"Perception"

I received this story in an e-mail and it struck a chord.  I love looking for ways that God is "hiding in plain sight" in my little world.  My dear friend and I are convinced that God is 'flirting' with us, wooing us to fall even more in love with Him.  

Be encouraged to look more intentionally for His Presence in 'your world' today.  You never know where or how He will choose to bless you!
THE SITUATION
In Washington , D.C ., at a Metro Station, on a cold January morning in 2007, a man with a violin played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes.  During that time, approximately 2,000 people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.  After about 3 minutes, a middle-aged man noticed that there was a musician playing.  He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds, and then he hurried on to meet his schedule.
About 4 minutes later:  The violinist received his first dollar.  A woman threw money in the hat and, without stopping, continued to walk.
At 6 minutes:
 A young man leaned against the wall to listen to him, then looked at his watch and started to walk again.
 At 10 minutes:
A 3-year old boy stopped, but his mother tugged him along hurriedly.  The kid stopped to look at the violinist again, but the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk, turning his head the whole time.  This action was repeated by several other children, but every parent - without exception - forced their children to move on quickly.
At 45 minutes:The musician played continuously.  Only 6 people stopped and listened for a short while.  About 20 gave money but continued to walk at their normal pace.  The man collected a total of $32.
After 1 hour:
He finished playing and silence took over.  No one noticed and no one applauded.  There was no recognition at all.
No one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the greatest musicians in the world.  He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written, with a violin worth $3.5 million dollars.  Two days before, Joshua Bell sold-out a theater in Boston where the seats averaged $200 each to sit and listen to him play the same music.

This is a true story.  Joshua Bell, playing incognito in the D.C. Metro Station, was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste and people's priorities. 

More information on the Washington Post article and hear Joshua Bell play HERE.

Salvation Army - Church

Sunday School: 9:45 am

Service Time: 11:00 am

Address:  Corner of Old Seward & DeArmoun

www.salvationarmy.org/alaska

What do you think of when you hear ‘Salvation Army’?  Charity?  Social Service?  Bells?  Bands?  Red kettles?  OK…how about blue suits with red badges? 

Good answers.

How about…church?

Not everyone knows that the Salvation Army, in addition to serving the city day in and day out with remarkable charity and social service, the Corps also loves and serves Anchorage by providing a church to call home.  Many of the things traditionally associated with the Corps do play a major role in their service, as well.  (No, no ringing bells or red kettles…)

I entered the beautiful chapel to hear “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” being played by a brass band – instant smile and warm fuzzy Christmas glow.  I appreciated the bulletin which included the order of service – complete with the names of all those involved in various elements of the service AND where to find each song in the songbooks provided in each aisle. 

There was a time of prayer when heartfelt thanks was expressed to God for His provision of food, supplies and many volunteers who delivered meals on Thanksgiving Day.  Petitions were offered and reference was made to the needs listed on the back of the program.  (You may submit requests using a card in the weekly program.  If desired, those needs are listed to guide others in prayer.)

The worship band took over for the second half of the song service and they did a great job, too.  It was wonderful to see that so many people were involved in the Sunday service.  A family from the congregation assisted in the lighting of the first Advent candle and several others were involved in readings, worship, etc.  The greeting time actually shocked me – people circulated (yes…as in they left the comfort of their seats…) to be sure not to miss anyone.  I felt very welcome!

This church family offers classes for children and dismissed kids to join them after the lighting of the Advent Candle and part of the song service. 

Lieutenants Ryan and Marjorie Miller pastor this church and share the teaching responsibilities.  Marjorie shared on this particular Sunday and did a fantastic job! 

I was challenged by a couple of questions she posed:  When does Christmas start for you? and Do you celebrate Christmas the same way every year and expect a different (more worshipful, deep, sentimental, etc) result?” 

The message centered around something that we all know, but probably still struggle with from time to time – we must allow the head knowledge that Christmas is all about Jesus sink down and become heart knowledge.  How?  Worship Jesus.

Don’t worship at the mall.

Don’t try to win the affections of family or friends with gifts.

Don’t stay so busy that you miss the opportunity to sit at His feet.

These were timely reminders the Sunday after “Black Friday” and preceding “Cyber Monday”.

Following the message, Lieutenant Ryan Miller and the band leading us in “O Little Town of Bethlehem.”  We stopped and read verse 3 aloud together before finishing the song:

How silently, how silently


The wondrous gift is given!


So God imparts to human hearts


The blessings of His heaven.


No ear may his His coming,


But in this world of sin,


Where meek souls will receive him still,


The dear Christ enters in.

“If Christ can enter a manger, wherever we are we know that He is with us.”  Beautiful. 

The service ended with announcements about the week’s activities – and there were a lot to list!  Officers prayed with those who requested it after the service.

I found much of what I expected at this church…and was blessed with some surprises.

Stay tuned…a future blog post will outline the services Salvation Army offers in Anchorage with information about how you, your family, small group, or entire church may partner with them.

In the meantime, take time to drop some money in the kettles…you know the ones I’m referring to! 

Would you consider helping out?  2 hours on your choice of day in a location of your choosing will go a LONG way in providing services to countless in our city.  Just click the link and get involved:

http://anchoragesa.volunteerfirst.org/public/search_pro_all.asp

Thank you for a wonderful joy and love-filled visit, Salvation Army!

Lutheran Social Services Alaska

1303 West 33rd Street



272-0643

LSSAa@gci.net

www.LSSAalaska.org

Happy Thanksgiving!  I thought it appropriate to highlight an agency that feeds many in our city year-round who would otherwise go hungry.  Thank you, Lutheran Social Services, for loving our city well for more than 40 years!

Practical needs are met here every day…people get rides to / from medical appointments, stranded rural Alaskans are moved from one location to another, bus vouchers are provided, provision is made for those transitioning from homelessness to permanent living situations, a home for those with mental and behavioral problems is operated and maintained, and 25,000 individuals are fed annually via the food pantry and related programs. 

Wrap your head around all of that…wonderful things are done here. 

This visit was different for me.  It changed something in my heart, raised awareness and brought some needed conviction.  I learned more than I will be able to convey in this blog in my short time with Alan Budahl, Executive Director for Lutheran Social Services (LSSAA).   

Mother Teresa said: “Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.”  LSSA is a place where people are treated that way. 

We have all heard staggering statistics about hunger and other needs in our community.  Alan shared many of those numbers with me, but each statistic was tied to a family’s story…including the names of each mother, father, child…and the circumstances that led them to their current state of need.  In other words – he, and the staff and volunteers at LSSA, know these people, they take time to get to know their stories. 

Alan taught me about the changing face of the hungry and homeless in our city – including the men who come to the pantry alone, after hours in their high end cars and very nice clothes…struggling to face the reality that they can’t afford to keep up, and can’t find a way out on their own.  He is very familiar with the statistics behind the stories.  He is currently teaching at a different Lutheran church each Sunday - sharing the results of the End Hunger Anchorage study (including information gathered last year).

I heard story after story about the lack of affordable housing in Anchorage – and the fact that MANY who visit food pantries around town are making a choice between paying rent or feeding their families.  This day was the first of many that I heard a statement that I have since repeated myself: “food provision is homeless prevention.”

This is not intended to be a 'downer'.  It is intended to shed a little light on the reality that many of our neighbors face every day, and to point out how easy it is for each of us to help and make a HUGE difference in someone’s life.

In the midst of the tough situations, there is great joy.  For every tough story, there was an even greater ‘God story’ where the provision for the need was nothing short of miraculous.  There is the story of the woman who came to LSSA for help and five years later became a monthly financial supporter of the ministry.  There are the ‘at just the right time’ stories that we all love to tell – and to hear. 

Here is a BRIEF overview of some of the programs / services offered through LSSA:

Food Pantry

I was able to spend a little time in the food pantry while guests were being served.  LSSA is one of few locations in Alaska where food from The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is provided.  I learned what the needs are – more donations, upgraded space, and freezer space.  The paperwork and tracking that is involved surprised me.  No one trip to a food pantry will sustain a family for a month.  Most food pantries are only open (at most) one day a week (LSSA is open 4 days a week).  This means that people make multiple trips through out the month to various locations.  LSSA has between 15-20 NEW, FIRST-TIME visitors to their pantry each day.  (Wow.)

Note:

Many who visit food pantries and other locations where food is provided have to take multiple busses.  Did you know that the Anchorage People Mover no longer has transfers?  Each bus is a separate fare…some pay $12 in bus fare round trip to/from a food pantry.  LSSA has the ability to provide some bus passes, but not enough to keep up with the need.

Association for Stranded Rural Alaskan Program

The Association for Stranded Rural Alaskans has been in existence for over 30 years.  ASRAA provides emergency assistance to rural Alaskans who are in Anchorage temporarily receiving medical treatment.  This program provides emergency transportation, housing, food, and orientation to city living.  The course provides information on the public transportation system, shopping, as well as basic safety precautions that many of us take for granted.

Direct Assistance Program

This program assists individuals in obtaining their state id, driver’s license, social security card, etc.  This program also provides assistance for those who need specialized training for a job (sanitation course, CPR, etc.)  They also provide bus and gas vouchers for the first month of employment to help people get ahead. 

Transitional Living Program

LSSA has provided transitional housing for homeless men for more than a decade.  Case managers help men establish new lives and develop plans that lead to self-sufficiency.  The goal of the program is to provide each resident with permanent, sustainable housing and employment.  Clients pay rent while they are in the program and work with a resident and case manager to who help each individual navigate through this time.

Roosevelt House

Roosevelt House is fro people with behavioral issues.  They receive care from outside mental health service providers while living in a safe, supportive environment.

Medical Transportation

LSSA contracts with a local cab company to provide rides to/from medical appointments.  They have offered a reduced rate for up to 110 rides per month.  LSSA limits the number of these allotted rides each guest may use in order to maximize the resource for all those in need.

Listening Post

The Listening Post, located downtown at the Bus Accommodation Center, provides individuals an opportunity to sit in a quiet location (Meditation Room), enjoy a light snack, and tell their story.  Volunteers (not counselors) listen to individuals share.  Forty volunteers took time to hear over 1,700 life stories last year.  

There is much to be done, and it is so easy to help:

• Volunteer at a Food Pantry
• Contact Alan Budahl at LSSA and invite him to present the “End Hunger Anchorage” study at your church, Elders meeting, staff meeting, or other venue
• Get training and spend an hour or two every month at the Listening Post
• Grab food & drop it off at the next food drive your church / grocery store, etc sponsors – or at LSSA any time
• Call LSSA (272-0643) and ask how you can pray specifically
• Sponsor a bus pass or gas voucher & pray for that person in his/her new job for that first month
• Mark your calendar!  September is Hunger Awareness Month – watch for events, get involved
• Visit www.LSSAalaska.org and LEARN MORE

Happy Thanksgiving, friends!  Wherever this finds you I pray you are inspired to give to a local ministry.  I encourage you to give of your time along with whatever physical provision (canned food, money, bus pass, etc) you may be able to provide.  I can’t put into words how much it has impacted my heart to see how much a smile can encourage someone in need. 

Be Jesus to someone...anyone...TODAY!  Imagine what would happen if we really did treat people as if “each one of them is Jesus in disguise."

NOTE: Read LSSA's full story online.

Lighthouse Christian Fellowship

www.lighthousealaska.org

Service Times: Sun 8:30 & 11 AM; Wed 7PM

629 Hollywood Drive

The church family at Lighthouse is joy-filled, outgoing and receptive.  From the very beginning of this visit, I felt welcome.  Once inside, two ushers directed us to two seats that seemed to miraculously appear in the midst of a full sanctuary. 

The song service was powerful.  As Dr. Ken Friendly explained, “…the song service is designed to clear the atmosphere…”  It certainly did that.  I had two words jotted in my notes for the song service: joy & move.  I couldn’t stand still...I wasn’t alone (which is a good thing).

This church family has a lot going on – something for everyone to receive from and to pour into.  Many of the ministry opportunities are listed in the bulletin, and several others were included in the pre-service slideshow and video announcement portion of the service. 

One particularly beautiful thing that this church family does is include reports from weekly outreaches, the names of those celebrating anniversaries as well as the names of those who are serving in the Armed Forces.  This adds to the atmosphere of celebration that is undeniable in that place.  Announcements and giving were both celebrated…I love it when an entire room full of people celebrate a great report back, as well as the opportunity to give back to God. 

I had two pages of notes from announcements – not about what is happening, but about WHY each of these things – prison ministry, worshiping in song, giving, etc. – is important and part of this church family’s life.  The reason behind the way this church family worships and serves were made crystal clear.  It was encouraging to see how, in practical daily living, the Word of God is put to work in the life and ministry of the Lighthouse family.

The teaching was great.  I’ve seen Dr. Friendly on tv, so I was a little surprised at just how animated he is.  I have never heard the story of David & Goliath told quite like that – I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was engaged the entire time and left feeling challenged and like I’d seen the story from a different perspective.  A great deal of the message centered around just how amazing, powerful, and life-altering it is to have a covenant with the Living God.  It is HIS covenant…He will not break it.  Amen.  Very encouraging teaching, encouragement, and reminder – when you know your covenant, you can run AT your problems….”God’s got ya.”

It was wonderful to be present as several people in attendance chose to accept Christ for the first time, or rededicate their lives to Him.  It is always an honor to pray with people, no matter how few or how many, in that moment.  Praise God for new brothers and sisters!

Lighthouse is a wonderful, vibrant church family!  Get there early, make some new friends (it won’t be hard in that place), and worship the Living God with them sometime soon.  You will be glad for the experience!

Anchorage Grace Church

www.anchoragegrace.org

Service Times: Sun 9 & 10:45 AM

12407 Pintail Street

Hospitality.  Community.  Laughter.  The church family at Anchorage Grace Church goes out of its way to create opportunities to enjoy all three.  (Homemade goodies, coffee, and an encouragement from Pastor Jeff Crotts to consider the sanctuary ‘…a big living room’ immediately after service made the room seem very homey as the sounds of conversation and laughter filled the air…and great (did I mention homemade) goodies were enjoyed.  That’s just a preview – this visit ended well! 

Back to the beginning:

Anchorage Grace Church (AGC) meets in the gymnasium at Grace Christian school.  I enjoyed a warm greeting and was provided a nametag before being directed to the sanctuary with a super-informative bulletin in hand.  (Side note: THANK YOU for nametags – I am a fan.) 

I was impressed with the variety of instruments represented on the worship team.  I’ve heard violins and flutes, but a clarinet and a trombone, too?  It’s wonderful to see so many different musicians enjoy an opportunity to use their talent to serve and glorify God.  Another highlight of the music service was that three of the worship leader’s children were in the band.  (He joked that he learned to play marbles rather than piano.  I’m glad his son stuck with the lessons!)  What a beautiful principle to model – serving as a family.   I also learned two new verses for “Above All” – how have I never heard those before?

AGC is very involved in their community.  They partner with Mountain View Baptist and help keep their food pantry stocked as well as to assist with their Coat and Blanket Drive.  In addition, AGC has a goal to provide 1,300 boxes of stuffing, volunteers, and $9,000 for the upcoming Thanksgiving Blessing.  Church partnerships are a beautiful thing…I think Jesus would smile (John 17).  The bulletin also outlines several weekly opportunities for everyone in the family to get involved and grow in this community. 

I appreciated the way that AGC lays out their missions commitments.  “And you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in Judea, in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth.”  Acts 1:8  This scripture is broken down into “Our Jerusalem =Anchorage, Our Judea = Alaska, Our Samaria = Pacific Rim, and Our Uttermost Parts of the Earth” with a list of ministries supported in each of those areas. 

The teaching was great – God’s Wrath.  I know, it doesn’t sound like it, but it really was an encouragement!  (The sign of a great teacher…making God’s Wrath an enjoyable topic!)  It was a blessing to be reminded that God (not me – or you) will pay back every evil act, that there is a reason for suffering, and that my eternal outcome is secure.  What a relief to sit back and let God be…God!  The sermon was brought to a close with “Take Home Points.”  “Bottom Line” people (myself included) love that!  The main points of the sermon were available in print upon request, and sermons are available online.

I met several people and enjoyed the genuine warm welcome I received on the day of my visit.  I was further blessed to receive a phone call and offer for a visit – including homemade cookies – from one of the staff pastors.  (Note the running theme of homemade treats here…) J

If you are in south Anchorage and have the opportunity, make it a point to visit this church family.  The warm hospitality at Anchorage Grace will leave feeling embraced and offer you several opportunities to show Christ’s love to our city in practical ways.  (Did I mention the cookies?)

Thanks for a wonderful visit, Anchorage Grace Church!

Beacon Hill

Read on and file this information away.  You or someone you love may benefit from this in the future…

Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill provides temporary housing to single mothers who need “a time for peace” while they get on their feet again.  Beacon Hill opened their doors to clients in January, 2010 and since that time more than 20 families have called these two remodeled single-family houses ‘home’ for a season.

Charity Carmody (Acting Executive Director, President, Beacon Hill Board of Directors) gives God all the glory when she tells the story of a ‘club’ that turned first to realization of a need, then to an idea, a dream, and then very quickly to a well-respected ministry collaborating with AWAIC, Salvation Army, Clare House, The Office of Children’s Services, and more.

“The Give Club” was a group of several couples who met once a month.  The idea was to identify needs in their church family and anonymously meet them with the designated sum of money each couple ‘chipped in at each meeting.  They needs varied – a dentist bill here, a month’s rent there…  They were stretched to go outside their comfort zone and really get to know people and they eventually felt led to do more….they at first considered signing on for rent at a unit or a hotel for shelter. 

Charity spoke to a realtor about a hotel that she saw and he put her in contact with an influential member of the community who had property available. He showed Charity the property that is now Beacon Hill.   Charity remembers ‘…the presence of God was so heavy.  I decided that I was going to sign on it right away.’ 

Charity didn’t know that the elders at Anchorage City Church (ACC) had been praying and asking the Lord for direction on how to reach out to the city, specifically to the poor.  They had all agreed that single mothers were the group He was directing them to reach out to, but they didn’t have a specific plan.  They had already saved some money for the right time and project. 

ACC’s Pastor and elders visited the site and agreed – immediately and unanimously - that this was the Lord.  A very favorable lease was signed in October 2009.

The two houses needed to be remodeled and changed into multi-family units (3 in one, 2 in the other).  Materials, labor, volunteers to make it livable and get it running were all necessary to make it happen. 

One Sunday telling the story you just read in services at ACC and:

170 volunteers came forward

All materials were donated

Skilled laborers came forward and volunteered their time and services

Three weeks later the house was ready – completely remodeled and set up for occupancy.  (3 weeks – 21 days – incredible)

In the meantime, the Lord worked out the zoning issues, and Beacon Hill was ready for residents.

Nita Thomas is the next miracle in this story.  Nita had just returned from running an orphanage in the Sudan.  She felt that God was telling her to stay.  She asked…”are you looking for a resident manager?”  Due to various life experience, and her heart and passion, Nita was a perfect fit.

Beacon Hill runs on a budget of $8,500/month (posted on website) with a full-time resident manager and part-time case manager.  Volunteers mow the 2-acre lot, clean, paint, and maintain the property.  There is a “Welcome Team” that prepares the units for new residents – which includes setting up each unit to meet the needs of each family (numbers of beds in bedrooms, etc). 

Another volunteer team provides each family a Welcome Basket with age-appropriate toys for each child and treats for the mother.  The team also delivers a warm meal for each family’s first two nights at Beacon Hill.  Each resident family is also matched with a “Support Family” to come alongside each mother as a surrogate aunt and uncle.  These families receive training on what it is like to be homeless, and how to minister to them effectively.

Beacon Hill has a great working relationship with the Office of Children’s Services.  If the only thing keeping a mother from being reunited with her kids is housing, they will move kids in to Beacon Hill with their mother.  (As you can imagine, those reunions are particularly sweet.)

How does the program work?

Mothers:

·       Must be referred by church or agency (such as AWAIC)

·       Must have custody of their children (or an agreement with OCS as explained above)

·       Must be working (at least part-time)

·       Must not have a history of ‘high lethality’ domestic violence

·       Length of stay: 3 months with 1 month extensions after that

o   Rent is charged (sometimes split or sponsored by church or other agency)

o   $250 month 1; $350 month 2; $500 month 3 & all additional months in extension

§  This helps the mother to ‘buy in’ to the program

§  Gets residents used to the idea of paying rent

·       Must submit to drug tests when they first arrive, and random tests after that (all family member 14 and older)

·       Must work with case manager to move toward transitioning to public or permanent housing

·       All children may stay with their mother – even teenage boys

·       Families will feel like they are living on their own with a lot of support. 

The success stories are amazing.  There was a woman who called to see if she could move in.  When she learned that Beacon Hill does not accept self-referrals, she was asked if she attended a church.  She did.  The church was not aware that she was struggling and rallied around her.  She had the referral and more support than she imagined from her church family.

Just last month nearly $20,000 was raised (in 3 days mostly on Facebook – originally asked 163 families to donate $100 each) to purchase a home for a resident – a single mother who moved to Anchorage form Sudan with her 7 children.  Local businesses heard about the project and chipped in materials and labor to move the home to its present lot, provide flooring and installation, painting, a deck…the list goes on.  (See full story on the Beacon Hill website).

“We don’t know where the money comes from…a little here, a little there and God is faithful to provide our needs.”

Beacon Hill is an amazing ministry meeting very real, practical needs every day.  They provide a place of solace for children and provide a time of peace for mothers while they take that last necessary steps to be able to stand on their own – all while being showered with the love of Christ.

This all started with a group of friends who looked at people around them, chipped in and anonymously met the needs they could.  Little did they know that 20 + families, countless children, and generations would be impacted. 

I’m inspired.  Are you?  Call some friends – chip in $5, $20, $100 (any amount you can) and meet a need.  I have a feeling it’s contagious.  You may have the next Beacon Hill miracle story in your circle, and our city needs all the miracles it can get!

By the way, the land that Beacon Hill sits on is already zoned for more buildings.  How many more buildings, ministries, and outreach opportunities will be birthed out of this?  I don’t know…but I’m looking forward to watching it unfold. 

Want to help or contribute?  Visit their website: www.beaconhill.org.   Do you know a single mom who needs a place to stay?  The referral form is also available online.

Christian Health Associates

There are some amazing ministries and ‘parachurch’ organizations in Anchorage.  “I don’t know what I don’t know…” is fast becoming my motto.  I thank God for the people who meet the practical needs that I don’t even know exist.  In an effort to highlight the INCREDIBLE work of various non-profits, ministries, etc. I’ll share what I learn from time to time.  Read on and file this information away.  You or someone you love may benefit from this in the future…

Christian Health Associates

I spent an hour with Dr. Brian Green (Executive Director, Christian Health Associates) and Sarah Mills (Associate Director, Christian Health Associates).  I did not stop taking notes once during that time (challenging as we were at lunch, but I managed).  It wasn’t close to enough time to learn all that I wanted to about the multiple initiatives this organization is involved with.  Take notes, bookmark this website, forward the information on…this homegrown non-profit packs a powerful far-reaching punch that impacts each and every one of us in one way or another…

The idea for Christian Health Associates (CHA) was birthed in the early 80’s at a home group hosted by Brian Green who was, at the time, a Pastor at Abbott Loop.  Sarah Mills was a part of that study and the two of them began dreaming about ‘a better way,’ a more holistic approach to health care that would meet needs and to prevent people from falling ‘through the cracks.’  The original plan was to open a counseling center (run by Dr. Green) with a daycare available for low-income moms who needed help while they worked to get on their feet. 

The dream to offer "Help Along the Way" for the body, soul and spirit came together in the opening of Cornerstone Counseling Center in 1993.  Dr. Byron Perkins (MD) and Brenda Moore (Faith Based Community Relations – see below) shared much of the same vision and – voila!  Cornerstone Medical Clinic was opened in 1995.  Cornerstone Clinic, Medical & Counseling Center provides a range of clinical services that help people physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.  These clinics are located in the same building and are the income-generating portion of CHA.  They offer discounted services to individuals referred from churches, and also bill and charge insurance companies.  (907-522-7070  www.christianhealth.org)

CHA is the ‘umbrella’ organization that covers a number of increasingly impressive and impactful initiatives that meet practical needs locally and globally.   

Faith Based Community Relations

CHA participates in the Faith-based and Community Initiative by supporting emerging faith organizations through technical assistance, shared resources and administrative support services.

To facilitate and encourage coordination of faith and community resources, CHA employs a Faith and Community Liaison (Brenda Moore) who helps promote trust and understanding as well as acting as a contact point for the community and faith-based organizations.

Anchorage Project Access  (www.anchorageprojectaccess.org)

Over 115,000 Alaskans – nearly one in five of us – do not have health insurance.  Anchorage Project Access (APA) helps the working class poor (those who make too much to be helped by government programs, but too little to afford health insurance) get the medical care they need.  This model has been proven to improve health outcomes in other parts of the country, and has been very successful in its 5 years in Anchorage, as well.  Hospitals, labs, pharmacies, x-ray facilities, etc have all joined the ranks of the more than 520 participating physicians in the Anchorage area. 

APA serves as a clearinghouse that handles all of the enrollment, screening, and referral of patients to physicians; making patient appointments and much more.  The volunteer network provides the medical services, accepting and treating APA-referred patients as any other insured patients.  Patients must apply as each new condition presents itself…so, if I break my arm today and get treatment, I would need to reapply if I broke my leg next year.

Alaska Medical Missions  (www.alaskamedicalmissions.org)

The United States throws away or incinerates $200 million worth of fully functional medical items annually (American Medical Association).  At the same time, hundreds of millions of individuals suffer from chronic hunger and a severe lack of medical supplies. "The surplus from our health system could be used to heal patients and help physicians in the poorest, most desperate parts of the world. The problem is gathering it together and getting it to where it's needed."  Enter: Alaska Medical Missions

AMM has a warehouse across the parking lot from CHA (right behind my office, as a matter of fact)…they collect donations of fully functioning medical supplies and equipment from individuals, private medical facilities, hospitals, manufacturers, AND…the cruise industry.  Volunteers collect, inventory and stage donated items in a warehouse facility, after which they are distributed by short-term mission teams, church youth groups, career missionaries, airline personnel and others traveling via Alaska to impoverished countries.

Alaska Medical Missions has sent over 820 shipments of medical supplies and other humanitarian aid to more than 74 countries.

Wrap your head around that…from Anchorage, Alaska – 74 COUNTRIES received over 820 shipments of medical supplies and equipment.  (Amazing!…or, in Russian – the language of many of the recipients of these supplies over the years: Удивительный!)

NOTE: AMM does NOT distribute supplies in the state of Alaska.

School-Based Health Centers

Clark Middle School has an on-site health center.  This model has also proven itself in the lower 48 by filling a different set of cracks that kids from low-income families can fall through.  Study after study has shown that kids who are involved in sports and other after school clubs and activities are more successful in school, less likely to be involved in drugs, alcohol, gangs, and other harmful activities.  They are also…healthier. 

You need a physical to participate in sports and several other school activities and clubs.  Many kids in low-income families do not get the exams they need to be able to participate.  This school-based health center is the ‘test’ for the program here in Anchorage…and all of Alaska.

This program falls right in line with something that I have heard Dr. Green say quite a few times:  ”It’s help along the way.  We come alongside our community in different situations and help them through it.”  Yes, you do, Dr. Green – thank you!

How can you get involved?  Visit the websites (listed above) and be informed.  Do you need a doctor or appointment with a counselor?  Visit someone who shares your faith.

Check out Alaska Medical Missions’ site and volunteer at a sort night…ask your doctor, dentist, lab, pharmacy if they know about AMM or Anchorage Project Access – are they participating?  If so – THANK THEM!  If not, encourage them to look into it.  Are you (or someone you know) planning a missions trip?  Look into the possibility of taking some medical supplies along – AMM will make it VERY easy for you to do so.

Can you afford to make a donation?  You may do so online.

Most importantly – PRAY!

Thanks to an idea dreamt up in Bible Study thousands have been blessed and ‘caught’ before slipping through the cracks.  What dream has he planted in your heart?  CHA is proof that they really can come to pass (Well, they still don’t have a daycare…at least not yet…)  The lesson here – go to Bible Study, dream, and do! 

True North Church

It isn’t every day that you get to witness the birth of a new church.  I had the opportunity to be in attendance at True North’s “first Sunday as a church” in the Loussac Library Auditorium.  I am so glad that I was able to be there.  This particular Sunday service was more than 12 months in the making.  Pastor Brent Williams and his family moved to Anchorage a year ago and have been actively working to build a core group to make the launch of True North Church (Southern Baptist) possible. 

It would be difficult to feel anything other than welcomed by this church.  A wise woman once told me “…it should be your goal to make someone feel as though you have been waiting just for them.”  That was my experience.  Friendly greeters were attentive to each person who walked through the doors.   I was welcomed by and had conversation with two members of the leadership team before the service began.  The rest of the attendees were also very friendly – the atmosphere was energy and joy-filled.  These people were happy to be there and anticipating good stuff (I love that.)

The worship was very well done – a pair of talented guitarists led us in several selections.  I enjoy being able to hear the voices of all those in attendance blending in worship to the One who is worthy.  It was personal and heart-felt…beautiful.

Pastor Brent Williams began a series on the Book of Ruth.  I learned a lot in that 30 minutes or so.  Pastor did a fantastic job of painting a picture of what life was like for Ruth and also making the story ‘real’ in modern terms.  He also communicated the enormous lessons offered in the first 16 verses of this story.  “The secret things belong to God.  We know everything we need to know, not everything we want to know.”  He challenged men in particular to consider the decisions of Elimelech in modern times and terms in the context of our own lives.  The message centered on the balance between the sovereignty and goodness of God -  “He works ALL things together for His glory and our good.”  (Amen.)

The program or ‘weekly handout’ included space for notes and questions – great, searching questions – for discussion, examination and application.  These questions are the basis for discussion at the seven ‘life groups’ that meet at varying times and places during the week for “fellowship, accountability, study and prayer, good times and tears.”  These groups are listed (along with contact information) and there is something for everyone.  “Coffee House Theology” is another way that this church family encourages conversation about God’s Word.  They meet at various coffee houses around town.

You can get a great feel for the personality of  True North Church as well as more information about different meeting types and times at their (amazing) website: truenorthanchorage.com. 

Pastor Brent told me “…we didn’t come to Anchorage to bring people church, we came to bring them Jesus.  When you make disciples, church happens.”  Family, you are off to a great start!  Check them out if you’re in the neighborhood.  You’ll enjoy and be challenged by the service and be encouraged by the excitement of this church family.

Happy Birthday, True North Church!  I’m glad you were born. 

www.truenorthanchorage.com

Service Time: Sun, 10AM

Loussac Library Auditorium

Faith Christian Community

The cover of the bulletin at Faith Christian Community reads: “Welcome Home to Faith Christian Community.”  That is precisely how I felt from the moment I stepped in the door-home. 

I used to put together a bulletin every week.  I am ‘one of those people’ who actually pays attention to them – yes, I read every announcement and circle those that apply to me.  I circled quite a bit in this one.  I am not looking for a new church home.  I am, however, VERY interested in supporting organizations like Crisis Pregnancy Center, Youth for Christ and Royal Family Kids Camp.  It was also very helpful to have directions to the “Connecting Place” which is where all visitors are invited to stop by to pick up a welcome packet and meet and talk with the very kind people there to welcome you and answer any questions. 

The variety in age, gender, and nationality was noted by Pastor Steve Holsinger and described as ‘…a taste of Heaven.’  What a brilliant perspective of Christ’s heart and the Body of Christ.

I attended the weekend services honoring educators and all those who ‘care for, serve and teach children.’  While many churches do this (and rightly so), I have seen few do it as well as this.  From the time these individuals were invited to the platform to receive a gift, introduce themselves and be prayed for to the multiple stories and references in the body of the message itself, you could not leave without a fresh appreciation for the importance of those who work with our kids as well as a crystal clear understanding that children are valued at Faith.  “Heaven delights in the impact a caring believing adult can have on the heart of a child.” 

The message was the first in a series: “Let the Church be the Church…Who’s Idea Was This, Anyway?”  I loved the idea of this series when I first saw the title on my notes page, and was even more encouraged when I heard that it was inspired by a question someone left in the comment box.  The teaching was outstanding.  The Bibles available in every row were appreciated as I somehow managed to walk in without carrying any of the 4 (yes, really) that I have in my car.  I learned quite a bit and left feeling challenged and a little more in love with the very idea of Church. 

One of my favorite things about my time at Faith was the “Remember the Poor” box.  This box sits on the stage.  People drop money in without prompting before or after service.  Pastor Steve shared with the congregation what this money has been used for in recent months.  What struck me was the fact that this money wasn’t given to organizations, it was funneled through people in the field in Peru, Haiti, and Indonesia who have relationship with both Faith Community and the ultimate recipients of the funds.  Pastor Steve was able to report HOW these gifts had impacted those who benefitted directly, as well as their families, communities, and villages.

Thanks for a great service, Faith!  I’ll be back…Pastor Bob invited me, and I didn’t discover my ‘free coffee drink’ card in my welcome packet until I got home.  Looking forward to seeing you all again!

Church:  Faith Christian Community

Address:  4240 Wisconsin St

Website:  www.faithak.com

Service Times:  Sat 6PM, Sun 9AM, 11AM