidance for the leadership as they continue their work, trusting that God will provide the resources needed for this important ministry.

At Sharon India, they believe in the power of partnership and collaboration. As they continue to support ministries like this one, they are grateful for the opportunity to serve and be part of something much larger than themselves. Together, we can all make a lasting impact for the Kingdom of God. 🙏


To learn more about Sharon India and how they’re supporting ministries across India, visit Sharon India.

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Institute of Bible Teaching Zimbabwe https://hhmin.org/institute-of-bible-teaching-zimbabwe/ Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:58:22 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=288879 A Vision Unfolding: Building a Bible Teaching Institute in Sub-Saharan Africa We’re thrilled to share some incredible updates on a project that is close to our hearts – the establishment of a Bible teaching institute designed to equip […]

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A Vision Unfolding: Building a Bible Teaching Institute in Sub-Saharan Africa

We’re thrilled to share some incredible updates on a project that is close to our hearts – the establishment of a Bible teaching institute designed to equip thousands of pastors and lay leaders across sub-Saharan Africa. This isn’t just about constructing a building; it’s about nurturing a place where faithful, in-depth understanding of God’s Word can take root and spread.

Why This Institute Matters

For many communities across Africa, access to sound biblical teaching resources remains a challenge. Pastors and lay leaders are often eager to grow in their faith and knowledge but lack a place that offers structured, faithful instruction. This institute aims to bridge that gap, providing solid biblical training that will ripple out into the communities these leaders serve.

Photos from the Field

We recently received some exciting photos straight from the site. They capture the start of something powerful, showing the groundwork that’s being laid – both literally and spiritually. Every brick laid and every plan drawn is a step closer to a facility that will support countless leaders in learning, teaching, and faithfully guiding their communities.

How You Can Be Part of This Vision

We’re inviting everyone who feels a calling to help make this dream a reality to join us. Whether through prayer, spreading the word, or giving, every contribution helps build something that will last. If you’d like to learn more about the project or support it, please visit our donation page: https://hhmin.org/charities/institute-of-bible-teaching-zimbabwe-ibt/.

This institute represents more than a structure – it’s a beacon of hope for generations to come. We’re honored to be part of this mission and can’t wait to see what God will do through it.

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Teaching The Vine : Update https://hhmin.org/teaching-the-vine-update/ Mon, 21 Oct 2024 14:09:57 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=288812 Thank you for the support and prayers towards Teaching The Vine. We are heavily using the Crossway ESV bibles, (Student Study Bibleand Pew bibles), and three separate teaching curriculums (BTCP, Mailbox Club and Fresh Start), to empower “the […]

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Thank you for the support and prayers towards Teaching The Vine. We are heavily using the Crossway ESV bibles, (Student Study Bibleand Pew bibles), and three separate teaching curriculums (BTCP, Mailbox Club and Fresh Start), to empower “the least of these”, refugees in Uganda.

We just returned from the Ugandan South Sudan camps this week having visited BidiBidi, Imvepi, Rhino, Palorinya,and Mijale. The good news is the Lord is at work and bearing fruit.
Here is a quick summary of how the Lord is working.

All of the South Sudan and some of the Burundi classes use English – Crossway is our teaching Bible in all of these instances. Other classes are taught in Swahili or Kirundi and we source bibles in these languages locally. (DR Congo, Burundi)

Adults – Our model is each Pastor or Church Leader who is a student in our Bible Training Centre’s for Pastors (BTCP) receives a
Crossway ESV Student Study Bible along with the 10-volume seminary curriculum (phased in over time) at zero cost. The certificate is
awarded after completion of 2 years study while all classes have quality controls and taught by one of our refugee graduates. Currently
we have 257 South Sudan men / women in training under English and an additional 241 have graduated since conception of the
ministry in 2019.

The Children’s Ministry – Exploded to 1,940 students (mostly ages 12-17 yrs) in 32 classes across the camps and taught by our BTCP
graduates. We have 1,633 South Sudan and 184 Burundi, taught in English. The Pew bibles are used here at a ratio of 1 bible per 5
children in the class, ranging 30 – 120 students in size (see photo’s, testimonies, and professions to Christ from the trip). The Teacher
owns the bible as we currently keep them in possession for safety. Over 260 Children have now come to Christ since we launched last
year using The Mailbox Club curriculum and Crossway bibles, the discipleship is owned by the teacher or BTCP graduates in the
community. This opens a large opportunity for evangelism to the parents as many are not in Christ. So we are working with the Bishops
on a strategy to expand to the homes inside the camps. This is first time exposure for many on how to use a bible and in reading Gods
word out loud.

Trauma – All groups, Adults or Children, have trauma that surfaces when studying God’s word. We use the Bible to show what God says
about His love and the Fresh Start curriculum as a workshop to process the issues of the heart. One of the Bishops asked us to
specifically deliver a workshop inside the camp only for Pastors and their wives before year end (Imvepi Camp). The Lord has provided
us the right leader inside our ministry to serve this unique need to heal Bishops, Pastors, and their wives inside the camps across all
denominations.

God bless and thank you again for all your prayers and support.
Don

 

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Teaching the Vine: Transforming Lives Through Faith and Education https://hhmin.org/teaching-the-vine-transforming-lives-through-faith-and-education/ Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:10:27 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=288516 In a world fraught with displacement and hardship, Teaching the Vine stands as a beacon of hope… Founded by Don Schrenk in 2019, this ministry is dedicated to providing comprehensive Bible training for pastors, church leaders, and children, […]

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In a world fraught with displacement and hardship, Teaching the Vine stands as a beacon of hope…

Founded by Don Schrenk in 2019, this ministry is dedicated to providing comprehensive Bible training for pastors, church leaders, and children, particularly in U.N. refugee camps in Uganda. Initially starting with six schools, Teaching the Vine has expanded to 31 schools, impacting over 300 graduates and 375 current students.

Addressing Unique Challenges

Teaching the Vine operates in challenging environments where refugees face severe conditions, including reduced food supplies after 18 months of U.N. assistance. Despite these hardships, the ministry focuses on delivering biblical training that emphasizes a resilient faith rooted in the Word of God, rather than in material prosperity. This approach aims to build lasting spiritual support and relationships across borders.

Empowering Women and Children

A remarkable aspect of Teaching the Vine’s mission is its commitment to empowering women. Initially, only two women graduated from the first cycle of Bible training. However, responding to the women’s desire for their own classes, the ministry now includes dedicated women’s training sessions. Additionally, Teaching the Vine has established a children’s ministry, currently educating 275 children, who in turn enrich their families and communities with biblical knowledge

Cultural Impact and Translation Efforts

Teaching the Vine also focuses on cultural inclusivity by translating its teachings into local languages. For instance, a graduate is now teaching in Bari, a language spoken by about 6 million people, using Bari Bibles alongside the English BTCP curriculum. This initiative ensures that the message of faith is accessible to a broader audience, enhancing the ministry’s reach and impact.

A Testimony of Transformation

Simon Alamine, a refugee from South Sudan, shares his testimony of transformation through Teaching the Vine. Initially uncertain about preaching the Gospel, Simon found clarity and confidence in his pastoral role after receiving training. Now overseeing six churches, he plans to extend this program back to South Sudan, highlighting the far-reaching effects of the ministry’s work.

Conclusion + Update Email from Don

Teaching the Vine exemplifies the profound impact that faith and education can have, even in the most challenging circumstances. Through its dedicated efforts, the ministry not only provides biblical training but also fosters empowerment and cultural inclusivity, transforming lives and communities across refugee camps and beyond. 

“The Lord continues to expand the ministry of Teaching The Vine. I may have sent you one earlier but attached the newsletter from April (working on Aug now) to catch you up as the Lord opened doors inside the camps to provide Bible Training for Children. We have 31 classes in 8 camps and close to 1,500 students at the moment taught by our graduates of the 2 year Seminary like Bible Training program. We have a trip planned in Oct if you know of anyone that may be interested is seeing what the Lord is doing.
Thank you for all you do.
God bless,
Don”

For more information, visit [Teaching the Vine](https://teachingthevine.org).

(https://www.bibletraining.com/blog/from-refugee-camps-to-revival-don-schrenks-incredible-journey-of-multiplying-bible-training) [oai_citation:2,A refugee from South Sudan shares his story of being trained and flourishing in ministry — Bible Training Centre for Pastors](https://www.bibletraining.com/blog/a-refugee-from-south-sudan-shares-his-story-of-being-trained-and-flourishing-in-ministry).[oai_citation:4,From Refugee Camps to Revival: Don Schrenk’s Incredible Journey of Multiplying Bible Training — Bible Training Centre for Pastors]

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Let’s Dance, Chloe! https://hhmin.org/lets-dance-chloe/ Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:43:38 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=285793 We are so grateful for the donations that were granted to help this family purchase their new wheelchair accessible van. We hope it will bless them with many more precious memories to come! Let’s dance, Chloe!

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We are so grateful for the donations that were granted to help this family purchase their new wheelchair accessible van. We hope it will bless them with many more precious memories to come! Let’s dance, Chloe!

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Casa Dorca Orphanage Update https://hhmin.org/casa-dorca-orphanage-update/ Fri, 09 Jun 2023 17:19:29 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=285753 Dear Friends and Supporters,  We hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying the warmth and beauty of the summer season. As always, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering […]

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Dear Friends and Supporters,

 We hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying the warmth and beauty of the summer season. As always, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering prayers and generous financial support. Your dedication to Casa Dorca orphanage has been a true blessing to us, and we pray that God showers you with His abundant blessings this summer.

 As we embark on this new month, we find inspiration in the words of Psalm 118:24, which reminds us, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” May these words bring encouragement and joy to your hearts as we share some of the recent happenings at Casa Dorca.

 In May, we had the pleasure of hosting a group of 23 Americans from Grace Bible College in Indiana. It was a wonderful time as they interacted with our children, creating lasting memories and fostering a sense of community. The children were overjoyed to spend time with our guests, engaging in various activities and experiencing the love and care of their newfound friends. We were especially blessed to have Cipi and his wife Kate with us during this time. Cipi, who grew up at Casa Dorca, served as an inspiration to our children, reminding them of the transformative power of God’s love and the hope for a bright future.

 At Casa Dorca, we believe in instilling important life skills in our children. Our staff and kids have been actively engaged in tending to our vegetable garden. Through this experience, they learn the value of hard work, patience, and responsibility. It is incredible to witness the joy and sense of accomplishment our children feel as they watch their plants grow and eventually harvest the fruits of their labor. The garden not only provides fresh produce for our meals but also serves as a tangible reminder of God’s provision and faithfulness.

 For the first five days of June, we had the pleasure of hosting our friends from Bucharest. Over the past six months, these dedicated individuals have built meaningful relationships with our children, pouring out God’s love into their lives. Their impact has been immeasurable, as they share the message of Christ’s love and inspire our children to pursue a life devoted to Him. We humbly ask for your prayers that these relationships continue to flourish and have a lasting impact on the lives of our children.

 As we near the end of the school year, the teachers’ strike has presented some challenges. The uncertainty of when the school year will end has caused a disruption in our routine. We remain hopeful that the situation will be resolved soon in a way that provides the teachers a livable wage, and the children can complete their studies and enjoy a well-deserved break. Please join us in prayer for a swift resolution and a smooth transition for the children.

 Looking ahead, our children are eagerly anticipating the Christian camp options available to them this summer. These camps provide a unique opportunity for them to grow spiritually, deepen their faith, and form lasting friendships with fellow believers. Additionally, they are excited about a camping trip with Nate, which was a highlight of their summer last year. These experiences not only offer joy and adventure but also serve as transformative moments in their spiritual journey. We kindly ask for your prayers that these summer activities draw our children closer to the Lord and strengthen their faith.

 If the weather cooperates, we plan to set up the pool in the courtyard in the coming days. The children’s anticipation for this simple pleasure is palpable, and we are excited to provide them with a refreshing and enjoyable experience. The laughter and joy that will fill the courtyard as they splash and play will be a testament to the abundant blessings we receive through your continued support.

 In conclusion, we want to express our deepest gratitude once again for your unwavering support and prayers. Casa Dorca would not be possible without your commitment to our mission. Together, we serve an amazing God who faithfully provides for us each day. May you be blessed abundantly as you continue to be a blessing to our children.

 With sincere gratitude and prayers,

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We wish Levia and Kyle countless blessings! https://hhmin.org/we-wish-levia-and-kyle-countless-blessings/ Thu, 01 Jun 2023 17:24:27 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=285677 “We are truly grateful for the time and resources Helping Hands has invested in making our home more comfortable and enjoyable…” – Levia Levia was served by Fostering Hope for many years. They attended her graduation, helped her […]

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“We are truly grateful for the time and resources Helping Hands has invested in making our home more comfortable and enjoyable…” – Levia

Levia was served by Fostering Hope for many years. They attended her graduation, helped her furnish her first apartment, and provided countless hours of emotional support. Now, she is doing fantastic! She has completed her training to become a volunteer helping youth who are in the same position she was just a few years ago. Levia and her husband, Kyle, have also become first time homeowners this past year. Unfortunately, shortly after moving in, they discovered their deck was unsafe and needed to be replaced.

Through another successful partnership with Fostering Hope, Helping Hands has been able to serve in the replacement of the deck into a concrete patio. We wish Levia and Kyle countless blessings as they embark on another year in their first home together, while serving our community!

 

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Update from Church is Burundi, East Africa https://hhmin.org/update-from-church-is-burundi-east-africa/ Thu, 25 May 2023 18:37:53 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=285645 Greetings from Burundi in Jesus’ name! It is my sincere prayer that you are well protected and blessed in the arms of God. There is a testimony that I feel I must share! Last week, during our weekly […]

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Greetings from Burundi in Jesus’ name! It is my sincere prayer that you are well protected and blessed in the arms of God.

There is a testimony that I feel I must share! Last week, during our weekly meeting, there is a young man who came with his wife and I know him for a long time. He was muslim. Now he decided to receive Christ as his Lord and Savior! Glory to God! His name is Akim. The good thing about this is that we are taking time to talk with him as we attempt to disciple him.

The other picture shows us today doing an intensive discipleship training in our church. Please keep us in your prayers. We know we shall live honoring God and making disciples.

Thank you for standing with us. We love you so much!

 

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A Thank You Card from Bertha https://hhmin.org/a-thank-you-card-from-bertha/ Tue, 14 Mar 2023 13:17:14 +0000 https://hhmin.org/?p=285156 The post A Thank You Card from Bertha appeared first on HHMIN.

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