4 min read
The Father I Found: Pat’s Story of Redemption
At eight years old, Pat’s mom would share a beer with him. “Instantly, I was addicted.” At thirteen, drug and alcohol abuse became a constant. “My...
I hadn’t had a chance to look at the newspaper before my breakfast meeting yesterday morning, so when several people mentioned that UGM had made the front page of the Spokesman-Review and congratulated me on the opening of the new Center for Women and Children in Coeur d’Alene, I was anxious to see it. And when I did . . . wow! I was impressed. What great coverage. I hope you’ll take a minute to read the article here. Scott Maben did a great job of capturing the heart of what this ministry is all about – reaching the poor with the love and power of the gospel so they may become God-dependent, contributing members of society.
Even more importantly, however, I was excited to see the cross boldly displayed for every reader to see, and I was reminded of the great privilege we have to represent Christ in all we do.
Proverbs 14: 31 says:
“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.”
For over 60 years, this community has partnered with the Union Gospel Mission to help the poor. Together, we have provided food, shelter, clothing, job training, life skills classes, counseling, medical care and more. And as yesterday’s Spokesman Review illustrates, ultimately that brings honor to God.
To be an ambassador means to represent Christ. How do we do that? By caring for the poor.
Read more of Phil's reflections on that topic by downloading the Christmas devotional below.
5 min read
A Lifetime of Service and Beyond
Vern Scoggin, UGM's longest-serving board member, has overseen remarkable growth and change for over half of UGM's existence. Joining in 1985, he was...
5 min read
A Gift that Lasts
For years, UGM has been blessed to receive countless gifts from faithful partners who included the ministry in their estate plan. Today, we have 256 ...
In Gratitude for God's Gifts
Union Gospel Mission : November 27, 2015
We asked staff, volunteers and residents to share a few of thoughts on gratitude.
The Gospel Changes Things (and People)
Merrily Roe, former staff writer : April 20, 2016
At UGM, we believe that the gospel has power to transform lives. Conformity to a set of rules alone doesn’t work. Real change happens from the inside...
Heart to Heart: Compassion and Accountability
Phil Altmeyer, Executive Director : October 19, 2016
After 30 years in homeless ministry, you'd think I would have it all figured out, that I could coast along to retirement. I'm chuckling at the...