Chicago Outreach News

Hello everyone,

The outreach today was fantastic again! We had so much stuff to take to the homeless that the van was sagging in the back. We need you to hook up in prayer with us for a 15 passenger van and a good sized trailer.

Wendell and Peggy Norwood accompanied Eileen and I today. The weather was extremely cold, it still amazes us as to how someone can live in this outside in this weather especially in Chicago with the wind coming off the lake. We are developing wonderful relationships with these people.

Today we ministered to:

Ronnie - He has been living under the expressway for close to 3 years. Ronnie was the black sheep of his family and it got so bad for him that it put him on the streets. Ronnie had a real break through today as we talked to him about who he was in Christ. Ronnie released alot of hurt today and we believe that he will be set free and get his life back on track.

Tosha - She is new to the streets, Tosha had no plywood walls to break the wind. Her possessions were one piece of wood to lay under a mattress and blankets. We gave her a sleeping bag, more blankets, and more warm clothes. Today most of the time that we were talking to her she had tears rolling down her cheeks.

Thomas - He is from Georgia and is a migrant worker. Thomas loves the Lord and was so thankful for the clothes and pair of boots that he received.

Fred - He brought his K-Mart shopping cart over to us and loaded up for him and Debra (his girlfriend). He said that he is so thankful that we continue to show up with much need supplies. Fred always has a big fire going so we gave him a couple cans of charcoal lighter, he was very happy.

Charles and Vanessa - Very thankful for more warm clothes!

Jose - Jose is a street vender that is so thankful everytime we show up. He does not get anything but he is blessed by seeing the other people receive what they need. Jose watches the van for us when we are away from it. Jose will be getting his Christmas blessings on the 31st.

Matthew 25:40 - Truly I tell you, in so far as you did it for one of the least of these My brethren, you did it for Me.

I can not tell you enough what a joy it is for us to do this outreach. We pray prior that we can be the feet and hands of Jesus and that we can see these people through Jesus's eyes. What a blessing!!! We will now start gearing up for the Chicago Christmas Outreach (December 31st). We are believing for new items for this event.

Some of the things needed (most popular) are: sleeping bags, underwear, gloves, stocking caps, scarves, blankets, sweaters (large and up only) pants (36 waist and above only) We brought back all the smaller sizes today because they dress in layers and there are not many small people out there. Chap stick, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes (any hygiene products). Charcoal lighter and matches are a blessing also.

We are still believing for monthly partners to financially help us.

Matthew 25:35-36 - For I was hungry and you gave Me food. I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you brought Me together with yourselves and welcomed and entertained and lodged me, (36) I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you visited Me with help and ministering care, I was in prison and you came to see Me.

If anyone is interested in going with us or helping out with the Christmas Outreach let us know. We will be preparing hot food and hot chocolate, coffee, etc. (we also need Christmas cookies made).

REMINDER: Pastor Troy and Evangelist Thomas Derrick will be coming into town on the 9th. We will have a carry-in dinner on the 10th and Pastor Troy will minister at New Creation on the 11th. Call for details! (262-1238)

God Bless You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Terry & Eileen