Wheeler Mission's Blog

I love working at Wheeler Mission.

My wife and I recently hosted a lunch at the mission for some of our newest staff. Each person shared how they came to work at Wheeler. I know of no place else where you find people from such diverse backgrounds.

One gentleman was as a missionary in South America for more than 25 years. He has five grown children – two of whom have returned to South America as missionaries. He now continues his life of service at Wheeler which includes outreach to our Spanish-speaking guests.

Another worked at Lilly for more than 30 years. When the company downsized, he took an early retirement. He never thought he would be working at a mission – but now here he is!

Then there is the young man who was raised by a single mom, struggled with drug use, was involved in a gang and drug dealing, lived a tough life on the streets – and now has been transformed by the power of Christ and is living a godly, productive life.

It’s so great to rub shoulders with these fellow employees. Yes, I love working at Wheeler Mission!

Rick

Labels: working at a mission

As I write my blog today, I am in not so sunny San Diego, CA. I say not so sunny because while I have been here, rain and strong winds have been a daily occurrence. It has actually been warmer in Indianapolis than here. I am attending the Christian Leadership Alliance national convention. It is the first time I have been to one of the Alliance’s conventions for probably over 10 years.

The general sessions have been outstanding. We’ve heard from Ken Blanchard, William Graham Tullian Tchividjian (grandson of Billy Graham), Major Jeff Struecker (Army Chaplain), Captain Gerald Coffee (Vietnam POW for 7 years) and others. Leon Williams sang at each one of the general sessions and was wonderful (I even bought his CD. Ask my wife, I never do those things!) Between general sessions, there were 128 workshops to choose from. It is also a time to renew some old friendships. Around 20 people from our rescue mission network are attending as well.

Although it is good to get away and get renewed, it is great to get home a loving wife and family. Saturday, May 1, our youngest son graduates from Indiana Wesleyan University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (anybody out there know of any jobs for him?)

Until next time.

Rick

I had an interesting experience a few days ago. I was the sole male among a dozen women who enjoyed lunch together! These ladies are on staff at Wheeler Mission and work at our Center for Women and Children. It was so encouraging to see their excitement and dedication. They are committed to help the guests at the Center in every way possible. From the Learning Center Director who is working diligently to find educational mentors to help several ladies earn their GED, to the Food Service Director who trains the clients working with her in the kitchen in proper kitchen practices, to the staff member in charge of the moms who come to the Center and equips them with parenting skills. These are a great bunch of ladies and I am honored to work with them.

Please pray for the more than 20 ladies who serve on staff at the Center for Women and Children. Pray for wisdom, grace, physical strength and health, and a growing love for God. I am incredibly thankful for these ladies!

Rick