Major Kathy brings to us the story of THE HOUSE

Major Kathy

For 36 hours over the Christmas period, the house, which had been donated for the purpose by a local couple, was home to fifteen homeless men. For those of us who have a regular ministry to these marginalised people, it was an answer to prayer. To Rod and Theresa, who managed the project, it was also the fulfilment of prophecy. Here is the answer to What are the advantages of buying a home versus building one? and why people prefer renovation rather that buying it.

The locality

The whole thing began with the offer of a property which would be warm and safe. Its owners were keen to provide some comfort at Christmas for homeless people, and contacted me to enquire as to whether I knew any people who might benefit from such an offer. Fifteen invitations were given, fifteen were accepted.

Rod and Theresa Ray

Rod, Theresa and Ray agreed to supervise for the whole period that the house was occupied. We set about organising food and other facilities. The house had a shower that could be used, but we would need to find towels… I had been given about 20 decent quality second hand towels some months earlier. We would need turkeys…. A local man who provides goods for us to distribute every Christmas informed me that he would be donating 2 turkeys this year. We would need Christmas decorations….the same local man had already given a box of lights, etc. that were surplus to his requirements. We needed a television…3 were provided by members of the Corps. A further request to the Corps brought donations of money, sponges, crackers, hats, gloves, socks and underwear, all from individual donors.

On Christmas morning each man received a Christmas stocking, filled with small gifts, again made possible by the generosity of people within our Church. The men were overjoyed, and repeatedly voiced their thanks to all concerned. The fifteen who were resident were joined by approximately 20 others for dinner on Christmas Day, and a great time was had by all.

Rod, Theresa and Ray were asked again and again what motivated them to give up their own Christmas to serve in this way, and each was able to testify to the grace of God, and His power to change lives.