The month of March for me began with a short run along the bluffs in
Carp, where springtime was in the air with daisies and other wildflowers in
bloom all around. It’s a gorgeous time of year which reminds us of two things
in particular: first, that new life is always possible, and second, that the
seasons of our lives are always changing. Each of these reminders pertains
to our work in Carpinteria. We have gone from a blank whiteboard in a co-
working space in Santa Barbara one year ago, to an impacted outreach
ministry, backed with doctoral research, an amazing leadership team and a
starter facility in downtown Carpinteria, today. We are beginning to see new
expressions of energy and optimism by the community at large. Most
importantly, we are seeing the kids who work with us truly discover a new
passion, a developing sense of purpose, and a place they want to be present
during the afterschool hours.
The big question is one of expansion. The model wants to grow, but what is
the wisest approach? Do we seek to replicate our program in other
communities with local partners? Do we consider how the model might
provide a new lens for local churches to serve communities? Or do we
broaden our offerings in Carpinteria, keeping the entire ministry local? Or do
we pursue higher-level work on a societal issue? For instance, now that we
are working with survivors of commercial sexual exploitation, we are enraged
and motivated to posture ourselves to be part of the fighting this problem on
a larger scale and in collaboration with other agencies. These questions are
blessings to be given, and they are serious questions with real consequences,
so we intend to steward them well and wisely. In the meantime, what is most
important is to continue developing and establishing this ministry in Carpinteria
as a long-term sustainable ministry that serves Carp youth. And we are on
that road, by God’s grace.
We need your support in prayer, encouragement, connection, and even
monetarily (if you are interested in supporting us, you can click the button below) as we seek to expand. I am so grateful for all who continue to join
us in this work. Easter is coming, and the dawn of a new day will remind us
that one day all our suffering and the suffering of the kids with whom we
serve, will be laid to rest in the restoring presence of the Resurrected One,
who turns our mourning into dancing.
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