I was very proud of the way my staff responded to the horrific, broad-daylight beating of a Manual High School student on her way to school. God touched Frank, Annette, and Craig each independently to try to get involved. Immediately after getting the report in the newspaper, all three of them endeavored to visit her in the hospital and then at home. Mission Senior Pastor Frank Winfrey picks up the story, "God blessed me with some words that I knew were not mine when we visited the home of a young girl who was beaten by 5 boys. I felt an authority, come from the heart of God to speak into her situation. He would bring comfort and healing and He would allow her to bring comfort and words of wisdom from this experience to bless others. What Satan intended for evil God intends for good. Craig's take on the situation: "I picked up the newspaper and read of the story about a 15-year old female Manual student that had been beaten up by five boys for no apparent reason. It prompted me to go to the school and meet with the dean. The dean called the victims' mom and asked if we could come to the house to meet with her. The mother gave us permission to do so. Annette, Frank, and I presented a beautiful bouquet of flowers to the young lady. While visiting, we were able to pray with her and her family. The family was deeply touched by the thought that someone cared. We were also able to visit a second time a week later, Pastor Frank took the time to share the plan of Salvation. The girl let us know that she had already received Christ as her Savior. We again had a word of prayer with her and she was very encouraged by our visit.

[Frank relays another story] A young girl who had been sporadic with Alpha, called to say that she wanted to come to the Alpha retreat. So many are allowing themselves to be too busy to come, I was so encouraged that she wanted to come. She has very little background in the church, but listens attentively and participates in the discussion group. "Rachel" has had some volunteer time in the youth department and now she is making a commitment to move forward with her faith. It will be a joy for me to share with you next month what happens to her on the retreat.

[from Craig Williams' monthly report] Back in February, I had the opportunity of introducing a 15-year-old young man to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. In another great example of departments working together, OJ Nicholas from Benevolence Center referred the young man to me. We have since stayed in touch with the family. So on my way home from work last month, I received a call from the youth's mom. She wanted to inform me that she was hospitalized due to a nervous breakdown. She wanted to talk to me and requested that I come to the hospital. Pastor Frank and I made the visit and she expressed her concerns for her son. Her fear was that her situation would cause the youth to relapse after receiving Christ and being delivered from drugs and alcohol. We talked with her and had a word of prayer, reminding her of what God had already done in her son's life. I have since made a follow up phone call. The mother had been released from the hospital, she and hers son are doing very well. I am also glad to report that he was not affected by her situation at all. Praise be to God.

[from Craig Williams' monthly report] Pastor Frank and I were doing follow up visits one day, driving down Starr Street when we spotted a very small child wandering down the street alone. The young child appeared to be about two or three years old. As she began to walk out into the street, we immediately stopped the car and Pastor Frank jumped out to grab her. Talking to the child, we tried to find out where she lived. We proceeded up the street til we found the house where the young child lived. The door was shut, we knocked on the door and found out that the family didn't even know she had left the house. We encouraged them to do a better job of watching their kids. When we returned to our car we thanked God that we were able to save the young child from being harmed. This was truly a God sighting in every sense of the word.

[from Sue Murphy's monthly report] Two Saturdays ago, my daughter, a neighbor, and I took off from our home and spent the morning going to garage sales. It was fun to find clothes and items that were needed by nearly all of my class. It was even more fun to come to school on Monday and distribute most of the items. That Saturday, we drove down and took a few of the most needed items directly to the homes of the children. At one house I could tell by the smiles that we were doing what the Lord wanted us to do.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] One of the ladies began to weep as she shared a prayer request for a good friend who was not expected to live. Immediately one of the ladies went over to put her arms around her. The Lord does use his body to encourage and love others around us. The woman who went and shared a hug, would never been seen as a minister in many churches because of her history, but we elevate women here all the time to the place where they are used of the Lord to touch people every day.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] God encouraged me this month with the response of one young lady, Eunice, who was very honest about her need to move back to the Lord. Many in her family had written her off, but we wanted her to know that God has not written her off. She has a good base biblically, but has rarely in her life gotten to a point where she would honestly respond to God. She listened intently each week during the services. I saw God preparing her to respond. One night during an altar call, she "came clean" with the Lord and herself. I believe that a big part of her need was to forgive herself. Her countenance has changed immensely. I remember her waiting to be admitted to the shelter a number of weeks ago, she was a very angry and wounded individual. You would be hard pressed to recognize her today! God is doing His work in the lives of the ladies here at the South Side Mission.

[from Peggy Peryam's and Linda Butler's reports] Ella (names changed for confidentiality) would often be seen with a very surly young adult woman and four lovely young girls and two rambunctious young boys. As I would come in each morning, I would see Ella faithfully waiting for the school bus with the kids. The children were always dressed so spiffy and their hair was always perfectly coiffed. The kids were always so respectful of Ella and other adults in authority. I assumed, like others, that Ella was yet another of the grandmas we see who are raising their grandkids. I assumed that the young adult woman who was often with Ella was her daughter and that the kids were her grandkids. Oops, I was wrong. Ella's case is a little different. The young adult with her is her teenage daughter Tara. The four young girls with her are also Ella's daughters. The two young boys with her are children from another of her daughters. Ella is raising them, too. One mom?seven kids. Wow. Despite all of the challenges of raising a very surly teenage daughter, four respectful young daughters and two great young boys, Ella is doing great! She has two jobs and has also found a church home. Her church recently gave her a car! We take care of her younger kids during the day, so Ella can work. Her teenager, Tara, has even checked her attitude. Aren't teenagers wonderful? Please pray for Ella and her big family! [from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] God is opening doors for "Carmen" as she sees God give her a job, then a visit with her son she had not seen in a year and a half. At the end of the month the Mission had promised her a car. She has been steadily growing in Christ. We are so excited for her and the joy of her smile is worth every thing to me.

[from Craig Williams' monthly report] In the Christian life, we know that we will have trouble. Marlene (names changed for confidentiality) got a big dose of it right after she gave her life to Christ. In her own words? "I have been giving my life to Christ, and I just keep getting let down and hurt. I've overdosed three times and have been in intensive care but I keep surviving. I don't know my purpose here. But why does God keep letting me down? I've been homeless, broke, and hungry for six months. If God gives you what you need when you're following him, why does he let me down so much?" Craig continues, "God really allowed South Side Mission and the Laramie Street Baptist Church to minister to this family by responding to their prayer request even before we were aware of the prayer that was stated on the Benevolence Center follow up card. We were able to assist them with food, clothes, fans, and furniture for their new rental property. Marlene was deeply moved by this kindness. She is staying clean and sober. Best of all, Laramie Street Baptist Church is working with her to bring her into their church.

[from Linda Butler's monthly report] Soon after she became a resident, I asked "Jane" what prayer she needed answered. She said housing. I confidently told her that God would answer that prayer, but in His time. God quickly moved on her behalf, but only after he met an emotional need that had her bound. I had been teaching a series of classes on Loss and Grief. It was in that class that she understood the dynamics of grief and realized how deeply she had been affected by her husband's death 20 years ago. Jane physically moved on, but more importantly she emotionally and spiritually moved on to a more abundant life.

[From Frank Winfrey's monthly report] James and Donna provided the most excitement I have had about a contact in a while. They came from such difficult circumstances and living with a Donna's sister, not having their own place or a job for a long time. Donna was so discouraged. Craig and I went to tell her about Alpha in follow up to a response card from the BENEVOLENCE CENTER. When she learned about the course, she said immediately she would come and her husband would like this as well. We asked if they needed a ride. Donna said, "No, we will walk over." They did and they brought their nephew with them. The study definitely did resonate with them. A few days later we went to visit them and a niece told us they were down the street at their new place! A landlord allowed them to move in, with no deposit if they would be willing to clean up the place. James was more than willing to do that. He was hauling off broken pieces of dry wall in a garbage can and dragging it to the neighbor's house when we found him. We later learned that the neighbor was the landlord. The house was pretty run down. I looked at Craig and we both felt blessed to live in the homes that God had given us. This house was in not such good shape from the outside, but they were ecstatic. Continue to pray for them to grow in their faith and to keep Christ as the center of their lives.

[from John Theien's monthly report] One of my highlights was the prayer of a camper during our Sun Bears camp. We had just finished a good week and we were praying for our last meal on Friday and the staff asked one of the campers to pray for our food. She thanked God for all that she had learned that week and asked for Gods strength for the rest of the campers as they go home. She told God," help as we go home to live for you, Lord you know we don't have a lot of help at home , so strengthen us to use what we have learned." I know that my eyes were tear filled as we got done with that prayer because at least this one child GOT IT!

[from Linda Butler's monthly report] After feeling stuck for nearly two years "Barbara", received an answer to her prayers. Her dental hygiene had been greatly affected by drug addiction. She was to embarrassed look for a job because it seemed to affect her opportunity to the get the job. Maple Shade Dental gave her an extreme dental makeover during June and July and she looks wonderful with her beautiful new smile.

[from Sheree Mitchell's monthly report] One morning in July during our Day Camp devotions I asked the children to listen to the song "Because of Who You Are." The children were asked to close their eyes and just focus on the Lord. By the end of the song children were weeping, and calling out to the LORD! It was amazing to see how the Lord moved in that room that morning. We had a wonderful group of youth from Lombard, IL who spent a week with the children. Many of them commented that their lives would never be the same after ministering to the children.

[from Peggy Peryam's monthly report] This summer, King's Kids had the benefit of a 14 year old aide. She was a foster child whose mom was getting clean and free from drugs. This young lady was a Christian, and a child care agency in the area asked if we could have her here for the summer helping us in the classroom. The young lady was delightful, a good reader who attracted children by her smile and positive attitude. I knew her name was familiar, but couldn't totally recall if she was a past student of ours, or a friend of one of our former students. As the summer went on, I really felt I recalled her. As we approached our last days of Preschool for the summer session, Melissa and I prayed with her about her return to school, and her upcoming return to mom's care. She brought her mom in ---I instantly recognized the mom as one of our former King's Kids families. What a joyous reunion we had! The mom had been heavily into a poor life style, and we had grave concerns for her daughter as a preschooler. What a wonderful gift from God for me to see the child's faith, and the mom's success. We were joyful and thanking God for His goodness, and the recognition of God in the family's life.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] A married couple came by looking for housing. We let them use the phone to call the Salvation Army. They had no vacancies. The wife ended up staying here and the husband was sleeping in the woods. He had been avoiding looking for work because he knew there was a warrant for his arrest. They came to church on Sunday night, and the speaker spoke on Jonah. God was telling him it was time to stop running. He went with Pastor Linda to turn himself into the county jail after church that night. They ran a search on him and found nothing! He was in shock and free to go! The couple rejoiced at God's amazing work.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] Jeanette attended our ALPHA course for new believers that we just completed. I have known her for a few years. She started coming to Mother's Day Out last year. When our Mother's Day Out group finished for the summer she joined our ALPHA group. No one had a better attendance record than she. During the last lesson, she asked a very meaningful question. "What is that feeling that comes over you while you are in a worship service and you started to cry? Is that the Holy Spirit?" We told her it was and that God was ministering to her. She affirmed that she believed that too, but she wasn't sure. The group went on to encourage her to return to that church again next Sunday. Jeannette said she planned to keep going. She went on to elaborate. "I have been out of church for a long time, it felt so good to be back!" We had a couple of miraculous healings in August. See below.

[from Sheree Mitchell's monthly report] Nick a 7-year-old child complained of hearing voices. Mom shared this information with staff. Staff prayed with the child. He reported to his counselor that he had not heard voices since the staff prayed with him.

[from Benevolence Center] I received a note from a lady who had prayed with OJ Nicholas, SSM staffer over the Benevolence Center, over her asthma back in the spring. She reports that she made it through the entire hot summer without having to use oxygen and without an asthma attack. She credits God's use of the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man like OJ to avail her healing.

[from Linda Butler's monthly report] ? "Karen" came to the us from the Department of Corrections. She had been in prison for prostitution and drugs. Her pimp, whom she had married, was also in prison for drug and gang activity. Karen became serious about her Christian walk while she was in prison and was referred to the SSM by a Christian organization that ministers at the prison. Her growing relationship with Jesus made her passionate about remaining separate from her husband "Rick", but prayerful about his relationship with God. Her five months at the mission allowed her to focus on herself and observe her husband's attitude through letter writing. "Rick" told "Karen" that he was a Christian and wanted them to get back together. Karen found fellowship with City of Refuge Worship Center. She counseled with the pastor about her marriage. Rick was released from prison this month and accepted into a post prison program affiliated with the church. The coupled decided to reunite. The church provided them a house. "Karen" is looking forward to working with the church's ministry to addicts and "Rick" is sharing his testimony at youth meetings.

We also thank God for "Kimberly". This 18-year-old high school student was out of school for three weeks due to family and friend issues. She felt her only hope was to drop out of school and get a job. Her case manager could see that if "Kimberly", who is a special education student, did not return to school and graduate next spring, her opportunities for future employment would be limited, if at all. The case manager talked with school officials who agreed to let her return. Kimberly expressed that she only wanted to do what God wanted her to do. The staff prayed with her. God changed her heart and provided emotional support from her grandparents. Kimberly goes to school with her class books and her Bible.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] We had a wonderful comment from a lady in Mission at Prayer. She raved about the mission and how it changed her life. She encouraged the ladies to continue with the mission and not give up on all that the Lord wants to do in their lives. I am so happy to know that we do make a difference. She shared that her reaction has not always been what it should be to the staff and their direction and rules, but they are put here by God to help us. "Ladies we can learn from them," she said.

[from Craig Williams monthly report] Pastor Frank, Pastor Howard Bedell and myself conducted two hospital visits, one of which the son of a former member of the S. S. M. church services. God really used Frank and Howard, sharing God's Holy Scriptures and prayer for Curtis Smith. Mr. Smith lost his mom while he was recovering from prostate cancer surgery at St. Francis Hospital. Even in this God got His glory, later I learned that Mr. Smith received Christ two days before our visit. This was one of the desired prayers of Mr. Smith's mom before she went home to be with the Lord. He is doing well and is recovering in Bloomington, IL.

[from John Theien's monthly report] Ministry is relationships. Ministry is relationships. This central thought has continued to be a thought that I have known to be true but has come to the fore front time and again. It is the core of what we desire to do at camp each summer. You can't effectively show a child the love of Christ without knowing the child on a personal level. Carrie tells of one of her after school children whose mother has been diagnosed with cancer. Carrie and a daughter from this family went shopping for prizes for club. Her and her brother fear the unknown of this "cancer thing" but have felt comfort knowing others, like Carrie are there for them. Carrie also shares that the after school tutoring program has continued to help children in areas of struggle. Grades have improved.

[from Senior Pastor Frank Winfrey's monthly report] I had a letter from a friend in prison, who was concerned about her kids having coats for the winter. As I was sharing this need with Deacon Craig, he said that he had just the right size coats for these kids. Right when the weather started to turn cold, he had the coats and their needs were met. God knows in advance what we need before we even ask!

[from Deacon Craig Williams' monthly report] A 70 year old woman, Anna, called me crying so hard I could not understand her. She needed a new roof and siding on her home. The siding was blowing off. I told her that Harold Booze, from World Changers Association, would come out and see what we could do. After hearing her story we realized that she had other needs as well. She had outstanding medical bills and was unable to get assistance because the hospital had inaccurate records concerning her SSI income. We were able to contact Rural Peoria County Council on Aging and they were able to assist her. Harold Booze committed to putting on a new roof for her in the summer and his church Sunday School class donated enough canned goods and frozen foods to last her for a long time. They also donated $70 toward her past due medical bills.

[from Chaplain and New Promise Center Director Linda Butler's monthly report] She survived the torture of a serial killer as well as many years of prostitution and drug addiction. Now NPC, with the assistance of the Antioch Group, will help this resident will rebuild her life with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Already we've seen some genuine changes (fruit) in her attitude and behavior. Pray for "Karen's" continual spiritual growth.

[from Sheree Mitchell's monthly report] A young man in our program who was saved about a year ago lives in the Heartland Apartment asked for Christian music. We sent him a CD player and Christian CD's, and a sweatshirt. He said he cried like a baby because it had been years since he received a Christmas gift. I reminded him that when he is living for Christ that he would see a lot of miracles happen in his life. He stated that he wouldn't trade anything for his relationship with Christ.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] We received this note from Sheree Mitchell: "I met a young woman ? we sat talking about work. She was excited to know that I worked at the South Side Mission. She then told me her story. She moved to Peoria from Chicago. Someone from the YWCA Shelter told her about the Benevolence Center. She told me that she came down for clothes. She sat through the devotion where she was saved. She didn't tell anyone about her salvation that day. Her life was changed. She was also given a New Testament Bible that she carries with her daily. I invited her to come to the Benevolence Center to meet the man who gave the devotion that day, Mr. O.J. himself. She's really looking forward to meeting him."

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] You never know who South Side Mission will be helping next. Sheriff Mike McCoy is using one of our wheelchair vans while he recovers from a broken pelvis. He was hit by a car while jogging.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] The Lord brought to our home Josh Wagner, Ken Wagner's brother that comes to the Mission for services. Robin and I had the opportunity to share Christ with him at our dinning room table. He prayed to receive Christ and knew that he wanted to make that decision. When I went to the hospital to see his dad, who was dying, I found Josh seated in the waiting room reading a Gideon Bible. He was not ashamed to read it in public, which was a very positive sign. Pray for Josh to grow in his faith and to see his life changed.

[from Sheree Mitchell's monthly report] I have been working with a lady who attends Mothers Day Out. She has been living in an unsafe home. I took her to apply for affordable housing. Her husband's criminal history came back with some concerns. The husband has opened up to me underneath all of the bitterness there is a lonely, sad, needy man. The Lord has impressed upon my heart that we need to wrap our arms around this family and most importantly introduce him to Christ. He needs to know that our Lord loves him unconditionally regardless of our pass.

[from Sheree Mitchell's monthly report] Larry's volunteer had his cell phone taken during boys club. One of the boys admitted that he stole the phone. The boy asked Larry for forgiveness. He asked Larry what the appropriate way would be to apologize to the volunteer. The volunteer is looking forward to talking with the young man as well as praying with him. Larry shared about God grace and forgiveness. This was a great opportunity for Larry to witness to the other young men.

[from Craig Williams' monthly report] It's a challenge for SSM to house ladies who have teenage boys. In fact, we cannot house the teenage boys. So I received a call from the NPC about a resident that needed help with her 14 year old son. The mom was very discouraged and stated that she did not know where he could go. I told her I would check out a couple of families to see they could assist her. To make a long story short God met this family's needs. Her son is in a Christian home with two other teen boys and they get along very. Praise God for the Lyons family who took him in on one hour's notice. WOW!

[from Craig Williams' monthly report] God has also blessed the SSM to bless a young Manual High student who attends our chapel services on Tuesday mornings. He was experiencing family problems. His mom was using drugs and also taking food that she received from the HH satellite site and selling it for drug money. He often came to Chapel asking for prayer for his mom and his living situation. God met his needs. His mom was hot-lined to DCFS and he was able to live with an aunt, who takes very good care of him. He has been able to take his meds regularly and has made a 180 degree turn in academics and behavior. He has also met with the Dean of Students. This young man will also be attending HH tutoring program on Thursday nights. It is great to see how God is meeting the needs of individuals through the various components of the SSM. This young man is a very strong Christian. He ran up to me to tell me that God answered prayer and he was out of that very difficult situation. He is a very faithful attendee to our chapel.

[from Frank Winfrey's monthly report] I know that so many times I only believe that God is using me in a ministry if he allows me to bring a powerful gospel message or if 10 come forward to receive Christ. A few days ago God gave Craig and me the joy of ministering to a young man, who desperately needs someone in his life. He is in a foster care situation with an aunt. Our observations tell us that she does not consistently have his best interest in mind. He came to us when he heard that there was a warrant for his arrest. The young man had missed an appointment with his parole officer. There are many loose ends in his life. He recently dropped out of Manual High School because he had too much history as a trouble maker with the teachers and administrators. His desire is to turn that impression around but he doesn't feel he can escape his past at Manual. He was referred to us by my wife, Robin. She is his Sunday School teacher. He called her concerned about the trouble he was in. She told him to come and see me. Craig and I got him something to eat before we took him to the jail. He was very fidgety waiting to be processed into the jail. I know it was hard for him to think about what was coming. What a privilege to wait with him and say we stand with you. Pray for him to turn a corner in his life and make right decisions.

[from Craig Williams' monthly report] We were able to help Marsha with a half a case of baby formula. Another family that benefited from our ministry received four kids coats, gloves and hats. But the very best part of this story is that they asked if we would pray for their home and also for a friend of theirs that was driving out of town. As we were leaving the house the grandma ran to the door and said, "Look at my grandchild." She had the biggest smile on her face. The young child was playing in the front yard in the snow wearing her new coat. Pastors Bedell and Winfrey went with me to the hospital to pay a visit to the four year old boy who was shot accidentally in the leg. I knew that he liked sponge Bob so I purchased a Sponge Bob toy for him and we dropped it off. Then we prayed for the family. The mom attended SSM programs about 4 years ago. It is a joy being able to minister to people at a time of need and show them the love of Christ.

[many good stories from Deacon Craig Williams's monthly report] God has blessed the SSM to help several families this month but one stands out. A young lady came to the Benevolence Center who had just recently moved into HH. OJ Nicholas, Manager of the Benevolence Center called and asked me to help her know about the various ministries and services available to her from HHSS. We were able to assist her through both ministries with food, furniture and other needed household items. She also came the same day to bring her seven year old daughter to the "Youth in Motion" praise dance practice at HHSS. She loved it. The story got even better; OJ and I challenged her to attend church as a way of thanking God for all of His provisions. She contacted me for a ride to church that next Sunday morning and I picked up her and her daughter. As a result, she ended up recommitting her life to Christ during that service. During our regular adopt-a-block visits we met an elderly woman. We discovered she was in need of a fridge. So Tuesday morning, I called OJ at the BENEVOLENCE CENTER to see if there was a fridge available. He said there was none available at the moment. One hour later he called me to say that one had been donated, and that he felt the Lord saying this fridge was for her. So long story short, we were able to deliver a very nice used fridge to Miss Johnnie Bell. We have been blessed to get to know and build into the lives of an engaged couple that attend ALPHA and the church services at the SSM. This couple has recently had a very unique bonding experience. Sarah, not her real name, gave her kidney to her fiancé Maurice. He had been on dialysis since he was nine years old. Sarah came to us as a resident of the NPC, and Maurice began to come with her to church and to ALPHA. They began pre-marriage counseling with Pastor Frank and were very clear that they wanted Pastor Frank and myself there for the transplant surgery which was performed on March 20th. We were able to pray with them beforehand and to visit after the surgery. Sarah, in a discussion with Maurice, related to me that Maurice believed that God would guide him through the surgery and that after its success he knew God would use him. Maurice said, "What I would love to do is to do what Pastor Frank and Deacon Craig do!" This has just been a confirmation of God's hand in the little things: loving people and trying to be there for them in a time of need. God has been doing a great deal in the Adoptablock ministry. New Freedom shared a very powerful story from the second time their team went out on Griswold. This is a very rough section of town. The team met a single mom with seven kids and told her they were adopting her block. She was thrilled. She invited the entire team in to pray with her family. The next Sunday she was at church with her entire household. All this took place from a simple visit, and letting a mom in need know that someone cared enough to come to her home for a visit. Another great story that deems mentioning is the music and singing ministry of Pastors Charles and Nel Washington. They have been a real blessing to our ALPHA program and they have seen three new people attend their church from the contacts they have made in ALPHA. One of these has joined the church.

[from Chaplain Linda Butler's monthly report] A former resident who moved out successfully has cancer in her liver. She stopped by a couple of weeks ago to reminisce about here time at the SSM. She gives thanks that she had the time to turn her life to God. She knows she is dying but is not afraid. She has reconciled with her husband and they continue to donate to the mission regularly. She prays that God will continue to bless the mission.

I had a chance to lead Mandie her to Christ in Mission at Prayer. Sadly is is not uncommon for us to have someone living with us who has HIV. Mandie is far beyond that to full-blown AIDS. She is skeletal-thin and does not have much of an immune system left. The same week she got saved at the Mission, we checked her into a local hospital and they were able to improve her health a little bit. Mandie's prognosis is not good. With her weakened immune system, little illnesses can be deadly. She is not wasting any time, now that she's gotten saved. She has made amends to many she has wronged in her life, she lives in repentance, and she even reconciled with her son. She is a very peaceful person now. God is working mightily in her life and she was recently able to leave the hospital. She is now living in an apartment independently for the time being. Please pray for this lovely fellow believer.

[from Deacon Craig Williams' monthly report] God has really shown himself mighty in one young lady's life, this is the one lady that I mentioned in my report last month that recommitted her life to the Lord and joined church. She was living with a young man. She stated to me that she knew it was wrong and that she wanted out of the situation and she wanted prayer about it. She called to tell me last week that the young man was angry with her and was trying to be physically and mentally violent towards her. She stated she took her bible out and started reading the scriptures and he got his bags and left. Praise God. She was so on fire about God that she invited her mom to church and her mom is also a member of church now. Pastor Frank and I also were able to minister to a family of one Peoria's recent gun shot victims. We continued to go and pray for this young man who the doctors were saying that he would not make it. God has and is continuing to raise this young man up. Pastor Frank will share other details in his report. Thank God for the opportunity to minister in the hospitals.

[from Sheree Mitchell's monthly report] Dominique Spiller of Manual High School is a Sterling Merit Scholar. This designation is quite an honor for any high schooler. Dominique is one of our own. She is a girl in our after-school programs. We have helped her stay on the straight and narrow path through her tricky high school years. Not only did she succeed, but she thrived!

[from Kindergarten teacher Sue Murphy's monthly report] "Yesterday a father brought his two boys and made the extra effort to come over and tell me that he missed me and was glad to see me again. This is a family that needs much prayer. His kindergarten son loves the Lord and is not afraid to share the things of the Lord with his family. As we continue to minister this family next year, it is my prayer that the parents will see a need for Christ in their lives as well. The Dad expressed the fact that he enjoyed seeing me and starting his day off with our conversation. I have looked upon this as a way to change a family for the Lord. Now, I need to keep praying for them." appliances. Here's how it worked for one such family?

Sara is a renter on one of our adopted blocks. We delivered a washer and dryer for her. When I took the appliances downstairs I noticed that she already had a washer and dryer in fine working condition. She shared with me that she was renting these from Rent-A-Center for $90 a month. Can you believe that? It's nice to be able to save a poor family $90 per month.

[from Deacon Craig Williams' monthly report] I was sharing the gospel of Christ at the Harrison Homes Satellite Site's food pantry with a young married couple. I spoke from 2 Corinthians 5:17. God really touched their lives. The husband stopped me while I was sharing and said he had planned after he got his check to go buy some "weed" and get "high." "But because the word of God, I am not going to do that!" I also had the privilege of assisting a former NPC resident. The SSM had assisted her by getting some very needed household items such as: TV, microwave, couch, kitchen table and chairs. She was basically in an empty apartment. She was delighted to receive these items but the best part of the story follows. As a result of the SSM ministry to her physically needs she felt the need to get her spiritual needs met as well. She asked me to contact a church because she wanted to go that Sunday. She remembered a church that came to the Mission and she wanted to go to that church. This was the City of Refuge Worship Center. The City of Refuge did pick her up and she went. We were able to assist one of our Manual High School students with food and a bike. We also helped a senior citizen by assisting her to receive new glasses. This lady is also involved in our ALPHA classes.

[from Senior Pastor Frank Winfrey's monthly report] Eric Robinson was shot early in the morning on April 20th while he talked on the phone on his front porch. It is believed that two young men walking on the street were the ones who opened fire with a 9 mm semi-automatic weapon. They peppered the Robinson's home with 5 shots; one of them hit Eric in the back of the head and dropped him to his knees instantly. His mother, Geneva, heard the shot and ran to the front, but could not get out the door because Eric was lying in front of it. The paramedics came and Geneva was sure he was dead, but he started breathing again and battled to live. Miraculously the bullet had passed from the back of the brain and out the side of the head. He has slowly shown improvement. This shooting was the impetus for our 24 hour prayer service to ask God to intervene in the violence. We had over 60 people come and be a part of this. God moved in many mighty ways and I believe we will be hearing of more good things in the future. I have heard that one church has committed to go to a site of violence and pray there right after the act. For us one powerful response that took place was when the doctor told Geneva that her son would never walk again based on the movement that they had seen in the two weeks since the shooting. Geneva very politely thanked the doctor but then said I do not accept that. 45 minutes later a nurse came running in to the waiting room and said Eric has just moved his arms and shrugged his shoulders. This took place during our 24 hours of prayer.

[from Shelter Director and Chaplain Linda Butler's monthly report] Many of the NPC residents were able to enjoy the Annual South Side Mission Banquet because of clothing donated by Catherine's in Peoria. There was one client who had not been able to wear dress for 15 years due a physical impairment problem. To her amazement there was a beautiful black dress that fitted perfectly. This client also graduated with her GED from Peoria Public School's Adult Education program and proudly wore her black dress to celebrate.

From Shelter Director and Chaplain Linda Butler's monthly report Case Manager Amy Dooley reports: "Pam" came to us from southern Illinois. The 22-year-old had been involved with heavy use of alcohol and marijuana. Pam decided she was tired of her lifestyle and wanted to get away from it. She could not find an opening in her area. However, the doors were open at SSM. Her family drove her from Mt. Vernon to the mission. She was nervous, scared and excited. She cried for 24 hours. She eventually settled in and within the first week she gave her life to Jesus. She grew in her faith and pursued her dream for a better life. Pam stayed with NPC for 40 days, then left for Job Corps in Chicago with a new identity in Christ Jesus. Before she left, she wrote a note for SSM: "I would like to send an extended 'thank you' to the staff and board for having such a well-rounded facility and caring ministry. This mission has blessed my life beyond belief and helped me find the life in Christ that I have been looking for for a long time. I honestly believe that without the South Side Mission I wouldn't have found 'my way' towards such a promising future. Thank you so much?and God bless you all."

From Mission Mart Manager Matt Sommer's monthly report An alcoholic we've been ministering to at Mission Mart shares that he is now 4 months sober! From Senior Pastor Frank Winfrey's monthly report During our ALPHA retreat held June 9 and 10 at Camp Kearney, we had an awesome move of God in the life of one of our members: Barbara Miller. She just said that when she came to the retreat, she was stuck with some hurts from the past and her devotional life was being affected. She felt stuck in her ministry and in bondage from events of the past. God began to set her free. She responded with tears of joy for the work of God. I especially appreciated her honesty and it really helped to cement in people's mind that God had been at work in our midst. PTL. She still speaks to this day of that retreat and what God did. She came on the "Open Door" radio program and testified to this.

[from Camp Kearney director John Theien's monthly report] We serve some tough kids from tough backgrounds at Camp Kearney. We have seen hard hearts that dared anyone to see through their disguises. We have seen the disguise taken down to see of the hurt that causes it to come up in the first place. And we have seen healing begin through the love of Christ. Several teens have shared how they were raped when they were younger and that God is helping them. We have seen angry kids who see the bitterness that is causing their anger turn to God for forgiveness.

[from Kings Kids Day Care teacher Melissa Bowden's monthly report] Since coming to King's Kids, Brody, 3 1/2, has really grown. When he first came to us, he grunted and whined for things instead of taking, was terrified of the toilet and refused to do anything or try anything (dressing, hand washing, putting on shoes, etc). Brody became my special project, and now he is sitting on the toilet, changing his own pull-up, putting on pants and shoes, washing his hands, and using words to express himself. He has also started to sing Jesus songs here as well as at home. Brody's family has commented on how much better he is doing here than they ever thought he would. He has blossomed into a great kid.

[from Senior Pastor Frank Winfrey's monthly report] It was nice to see " April's" boyfriend come with her to the mission for the Sunday night service on July 23rd. Rev. Peter Belski was our featured speaker for the evening. He speaks a lot in jails and nursing homes. He shared a thorough overview from John 3 and then issued a challenge to receive Christ. He asked for a show of hands. "Chris" raised his hand. Rev. Belski asked him to come forward. Then in front of the congregation he asked him to repeat after him a sinners prayer. "Chris" did that. The following Sunday morning "Chris" was there without "April!" He nodded at every point. He was poring over the scriptures as we read them. He then came back Sunday night with "April." I was able to give him some more follow up material and a book by Patrick Morely, Seven Seasons for the Man in the Mirror. He read about a 1/3 of a chapter before he left the building. I am so encouraged to see him take off in their relationship with the Lord and see what a sincere commitment he made.

[from Deacon Craig Williams' monthly report] We have helped several families this month through the external ministries and the Adopt-a Block. We were able to bless one of our families from a block adopted by New Hope International Ministries (NHIM). The wife of this couple is pregnant and was in need of baby items. On one Friday evening, Phil and I helped a woman who had some baby items that she wanted to donate. We were able to bless this family with a baby swing, stroller and also new newborn clothing. They also received a new fan which was greatly appreciated. They were so overwhelmed that they cried and gave us hugs. What a great witness to God's provision and care for a family in need. We were able to pray with the family before we left and asked God to bless then with a healthy baby.

Stories through July 2006