Many people go on foreign mission trips to serve those in need. Meanwhile, members of Good News Chapel Christian Reformed Church in Walnut, Calif., have been helping children right in their own neighborhood.
For the past four years, a group of about 10 women and men from the church have been meeting monthly with groups of preteen and teenage girls in foster care to show them the love of Jesus. The girls live at Maryvale, a child welfare facility run by the Roman Catholic Church.
“What I love about being involved in Maryvale is that we are able to obey the teachings of Jesus right here in our backyard,” said Angie Oh, one of the ministry organizers. “There are so many children here in the U.S. who need to know the love of their heavenly Father. These girls have so much hope, joy, and love, and it’s an honor to be a part of their lives.”
Fellow organizer Annie Kim agreed. “I didn’t know there was an organization like Maryvale so close to home that fosters young girls on a larger scale,” she said. “I've been on overseas mission trips, but I really wanted to serve and share Jesus’ love in the local community.”
The program offered by the church includes a wide variety of activities, including craft projects, games, and sports.
And it’s not just those served who benefit. “I have been so privileged to serve Maryvale and to have been given the opportunity to participate in the lives of such wonderful and loving children,” said volunteer John Pyun. “My time there has given me a deeper understanding into the riches of God’s love for us as his adopted children. It has been an amazing experience to be able to share his love with those at Maryvale.”
About the Author
Tracey Yan is the Banner's regional news correspondent for classes British Columbia North-west and British Columbia South-east.
