And Then, Fall Arrived
We hope this message finds you well and enjoying the change of seasons. It's hard to believe how quickly the summer and fall have flown by! With Thanksgiving and the holidays just around the corner, we're reminded of how fast time passes. We’re grateful for your continued support and wanted to take a moment to share what we've been up to this season.
The Cause Retreat
In early August, we had the privilege of attending the annual Cause Retreat in Texas. The Cause is a wonderful partner ministry that works alongside us, supporting our behind-the-scenes efforts. Our time at the retreat was truly refreshing, filled with meaningful connections and opportunities to engage with others in ministry. We participated in workshops, shared in prayer, and recharged for the work ahead.
Rainbow Gathering
Soon after returning from Texas, we took the Jesus Kitchen to the Minnewishigan Rainbow Gathering in upstate Wisconsin. This year, we were blessed to have two churches join us, making it an even more special time of connection, prayer, and sharing the love of Christ with others.
Over the course of our time there, we served many warm, healthy meals, clean water, and coffee, while also creating space for prayer, worship, and fellowship. We set up a foot-washing station, a prayer station, and offered mending of clothes. We were also able to gather around a warm fire for comfort and connection.
And Then, Fall Arrived
This fall brought some exciting changes for our family. Eva started attending Hand in Hand Montessori school three days a week, while continuing her homeschool studies for two days. It’s been a big transition for both her and us! Both kids also had the chance to play soccer with a local homeschool group, and Oliver was invited to join a LEGO League team and take archery lessons—he’s been loving these new opportunities.
In addition to family changes, Teresa began a new role as the Prayer Coordinator at our homeschool co-op. As a board member, she leads a group of about 40 women in prayer twice a month. This fall, her focus has been on the theme of God’s love, exploring different types of prayer, such as liturgical prayer, breath prayers, the examen prayer, and Lectio Divina. It’s been a meaningful time of connection as they discover new ways to deepen their prayer life.
The season also brought the chance to serve guests in our Duplex Apartment. We were grateful to host three young women from Ballet Magnificent! for a weekend. We’ve also been in conversation with a few potential guests. Unfortunately, one woman couldn’t stay with us due to serious health issues and severe allergies that made our space unsuitable for her. Another potential guest is navigating some health challenges and a possible move, so we’ve been having light discussions about whether our Duplex could serve as a temporary home. Finally, we’ve been in talks with a woman who is dealing with her own health struggles, while her husband is currently in the hospital with an unknown illness. They recently discovered toxic mold in their home and need a place to stay while it’s being remediated. There seems to be a common theme in these conversations—health. We hope to provide a safe, healing space for those in need as they work towards health and restoration.
Giving Tuesday & Year-End Support
Next Tuesday, December 3rd, marks Giving Tuesday and the launch of our Year-End Giving campaign. As we reflect on the year, we are filled with gratitude for the support and opportunities we've had to serve our community.
It’s been a year full of growth, learning, and connection, and we are so grateful for each of you who has supported us along the way. Your contributions make all of this possible, and we look forward to what the next year will bring! Your support, prayers, and encouragement mean the world to us. Together, we can continue making a positive impact and spreading love and kindness to those in need.
