We are experiencing exciting and challenging times at Roseland Christian Ministries (RCM). Exciting, because new leaders and new programs are beginning to emerge at RCM. Challenging, because the issues we seek to address are fierce and are often slow to change.   

I would normally prefer to share a story or testimony from Roseland, but today I believe that time would be better spent mentioning a few small but significant activities that reflect the excitement at RCM: 

• Our Women & Children’s Shelter continues to bring comfort to young women and children as well as help equip the mothers with the tools to find jobs and more permanent housing. Last year alone we housed hundreds of women and children and were able to locate apartments and jobs for many of them.

• The Homes Corporation, a sister ministry of RCM, is again becoming a vehicle of transformation for real community transformation. We have purchased an abandoned house across the street from Roseland Christian Reformed Church, located a few people who are interested in moving into the house, and are preparing to hire a full time construction manager this summer to coordinate this  housing project as well as future projects. Volunteers are beginning to come and work on the house. 

• We continue to receive support and encouragement from friends who have been present with us for over thirty years, but we are also beginning to receive support and encouragement from the children and grandchildren of our friends who have been with us from near the beginning.

There is much more exciting news to share about RCM. We hold an annual spring banquet to share the good news of God’s people in Roseland with the broader community that supports RCM. It is a time to celebrate the multitude of gifts that we share. At the banquet we will take a brief look back at the history of RCM as well as celebrate the present.  Join us on this night. Reserve a table and take some friends. There is no cost.

The banquet is April 24, at Georgio’s in Orland Park, IL. Doors open at 6:30. 

To reserve a ticket or a table call Mary Houtsma at (708) 331-7193.     

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Peace,

Joe Huizenga
Cheerleader/Story Teller/Stewardship Agent