New Hope Delivers Hope to Ladies at the Hope Center

The “Prayer Pal” program at New Hope Free Will Baptist Church is making a difference in the lives of the women at the Hope Center.

Just ask Chris, who received a card from her pal on her birthday—the only card she got that day. “I was so surprised when I opened this card wishing me a happy birthday from someone I’d never met,” says Chris.

The Women’s Ministry at New Hope was looking for ways to give back when they came up with the idea to “adopt” women enrolled in the Mission’s life-recovery program. Each lady that wishes to participate selects a name from a list of women enrolled in the program to become their “Prayer Pal.” These ladies are adopted for the entire duration of their program, which normally lasts seven months. Periodically they will send their pal a gift bag with goodies, a card or correspond with them through the mail.

Prayer Pals Offer Encouragement

“Many Hope Center guests don’t receive any mail,” said Paula McClure, Hope Center Resident Advocate, “so a letter of encouragement or favorite snack from a prayer pal goes a long way in giving these ladies hope.”

 “I wanted to mail a letter home but I didn’t have any stamps,” Chris shares. “Imagine my surprise when I opened a card from my prayer pal and 4 stamps fell out. She answered my prayer!”

“Our church feels a special bond with these ladies,” said Joanna Caira, President of the New Hope Women’s Ministry. “Our church has been doing this for a couple of years now, and really are enjoying the opportunity to serve our Lord in the process.”

Diane’s pal surprised her with some goodies after being at the Hope Center for only two weeks. “I was floored,” says Diane, Hope Center guest. “Her letter gave me the encouragement I needed. I’ve saved each and every card and when I’m down, re-reading them gives me hope. ”

You Can Make a Difference

If you or your church is interested in “adopting” a lady at the Hope Center, please call Rollie at 615-312-1576.