http://feeds.feedburner.com/UGMWinnipeg Union Gospel Mission Winnipeg's Online Blog RSS Feed http://www.google.ca June 29th was a big day for the Faith Learning Centre. Five adults were recognized for finishing all of their Grade 12 requirements, and in the presence of family, friends, teachers and a local MLA, were graduated! This was not an easy road for the five. Circumstances and the difficulties of life became a barrier in efforts to finish High School at the age when most graduate. But they all persevered, and at long last, received that coveted diploma. Some were in their 30's, others in their 40's, but that didn't matter � it was as if they were 18 that day! The valedictory address was given by a Mom, who shared that her desire to be a positive role model for her daughter was part of her motivation to finish High School. Congratulations to all the graduates. Your day was an encouragement to all of us! http://www.google.ca Gord, one of the residents in the Men's Recovery program, has been here for about a year now. As he has been working through his recovery from an addiction, he has also come under conviction of the Holy Spirit regarding some of his behavior in the past. He has felt the need to 'right' some wrongs. And, in some instances, that goes back a long way � right back to elementary school! By his own admission, he was a school 'brat'. Now, about 25 years later, he has experienced a greater sense of guilt about some of his classroom antics and the way he treated some of his teachers. After much searching, he was able to locate one of those teachers that he especially had give a rough time, and called her, to apologize for his behaviour. Gord was right about the rough time he had given her � after all these years, she still remembered him! She graciously accepted his apology, and the flood of relief that Gord experienced resulted in a flood of tears. Gord experienced a great unburdening of guilt, which, in turn, has added to the freedom that he continues to find in Christ. Please pray for Gord, as he looks for other opportunities to 'make amends' for what he has done in the past, and others who live at the Mission, as they work through their recovery from addictions. It's a very tough stage in their lives. Proverbs 28:13 - He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy. http://www.google.ca A financial gift came into the Mission not too long ago, a somewhat odd amount. Why does someone write a cheque for a 'non-typical' amount? Upon further investigation, here's the story ... The donor decided to gift their whole income tax return to UGM � whatever came from Revenue Canada would simply be forwarded to the Mission. An odd amount, but a simple explanation! But, there's more to the story � the donor has also made another personal sacrifice. Rather than pay to get her hair cut, she has opted to do her own hair, donating what she would normally spend to the Mission. 'Shear' devotion to helping those in need. But, 'hair's' the interesting thing � she has never received so many compliments about her hair. Sincere compliments, we might add! How encouraging to hear stories like this, of people who look for creative and sacrificial ways to help others who have such great need. God loves a cheerful � and a creative - giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 - So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. http://www.google.ca The day is coming when all tears and sorrow shall be wiped away, but that day has not yet come. Serving God certainly comes with its great joys, but often tears are not far behind. What a joy to help someone who comes to the Mission seeking help � what heartache when they turn away. What a delight when children are reunited with their parents � what sorrow when they are taken away. What rejoicing when new life in Christ is found � what grief when someone decides to end it all. Lately, we've experienced all of these, leading to tears of joy and tears of sadness. What a day that will be when all the tears of sorrow are taken away � forever! Revelation 21:4 - And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. http://www.google.ca It is so encouraging to see what God is doing in the lives of so many people in Winnipeg's North End. Children coming to know Christ through summer camp; children learning of Jesus through Discovery Clubs; children coming to know Christ through clubs in schools � the future looks great! Recently, 23 ladies, mostly from the North End, received awards for finishing a Bible reading program through the ministry of our Family Life Centre. It's not just the children whose lives are being impacted for Christ � Moms' and ladies' lives are being changed too! Please keep praying for spiritual impact in our North End. Through the Family Life Centre and other Christ-centered Missions, God is changing the 'spiritual landscape' in this part of town! 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. http://www.google.ca The men and women of the Mission eat fairly well. As they work through their life-changing addictions, much time is spent in classroom settings, and a significant portion of the day is spent within the confines of the Mission. And so, you can inevitably see where this is leading. A pound here, a pound there, and it's not too long before one is living 'larger than life'! Through the generosity of our donors, we have been able to set up exercise rooms at the Charis Centre (where the ladies live) and at 320 Princess (where the men live). Some of the equipment needs to be replaced, and additional equipment could be used, such as a treadmill. Perhaps you have some equipment that serves as a painful reminder of a broken New Year's resolution, or, for those of you more fortunate, the equipment has accomplished its purpose, and you no longer need it. Would you consider giving it a home at the Mission? Or, maybe you don't have any equipment, but would still like to help. We will accept donations towards purchasing some. Either way, it will contribute towards our residents becoming the fine, physical specimens that they desire to be! 1 Timothy 4:8 - For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. http://www.google.ca Edgar, our Senior Chaplain, has opportunity to speak in our chapel services from time to time, and like so many other chapel speakers, often has to deal with distractions, mostly of the verbal sort. The distracters are usually asked to 'tone it down'. On one particular occasion, he noticed two ladies 'gesturing' at each other. As they waved their hands at each other, Edgar was becoming more and more distracted from his teaching. And then it dawned on him - they were deaf, and speaking in sign language. How do you ask someone to be quiet when they are making 'non-verbal' noise! Edgar let it go, still somewhat distracted - no longer by their actions, but wondering if they were talking about him behind his back, in front of him! And - I can't think of a Bible verse for this blog! Can you? http://www.google.ca We thought about another title for this blog, but a well-known preacher had already taken the title we would have liked to use! How do we 'respond' when a resident falls back, as discussed in our previous blog? Initially, it gives cause for discouragement. So many of the residents show remarkable progress as they give their addictions over to God, and it fills us with thanksgiving to be able to observe His hand in leading men & women out of bondage. The 'crash' is hard to watch for those who have tried to be of help. But, we have also learned that God often uses the so-called 'step backwards' in leading to the next 'step forward'. The 'stumble' regularly leads to further recovery. So, discouragement is soon replaced by optimism - not a blind optimism, but a trust that God works all things together for good - for His good, and for those who love him! Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. http://www.google.ca Let your guard down for just the smallest moment - that's all it takes for the devil to reclaim some ground. One of the men living in residence in our Addiction's program had been here for just over a year. His plan to leave was delayed a bit, as he finished some medical treatment for a 'user-related' condition. His 'exit date' was scheduled for the end of May, at which point he planned to enter back into society on his own. As that date approached, he began to look for employment. A 'friend' offered him a job opportunity, took him to the site, and led him into the office � only to be shown a table covered with drugs. The temptation was too much, and the damage was done. Just like that, the progress of the past year had been completely undone! (There's more to be said about this, but that will be for the next blog posting). 1 Peter 5:8 - Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. http://www.google.ca A few blogs ago, we looked at the type of people who come to live at the Mission & Charis Centre. Yes, they are men & women who have had their lives derailed by addictions, those who are seeking help to get back on track. But, there is much more to them than that, as we noted in that previous blog. Recently, we developed an internship program, designed to help our residents get back into the workplace. Well, our first intern has been 'hired'! One of our residents, Roland, a school-teacher before running into the difficulties that set him back, has begun teaching part-time in our Faith Learning Centre. He is teaching adults who are working towards finishing their Grade 12 requirements. We are excited about Roland's internship, and are praying that this becomes one of the steps in his total recovery. Ephesians 2:10 - For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. http://www.google.ca A year ago, she came to the Charis Centre � broken, and seeking help. She was battling an addiction, Child & Family Services had deemed her unsuitable to raise her child, and she was without Christ. Now, a year later, Allison has graduated from the Charis Centre. Free from addictions for the past year, her child returned to her, and knowing Jesus Christ as her personal Saviour! Are her struggles completely over? Not likely, but we trust that Christ will continue to give her the strength needed as she continues to move forward. Thank-you to all who have helped Allison on this incredible journey, and to those who will continue to walk with her. And Allison � we will pray that GOD, Who has begun a good work in you, will continue that work until it is completed! Philippians 1:6 - Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. http://www.google.ca Today's blog was supposed to be a continuation of the last blog, but a significant thing happened this past Saturday � our annual Easter Dinner for those who live on the street and/or those in the area of the Mission. We served a traditional ham dinner, three times, to about 310 people (about 125 at a time). Prior to enjoying a great meal, those 310 took in a chapel service, and many of them shared prayer requests that were prayed over as the service took place. You can see the prayer requests at the 'Prayers from the Street' section of the website, and pray for them as well. When the 'altar calls' were given, 34 people gave their lives to Christ! About 1 in 5 left the Mission with ham in their stomachs, and Christ in their hearts! Thank you to all those who helped make the day possible � the many volunteers and donors. God did a great thing through all of you! Visit our site again shortly, to read what was supposed to appear today! Ephesians 3:20 - ...to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think� http://www.google.ca What kind of men enter into the Addictions Recovery program anyway? Are they men who are fulfilling their dreams by being here? Are they men who have never been anything at all, and are looking for help in finding who they are? Well, you might be surprised � in fact, you'd likely be shocked at what you'd discover! A quick 'ask-around' reveals that many of our men had some pretty interesting and successful careers before a few poor choices turned things around. Some of our current residents had careers in construction, maintenance, long-distance trucking, at least one was a schoolteacher, and yet another who was a microbiologist, whose contributions to that field can be found on the web! A number of the men are also skilled musicians & skilled artists. This will be continued in the next blog posting. Check it out next Tuesday! "There, but for the grace of God, go I" � John Bradford (English reformer & martyr, whose original words were, "There, but for the grace of God, goes John Bradford.") http://www.google.ca Robyn (a resident at the Charis Centre) found a junco (a bird) in the back yard of the Charis Centre. Evidently, it had flown into a window, and was stunned. She told Linda (a casual staff member at the Charis Centre) and the 2 of them went to the bird's rescue. Linda picked the bird up, and it sat on her finger for several minutes. Then it flew � all the way to her shoulder � and sat there for a bit. Fearful of what the bird might deposit on her sweater, Linda took it and put it back on her finger. Finally, the little bird was placed on the ground, and before long, flew away to freedom. What a beautiful picture! Many ladies come to the Charis Centre, terribly wounded by addiction. But, after a season of 'tender loving care' given in the name of Christ, they are able to 'fly away' to freedom - freedom from those addictions, free in Christ! John 8:36 - Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. http://www.google.ca Monday afternoons (at least, every other Monday) are Managers' Meeting Days (MMD). So, at our last meeting, in the middle of some pretty 'exciting' stuff, Gilbert's (Family Life Manager) cell phone starts ringing. You know how the rest of us felt about that! Anyway, it turns out that it was a call from one of his staff, letting him know that a student at David Livingstone School had just asked Jesus into his heart! Well, suddenly that 'rude interruption' was 'welcomed' � nothing on the meeting agenda was more important than that! David Livingstone School, in Winnipeg's North End, is the first School that we've been able to take the gospel into. We've partnered with Child Evangelism Fellowship to run their Discovery Club program, and are excited about where this is all going to lead. (In fact, we're excited about where it has already led!) Please pray that God will open other school doors for us to enter. Mark 16:15 - And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature". http://www.google.ca That's the big question, and it's a tough one! But how much harder when you are a single Mom? Or, to make things even more difficult, how about a single Mom who is trying to overcome an addiction! Recently, 4 ladies residing at our Charis Centre (who are single Moms dealing with addictions) took a course offered by the Beausejour Community Church called 'Home With A Heart' � and graduated. They were taught things like how to plan and organize, finances, cooking, how to make time for self, parenting, etc. At the graduation, they were each given a certificate, various gifts (like books, a computer, etc.), and treated to a lunch. At the luncheon, 3 of the ladies shared testimonies of the work that Christ is doing in their lives. To the 'folks' B.C.C. - what a wonderful idea! And to the graduating ladies - congratulations! Proverbs 31:27 - She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. http://www.google.ca Earlier this week, the Mission received a shipment of 1500 Bibles. "What", you ask, "do you plan on doing with that many Bibles?" These Bibles were donated to UGM in anticipation of 1500 children going to camp this summer. We plan to give a Bible to every child that we sponsor to camp � a Bible designed for their age level. What a thoughtful donation! As if a life-changing week isn't a great enough gift! Please pray that the Lord brings us 1500 Winnipeg children from low-income families that we can send to camp, with a brand new Bible in hand! Do you know of anyone who can go? Psalm 119:72 - The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of coins of gold and silver. http://www.google.ca Women � tired of all those jokes about 'women drivers'? Well, you're wanted here! The Charis Centre is looking for women to drive ladies around. Often, the residents of our Charis Centre need to see doctors, welfare workers, social workers, etc. and we are looking for volunteers to 'chauffeur' the ladies to these various afternoon appointments. As a rule, a vehicle is provided, and all you need to do is drive � and perhaps build relationships with our residents! In most instances, a class 5 license is all that's required, although we could use a volunteer or 2 with a class 4 license. Are you able to help? Call Adele at 415-3934. By the way, the only reference to driving in the Bible pertains to a man � and it's not very flattering! We're not looking for Jehu's � just women drivers! 2 Kings 9:20 - "The driving is like that of Jehu son of Nimshi—he drives like a madman." http://www.google.ca Patrick lives at UGM, where he is seeking help in overcoming an addiction. But� His focus on his own 'problem' has not made him blind to others in need! A few weeks back, as he was catching up on the news in the Winnipeg Free Press, he read about the apartment block fire that left several people homeless and possession-less. In the article was a reference to an individual who was collecting clothing for those who had lost everything, and how she could be contacted. Patrick brought this article to the Mission's attention, and within a day, 15 bags of clothing had been put together to donate to those who had been affected by the fire. The following day, a couple came by to pick the clothing up. Patrick was introduced to them as the one who had initiated things on our end. Tears filled Patrick's eyes, in the knowledge that he had done something 'significant'. As Patrick went back to his supper following the meeting, he remarked, several times, "This has been the happiest day of my life!" Philippians 2:4 � Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. http://www.google.ca Today, we said, "Good-bye, Chris - see you soon!" to a resident of the Men's Recovery program at UGM. Chris passed away almost 2 weeks ago, and a service was held to celebrate his life this morning. Chris had lived at the Mission for about a year and a half, and had come to know Jesus as his Personal Saviour during a previous stay. His health had been deteriorating for several months, and we all knew, barring a miracle from God, that the end was near. His lungs needed to be replaced, and he depended upon an oxygen tank to help him with his breathing. I try not to get personal in these blogs, but here goes anyway! Several months ago, as I was speaking with Chris, he told me that he thanked God for his difficult breathing problem. In fact, he praised God for it, believing it was an answer to prayer. As long as he had difficulty breathing, he was unable to 'do drugs', which had led to his 'downfall'. Through the eyes of spiritual maturity, what we saw as a difficulty, Chris saw as a blessing from God! Chris made it evident that he knew Christ as his Saviour and God as his Father. That's why we can say, "Good-bye � see you soon!" We know that he is now in the presence of his Lord, and when our time comes, we will join with him at the foot of the throne of Christ, raising our voices with his to worship our glorious Saviour for all of eternity. So - so long, friend - we will soon see you again! Philippians 1:23 - For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. http://www.google.ca It's exciting to see how Churches help out at the Mission, and the creative ways that they do it. Weekends can be tough for our male and female residents, as some of the scheduled programs are cut back in our 2 recovery facilities. Recently, a ladies' group from a Winnipeg Church decided to treat the ladies & children from our Charis Centre to a 'lip-smacking' and 'finger-lickin' good time. They came by with loads of KFC, and for 'dessert', had games, door prizes and lots of stuff that helped to lighten up a Saturday. The residents of the Charis Centre had a great time, and hopefully, so did the ladies' group from the Church! To the Church - thank you for the special treat and your care for the ladies! Would you like to know more about the Charis Centre? Check out our website (which you may have just done!), and click on the tab above (Women's Addictions). 1 Corinthians 10:31 - Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. http://www.google.ca What a difference a couple of weeks can make! In the latest issue of Voices From The Street, we indicated that our Tuesday & Thursday Discovery Clubs started off well (about 10 kids), then tailed off to 2 or 3, and then began to climb back up again (see page 2 for Cherry-Ann's article). Now, just a few weeks later, about 20 children are attending these North End clubs! We thank God for this great growth, but now need to look to Him to provide additional help that is now needed. We are praying for volunteers to help with these after-school clubs. Can you help? Call Cherry-Ann at 586-7790 or email her at cstewart@gospelmission.ca to say 'yes' (or to get further details). By the way, would you like to receive our Voices From The Street? Email us at pr@gospelmission.ca to say 'yes' again. 1 Corinthians 3:7 - So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. http://www.google.ca Life at Union Gospel Mission is no different than life outside of the Mission � it knows its joys and it knows its sorrows. This past weekend knew its sorrows, although God's grace and love was still very evident and His hope led us through it. We said 'good-bye' to a couple of men who have been residents of the Men's recovery program. Sammy, who left the Mission almost 2 years ago, passed away a couple of weeks ago, and his memorial service of celebration took place on Sunday. Chris, a current resident, was found in his room on Friday, having left his room to enter into heaven. More will be shared about both these men in upcoming blogs. We rejoice that both men knew Christ as their Saviour, so both are basking in His presence now and for eternity. 2 Corinthians 5:8 - We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. http://www.google.ca Well, the long-awaited moment has arrived! After months and months of inspections and various delays, the kitchen is finally finished and useable at our Charis Centre. No more transportation of meals - they can now be cooked and prepared onsite, straight from the oven to the table! We thank God for making this possible, and for those who continue to pray, give & volunteer at our Charis Centre. If you're interested in knowing how you can help, please call Adele at 415-3934, or email her at adele@gospelmission.ca Ecclesiastes 2:24 - Nothing is better for a man than that he should eat and drink, and that his soul should enjoy good in his labor. This also, I saw, was from the hand of God. http://www.google.ca So, how's this for a story? Early in December, one of our residents, Gerard, went to the dentist to have all his teeth removed (and yes, he had quite a few!). He did this on the understanding that his dentures would be ready the following week, so he'd only be 'gummed up' for about a week. Well, when he went back the following week, he was told that welfare would not pay for the dentures to be put in until January. So, he went from being 'gummed up' to being 'bummed out'! Needless to say, he was quite put out, and told a few people off. In fact, you might even say that his 'bark' was worse than his 'bite'! Well, as he was storming out of the dentist's office, he bumped into his daughter, who he had not seen for about 10 years! A family reunion of sorts took place, and out of that, Gerard met his granddaughter Santana, who he had not seen since she was a baby! Now, Gerard is attending Church with his family, and his granddaughter visits him often here at the Mission, as they both make up for lost time. And so, these days, Gerard's smile is much more noticeable � he has new shiny, pearly whites that he's flashing, but the smile has become much bigger, since he's back with his family that he loves so much! How good is that? Genesis 50:20 - ...but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day. http://www.google.ca We are thankful for the many donations that come in day-by-day. What a joy it is to walk by faith, to trust God to provide, and watch as He faithfully brings in what is required through the generosity of His people! As we open the mail, we can't help but admire the creativity that individuals and Churches show in giving. For example, one Church had, as part of their Christmas celebrations, a 'challenge' for each person to give a dollar for every year of their age. What a delight it must have been for the Church to see these relatively small personal sacrifices add up to thousands of dollars, which they were then able to pass on as a blessing to their favourite charities and Missions (including Union Gospel Mission!). Giving should always be a joy, but why not also make it fun! 2 Corinthians 9:7 - So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. http://www.google.ca Our annual Christmas dinner was served on - are you ready for this? - New Year's Eve. New Year's Eve? Yes, New Year's Eve. Every year, we try to coordinate what we do with the other local Missions, to make sure that we're not tripping over each other to serve our community. So, with the help of many volunteers, we served a few hundred meals and gave out a few hundred gift bags. The number of 'diners' was down from last year, but 15 of them came to a saving faith in Jesus Christ! Many others shared prayer requests which we pray are seeds that will one day be harvested. Thank you, to the many volunteers and donors who made the day possible. It was a good 'kingdom day'! Ecclesiastes 2:25 - For without Him, who can eat or find enjoyment? http://www.google.ca Well, it's 2012 - 12 years from Y2K (remember that?)! We're all 12 years older than when this century, this new millennium started - where has the time gone? The beginning of the New Year gives us opportunity to reflect on 2011 and our conclusion is - God is good...all the time, and all the time, God is good! (We knew that already - it was just confirmed again!). Whether it's 2000, 2011 or 2012, this has been true and will continue to be true. God was very good in 2011 - He faithfully provided, mostly through you. Whether praying, giving or volunteering - all were used by God to make 2011 a tremendous year in so many ways. What does He have in store for 2012? We can hardly wait! We want to say a big THANK-YOU to all who joined us in God's great work through UGM in 2011. 1 Thessalonians 1:2 - We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers. http://www.google.ca There are some wonderful things happening in the classrooms of our sponsored children. With your help, UGM is able to sponsor 78 children to attend Faith Academy, in classes from Nursery to Grade 12. These 78 children attend classes with many other 'non-sponsored' children, and learn their "ABC's" in a Christian environment. Not too long ago, a class of Grade 2 & 3's were shown the children's version of the Jesus movie. Seven children watched it, and when an 'altar call' was given (part of the movie), all 7 'went forward' to receive Christ! Two were already professing Christians, so 5 new names were added to the Lamb's Book Of Life that day (and 2 other names were 'solidified'!). Most of the school's students are from Winnipeg's North End, so every conversion to Christ brightens that area's future. So, please keep praying for our teachers and students as they continue to teach and learn in the name of Christ. Revelation 21:27 - ...only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. http://www.google.ca We are looking forward to New Year's Eve here at the Mission. We are planning to 'treat' our neighbourhood community to a full turkey dinner, with all the fixins'. We're anticipating serving about 500 meals, and giving a 'belated Christmas gift' - the Christmas gift bags that many have so generously donated. We also use this 'bash' to present the gospel, holding chapel services before each dinner sitting. Can you help us on December 31st? We're in need of volunteers (from 9:00 to 2:00) to help serve, pray, and host. For further information or to volunteer, please call us at (204) 943-9904, ext. 200, or email reception@gospelmission.ca. Galatians 6:10 - Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all... http://www.google.ca Poor Clifford! Clifford is our dock-worker, receiving donated goods as they come in, and putting them away. Often, he is called upon to retrieve the goods as they are needed, such as food for the meals we serve daily. Well, the other day, he picked up a big sack of potatoes, and to his surprise, he was instantly wearing 'potato juice'. (It was not his scent of choice). Seems there had been a rotten one in the bag, which had 'infected' a couple of others, and transformed them from 'solids' to 'liquids'! Like most of us, Clifford had not thought about bringing a change of clothes to work that day, and had to resort to finding something to wear from the clothes that had been donated to the Mission. You (and we) never know how donations are going to be used! So, thank you to all who donate. Food, clothing - whatever it is - God sees to it that it will get used. Philippians 4:19 - And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. http://www.google.ca There are now 3 children living at the Charis Centre! Normally, news like that might be depressing - young, pre-school aged children having to live in a place where women are receiving help to overcome addictions. But, in two of these instances, the children are evidence of lives being changed. Both had previously been in the care of Child & Family Services, while their mothers picked up the pieces after making poor decisions and life-style choices. But now, as the moms (in God's strength) are getting their lives on track, the children are being reunited with them! Praise God for the work that He is doing in bringing women to Himself, and families back together. With the addition of children, the needs increase. Can you help by donating things like PlayDough, Bible story colouring books, a play nativity set, flannelgraphs, etc? The Charis Centre is home for these young children - any way you can help it feel more like home is appreciated. Psalm 127:3 - Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD. http://www.google.ca George has been attending our morning chapel for a long time. Not too long ago, he brought a friend with him. His friend was unemployed, and had been searching for work, but to no avail. While at the Mission, he requested a Bible, and was challenged by one of our Chaplains to read it, listening to what God had to say. He began doing that, and continued coming to chapel. One day, as he was reading, he came across a passage that dealt with work. 'Coincidentally' the day after reading that portion of God's Word, and obeying what he read, the man was, to his surprise, invited to 2 interviews! And, he gives God the credit! Psalm 119:16 - I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word. http://www.google.ca Sunday evening, UGM was privileged to hold a 'Church service' at a Winnipeg Seniors' apartment. As part of the program, 6 ladies from the Charis Centre formed a 'choir' to sing for the Seniors. As well, a song was sung by one of the residents of the Men's program, and to cap the evening off, one of the ladies sang a solo. While she sang, 2 other ladies from the Charis resident's program stood by her side, offering moral support while she sang. It was a beautiful thing to hear, and a beautiful thing to behold - people who were once far from Christ (very far!) now using their voices for His glory! Colossians 1:13 - He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love... http://www.google.ca Monday morning chapel was an exciting place to be this week! One of our 'long-term' residents, Bob, was 'advanced' from the Mission. When it is evident that an addiction has been overcome through Christ, our residents are encouraged to step out from the 'hedge' of the Mission, and face society in the strength of their relationship with Christ. Bob shared his story, residents and staff alike prayed over him, and sent him onward with God's blessing. What a privilege to see God take a 'defeated life' and raise it up again! Jude 1:24-25 - Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen. http://www.google.ca God continues to do some great things at the Charis Centre. As you may know, the Charis Centre is a home that we provide for ladies who have become trapped in various addictions. By providing them with all their basic needs, we enable them to focus on Jesus Christ and His Word in their efforts to overcome their addictions and enjoy the freedom that only He can give. Well, 3 of these ladies were baptized in recent weeks, publicly declaring their love for Jesus, and their desires to follow Him. One of the women also dedicated her two children to the Lord, expressing her desire to raise her children for God! We thank God for the miracles that he has performed in these 3 ladies' lives. 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. http://www.google.ca The new Voices From The Street - Christmas Edition is hot off the press! By now, most have been mailed out or delivered. If you haven't received a copy, you can read it online (www.gospelmission.ca/PDF/VoicesChristmas2011.pdf), you can pick it up from your local Church, or, you can call Diana at (204) 943-9904, ext. 225 to have it mailed out. God is doing great things @ UGM, and we are excited about being able to work with Him. 'Voices' helps us in letting you know about God's great work, and how you can partner with us in that. Psalm 105:2 - ...tell of all his wonderful acts. http://www.google.ca It's hard to believe that we're just around the corner from celebrating Jesus' birth again. In the stores, the Halloween 'stuff' is being put away, and all the reminders of Christmas are coming out. As of today, just 55 more sleeps! Each year, UGM desires to give Christmas gifts to the men, woman & children that attend our New Year's Eve dinner. We like to give them gift bags that are practical, including items such as: Bibles ∙ Christian books/magazines ∙ mitts/hats/scarves ∙ personal hygiene products (shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, brushes, razors, shaving cream, etc.) ∙ school supplies ∙ children's toys ∙ etc. Can you help? We're in need of about 600 gift bags. As you prepare these bags, please label them, whether they are for a man, a woman or a child before dropping them off at the Mission. http://www.google.ca Freda had been coming to the Family Life Centre for about 15 years. More recently, she had started attend Family Life Church, a Church pastured by Gilbert Plante (our Family Ministries Manager). A couple of weeks ago, at the age of 61, she passed away, and entered, for eternity, into the presence of her Saviour. Her 'earthly exit' left a heavy sense of loss at the Family Life Centre, felt by staff and the other ladies who visit the Centre. A service was held for her at the Centre, and praise God, 125 people heard the gospel of Christ while her life was being celebrated. Only eternity will reveal the impact of her life and death. Hebrews 11:4 - By faith...being dead still speaks. http://www.google.ca In an effort to prepare the Charis Centre for the winter, we are having a Work Day for Saturday November 5th from 9:00am to 4:00pm to 'wrap-up' (literally) the outside of the Charis Centre with Tyvek. If you are able to volunteer (or get the word out) please call (943-9904) and let us know that you're coming or just show up. Please bring a bag lunch and safety gear and tools (power drill) if you have it. http://www.google.ca Ken has been a resident of the Mission for over half a year, dealing with an addiction that had derailed his life. As he continued to recover through the strength of Jesus Christ, God opened ministry opportunities for him. This past summer, Ken volunteered for a few weeks at Gimli Bible camp as a cook, pleasing the palates of many campers with his fine cuisine! Well, now he has left the Mission, to take on a full-time job as a cook at another Christian camp. What a blessing it is to see men who come into the Mission with such great need going out to serve others. We wish you God's blessing, Ken, and trust that God has great things in store for you! 3 John 4 - I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. http://www.google.ca After a resident in the Men's Recovery program has been here for a certain length of time and followed the guidelines that have been established, he can be moved to the next phase (there are 3 phases). Each phase provides the men with more responsibility, and enables the potential for increased independence. The goal is that once the third phase is completed, the men will move on from Union Gospel Mission. The process of moving through the phases is called 'advancement'. Recently, it was very encouraging to see 4 of our men 'advance', with each giving testimony of the role that God has played in their life through the Mission. Lips that were once used to displease the Lord now spoke words that brought Him glory! Please pray for our men in residence, that they will successfully move through the phases through the program, and become the men that God wants them to be. Philippians 3:14 - I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. http://www.google.ca What a great day it was at UGM. We served our annual Thanksgiving dinner to the community, and close to 350 of those in need enjoyed the full meal with all the 'fixins', over 3 separate sittings. About 30 volunteers served the meals, greeted the 'patrons', prayed for their needs, and led the chapel services. 13 people made decisions for Christ and 60 asked for prayer. Please pray that, although the event is over, the Word of God continues to take root. A special word of thanks goes out to all the donors, volunteers, residents and staff who made this day possible. Galatians 6:10 - Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all� http://www.google.ca Can you believe it? October 5 was the Charis Centre's birthday - she turned 2! What a couple of years it has been! As staff reminisced, they reflected on how God has enriched their own lives. They shared of their encouragement by those who have supported the Centre with their time, their prayers and their finances. They also celebrated how God has been at work in the lives of residents, evidenced in so many ways. One recent display of this was shown by 4 ladies who were seen praying together - with no staff to lead them! What a joy to see women, far from Christ, come into the Centre, be drawn to Him and through Him, be released from the bondage of their addictions. This has been seen over and over again in just 2 short years. What a great God we serve! One of our prayer warriors has kept an eye on the calendar - she (or he) celebrated the occasion by anonymously sending a bouquet of flowers. Thanks for the flowers - and the prayer. http://www.google.ca October 8th is a 'huge' day for UGM - we will be serving a full, traditional Thanksgiving dinner to the homeless & the street people of our area, those that are often viewed as being the least, the last & the lost. We are anticipating 400 to 500 men, women & children. By God's goodness, all the food has been donated! Now we need the volunteers to 'pull it off'. Can you help? We need those who will greet, pray and serve, and are able to help between 9:00 and 2:30 (to cover 2 serving shifts). Please let us know of your availability by calling 943-9904. "I say to you, in as much as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me." - Matthew 25:40 http://www.google.ca Have you ever experienced a nice, long, hot shower after going without for a few days (perhaps after a week of camping, e.g.)? Oh, what a feeling! Imagine living on the street, and not having access to shower facilities or places to take care of your hygiene needs. Many people throughout our city live in that harsh reality every day! UGM offers a daily drop-in centre, where street people (many of them homeless) can relax in a comfortable environment, have a bite to eat, and use shower facilities. We are always in need of supplies like soap, shampoo, conditioners, toothpaste & brushes. Can you help us by donating these? Galatians 6:10 - Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all... http://www.google.ca It's a thing of beauty to watch how the Lord matches donations to needs! Just this week, 2 examples of this were seen. First, an elderly man came into the Mission, suffering from a lack of bladder control. Before he left, he had been outfitted with a proper-sized pair of pants, as well as some Depends undergarments. And then, a grandmother came in with her grandchild, needing formula & diapers, and again, needs were met by donations! How wonderfully the Lord provides through the gracious gifts of His people. For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward. � Mark 9:41 http://www.google.ca Today, an individual came into the Mission to discuss how the passing of a parent could be of help to the Mission. What a blessing it is to see those who, in their time of grieving, are thinking of how their "loss" can be "of gain" to others. Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants. ~ Psalm 116:15 http://www.google.ca Every month, Union Gospel Mission has the privilege of trusting God for EVERYTHING! Twice a day, staff meet together to pray, expressing our dependence on Him, and bringing our needs before Him. And, every day, we rejoice as we see God answering prayer, and faithfully meeting the needs of the Mission. Please join us in praying��and praising! Some of our monthly prayer requests and our praise notes can be found on the left side of our website. Pray without ceasing�rejoice evermore. � 1 Thessalonians 5:17-16 http://www.google.ca A resident who is in one of our recovery programs relates this story � an addictive urge arose, and a phone call was made to a drug dealer. There was no answer, so a second call was made to another dealer, but again, to no avail. So, the resident gave up trying. In telling this story, the resident was encouraged because, in the past, efforts would have continued to be made until a dealer was reached. The road to recovery is a long and difficult process, usually made up of many small steps. We thank God for these small steps of progress, and the recognition that these steps are directed by the hand of God. A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps. � Proverbs 16:9 http://www.google.ca As we struggle through this heat wave, life has been very uncomfortable for the ladies living in our Charis Centre (UGM's ministry to ladies desiring to overcome their addictions). One of our volunteers graciously invited the ladies out to their cottage for the day yesterday, giving them a break from this scorching heat. What a thoughtful act of kindness! We continually give thanks for our volunteers and their many ways of volunteering, and continue to pray that God will bring in the finances necessary for installing air conditioning in the Charis Centre. http://www.google.ca On June 30th, UGM was privileged to host Graduation Exercises for 9 adults that we sponsored to help finish their grade 12 requirements. God wonderfully provided, through the gifts of His people, all the food that was needed for a special dinner for these graduates, families & friends. A few hours before the graduation, God even arranged for the delivery of a 2011 graduation cake through the generosity of a local business. We had not asked for one, we had not prayed for one, we had not even anticipated one, but God provided, even in the right colours! What a God we serve! For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. Matthew 6:8 http://www.google.ca Greg Stetski, our Executive Director, recently welcomed a faithful supporter into his office. The man (who is 91 years old) has been a supporter of the Mission from the beginning (78 years, this year) as a donor and as a volunteer! We are so thankful for all of our supporters (both young & old and everyone in between). God has brought so many great volunteers our way, and we value every one of them! Thank you. http://www.google.ca The Praise and Prayer items for July have been updated. Let us all praise God for all the great and wonderful things He does through this ministry. http://www.google.ca With the start of summer camps, so comes another opportunity for prayer. Many camp counselors find themselves in a cabin with children from all sorts of homes, and with all sorts of needs. Although being a camp counselor can be very rewarding, it can also be very trying. One Program Director has already asked for prayer (on day 2 of camp)! She has already observed much bullying among the boys, and although it would be easier just to send the boys home, her camp would like to help the boys find a connection with Christ rather than take the easy road out. UGM sends over 1000 children to camp, and unfortunately, some of those may be contributors to the problem. Please pray for the camp counselors & staff, that they may have boldness, love, and a Godly focus as they minister into the lives of the children that are entrusted to them this summer. It is their desire, when all is said and done, that God be honoured and glorified, and that campers become children of God. http://www.google.ca Recently, two men in the Men's Recovery Program left Union Gospel Mission, as a result of temptations that they encountered. These men were showing good progress in their walks with Christ, but in a moment of weakness, stumbled badly. Although serving the Lord on the 'front lines' is exciting, exhilarating and a great place to be, it also can be a place of heartache, as the devil gains an occasional foothold. Please pray for the men and women in our Recovery Programs, as they develop their walks with Christ, and for the chaplains, counselors and staff, as they experience the 'highs' and the 'lows' in helping them along. "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness�" - Ephesians 6:12 http://www.google.ca Gilbert P., our Family Life Ministries Manager, relates this recent experience. While he was praying in a nearby park, he noticed a man who appeared to be intoxicated walking through the park. The man was on his way to buying more beer. Gilbert took a moment to speak with the man, and learned that he was suffering from cancer. Since life didn't really matter anymore, he wanted to get even more drunk! Gilbert, a recovered addict himself, shared his testimony and expressed how important life had become for him. He shared Christ with the man, prayed for him, and told him that he loved him. The result of all this was that the man turned around, indicating that he was going to go home, rather than go out drinking. �a word spoken in due season, how good it is! � Proverbs 15:23 http://www.google.ca Amy Carmichael who served as a missionary to India for 55 years, had a heightened sense of reality regarding the fate of those who die without Christ. "Then I saw more streams of people from all quarters. All were blind, stone blind; all made straight for the precipice edge. There were shrieks as they suddenly felt themselves falling, and a tossing up of helpless arms, catching, clutching at empty air. But some went over quietly, without a sound." The ministries of Union Gospel Mission put us in daily contact with those who are at the very edge of that precipice, and we ask for your prayers that God would open the eyes of the blind before they fall over that edge and enter into eternity. http://www.google.ca The Chapel attendance last week for the morning service was 563 and the evening service was 508. http://www.google.ca Please pray for the postal strike to be resolved quickly as the mail delays are beginning to affect areas of the mission. http://www.google.ca Pray for the following volunteer needs: -Maintenance Workers for the 320 Princess St. and Archibald -Clothing Sorters http://www.google.ca Please pray for one of the ladies who is in residence at the Charis Centre. Her 3-year-old son passed away unexpectedly early Sunday morning. http://www.google.ca A supporter of UGM just had a knee replacement. Please keep Jake R. in your prayers. http://www.google.ca Please continue to pray for part-time cooks for Charis Centre. We are anticipating that any day now the kitchen will be ready for cooking on-site and we are looking to God to bring the cooks when the time is right! http://www.google.ca Chapel for last week had an attendance of 615 for the morning service and lunch, and 590 for the evening meal and service including the weekend. http://www.google.ca Prayer warriors: Brother Burke requests that we pray God's grace on him so he doesn't go back to his old sinful ways. Secondly, he requests that we pray for a new accommodations and job for him. http://www.google.ca Employment opportunity for part-time and casual cooks at our 320 Princess and 271 Archibald locations. Please see the Employment section on the website for more information. Pray with us that these needs are provided for. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance last week for the morning service was 519, and the evening service was 541 including the weekend. Praise God for all who came. http://www.google.ca The Praise and Prayer section for June has been updated. Please see what the Lord has done, and pray with us. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance for last week's morning service was 401, and evening service was 571 including the weekend. Praise the Lord for all the chapel speakers volunteered their time to give the message. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance for last week was 576 for the morning chapel and lunch, and 682 for the evening service and meal including the long weekend. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance last week for the morning service was 561, and for the evening service was 388. http://www.google.ca The attendance at last week's chapel services was 589 at the morning service and lunch, and 590 at the evening service and meal. Praise the Lord for all who gave of their time to lead the services and prepare the meals. Pray for all those in need that come for the meal and hear God's word. http://www.google.ca There were 11 volunteer groups that came to give of their time and service during the month of April. This is such a valuable resource of help to us. We thank God for all our volunteers! http://www.google.ca There were 257 people that came out to our Blumenort Banquet last Friday evening. A report was given on the Charis Centre, and we were ministered to in music by the Sandersons & Apryl Dawn. Please pray that the Riverton Banquet this Friday May 6, and the Winkler Banquet May 13 are well attended. http://www.google.ca There were 293 people at morning chapel last week, and 454 at evening chapel including the weekend. http://www.google.ca The Prayers from the Street section has been updated from the requests at the Easter Dinner. Please pray with us for all these many needs. http://www.google.ca Nelson just finished a quick devotional at Faith Learning Centre where two girls gave their lives to Jesus Christ. Praise the holy name of Him who loves us, and died for us! Amen. http://www.google.ca Please join us in prayer for the girls club on Thursday evenings as Whitney relates to the girls. Pray for wisdom in the Bible time sharing as Whitney tries to get the girls more involved. Pray for summer volunteers for July and August. http://www.google.ca Chapel service last week for morning service and lunch was 562 and evening service was 570 including the weekend. http://www.google.ca Praise God! 5 women who are currently in the program at Charis Centre were baptized on April 10th. What a blessing to see God at work and restoring broken lives! http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance for last week's morning service was 456, and evening service was 502 including the weekend. http://www.google.ca A prayer request from Claudette who is working with seniors in an appartment block. She would like to be a blessing and minister to this challenging group, some of whom are struggling with addictions. She is asking for prayer support. http://www.google.ca Praise and prayer items for April are updated on the home page. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance last week for morning service and lunch was 427, and evening service and meal was 445 including the weekend. Praise the Lord for all His great and mighty works. http://www.google.ca Praise report from John H. that after having chest pains the angiogram test results came back ok and is recovering at home. God is faithful! http://www.google.ca There were 616 people for noon chapel and lunch last week, and 753 for evening chapel and soup. Please pray for all who come for the meals, and for those that bring Gods word. http://www.google.ca One of our men in residence, requested prayer concerning his son in jail. Couple of days ago, God did set his son free from jail. He is very grateful for an answered prayer and wants us to thank God with him! http://www.google.ca Our street ministry easter dinner will be held on April 23 at 11:30. We are in need of 50 volunteers, and some donations of food items for the meal. We will be serving ham, potatoes, mixed veggies and juice. Any help with that would be a real blessing. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance last week for the morning service and lunch was 607, and evening service and meal had 653. Praise God from Whom all blessings flow! http://www.google.ca A former student came to the Faith Learning Centre to register his girlfriend. Our principal began a discussion about the plan of salvation, and the former student decided it was the time to receive Jesus as his Saviour. Praise God for a new member to His family! http://www.google.ca "...there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” -Luke 15:10 Today at Family Life Centre, ladie's day, a woman accepted the Lord Jesus as her Savior. Pray that the eyes of her understanding will be opened, as she begins her journey with God. Praise The Lord http://www.google.ca We have an urgent need at the Charis Centre. We are in need of a commercial gas stove/oven before the kitchen can be operational. A used stove had been donated, but we have just found out it is not in working order, and beyond repair. We do want to get the kitchen up and running as soon as possible. The cost of a new stove is $7,000, but we may be able to pick up a good used stove for less. Please pray for this need to be met. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance last week for the morning service and lunch was 569, and the evening service and meal was 585 including the weekend. Praise the Lord for all who came to share the gospel. http://www.google.ca Some of our ministries would appreciate donations of Children's Educational Softwear, (for example, Reader Rabbit). http://www.google.ca We were blessed to have 30 students from Landmark Collegiate volunteer this morning & they were given a presentation of all our ministries. http://www.google.ca The Spring Fundraising Banquet in Winkler will be held May 13 at 6:30pm at Maranatha Christian Fellowship. The list of banquets throughout Manitoba is listed on the home page of the website. http://www.google.ca The praise and prayer items have been updated. Please join us in praising the Lord for all the great and wonderful things He has done, as well as pray with us for the needs to be met. http://www.google.ca Chapel Attendance for last week: Morning services with lunch had 461, and evening services with soup had 538 including the weekend. http://www.google.ca The second UGM banquet this spring is on May 6th at the Riverton Gospel Chapel at 6:30 pm for the surrounding communities. http://www.google.ca Morning Chapel attendance for last week was 362 and evening attendance was 537 including the weekend. Praise the Lord for all who were fed spiritually and physically. http://www.google.ca Promise Keepers is being held at Church of the Rock on March 11 & 12. UGM will have representatives there with information about the Mission. Come by and say hello. http://www.google.ca There are 3 spring banquets scheduled in Manitoba in 2011. The first will take place on April 29th at Blumenort EMC at 6:30pm. http://www.google.ca Please pray for Dave K. who has lung cancer and is at Health Science Centre. http://www.google.ca Please pray for Lena, a school sponsor who is recovering from a broken wrist. She also has serious side effects ( irregular heartbeat )from a medication she was taking for another health concern. http://www.google.ca Prayer request for Barbara's mother as she has knee surgery later this week. http://www.google.ca Attendance for morning chapel for all of last week was 470, and evening chapel was 422 including the weekend. 892 people were served spiritually and physically last week. http://www.google.ca The Family Life Cemtre is once again coordinating with the camps throughout Manitoba to sponsor children that would otherwise not be able to attend. We have close to 1500 spots available for the summer camps. http://www.google.ca Praise the Lord for 275 people that came to know the Lord throughout 2010. Please pray for decipleship to follow each of these new children of God. http://www.google.ca Praise the Lord for all 4495 people who came to hear God's word and enjoy a hot meal during the month of January. Thank you to everyone who had a part in the chapel services and serving the meals. You are all a blessing from the Lord. http://www.google.ca Couple of days ago, Bonita (or Bonny, as she'd like to be called), requested us to pray for her eye problem. Today she equally wants to testify that God's healed her eye (the affected one) as a result of the prayers. Amen! http://www.google.ca The Praise and Prayer section has been updated. Please take a look and see what the Lord is doing. http://www.google.ca Bonita (UGM chapel attendee) and Darius, Shirley’s grandson (Shirley was a former volunteer at our drop-in) need our prayers concerning their eye problems. Please help lift them up before our Lord. http://www.google.ca The winter edition of the VOICES from the Street newsletter is now available online - Winter Voices from the Street http://www.google.ca A large group from Calvin Christian School came to volunteer their time and hard work at the womens centre on Archibald and at the Princess location. Please pray for their save return home on this very snowy day. http://www.google.ca Students came today from Pinefalls Christian School to help prepare for the lunch and chapel, and to sort the donated clothing. Their help was such a blessing. http://www.google.ca Missionfest Manitoba will run February 4th, 5th & 6th at Church of the Rock. We will have a display table at this event. http://www.google.ca March will be two years that I have been here (Family Life Centre). I am blessed that some of the women phone me, to talk, that it is not just me trying to track them down. Often, I have ladies' pick up the phone to call me. I Praise God for that! and for the relationships that are formed! A couple of times at our chapel prayer table one of the women who attends asked if she could pray for me! Wow! Ladies' who come to Family Life Centre are our guests, I am reminded that many are part of the family of God, and they are also MY Sisters in the Lord. Ramona, Women's Ministries Leader http://www.google.ca 5 children at the school on Pritchard Avenue accepted Jesus as their Savior. Praise the Lord! http://www.google.ca On January 12th together with about 70 people, the second H.E.A.R.T. Recovery Program graduate Tracey celebrated Christ at work in her life over this past year. It was so encouraging to hear how God has worked in her life and filled her with hope for a future. She plans to stay living at Charis Centre for second stage recovery programming which is another new step for all of us, and one we are very excited about! http://www.google.ca There is a need for winter boots for men and women. The biggest need in men's are sizes 11 - 14, and in ladies, sizes 7 - 11. If you have any to donate, please bring them to 320 Princess St. http://www.google.ca Please pray for the men and women from the addiction recovery programs that are struggling and chose to leave the program. Pray their hearts will turn toward Gods will for their lives. http://www.google.ca Praise the Lord for Steinbach Bible College student groups that are coming to volunteer for 4 days. They are helping out in the kitchen, chapel, clothing room, the food bank, and then receiving a presentation of all our ministries. Your hard work is such a blessing. http://www.google.ca Volunteers are needed to sort all of the generous clothing donations. http://www.google.ca Praise the Lord for warm meals during this cold January weather. So far we've had over 700 people come in for chapel and meals this week. http://www.google.ca The New Year is beginning. Hundreds of people from the street are gathering at Union Gospel Mission to receive a special meal along with Christmas gift bags donated by many UGM supporters. God's offer of eternal life through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ will be presented. A volunteer prayer team is praying for requests from our guests, and asking God to open hearts to receive Jesus. As many volunteers serve our guests and show them the love of God, please pray for souls to turn to Christ today. Thank you. Greg Stetski Executive Director http://www.google.ca The turkey dinner event has begun. Please pray for all the volunteers and guests for the Lords blessings. Prayer request will be posted as they come in, so please watch for them in the 'Prayers from the Street' and pray with us. http://www.google.ca We have seen God at work in the lives of the ladies as they attend a variety of classes and work on recovery issues this past month. Tim Fletcher spent a morning conducting a workshop on “Relationships”. http://www.google.ca George W. wants to thank God for using UGM to pray for the peace of mind he has today and for His daily help with his addiction recovery. http://www.google.ca We have 46 students currently attending adult education at 220 Prichard. We are now taking registrations for second semester. http://www.google.ca We praise the Lord for His healing touch on both Don & Donnie Amell. Our God does answer prayer. Praise His name! http://www.google.ca We are in constant need of plastic grocery bags. Please don't throw them out, we would love to take them off your hands. http://www.google.ca We expect to have 500 people come to the Christmas Dinner January 1, and would like to give everyone who comes a gift bag. We could still use almost 200 more for men and 200 more for women. If you are able to bring a few items to put in a bag, here are a few suggestions; Scarf, hat, mitts, socks, toothbrush, razor, shaving cream, shampoo, a bible. Please label them if they are for men, women, boys or girls. Any items would be a welcome donation. http://www.google.ca Edna and Moses are requesting for prayers on behalf of their loved one, Nathaniel who recently drowned at a river here in the city. They want us to pray for their family members as they cope with this terrible news. Also to pray for the rescue team as they do the search. http://www.google.ca See Russell's story on video at the top of the home page. http://www.google.ca Meet your neighbors while canning hunger. See the link for how you can do this. Canning Hunger http://www.google.ca There were 739 people at chapel last week, and 170 during the weekend. Praise God for all the speakers and group volunteers who came to serve for the morning and evening services. http://www.google.ca We are praying for 333 special people, who moved by God's Grace, will share the burden of ministering to the needy women at the Charis Centre - by donating $1000 to help transform a life. Transform a Life at the Charis Centre http://www.google.ca We need more Facebook Prayer Warriors! Log into Facebook go to our Facebook page click "Suggest to Friends" and ask them to pray with you for Union Gospel Mission Winnipeg. http://www.google.ca There were 20 different volunteer groups that came during the month of November . We are truly blessed to have so many supporters that continue to bless us through your service, thank you. http://www.google.ca When someone is hungry- we mean really hungry- finding food can be a life-or-death matter. Each year UGM serves over 100,000 meals. Help make a difference today by donating to the Meal-A-Day program. All it takes is $1.99 to provide an individual with a full meal, a food bag and the Bread of Life. ...December Goal - 10,000 meals. http://www.google.ca Was at Main Street Project to look for a couple of our ladies: one of them did not keep the appointment to enter detox. As discouraging as it was, ( I guess the Lord had another appointment for me) a man recognized me, he has a connection to my home reserve. He shared with me his heartache and struggles. We both come from the same background, I said, "...it is God who helped me-- to keep me sober, gave me hope and changed my life!" I left a tract "The Good News of Christmas" encouraged him to read it when he had a quiet moment to himself. As I think about it now, I remember a couple of times during our conversation, that his eyes welled up with tears.--Pray that he would see his need for the Lord. -Ramona http://www.google.ca Volunteers are needed for the Drop-In for two hour shifts: 2:00 - 4:00 P.M., Monday to Friday. Please call 943-9904 if there is one or more days that you can volunteer. http://www.google.ca Shirley S. called and asks for prayer. Please join us in praying for her. http://www.google.ca Volunteers are needed January 1st for the Street Ministry Christmas Dinner from 9am-1pm, or 10:30am-2:30pm. Call to get on the volunteer list. http://www.google.ca The men in residence are in need of Razors, Shampoo, Socks & Underwear. http://www.google.ca Today was the first day of school for two new children at the Charis Centre. We are praising the Lord for these children just reunited with their mother, and we are transporting them to Faith Academy every day. Please pray for a good adjustment all around. http://www.google.ca There is a need for volunteers in Math at the Faith Learning Centre. Pray the Lord sends volunteers in this area of need. http://www.google.ca We have just begun our capital campaign to pay off the mortgage at the Charis Centre. Please pray for 777 special people who will each give $1,000 to Erase the Debt at the Charis Centre. http://www.google.ca 67 from the North End enjoyed a feast of the word of God, fellowship with one another and a meal provided by our supporters of UGM. I know of one new ladie that came to Family Life Centre for the first time. I spoke to her in private to acknowledger her prayer request, to let her know that she is NOT alone, and that I am available, if she ever wants a listening ear: to spend time with her; and that Family Life Centre exists to help women get to the other side, and that there is a way! Thank you brothers and sisters who pray for the ministry! Ramona http://www.google.ca Please pray for Maria Rosa and her health as she is very sick. http://www.google.ca Praise the Lord for the 17 individuals that made commitments to the Lord Jesus Christ in the month of October. http://www.google.ca We are still looking for volunteer groups to help with the final push on the outside and inside of the Charis Centre. http://www.google.ca We are looking for a Part-time Cook to prepare meals for our Street Ministry and the Men's Addiction Recovery Program. Please click on the link for details Part Time Cook Position Description http://www.google.ca Please pray that God will work in the lives of 2 ladies planning on leaving the program early at Charis Centre. May they be open to staying and continuing what they started. http://www.google.ca Mid Term Exams are coming the week of 17-23 of November at the school. Pray for our students that they do well. http://www.google.ca Each Christmas we distribute over 500 Gift Bags to needy men, women & children. Please consider dropping off a Gift Bag for someone in need. Some ideas for gift bags include: Adult: Razors, Shaving cream, Shampoo, Winter gloves, Bible, Christian book, Christian music Child: New unpackaged toy, New teddy bear, Bible, Winter mitts, Christian music, Christian book http://www.google.ca A student in the Faith Learning Centre received the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour during the devotional. Praise God! Please pray for Roland. http://www.google.ca Sign up on the Home Page to receive the "Voices from the Street Newsletter" 5 times a year on your email. Voices from the street Christmas 2010 Edition http://www.google.ca Please see Prayers from the Street. George W. requests prayer. http://www.google.ca 5 ladies put up their hand to receive Jesus after Nelson spoke on Wednesday at chapel. The Lord be Praised! http://www.google.ca We need volunteers by Nov. 20 to help prepare for new insulation and siding for the outside of the womens centre. All volunteers are welcome on Saturdays from 9am-4pm. Please call 943-9904. http://www.google.ca The Praise and Prayer items are updated today. Please pray with us. http://www.google.ca Vote now to support Union Gospel Mission's application for an Aviva Grant to buy a 24 passenger Bus for the HEART Women's Addiction Recovery Program at the Charis Centre. Union Gospel Mission's Aviva Community Fund http://www.google.ca A call came today from a lady requesting prayer for all her burdens. Please pray for Shirley. http://www.google.ca There are 4 new residents in the men's addiction program that came in October. Please pray for them while learn to rely on the Lord for wisdom and strength in their recovery. http://www.google.ca Tiffany Rios started working at Charis Centre, October 25th as Casual Shift Supervisor. Please Pray for her as she starts her ministry at the UGM women's centre. http://www.google.ca Please Join us at one of the the UGM Fall banquets at North Kildonan M.B. Church on November 5th. There is one at Noon, and one at 6:30pm. For free tickets please call 943-9904, and state which time you would like the tickets for. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance for the week of October 18 is 1136. Praise the Lord for all who ministered to those in need. http://www.google.ca 2 students received the Lord as their Saviour this morning during devotional. To Him all the glory and the power forever and ever. http://www.google.ca Please pray for many more volunteers for adult education, children's clubs, drop-in, kitchen (Princess and Archibald, and Wednesday mornings on Pritchard) and clothing. We again need many groups to volunteer at the Charis Centre on Archibald as we tackle the outside of the building, the second floor and the basement. http://www.google.ca The Faith Learning Centre has some students in K-4 with behavioral problems. Please pray for God's wisdom in this area. http://www.google.ca Group volunteers are a vital support to all of the ministries at UGM. The month of October has 15 groups scheduled. Thank you to all the groups for giving so generously of your time. http://www.google.ca Chapel attendance for the week of October 12th is 718, and 144 on the weekend for evening chapel. Pray for all who spoke and heard God's word. http://www.google.ca Please pray for the need for more staff at the women's centre: A night supervisor to work one night a week, and either a volunteer cook, or part-time cooks. http://www.google.ca We are in need of a camp coordinator. This is a full-time position. Please pray for the right person to fill this spot. http://www.google.ca During the devotional on our Thanksgiving activity at the Faith Learning Centre, 3 souls gave their lives to the Lord and accepted Him as Saviour, and 1 re-dedicated her life to Jesus. http://www.google.ca A young girl came to know the Lord at the Faith Learning Centre. She is 19 years old, and received the Lord Jesus Christ with tears in the school office. Praise God for the salvation of souls - to Him be the Glory. http://www.google.ca Why support UGM? Reason #8. Because UGM treats every donation as a sacrificial gift from God's people. We know we will give an account to God for every dollar. We spend a minimum amount of money on areas such as advertising, so your donations are used instead to effectively and efficiently help the people. We are able to provide the lowest cost meals and other services. And so we thank you, dear brothers and sisters, for your gracious and vital support of Union Gospel Mission. http://www.google.ca There were 744 attendance for chapel & meal last week, and 166 for the weekend evening chapel & meal. Praise God for all who spoke the message of the Lord. http://www.google.ca Praise the Lord for a wonderful Thanksgiving service and meal. There were 388 people served, over 70 prayer requests, and 12 salvations. Thank you to all of the many volunteers that came and made this event such a blessing to all who came. http://www.google.ca The Prayers from the Street have been updated for the guests attending the Thanksgiving Dinner. http://www.google.ca Thank you to all who attended the Union Gospel Mission Fall Banquet in Selkirk on October 1st. We received a wonderful report on the Women's Charis Centre and were ministered in music too by Jim & Kate Sanderson along with April Dawn. There were over 100 in attendance for a wonderful Thanksgiving turkey dinner with all the trimmings. The Lord be Praised for over $6,000 in donations towards the ministries of Union Gospel Mission. http://www.google.ca Please pray that we will find the right person to work one night shift a week for the Womens Charis Centre. http://www.google.ca We celebrated with much joy the first graduation from the H.E.A.R.T. recovery program on October 4th. It is one year ago that the first women entered our program. What a blessing to hear the testimony of how God worked in our graduate’s heart over the past year. http://www.google.ca There were 193 people attending evening chapel this weekend. Please pray their hearts were open to hear God's Word. http://www.google.ca One of the residence from the men's addiction centre went back to detox. Please pray for Roland H. for the Lords strength and teaching. http://www.google.ca One of the residence from men's addiction recovery has completed the program and is leaving today. Please pray for Norman M. as the Lord will be his strength and guide. http://www.google.ca There is still a need for a few more volunteers at the Thanksgiving Dinner on October 9th with the Street Ministry. Please pray that all areas get the support needed. If you are available from 9am-1pm, or from 10:30am-2:30pm, please call 943-9904. http://www.google.ca �1209 people came for chapel and a meal this past week. Please pray for the Lord to touch their hearts, the feeding of their souls as well as their bodies. http://www.google.ca UGM Gladstone Fall Banquet is on October 29 ,6:30 pm at Gladstone Christian Fellowship Church. For tickets call Gladstone Christian Fellowship (385-2915) or Peter & Helen Fehr (386-2745). http://www.google.ca UGM Carman Fall Banquet is on Oct. 15, 6:30 pm at the Carman Seniors Active Living Centre. For Tickets call Carman Pentacostal Church (745-3787), Carman Mennonite Church (745-3837), or Friends Community Church (745-3737). http://www.google.ca We heard a wonderful message of HOPE today from our chapel speaker, and her story had beginnings from another "Union Gospel Mission" in Canada. As 66 women sat here stirred and encouraged, I couldn't help but wonder if there would be another "Deborah of the bible" in our midst. -- when we get to heaven, it will fully be revealed "vessels of grace" in the lives of women, those we minister to, in our midst. PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSING FLOW!!! Ramona http://www.google.ca UGM Altona Fall Banquet is on October 8, 6:30 PM at Rhineland Pioneer Centre/ MEC Centre. For Tickets call Randy & Barb (324-8592), Pete & Martha (324-8329), or Prairie Insurance (324-5579) http://www.google.ca The first Fall Banquet is coming up in Selkirk October 1, 2010 at 6:30 PM in the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Book your tickets to secure your spot. http://www.google.ca Donation items needed most are; milk, baby food & formula (liquid), chicken, fish, spices, tomato paste & sauce, and plastic grocery bags. Please pray these needs are met on an ongoing basis. http://www.google.ca THanksgiving Every Month (THEM) program and our Canning Hunger program are both excellent programs for churches that also benefit the Mission. Please pray for more churchs to become involved in these programs so we can meet the needs of those that come to UGM. http://www.google.ca We are thrilled to be planning our first ever graduation from the H.E.A.R.T. recovery program for early October. Please pray for her as she makes plans for life after the recovery program. http://www.google.ca Please pray for 3 of our ladies who are considering being baptized soon - that they will be able to take this step of obedience with joy and confidence in Christ's work in their lives. http://www.google.ca Our Wednesday Bible Study attendance is increasing. Yesterday we had 69 ladies in attendance with new ladies who had never been with us before. Pray with us that as ladies hear about Jesus they would respond. http://www.google.ca Three of the men in residence are taking classes at the Faith Learning Centre. Please pray for them as they continue their education. http://www.google.ca THANK YOU to Scott Reimer and the Bible Study Group for coming to the mission Tuesday evening to volunteer your time. You are truely God's Blessing. http://www.google.ca The Mens Addiction Recovery Unit currently has 21 men in residence. Please pray for them as they continue to battle their addiction and lean on the Lord for strength. http://www.google.ca There is rejoicing in Heaven, after chapel a woman came to the prayer table and said she wanted to receive Jesus as her Saviour. It was a surprise to me, but I shouldn't be surprised... After sharing scripture with her, she prayed to receive the Lord as her Saviour. Praise God!!! Ramona Lee http://www.google.ca There was a good turnout at Chapel this weekend. 120 people came on Saturday, and 113 on Sunday. Praise God for all who heard His message. http://www.google.ca A big THANK YOU to all who have sent in Donations this week! Camp Arnes donated 70 towels. Others donated good quality clothes, and some food, and some gave monitary donations. All donations are such a blessing. http://www.google.ca Faith Learning Center currently has 76 adults enrolled in classes for this Fall. Please keep them in your prayers. Pray as well for the teachers that they may have wisdom and be a blessing. http://www.google.ca Thursday evening there were 99 people for chapel and soup. http://www.google.ca We have 81 sponsored students in Faith Academy as of today. Praise the Lord. http://www.google.ca Praise God, one of our ladies decided to follow Jesus on Wednesday. 37 ladies were in attendance for Wednesday Bible Study. Total attendance for Ladies Day was 65. http://www.google.ca At Chapel Wednesday evening there were 84 people who heard a message from Jack Unger and enjoyed soup afterward. http://www.google.ca Full house today at noon chapel. 126 guests heard Gods word and enjoyed lunch and bag of food today. http://www.google.ca Tuesday evening chapel had 88 people hearing a message from Walter Dorrington. http://www.google.ca 119 people heard Gods Word and enjoyed Lunch today. http://www.google.ca Evening Chapel service attendance this weekend: Saturday - 117, Sunday - 119 and Monday - 126. Praise God for all who could hear His Word. http://www.google.ca Morning Chapel service today had 103 attendees hearing Gods word, followed by a wonderful lunch and a food bag. http://www.google.ca At Chapel Thursday evening there were 60 who attended to hear the Word of the Lord and enjoyed soup afterward. http://www.google.ca There are 3 children with their moms at the Charis Centre. Praise the Lord! We are in need of new and used crib sheets, as well as strollers and desk lamps. Please pray for this need to be met. http://www.google.ca 95 guests came for noon chapel and lunch today. http://www.google.ca There were 58 guests attending chapel last night, and received a healthy meal. http://www.google.ca UGM Camp Ministry had 1001 children attend camp this summer! There were 112 New Commitments to Christ, and 27 Recommitments. Praise the Lord! Please pray for these children to get ongoing support through the nearby churches. http://www.google.ca There were 84 attendees for chapel and lunch this morning. Praise God for all who were able to hear His word. http://www.google.ca Faith Learning Center will be starting soon for children in grade K - 4. We have some young children staying with their mothers at Charis Womens Center. There is a need for Milk, Drinking Boxes, Canned Lunch Items (ie. Ravioli) Formula (liquid prefered), and Baby Food. Donations are accepted at 320 Princess location. http://www.google.ca Full house at Chapel today, 126 guests will hear the word of God Preached and enjoy of full course meal and receive a food hamper. http://www.google.ca Our Fall 2010 Edition of Voices from the Street is now available - Click here http://www.google.ca Praise God for over 1,000 Campers that we were able to sponsor to camp this year. Salvation Reports are still coming in, a report will be posted soon. http://www.google.ca Pray for more children to register for the Pritchard School. So far we have 14. http://www.google.ca August 9th to 15th Stats: 1,162 Noon Chapel Guests, 1,195 Evening Chapel Guests 2,422 Meals Served, 1,257 Food Hampers Handed Out 3 First Time Commitment to Christ http://www.google.ca Union Gospel Mission continues to be blessed. As we continue to grow we have opportunities for individuals looking to get involved in missions on a local level. Please check out the following opportunities on our employment page; Part-time Evening Cook, Adult Ed Teacher, Full-time Receptionist, Casual Supervisor, and Recovery Counselor. Employment (Missionary) Page http://www.google.ca As of August 9th, 2010 we have 867 Children & Youth registered for Camp. 77 campers have made a commitment to Christ and 9 campers have re-committed their lives to Jesus. Praise the Lord! http://www.google.ca At the end of last month we had a number of ladies choose to leave the program. Please pray for them � that the time at Charis Centre will be a step closer to God and that they will be drawn to Him. Please pray for all the staff and ladies in the program as we adjust to children living on-site. Pray for the Moms � that they can be the Mothers God has designed them to be. http://www.google.ca God encourages us in many ways. As I pulled up in the parking lot today, I was greeted by two "regulars". Both held out their arms for a hug, the woman told me she loved me. God's blessings often come in unexpected ways and places. http://www.google.ca UGM has 795 children registered for summer camp, 45 accepted Jesus as their Saviour and 5 re-committed their lives to Christ. Summer camps reap eternal rewards and we are blessed to be able to send them. We still have some spots available for children to go to camp in August. http://www.google.ca Follow up to my posting of May 13, 2010, Frank passed away this morning. Please pray for this family. http://www.google.ca Our chapel guests are blessed by our chapel speakers. Many stay back to speak to our speakers and thank them after the service. What a blessing for us! http://www.google.ca Praise the Lord camps are filling up and children are being reached for the Lord. With 5 weeks of camp to go, we still have funding available to send more kids to camp. Please pray that all available spots would be filled. For information on registering kids for camp, please visit our web site or call the Union Gospel Mission's Family Life Centre (415-5126) for more information http://www.google.ca n update to the July 2, 2010 posting, a UGM supporter has offered to match donations for the Charis Centre kitchen, up to $30,000. Praise the Lord and please pray for a great response. We are now at about 20 women at the Charis Centre, with many more scheduled to join us. http://www.google.ca We're thankful for all the help from Youth With A Mission. A group from Toronto helped us today. What a blessing! http://www.google.ca A lady stopped by today with donations, she also had a prayer request. Her 28 year old nephew was killed in a motorcycle accident. Please pray for the family of this young man, particularly his wife & father-in-law. http://www.google.ca Heartache is inevitable in ministry. A gentleman, who used to come regularly, stopped by to see me this morning. Looking a little worse for the wear, I asked him where he'd been. He told me he had been on a five week drunk. I told him I'd pray for him. I'm happy to see him back here and pray that God would touch his heart in an undeniable way today. http://www.google.ca Charis Centre - We are enjoying having a child on-site. Please pray for Mom and child as they adjust to community living. We are thankful for the new ladies who entered the program recently. By the response to the Recovery Program we see that the need for women's recovery programming in Winnipeg is immense. Please pray for the women as they take this step of courage to find healing in Christ for addictions. http://www.google.ca Today's blessing came in the form of two women, Barb & Lorraine. Today is ladies' day at the Family Life Centre. Barb & Lorraine were waiting on the steps of the Family Life Centre before 8 a.m. anticipating the Bible study & chapel service that would begin at 10:30. These ladies have been attending Family Life Centre for more than 10 years. Praise the Lord! http://www.google.ca Blessings come in all shapes & sizes. My blessing today came in the form of a young man by the name of Jessie. I was privileged to work with him about two years ago when he came to UGM with YWAM. He's back for another week this summer. What a blessing to see young people in ministry! - Katie http://www.google.ca We are sorry to report that the Winnipeg Foundation has turned down our request for a large grant to help with renovations at the Charis Centre. We were hoping to finish the commercial kitchen and install new windows for the entire building, so this is a real setback. Please pray that God will supply in other ways. Thank you.. http://www.google.ca Graduating was a lifelong dream for Glenn. As a resident of Union Gospel Mission, we wish him God's richest blessing as he seeks God's will in his life. http://www.google.ca School is ending for the summer. Please pray for the safety of our children and adult education students who are excited about summer holidays. http://www.google.ca Congratulations to the 6 Graduates of Union Gospel Mission's "Faith Learning Centre" A Job well done. To learn more about the Faith Learning Centre check out the following link http://gospelmission.ca/index.php?page=20 To view picture of this event visit our Facebook Page amd click on the Faith Learning Centre Graduation 2010 Photo Album. http://www.google.ca A resident's 16 year old sister overdosed yesterday. She survived this time. Please pray with me that there will not be a next time. Also pray for the resident and his parents that they would find their strength and solace in Jesus. http://www.google.ca Praise God for 3 new ladies that joined the program last week. They appear to be settling in. We have a child scheduled to come in on June 30th. Pray that the transition for Mom and child will go well. Also, please pray for one of our staff families who are dealing with major health issues. http://www.google.ca We had 22 men at last Tuesday's overcomers' meeting. I was teaching on truth and explained that we need to allow the truth into our lives and find ourselves in the Bible. After the meeting, two men asked for a Bible so they could study at home. Praise the Lord! It is a pleasure to feed those that are hungry. Marc http://www.google.ca Check out our updated PRAYERS from the Street and pray along side us for those with specific needs. http://www.google.ca Pray for our daily chapel guests. As they leave each day, we wonder if and when we'll see them again. Did they see Jesus in us? http://www.google.ca A former resident is being released from hospital today after recovering from a stab wound. Pray that he would find appropriate housing and turn back to God. http://www.google.ca 126 Chapel Guests just finished having their lunch and enjoyed a chapel service. Please pray that they would be well nourished, spiritually and physically. http://www.google.ca Violence is a constant reminder of the sin in this world. A young man, well over 6 feet rushed into the mission this morning seeking refuge from a woman who had assaulted him. Physically, he is quite capable of taking care of himself. Please pray that Wil would use discernment in relation to people on the street. Also pray that Wil would submit to the Lord's will in his life. http://www.google.ca Pray for the youth club that meets Tuesdays at the Family Life Centre. Pray that these youth would have an understanding of how great the Father's love is and that they would respond appropriately. http://www.google.ca Christine told me this morning that she needs help with her gambling addiction. Please pray that she would receive the help that she needs. She is a regular attender at many of our services. http://www.google.ca Please pray for 8-10 children living in the area of the Family Life Centre who have been a disruption to our children's clubs as well as the neighbourhood. Pray that the spirit that controls them would be defeated and that the Holy Spirit would live in them. http://www.google.ca Yesterday Ramona really sensed God's people praying for her. Thank you so much for your many gifts of prayer for Ramona and the ministry at the Family Life Centre. http://www.google.ca Acts 13:42-44 talks about how the people were eager to hear more of the Word Paul had preached. In ministry we long to see that same hunger for God's Word. Ramona was blessed to have women from Tuesday's Bible study "eager" for the Word as they want to study the scriptures in advance that will be covered and by purchasing workbooks for continued study. Rejoice and pray with us as we share the gospel! http://www.google.ca We have updated prayer requests from our Street Guests. Check out the list at "PRAYERS from the Street" http://www.google.ca Please pray for a resident who is in hospital. Health concerns come to light when addicts sober up. http://www.google.ca Family Life Centre will be hosting the ladies' Bible study this afternoon and the youth club for guys. Please pray for good attendance, open hearts and freedom from distractions. http://www.google.ca An update to our posting of May 6. It seems this young couple had come here from another city, involved in the sex trade. Pray that the Word that they heard in chapel would resound in their spirit. Pray also for opportunities to minister to them. http://www.google.ca Pray for two residents who recently completed the New Life in Christ recovery program. They both have employment but the pressures and lure of society are very powerful. http://www.google.ca Proverbs 16:3 rings so true for me. This afternoon I met with a woman who is scheduled to enter Charis Centre. She shared with me how grateful she was that I had called her Wednesday. She was hanging on in spirit by a thread and feeling alone. Sometimes I don't get to hear from people how urgent things really are, and the timing of God's people to reach out. http://www.google.ca Thank you to Abundant Life Baptist Church and Len S and his wife. They knocked on doors and helped serve 400 plus people on Saturday June 5th. Twenty five camp applications handed out and five school apps. Many families were introduced to the ministries of the FLC. Praise God for a wonderful day http://www.google.ca Praise God for the month of May! Ladies are staying with the program and we are seeing lives being changed. Pray for 3 new ladies who entered the program last week, that the initial weeks of adjustment will go well. Staff are very thankful for volunteers who were here the day after the big rain and helped out with clean-up after the flood. http://www.google.ca Praise God for a favourable outcome as one of our residents dealt with issues from his past. He has been a blessing here at the mission and we are thankful that he can continue in the New Life in Christ recovery program. http://www.google.ca Please continue to pray for a resident who is in hospital. Also, pray for a couple of residents who have left the program before completing it. http://www.google.ca Thank you to the volunteer groups who helped out on Saturday. Not only did they clean up from the first basement flooding at the Charis Centre in the afternoon they did it all over again in the evening at our main building at 320 Princess St. We are so blessed to have God provide us with willing volunteers ahead of time. http://www.google.ca God is soooo good! A couple from Florida, in town due to a family emergency stopped by the mission today. They decided to stay for the chapel service, with Pastor James Barber preaching. It turns out that this lady was in his youth group about 20 years ago. Only God could work out a meeting such as this! http://www.google.ca We are excited to see God working in the hearts of ladies here. Please keep praying with us, particularly for the ladies when they first enter the program that their adjustment will go smoothly and that their heart will be soft to God. http://www.google.ca Check out our new edition of Voices from the Street! Summer Edition of the VOICES from the Street http://www.google.ca Charis Centre - Praise God for the fence that has been put up in our back yard and for the beautiful patio furniture that has been donated. The ladies in the program are enjoying the beauty of the season outdoors. We are very thankful for a volunteer who is heading up a garden project. A couple of the ladies in the program are avid gardeners and are looking forward to gardening together. http://www.google.ca The weekly girls' youth club is today. Please pray for safety, attentiveness, bonding and spiritual growth. These youth usually come from a troubled home and need Jesus to carry them through whatever is going on in their lives. http://www.google.ca Wednesday was ladies day at the Family Life Centre. Please pray that it will be a time of encouragement and strength for the ladies, that they would come to know our Saviour and that those who know Him would draw closer to Him. May God be glorified! http://www.google.ca Please pray for the tuesday Evening guys youth group that they will be impacted by the word of God. http://www.google.ca Please pray for Whitney and her piano lesson students. Pray that the students would be attentive and eager to learn. Pray that Whitney would be blessed as she teaches. http://www.google.ca Thanks to the wonderful students of Balmoral Elementary School. They were a hard working group and great to work with. May God bless you all! http://www.google.ca Chris, a former resident, would appreciate prayer for his father, Frank. Frank is bed ridden and does not walk with God. Pray that God would make a way for Chris to get near him and minister to him. Pray for victory in the lives of both of these men that they can live a life that God wants for them. http://www.google.ca It's exciting to watch our patrons learn & grow in their faith. They in turn pass it on to others. Such was the case this morning when George came to ask for prayer for Wanda & Sterling, two people he had encountered & shared with this morning. Isaiah 55:11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void... http://www.google.ca Please pray for ladies day at Family Life Centre today. Wednesdays are a time of worship, learning, praying and bonding. http://www.google.ca Praise God for a number of ladies scheduled to come in over the next few weeks. A wonderful response to the media coverage we received. http://www.google.ca The Family Life Centre is gearing up for another exciting camping season. Please pray that applications would come in quickly and that they would be filled out properly. Also pray that churches would come alongside and refer children to us for camp. http://www.google.ca Please pray for a young man who dropped in Tuesday morning to see his father. He had obviously not been in touch with his father for some time as his father has been gone for at least 2 weeks. Please pray for father and son. http://www.google.ca Please pray for one of our school families who had their children apprehended by CFS today http://www.google.ca Our drop in had many visitors today. Pray that God would met their needs through us. http://www.google.ca Please pray for the individuals associated with UGM's programs. Weekends are difficult for residents and youth because there seems to be more free time and more temptations. http://www.google.ca Pray for Whitney, our Children's Ministry Leader at FLC, as she teaches students from Pritchard Faith Academy piano lessons. Pray that lesson times would be a time of discipleship and growth for the students. Pray that Whitney would have the energy and grace needed as she works with students who often come from difficult situations. http://www.google.ca On Sunday May 2nd three volunteers from Charis Center, who are part of the congregation at the Winnipeg Evangelical Free Church, shared in the 2 morning services. Thank God for Esther Ann, John and Arla & their service to Jesus. Pray that others in the church will be encouraged to step into ministries of prayer, the gospel, giving and helps. http://www.google.ca Please pray for a young couple who came to the door this morning looking for CA and NA meetings. They are in the chapel service this morning. Pray that God would penetrate their hearts and show them that He is the healer. http://www.google.ca Praise God for a good response due to the media coverage of the Grand Opening. We are getting many calls from agencies and ladies interested in the recovery program. http://www.google.ca Family Life Centre - Today is ladies day. Wednesdays at FLC consist of Bible study, a hot meal, a chapel service, food bags and clothing distribution. Pray that the ladies who attend would come to know the Lord and grow in their faith. http://www.google.ca We praise God for restoring relationships between residents and their children. The ladies are beginning to understand God is the healer and their source of power. Pray for the physical health of ladies who have on-going health issues. Pray that the ladies in the program will stay and continue to grow in the Lord, and that they would build healthy, supportive relationships. http://www.google.ca We would appreciate prayer for the youth who attend clubs on Tuesdays at FLC. Pray that these guys would come to know Christ as their Saviour and learn to walk in His ways. Pray that they would have wisdom and discernment when they are tempted by the things of this world. http://www.google.ca Charis Centre "God's grace towards us, which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm and loveliness" is the new name of the building for our HEART (Women's Addiction Recovery) Progam. http://www.google.ca Ramona hosts a Bible study for ladies from the community every Thursday at 1:30 pm. Please pray that the ladies would draw closer to God at this time and focus on Him. http://www.google.ca Every Wednesday evening children enjoy crafts, games, singing, snack and a Bible lesson at Explore! Kids Club. Please pray that the children will learn and appreciate the Bible lesson we are teaching them. Pray for protection for staff, volunteers, and children and for freedom from distractions during clubs. Also, pray for more volunteers to help us run these children's ministries. http://www.google.ca Riding out the recovery program is difficult for women because of all the relational pulls to exit the program early. Please pray that the 7 women in the recovery program stay. http://www.google.ca Please pray for the ladies Bible study at FLC this afternoon. God's Word has power to transform lives. It is our desire to see lives changed to honour and glorify God! http://www.google.ca Praise God, 3 former campers sponsored through the Union Gospel Mission Camp Program at the Family Life Centre are now taking leadership positions this summer with Gimli Bible Camp (1 of 7 Bible Camps that we send kids to). It is amazing to see God working through these Youth. http://www.google.ca We have youth clubs on Tuesdays for guys and Thursdays for girls in grades 7-12. Each club includes fun activities and a Bible devotional. Please pray that God would give grace and open the hearts and minds of the youth so they could apply biblical principles to their own lives and that they would take their next step of faith in following Christ. Also pray that God would give the youth wisdom in life decisions. http://www.google.ca Please pray for unity and discernment for staff and residents. 1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. http://www.google.ca A BIG thank you to the group from Westgate Mennonite School who helped deliver 1000 brochures today and had a wonderful introduction to the North End of Winnipeg. http://www.google.ca During our Bible study a Croatian woman shared with joy "I get it!, I listen, the Bible study note, and what it says in the Bible --it is easy! I learn, this is my school!"She had struggled with learning the English language. God is BIGGER than any barrier and His word truly "dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow..." His word will get through! What an encouragement that was to me! http://www.google.ca Please pray for the students in the Pritchard School. Today has been an especially trying day with two students being suspended. Pray for peace and family support in the discipline of the children involved. http://www.google.ca Family Life Centre - We had 54 ladies hear about God's love and protection of the fatherless, the widows as Andrew Reimer shared the Word of God with us today. Pray that they would begin to trust God to care for them.