3 min read
Longing for Community
Every year, the holiday season seems to start earlier—decorations go up and purchases are made in preparation for Christmas long before December....
Raydeane Owens, lead pastor at Heart of the City Church in Coeur d’Alene, recently described why the church believes it’s important to welcome those in recovery into their family.
In what ways does Heart of the City partner with the UGM Center for Women and Children?
We took part in One Day Pay, Don't Look Away at UGM Coeur d Alene's beginning. We took up an additional offering for UGM the next year, we have been involved in the Women's Auxiliary meetings & offerings, Christmas giving, speaking at UGM teas & devotionals as well as volunteering.
What has the relationship meant to your church?
We feel connected to the poor & afflicted of our community- the people Jesus loves deeply. We are encouraged to see progress & growth in the women & children, as several of them attend our weekly Transformed recovery ministry & weekend services.
Does serving at UGM take away from your congregation’s ability to give to the needs of your church?
Not at all. Serving at UGM helps fulfill the calling of HOCC: Being people after God's own heart. Again, the connection with this part of our community brings us joy & purpose.
Why do you believe it’s important to come alongside those in recovery?
We are all better together. No one should do life alone, especially those in recovery. We know the chances of these women staying clean, sober & free from wrong relationships are higher if there is strength, encouragement & support around them. We are blessed to invest in them on their journey to wholeness in every area of their lives.
5 min read
Holiday Ways To Give
The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to spread some cheer than by helping those in need? Homeless and low-income individuals...
5 min read
Gratitude in Recovery
One of UGM’s core values is Thankfulness, and this month we reflect on the pursuit of gratitude in our day-to-day lives and in the work of healing...
Changed by Volunteering
James Bishop : October 1, 2014
Jerry Coatney was literally ecstatic when he got an email from Greg Barclay saying that UGM was looking for a driver. Jerry had wanted to volunteer...
Homeless Women & Children: What are we going to do about Martha?
Union Gospel Mission : March 21, 2013
Author Ron Hauenstein with children from the UGM Crisis Shelter for Women & Children Martha is 43 years old. She has three of her five children...
1 min read
Aftercare: Bill and Jan Traynor
Union Gospel Mission : September 1, 2013
Bill and Jan Traynor were mentors before UGM had a mentor program. Several years ago they and other members from their church were preparing and...