March/April 2007

Build Hope - Following the example of Jesus the carpenter, Amor Ministries provides educational and mission experiences that seek to eradicate spiritual and physical poverty in Mexico and to change the lives of those who serve. Find out more about the ministry of building homes in which Preston Pouteaux was involved and through which he discovered God's mission to care for the poor.

Casey's Blog - Learn more about Casey Robbins' amazing 100 Nights of roof-sleeping to raise awareness of and money for the homeless. Great stories and photos!

Coping with HIV/AIDS - Learn how some people with HIV/AIDS choose hope over despair, allowing them to be "Full of Life."

Dealing with Stepparents - Explore ways to deal with the family dynamics and with all the feelings that accompany the addition of a stepparent into your family. Also, check out the helpful facts, myths, and FAQs about stepfamilies from The National Stepfamily Resource Center.

Graham's Plays and Blogs - Learn more about Graham Douglass' experiences on stage and about what he has learned from acting.

Improve Your Self-Esteem - Whether you are looking for the nerve to go on stage or for a huge boost of confidence, explore the reasons we sometimes experience self-esteem problems and try these practical ways to improve your self-esteem.

Jesus in Poverty? - Do you see Jesus in the faces of the poor? Robert Roth says, "Poverty is an issue of faith. Jesus thought of each person -- rich or poor -- as sacred and worthy of God's unconditional love. Jesus calls his people to serve others by offering them the love of God. [And] Jesus shows us how we are to treat the poor." Read the entire article and check out the ways you can help.

Meditate on Psalm 28 - Read this psalm as a prayer, reflecting on what God may be saying to you. Or use the spiritual practice of Lectio Divina to help you pray the scriptures.

Teens on the Street - Read "Stories of Hope" written by teens who lived on the streets until they discovered Covenant House, an adolescent care agency serving homeless, runaway, and at-risk youth. Begun over 30 years ago when six young runaways were given shelter from a snowstorm on the lower east side of Manhattan, Covenant House now has programs in 21 U.S. cities and Latin America. Each year, the national and international programs of Covenant House help over 77,000 young people to find safety, shelter, food, and someone to talk to.

Under the Overpass - Pick up this book by Mike Yankoski at your local library or bookstore and be challenged by the faith story of two college students who chose to be homeless on purpose, living six months on the streets of America. Also, check out the book review by Nate Combs, a devozine reader and writer. Once you read the review and/or the book, visit www.undertheoverpass.com to connect with others who have been touched by this story or to find a list of rescue missions where you can volunteer.

Working through Abuse - If you are (or if someone you know is) being abused or abusing others, find helpful information and websites in this article by Jim Still-Pepper, a therapist who works with youth and their families. Also check out "Abusive Relationships" to learn the signs of abuse and ways to help yourself or others.