Message from the President/CEO, Mr. Gary Lee
At the beginning of a brand new year, one automatically reflects on the past year, and contemplates what the next will bring. As I think about this ministry and the past year I’m reminded of three things. We began our foster care program, we served more children than the previous three years for the same period, and be began a building renovation. The most significant of these is serving young people. Our continuing desire to help young people must be our priority. God has opened many hearts of the children who have come to live at the home.
The Children’s Home is now planning for our 90th anniversary celebration. It was by faith our ministry was created. And almost 90 years later that same faith is what has sustained the work for children. Even now as we press forward our faith will take us into the future.
The History of the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home is a testament to the reality of God’s love and wondrous abilities, as well as a testament to the miracles that evolved from faith, dedication, determination, and hard work. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, during the first part of this century Original Free Will Baptists were led to see the need to establish a home for orphans. Progress on the first building was very slow and somewhat discouraging due to lack of funds. However, those in charge refused to give up, and continued to go ahead “on faith”. The physical property became a home for children, born of faith, dedication, determination and lots of plain hard work.
I’m pleased our board approved a plan to renovate Heritage Hall. This was our former dining hall, which is now used as a multipurpose building and for campus functions. The project began in November and is expected to be complete by the Spring. Join us as we use this project to help commemorate our 90th anniversary.
One of our challenges is to maintain the balance between meeting the needs of children and finding the best way to do it. For the children’s home the New Year should be one of excitement, celebration, and hopefully another year of improvement.
For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Hebrews 6:10-12
The Lord has connected our ministry to many children and families from various backgrounds, yet we share many things in common. I don’t’ believe any of these relationships was a mistake or by coincidence. One of our many calls as Christians is to sow seeds. The children’s home also must sow seeds if we should remain true to our calling to reach children. Let us be reminded of the old saying. What goes around comes around. I know each person who has helped us will one day reap and receive God’s richest blessings.
My wishes for everyone who has a role in our ministry through service or support is to experience joy and realize how important you are to us. Thank you for being part of our ministry through your financial support, prayers, and concern for children. With all of my heart I wish each of you a very happy New Year.
Gary Lee
President/CEO
