This past Friday evening, our Forgiven Ministry team gathered to share a meal and celebrate a couple of birthdays—Scottie and I have decided to embrace the mantra that age is just a number…and ours just happens to be unlisted! 🙂 Looking back at the photo, being together with our spouses was a rare treat, and it made the evening even more special.
Forgiven Ministry thrives because of the dedication of so many who come together like a family. Countless moving parts make it all happen—the logistics, preparations, shopping, phone calls, and organizing—not to mention the tireless efforts of individuals and teams working directly with caregivers and prisons. It truly takes a village to make our One Day With God Camps possible.
United by a shared purpose to create a space for reconciliation and a common love for those suffering from the fallout of incarceration, each team member brings their unique gifts to the table. While Scottie and Jack with their passion and vision point the way, Lauren and Karen keep things rolling behind the scenes contacting the families, following up on emails and tracking the financials, Mitch and I are blessed with being on the ground with the teams a various camps. We all depend upon each other.
Among this “village” are a host of 9,000 or so volunteers—dedicated individuals from North Carolina, Florida, Texas, Michigan, Georgia, and Tennessee. Many others come from places far and wide, all united by their commitment to the mission. It’s uncommon for them to drive hours—I mean hours upon hours—to volunteer at one of our events. It’s truly amazing.
As I’ve said before, and it’s worth repeating: every camp is the same, yet every camp is different. The one constant is the overwhelming sense of purpose and fulfillment we feel at the conclusion of each weekend. Our volunteers and team members will tell you—the reward is off the charts. Not many ministries offer such profound meaning time after time after time.
This Christmas I’m reminded of how thankful I am for the opportunity to serve alongside such a talented and passionate team. May their mission expand and their number increase. Merry Christmas!
You are loved!
Les
