TODAY WE CELEBRATE! We are filled with gratitude to our Lord and Savior and to each one of our friends, family and partners. Greenhouse Project started a small dream many years ago and now, we see evidence of the Lord's provision and transformation in the City of Chester. So many individuals and families have been impacted and influenced through the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

I still remember praying and talking with Emily about stepping out into full time ministry in Chester. COVID had just hit in 2020, churches were closing, and ministries in Chester closed their doors. In a time when most places were closing, God was calling us in to start. We were wondering what to do. Does this even make sense? We were not sure. But by faith, we trusted God’s leading and made the decision and in a way only God can do, he brought us a peace that surpasses all understanding. We are still on that same journey today!

God has helped us flourish in a time when so much around us is struggling. We have seen and experienced horrible tragedies and heartbreaks, and sometimes in the same day, experienced great highs of joy and celebration. We have learned to take our lives moment by moment, day by day and live life to love our neighbors and Glorify God. That is why we are here. Not for ourselves, but for the Lord and to serve our community. So this year I wanted to share a few lessons God has taught us over the last year specifically.

People move. As much as I love things to stay the same, people move out and things change, It is a reality for all people. Myself, Emily, and our kids become attached to those who live around us and it never gets easy losing friends. We get used to having kids in our programs, friends for Church and people to talk to in our community. But the lesson to remember is to love people around us each and every day as if it is the last time we will see each other. Our community has faced many challenges and tragedies. No matter what, we love our community, and will always love our neighbors even if they move on!

Need of leaders. We cannot do ministry alone. The longer we live and serve in Chester, the more dependency we have upon God's power and a need for partners. Jesus was surely right when he said, “ The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” Each of our programs is growing and thriving which raises the need for new volunteers and leaders to serve in the ministry. As we go forward we are praying for new leaders to be raised up, to love the Lord and to love people in Chester.

Jesus Never Changes. Hebrew 13:8 states: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” We are continually reminded of this truth. That no matter what we face, He is always consistent in His character and faithfulness. He will always provide, always love and we can completely trust Him. Because of His character, our community has come to trust and depend on us. What a great privilege we have in ministering God's love and grace to a broken world. THANK YOU LORD!

Let's recount how the Lord has moved us forward and the impact of your support in Chester. All prayers, volunteer time, shared meals, home church fellowship, events we hosted, financial gifts – have added up, by God's grace, to continued growth as we renew our community with the heart of the gospel. We are so grateful for you.