Amber, Author at Loving Shepherd Ministries

20Sep2022

HOPE FOR THE HEART

September 20, 2022

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸, 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗚𝗼𝗱’𝘀 𝗙𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀!

Whether you live here in the U.S. or on the other side of the world, God’s grace is sufficient for you and those in your care this week, no matter what. Psalm 119 promises, “Your word, Lord, is eternal. It stands firm in the heavens, and your faithfulness endures through all generations.” Also, Hebrews 10:23 reminds us to “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering. For He who promised is faithful.” We serve a compassionate God who has proven faithful to millions throughout history and around the world. This week, let’s bear one another’s burdens in prayer. And let’s use the challenges we face as an opportunity to walk a little closer to Jesus!

𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗲

We often present you with opportunities to pray for and to help those served by LSM. But did you know that our staff and families in Haiti and Ethiopia frequently pray for you all as well? After all, the reality is that we need their prayers just as much as they need ours. Living in the U.S., we are often bombarded with noise, distractions, and spiritual challenges not present in developing countries, so it can be helpful to be reminded of those who have little more than God to cling to. Let’s pray for the kids whose lives you’ve touched, whose stories touch our hearts in return.

𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗪𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗢𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹

Success isn’t a zero-sum game. If our neighbor achieves success, it doesn’t mean they’ve taken something from us. We know that’s true here in the U.S., where the standards of living have risen for nearly everyone in the last two centuries. Even more importantly, it’s true in the economy of the Kingdom of God. Developing nations like Haiti and Ethiopia haven’t enjoyed a history of seeing everyone improve their circumstances at once, and as a result, jealousy often runs rampant in those cultures. This week, pray for God to reveal that we, who seek Him, don’t need to think of blessings as table scraps to be fought over, but as infinite and overflowing. Pray for Him to bless the hearts in our care with the radical, countercultural ability to wish others well, even when it’s hard.

𝗙𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗙𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗳

As a ministry for orphans and vulnerable children, LSM knows the value of a faithful father figure better than most. Godly parents model the love of our heavenly Father for impressionable young hearts. It’s the kind of investment that God can multiply, blessing communities for generations to come! 1 Thess. 2:11-12 reminds us that “a father deals with his children by encouraging, comforting, and urging (them) to live lives worthy of God, who calls (them) into his kingdom and glory.” This week, let’s reach out to a father figure, biological or otherwise, and thank him for his vital service to his family, to the community, and to God!

𝗚𝗼𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗺 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆

Difficulties in our lives will knock us down. But God can use these experiences to soften our hearts and fill us with a courage and a tenacity that is found in Him alone. This confidence can increase our capacity to be of service to God and to our fellow man. LSM believes the best place to recover and grow personal confidence, especially for a child who has endured trauma, is within the safety and healthy influence of a loving Christian home. Today we’re changing individual lives; tomorrow they’ll shape the world!

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗔𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲

Then the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them. He said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. So anyone who becomes as humble as this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. And anyone who welcomes a child in my name welcomes me.” Matthew 18:1-4

𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗼𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼-𝗛𝗲𝗶𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁

“We received God’s Spirit when he adopted us as his own children. And now we call him, ‘Abba, Father.’ For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children!” Romans 8:14-16

𝗔𝗻 𝗘𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗩𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗴-𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗺 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲

In the world’s most hopeless places, LSM brings shelter to the homeless and food to the hungry. Beyond aid, we empower the vulnerable to take care of themselves in the future – and even to become leaders and teach others. But our ultimate aim isn’t just making sure people have food today or even next week. Above all, John 6:27 reminds us to desire the “food that endures to eternal life.” By raising up young leaders who love Jesus, we’re affecting a scope of change that is not merely generational – but eternal!

𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘀 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁

Colossians 3:13 says, “As the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” For those who have been abused, forgiveness is unimaginably difficult, possible only by the grace of God. Part of what makes trauma and abuse such terrible burdens is that they cause bitterness. Not only does this create obstacles to success and joy in life, but it can also create barriers to God. Regardless of how deep our pain goes, we know He can meet us there if we let Him. Do you know someone who needs a breakthrough today?

𝗕𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲: 𝗔 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗳𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗘𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗨𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗼 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁

Passing the torch: This emotional moment was captured on move-in day at LSM Tech, as one of our Home of Hope mothers, Mereville (left), entrusted five sons she’d raised as her own into the care of Jean Wesly, Director of our LSM Tech residential campus. May this tender moment remind all of us to be vigilant in seeking opportunities to be gracious and generous with those around us as we reflect God’s love to the world, especially those who may be hurting or in need. Here’s a series of quick, Bible-based reminders about what love ought to look like within the Body of Christ: Love is how Jesus says the world will identify us (John 13:35). Love is patient and kind. It isn’t proud or easily angered. It doesn’t envy, boast, dishonor others, seek its own or keep a record of wrongs (1 Cor. 13:4-5). Love is more important than knowledge (1 Cor. 13:2). Love displays humility, gentleness and patience in pursuit of unity and peace (Eph. 4:2-3). And if you ever need a reminder of what our greatest example of love looks like in practice, just think of the cross (John 15:13). We’re ALL called to live out that kind of sacrificial love. Let’s be attentive to the needs around us so we can be sure to let our light shine when and where it’s needed!

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:

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2Jul2022

LET THE LITTLE CHILDREN COME TO ME

July 2, 2022

Amber

Children, Uncategorized

𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀 𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗱, “𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗼 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗶𝘀 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗻.” 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘄 𝟭𝟵:𝟭𝟰

𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻: 𝗦𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶‘𝘀 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

Valentin entered our care at age 10. He grew up in a family of five children with two hard-working parents. His father was a brick mason, and his mother sold goods in the market. Unfortunately, a financial crisis in Haiti left Valetin’s parents unable to find work. As his family’s plight grew dire, the mental health of Valentin’s mother declined, and she started severely beating her children. Fearing his kids might end up on the streets – or worse – Valentin’s father took him to an LSM interview. In tears, he told us he loved his son but could no longer care for him. Our interviewers quickly noticed that Valentin scored well on problem solving tests. Today, Valentin ranks among our top students and plans to become an engineer!

𝗟𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗮: 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗪𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗚𝗼𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶

Lucia’s father died when she was young, leaving her mother to care for eight children all by herself. In those dark days, Lucia’s sisters abused and beat her. She was likely to become a slave or die from starvation and abuse. Thankfully, through your support, God made it possible for Lucia to join an LSM Home of Hope. Today, with the help of her new, loving HOH sisters, Lucia is excelling in her studies and working hard to fulfill her God-given potential. Lucia’s favorite Bible verse is Psalm 37, which reads in part: “Soon the wicked will be no more. But the meek will enjoy peace and prosperity.” With your help, Lucia wants to become a doctor so she can help vulnerable and abused kids!

𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲́: “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗶𝘀 𝗠𝘆 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗽𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗱, 𝗜 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗪𝗮𝗻𝘁!”

André grew up in southern Haiti with his mother and six siblings. Even though the family worked hard on their small farm, a terrible economy drove them into poverty, and the children slowly began to starve. André had often retrieved drinking water for his family, but as his energy slowly depleted, these journeys became difficult. André was in danger of starving or becoming a slave to survive when LSM family sponsors made it possible for him to join a Home of Hope. André’s mom told us he has a bright mind and said she was glad that he’ll receive an education. Today, André has a loving family and is studying hard to help his country. The boy who was once too weak to retrieve water now tells us his favorite Scripture is Psalm 23, and he says, with the Psalmist, “my cup overflows!

𝗔 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗭𝗼𝗲́, 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗢𝗛 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆!

Meet Zoé, a radiant young lady who lives in one of LSM’s Homes of Hope in Haiti. Unlike her sisters, Zoé is a biological daughter of the home parents. But as adoptive and foster parents know well, she is cherished and cared for the same as her sisters. We thank God that Zoé was spared the poverty and abuse that harmed many of our other children in their early years. Much like us here in the United States, God has called Zoé to help bear the burdens of those who have been hurt. For Zoé, that starts with the sisters in her own Home. Let’s thank God that Zoé’s path has been a little less rocky than many of our other HOH children and that she has this chance to be a joy and a source of healing within her family!

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:

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30Jun2022

FACES OF LSM

June 30, 2022

Amber

Staff

𝗟𝗦𝗠’𝘀 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀

LSM serves numerous Haitian communities through our Industrial Site, Business Office, 21 Homes of Hope, and LSM Tech. Most of these fall within a 15-mile area, but travel can be difficult, often involving passage across shallow rivers and over rugged terrain. Dio, Charlot and Sonson, our three highly skilled and dedicated auto mechanics, manage the difficult task of keeping LSM’s fleet of more than 60 vehicles on the road. It’s critically important that our staff be able to travel quickly and safely in order to carry out their work – meaning a fleet of reliable vehicles is essentially the “motor oil” that keeps our engines of outreach running smoothly!

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: 𝗔 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗦𝗠’𝘀 𝗨𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

When bringing you stories from Haiti, we often talk about our Home of Hope parents, our administrators, our business leadership, and our skilled technicians. But did you know that in addition to more visible team members, LSM has an incredible support staff? Below is a picture of Dayana, one of our lunch ladies at LSM Tech. In addition to the 37 Home of Hope students already enrolled at LSM Tech, Dayana’s mission field now also includes 10 students from the community who are taking classes on campus. Scripture constantly reminds us of God’s heart for the servant. In Mark 9:35, Jesus tells his disciples that those who would be first in his Kingdom must make themselves last and servants to all. Matthew 6:4 tells us to give in secret, in order that our heavenly Father, “who sees what is done in secret, may reward you.” What quiet act of service God has been laying on your heart?

𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽𝘀 𝗟𝗦𝗠 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗨𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

Meet LSM’s Staff Accountant, Angie Hunter! Angie assists our Director of Finance, Mark Ahrens, with bookkeeping, domestic and international business transactions, data entry, optimization, and month end closes. Angie comes to us with more than a decade of experience working in ministry finance. “It’s such a privilege to join a ministry that serves children, both locally and worldwide, in the name of Jesus,” Angie says. “Although I don’t work on the front lines with these children, I’m thankful to be able to use my skills to make a difference behind the scenes.” Angie’s favorite scripture is Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in each situation, with prayer and with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Thanks, Angie, for all that you do!

𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆’𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶

Them Clersaint, the primary team member driving our precast concrete business in Haiti, comes from a very special family. His father, Max, built many of our homes and buildings: . And his sister, Terry, works in our Industrial Park: . One thing that stands out about Them is that even though he is in leadership, he can often be seen found on the front lines doing the dirtier parts of precast manufacturing alongside his own employees. “I always pray for God to make me a humble servant, more like Jesus,” Them says. His favorite Scripture is Col. 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole heart, as for the Lord and not for men.” We’re thankful Them’s example of godly leadership!

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:

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28Jun2022

FACES OF LSM

June 28, 2022

Amber

Staff, Uncategorized

𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻: 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘄𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗼𝗱’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

Michael Brown is the Director of LSM’s Nouvelle Aube family of businesses in Haiti. “Nouvelle Aube” is a phrase that means “new dawn,” because we want our businesses to set a new standard for products and service in Haiti. “I help the managers of our Concrete Products, Construction and Automotive businesses. Many Haitians live in despair, but these businesses are bringing hope, changing mindsets, and lifting entire communities. I want our American friends to know that we are working hard every day to earn your support, and I believe that because of you, Haiti will be a totally different country ten years from now!” Michael’s favorite scripture, 1 Cor. 10:31, reminds us to “do everything for the glory of God!”

𝗝𝗲𝗻: 𝗔𝗻 𝗘𝘆𝗲𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝘄𝗼 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗟𝗦𝗠

Jen Schwartz was the third employee to join LSM, following Ed and Doug. She has assisted more than 9,000 families with their adoption journeys. She also saw the launch of our first Home of Hope, and the 21 that followed. As LSM’s Family Sponsorship and Child Development Coordinator, Jen has seen firsthand the tragic situations of abuse and poverty that our Home of Hope children are taken from, and she works diligently to help them grow into godly leaders. In 2020, Jen picked up some new responsibilities, including our emails, newsletters, and print materials. As a part of the marketing team, Jen helps effectively tell our story to the LSM community. And who better to bear witness to the great magnitude of all that God has accomplished?

𝗥𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗼𝗻: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿

About twelve years ago, while assisting with the first job interviews at LSM Tech, our Construction Manager, Troy Leyse, first met Rony, serving as a translator at the time. After that, Rony helped translate for numerous important meetings and team projects. More than a translator, he was known for stepping in at times, mediating, and gently diffusing difficult situations. Rony recently completed a degree in theology at a Christian university in the U.S., and he now feels called to help Haiti realize its God-given potential through multiplication and discipleship. Today, he serves as our Director of Discipleship at LSM Tech, where he mentors future mentors. This week, let’s all pray for Rony and his students – as well as teachers and students everywhere!

𝗞𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝘆𝗲𝗿: 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲 – 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗼 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴!

If you have given to LSM in the past, then you have likely had some contact with Kathy Meyer, who serves as our Donor Processor. This means that Kathy is responsible for mailing receipts and thank-you notes, as well as general information about our ongoing work. Kathy also processes payments received by LSM’s BrickHouse store. “I’ve loved working for LSM over the past 17 years,” Kathy says. “It is such a meaningful blessing to be involved in Kingdom work that is bettering the lives of so many of God’s children!” Kathy and Denny, her husband of 35 years, have three daughters and three sons-in-law: Alyssa and Tyler Knochel, Paige and Jackson Troxel, and Jenna and Gavin Fritz. We appreciate you, Kathy!

𝗗𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗺: 𝗦𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮

“I am giving my everything to these amazing children,” says Dagim, one of LSM’s Family Preservation social workers in Ethiopia. “It’s what I am called to do!” The child of a single mom, himself, Dagim is passionate about our Family Preservation program’s mission of helping vulnerable children, as well as their single mothers, reach their full potential through mentoring, education resources, trauma recovery, and more. Dagim’s responsibilites include teaching the children, making home visits, and documenting families’ progress, but his favorite job is telling the children about Jesus. “My dream,” Dagim says, “is to make the world a better place for everyone, beginning with those who are most in need of hope!”

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Sign up for our enewsletter by clicking here.
Learn more about LSM Family Sponsorship.
Give directly to support our work.

28Jun2022

FACES OF LSM

June 28, 2022

Amber

Staff

𝗧𝗿𝗼𝘆 𝗟𝗲𝘆𝘀𝗲: 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗨𝗽 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗼𝗱’𝘀 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗺 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶

In his first letter to Thessalonica, Paul reminds the church to “encourage each other and build each other up.” The person on LSM’s team who knows the most about physical building is Troy Leyse, our Construction Manager. Troy is the primary staff person responsible for managing construction of our new Homes of Hope and businesses in Haiti, as well as installation of other key features such as wells, security walls, bridges, and solar panel arrays. But as Troy would be the first to tell you, his biggest responsibility is overseeing the building up of people, not structures. In everything LSM does, our goal is to equip local workers and to empower local leaders who God is raising up to help usher in a new dawn for Haiti!

𝗪𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗹: 𝗢𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘆
Meet two of our recent hires in Haiti: Wesly, a psychologist, and Enel, a social worker. Both help implement our Trauma Recovery program for the kids LSM serves, as well as support overall mental health and well-being for our staff and families. In his letter to the Romans, Paul describes one key aspect of faith-based trauma recovery and healing: “Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future…nor anything else in all creation, can separate us from the love of God.” We want those in our care to know that God loves them and that He’s given them incredible potential – even if they’ve seen tragedy or abuse. Did you know that Jesus Christ is also the victor in your own life?

𝗥𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗹: 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗺 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗟𝗦𝗠

Five years ago, Rachel Gerber began managing our IN auctions. Since then, we’ve scaled up our auctions in Indiana and Illinois and launched a new one in Ohio. We also strive to communicate well with our faithful donors, both locally and across the country, with a particular emphasis on hosting small group events in key locations. Two years ago, we brought Rachel on to help support these important initiatives. “I love working with LSM because of the example it sets for my kids,” Rachel says. “They’re learning that the world is full of needs and that they can make an impact!”

𝗔𝗯𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿: 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗩𝘂𝗹𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻

If you enjoy the stories from Haiti that we share, meet the person behind the camera: Abdias Victor is the son of a minister. He has a big heart for justice and protecting the vulnerable, which is why he had planned to go into law enforcement. But that changed when our Director of Business, Michael Brown, introduced him to photography and helped him discover his love for helping children. “Working with kids is part of me. I love going to the office each day because I see first-hand the difference that we are making. These vulnerable children are like brothers and sisters to me. So making them laugh and seeing joy on their faces after what they’ve been through is a great miracle, and I’m just honored to play my part!”

𝗘𝗿𝗻𝘀𝗼 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲: 𝗔𝗻 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝘂𝗽, 𝗨𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗢𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀

Ernso Voltaire first started working for LSM more than ten years ago as a security guard at LSM Tech. Even when he started out, Ernso stood out for his sharp mind, attention to detail, and ability to fix things – as well as his great communication and leadership skills. There’s nothing that we love more than promoting potential wherever we find it. Ernso now manages LSM’s block plant – our largest and most successful business in Haiti – the profits of which are being used to help Haiti’s vulnerable children. Ernso’s favorite scripture is found in Psalm 23: “You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.” When God hands us an overflowing cup, it means we have an opportunity to bless others. Thanks Ernso!

𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗩𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴

Drew, LSM’s Mobilization Coordinator, manages our social media and website, including the stories you read here on Facebook. In his five years on our staff, we’ve seen a massive growth in our online audience – thanks to the faithful engagement of our readers and supporters. Collaborating with our marketing team members in Haiti, Ethiopia, and the U.S., LSM’s digital marketing uses photography, video, text, and design to shine a light on those in need, as well as LSM’s Kingdom-minded efforts to bring restoration into those situations. Thanks to you, our advocates, not only for sharing these stories concerning desperate needs at home and abroad – but for playing an active part in the resolution!

𝗞𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗮: 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗕𝗶𝗴 𝗚𝗼𝗱 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀

Several years ago, Kethia, our Administrative Assistant in Haiti, needed a job. God answered her prayers in a big way by creating an opening for her at LSM. “This is so much more than a job,” she says. “LSM has helped connect me with my friends, church, and community. My responsibilities are often small, but because we know God works through LSM, even small tasks feel rewarding.” Kethia says her favorite Scripture is Psalm 4, which reads in part: “The Lord sets apart the godly for himself. He answers when we call to him. Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the Lord. He’s given us greater joy than those with abundant harvests.”

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸: 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽

Mark Ahrens, LSM’s Director of Finance, joined our team several years ago with more than three decades of corporate accounting and finance experience under his belt. And thankfully, he came in ready to hit the ground running! Our various ministry and business finances are managed by team members spanning three different countries and currencies. Keeping everyone on track is a massive feat, even for someone with Mark’s expertise. “Our responsibility to be excellent stewards, to build something good that lasts and makes an eternal impact comes directly from God, I believe,” Mark says. “Working with our Haitian and Ethiopian staff every day has opened my heart far more globally, and I’ll always be grateful for the sense of international family and belonging that I feel here!”

𝗔 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗥𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻

Those who know Riderson will tell you that one of his best qualities is his willingness to serve. It’s a great mark of leadership, especially in a culture where leaders can often be domineering. “I’m always happy to do any kind of work for LSM,” Riderson says, “whether it’s making coffee or mopping the floor.” Riderson has such a heart to serve others that one of his biggest adjustments to leadership was learning to delegate office tasks in order to better serve our staff as a manager. In the last several years, Riderson and his wife Prestina have embarked on a new journey of servanthood as parents. “Through discipleship, LSM is creating a better future for kids in Haiti,” Riderson says. “Now that I have my own children, I’m more invested in that future than ever before!”

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:
1. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
2. Sign up for our enewsletter by clicking here.
3. Learn more about LSM Family Sponsorship.
4. Give directly to support our work.

5May2022

HOW IS LSM’S APPROACH UNIQUE?

May 5, 2022

Amber

Distinctives

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗨𝘀 𝗔𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁: 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘆

Did you know that more than 80% of all Haitians who receive a professional education leave their country behind? We fight this trend by instilling our children with a sense of family belonging, Kingdom purpose, and national hope. Through LSM Gospel Kit distribution and church involvement, we teach our kids to help their neighbors starting at a young age. As they grow up, they’ll find even more opportunities to stay and help Haiti thrive!

𝗟𝗦𝗠 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀!

LSM’s Impact Program in Haiti incentivizes our Home of Hope children to meet certain academic and behavioral benchmarks in order to earn special scholarships when they’re ready for college and technical school. And we’re already seeing great results! This past year, 32 out of 34 qualifying students successfully passed a critical, graduation-qualifying exam. Hope is a powerful motivator, as is accountability. Congratulations to LSM’s Haitian students!

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗗𝗼 𝗪𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗿 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀?

One reason our sponsorship model is based on families, not individual kids, is that most child sponsor programs end after a certain age or grade level. We think in terms of family, which is a lifelong relationship. Rather than meet the basic needs of millions, we focus on the deep, whole person needs of the 252 kids we serve, believing this will have a farther-reaching impact. LSM sees our kids the way a parent sees a child – not as a name and age, but as a deeply known and loved family member. It’s difficult to succeed in Haiti whether you’re a child, or age 18 and up. As our children grow, LSM walks alongside them, helping as needed as they become servant leaders, disciple others, and reach their culture for Christ! Learn more at .

𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆: 𝗔 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗺 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

Haitian schools often rely on stock lectures and rote memorization. In contrast, LSM’s model emphasizes communication, collaboration, and problem solving. We believe kids will be best served in life by minds trained to work with others and find out-of-the-box solutions. That’s why half of our Homes of Hope receive supplemental educational training and the other half of our Homes attend schools operated by LSM. We’re trying to set an example of what education in Haiti can look like because we want to equip a new generation of innovators, problem solvers, job creators, entrepreneurs, engineers, and artists to build a prosperous future in Haiti!

𝗔 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗦𝗠 𝗚𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗪𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁

LSM’s Gospel Kits, which all contain humanitarian supplies and evangelistic materials, are packed by volunteers here at our U.S. office. When the kits arrive in Haiti, they’re distributed to those in need – not by adult staff, but by Home of Hope children – some as young as four or five years old. The young people in white shirts below are now college students living at LSM Tech, but it is still crucial that we continue giving them opportunities to serve. Soon, they will earn degrees, and we want them to use the skills they’ve learned to build a brighter future for Haiti. At the heart of the LSM Gospel Project is the idea that when God blesses us, He asks us to bless others. Is God calling you to bless our Gospel Project? To schedule a tour and pack kits, email rick@loving-shepherd.org.

𝗕𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆: 𝗙𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗟𝗦𝗠 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀!

Three boys and two girls from our Welsh 1 and Welsh 2 Homes of Hope all recently made the decision to get baptized! Luke 5 tells us the angels rejoice over just one sinner who repents. Here we have not one, but five young souls overcoming traumatic baggage and claiming victory in Jesus. Perhaps news like this will cause an angelic celebration that lasts this entire week? We can all certainly celebrate their decision here on earth. As a Kingdom-centered ministry, this is the best kind of news we can ever receive. The most sustainable change of all is the eternal kind. Let’s pray for these new beginnings in the week ahead!

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Sign up for our enewsletter by clicking here.
Learn more about LSM Family Sponsorship.
Give directly to support our work.

5May2022

FACES OF LSM

May 5, 2022

Amber

Staff

𝗟𝗦𝗠 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗙𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗴-𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗺 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁.

Jean Wesly, Micheline Taverne, and Claudin Idoxis serve as LSM’s core Child Development team in Haiti. Jean Wesly, left, currently heads up LSM Tech. Claudin, right, manages our Child Development and Education Programs. Micheline, center, plays an integral role in implementing both our Trauma Healing and Child Development efforts, and she also heads up our student lending library. Claudin says, “For us, every day is a busy day, and these children’s road to success is met with constant challenges. But we are all well equipped with resources from LSM and grace from God. We love these children and are grateful for the opportunity that we have to speak encouragement and guidance into their lives!”

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗿𝗯𝗲𝗿: 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽𝘀 𝗟𝗦𝗠 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀

Steve Gerber, the founder of Outdoor Concepts here in Indiana, serves on LSM’s Board of Directors. Steve provides our leadership team with the prayerful stewardship and servant leadership that have guided him over his years as an entrepreneur and a father of four. Steve and his wife, Gayla, have three sons and a daughter, all married, plus a growing bevy of grandchildren. Steve sees a great need for programs helping vulnerable youth in this community, and he believes our merge with BrickHouse provides a great opportunity. He takes inspiration from Matthew 25:40, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻: 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆

Riderson Brown, LSM’s Haiti Administrator, and Michael Brown, President of LSM’s Produits Beton, brothers in ministry – as well as biological brothers – are on a mission to transform Haiti. “Haitians have been desperate and poor for generations,” says Riderson. “Many people think and act in ways that actually keep them in poverty. A big part of what motivates us is to see this country change the way it thinks and operates, starting at a young age with the kids in our Home of Hope families.” Michael agrees: “That’s what made the difference for us. We had excellent parents who raised us to love God, work hard, and serve others. At a young age, I learned my favorite Bible verse, 1 Cor. 10:31: ‘Do all for the glory of God.’ Ultimately, God is the one who is blessing, healing, and helping Haiti.”

𝗥𝗲𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗰𝗮: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗦𝗲𝗲 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗼𝗼𝗿

Rebecca Webb, LSM’s Administrative Assistant, wears many hats. As she puts it, a big part of her job is “creating and maintaining a good first impression of LSM.” Anyone who’s ever visited or called our U.S. office has almost certainly interacted with Rebecca, who besides serving as a public face, manages our gift shop, supports our effort to record gifts and stay in touch with donors, assists with event planning, manages our supply inventory, schedules the staff calendar, and plans our recurring “Lunch and Learns,” which have become a highly anticipated tradition for the team each month. She says: “My heart’s been touched to learn about dire situations in Haiti and Ethiopia, as well as the promise of a brighter future.”

“𝗥𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗔𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀. 𝗜 𝗦𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻: 𝗥𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲!” 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝟰:𝟰

This reminder comes from Lencia Saintuma, who serves LSM Tech as our Administrative Assistant and Cafeteria Manager. She is also wife of LSM Tech Director Jean Wesly. Our students love Lencia and the light of Christ that she shines wherever she goes. “God is so clearly present in this place!” Lencia says. “Since going to work for the kids, I’ve noticed Him refining my heart, making me more faithful to Him and more patient to those I serve.”

𝗘𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗥𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿: 𝗔 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

Emily Selking Ringger joined our Board of Directors in 2018. She brings valuable expertise to the role thanks to her background as a controller for Selking International, a truck dealership company with ten locations across Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. Emily and her husband Dustin have two young daughters, Maddie and Claire. Emily has a reputation on our board for her insightful questions and detail oriented approach. Fiscal responsibility is paramount here at LSM, so we’re grateful to Emily for helping us constantly refine and innovate. “I’m truly astonished by the generational impact LSM is making, often despite limited resources,” she says. “I’m honored to help LSM reach even more kids in the future!”

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱:

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4Jan2022

A Gift of Generosity

January 4, 2022

Amber

Haiti, Soccer, Tours Haiti

𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽𝘀 𝗔𝗿𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶

Last summer, one group of young people from Northeast Indiana donated new soccer nets for our Redemption Campus in Haiti, and another group raised money to purchase 40 soccer balls for our Homes of Hope (two per Home). Big thanks to Kent Koteskey’s Sunday School class at Hope Missionary Church and the area homeschool group led by Tera and Adam Carroll. The groups of children who decided to give these gifts were both inspired to action by tours of the Haiti Education Wing at our Bluffton office. Their gifts recently arrived in Haiti and are now being put to daily use!

Our kids used to stand behind the goals to retrieve kicked soccer balls because they would fly right through the old nets.

For our children in Haiti, soccer is a favorite way to socialize and get exercise. Profound gratitude to the children in the U.S. for not only paying attention to information presented during the tour, but for taking action. Schedule a tour today! | jen@loving-shepherd.org.