A New Year Blessing

Renovation Update: As you can see by the picture above, the completion of the drywall is moving along quite nicely! We are so thankful for all who have helped in any way with this renovation, and are very excited to see it progress so nicely.


As the girls have been returning to the Teen Home after a few days at home with family for Christmas, we are happy to share a couple of praise reports.

~ One of our girls came back after almost a week away from the Teen Home, and passed her drug test - praise God! When I asked her how she accomplished that, she gave all the credit to God!

~ Another one of our girls is coming out from hiding behind baggy clothes; she knows God loves her just the way she is!

Lord, as the New Year begins, we come to You and ask for your blessing.

We pray that You would give us Joy to fill our days;

Peace to fill our hearts; and Love to fill our lives.

We also thank you for the plans You have for us in the new year.

Thank you for all of your prayers and support in 2009; we pray that 2010 is a year filled with many more blessings for you and your families.

Celebrating His LOVE at Christmastime. . .

Prayer Requests:
~ Pray that the gift of LOVE from God above flows abundantly in the hearts of everyone, especially the girls from Agape as they go home to spend time with their families.
~ Pray that the girls will be able to share what they’ve learned about walking in LOVE with others, and witness to those in need.
~ Pray for the renovation work to continue after Christmas, in God’s timing, towards completion.
~ Pray for the staff and volunteers to have a restful break from school, and that they enjoy their time with family and friends.
~ Pray for good health for everyone.
~ Pray for peace and good will to flow abundantly.
~ Pray that the girls know God’s forgiveness . . .

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32


Praise Reports:
~ The girls are setting an example for others, and speaking the truth in LOVE.
~ The girls at Agape are truly seeing the LOVE of Christ all around them through the gifts they received from all of you who donated. The picture above is from our school Christmas party last Friday; and they are holding their new stuffed animals.


Wish List/Needs:
~ Napkins
~ Chicken
~ Ground Beef


Ways you can help:
~ We are in need of volunteers to:
• Tutor a couple of hours a week at school
• Do a physical activity with the girls in the Home after school on Wednesdays
• Lead worship with the girls in the Home on Wednesday evening


Renovation Needs/Update:
What would you like for Christmas? Praise God for all of you who have responded so beautifully to our appeal letter /‘Wish List’ with generous donations! As the kitchen moves towards completion, we are still praying for the commercial-grade appliances required by code. To review this letter, go to our website (www.agapehouseforgirls.org); click on the ‘Help This Ministry’ tab, and you will see a link for the letter.


Jesus is our light and salvation; may His light shine within each of you.

Joy to the World . . .

Prayer Requests:
~ Pray that the girls will continue to grow closer to Christ, and depend on Him for their emotional needs.
~ Please pray for the girls over the Christmas break that they turn to God and spend time with Him each and every day while they are away from school.
~ Pray that the girls know who God is.

“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love, lives in God, and God in him.” I John 4:16 NIV


Praise Reports:
~ From tears to laughter, God is faithful.
~ The girls are ‘acting out’ what they are learning about communicating with one another instead of ‘acting out’ and exploding at one another – many blessings in the area of growth here!
~ As some girls are going through medication reduction, they are using their newly-learned coping skills instead of self-harm.
~ Almost all of our grocery needs for the Teen Home have been met through donations.
~ Another one of our students accepted the Lord as her Savior – praise God!


Wish List/Needs:
~ String Cheese
~ Cream Cheese
~ Yogurt
~ Milk (preferably 1%)
~ Paper Plates (large and small)
~ Ground Beef
~ Chicken


Ways you can help:
~ We are in need of tutors who have a couple of hours a week to come encourage and assist the girls through their school work


Renovation Needs/Update:
~ What would you like for Christmas? Thank you to all of you who have already made donations in response to our October letter for the renovation process. To review this letter, go to our website (www.agapehouseforgirls.org); click on the ‘Help This Ministry’ tab, and you will see a link for the letter.

The renovation work continues to progress; we give God praise and glory for all of the volunteers; what a beautiful gift to give!


“God has given us these times of Joy.” Psalm 81:4

Peace on Earth

"Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace and good will toward men."
~ Luke 2:14

Prayer Requests:
~ Pray that the girls find a sense of peace with God.
~ Please continue to pray for everyone's health; we are definitely seeing the girls get past the colds and flu.
~ Pray for the girls to feel God's love for them as they think about the time they will be home with their families for Christmas.


Praise Reports:
~ With all the area schools closed on Wednesday due to the snow, the girls who live at Agape Home came up through the tunnel to school with smiles on their faces! Kelly noted that they worked hard that morning, too.
~ The staff and volunteers who were able to come to school on a snow day are appreciated by all (and now that the girls know that Kelly has 4-wheel drive, snow days are a thing of the past)!
~ We are so grateful to the company that takes care of our snow removal - what a job!
~ The girls at Agape School continue to press in to God and persevere to overcome the obstacles that have held them back in the past.
- One of our students recently said "It really does feel good to do what you are supposed to do." How awesome is that? God is so good!
~ We are very grateful for all of the volunteers and staff who stepped in to fill Kelly's position while she was away last week, and quite proud of the amazing reports we have heard about how well the girls did while she was gone.
~ Praise God for all of the food that was donated to the 8th Anual WSLD Freezing for Food Campaign and distributed to area food pantries, as well as Agape House.


Renovation Update:
~ Now that the drywall work is progressing, and the kitchen cabinets are being worked on, the next major phase will be purchasing appliances. If you would like to contribute in any way towards the expense for the commercial-grade appliances we'll need to meet our code requirements, we would love to hear from you. We'll need (2) refrigerators and dishwashers, a microwave, and a 6-burner stove.


Wish List:
~ Fresh fruit and vegetables
~ Chicken and Beef


"And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God. Moreover let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance develops maturity of character. And character produces joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us."
~ Romans 5:2b-5

Delight yourself in the Lord . . .

At this time of year we are so busy preparing for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, and I think it is good to remember while we shop for gifts, prepare Christmas cards, bake cookies, etc., that God knows the desires of our heart. “Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

Praise Reports:
~ The girls returned to school after their 4-day weekend, eager to be here.
~ We are grateful that God has provided some rest periods for various staff at this busy time of year.
~ One of our girls is starting to break through some significant issues, and is starting to break the ice and talk a bit.
~ Praise for the life of Doris Loven, Sandy Heinitz’s Mom, who went to Heaven on Tuesday, the 1st of December. Please continue to pray for Sandy and her family to have strength and patience as they go through the process of grieving the loss of a loved one.
~ Praise for the donation of LOTS of fresh fruit today
~ Praise for the elves who have been decorating Agape House and School for Christmas


Prayer Requests:
~ Pray for good health for everyone, as we have had some colds going around.
~ Pray for safe travels for all who are out and about, especially with the return of winter weather.
~ Pray for the girls at Agape to truly know God's love for them.


Wish List/Needs:
~ Canned soup for the girls to heat up when they are not feeling well
~ Tea in a variety of flavors including "Organic Lemon Echinacea, Throat Coat" by Traditional Medicinals


Renovation Needs/Update:
The drywall has been hung, and the taping has begun! The kitchen design for the cabinets is in the works. We are so grateful to all who have offered to help achieve the completion of this renovation in any way. If you are interested in helping, please give us a call.

What would you like for Christmas? Thank you to all of you who have already made donations in response to our October letter for the renovation process. To review this letter, go to our website (www.agapehouseforgirls.org); click on the ‘Help This Ministry’ tab, and you will see a link for the letter.



“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

What are you thankful for . . .

This is the question we asked at Agape this week; here are the responses we received.

~ I am thankful for the struggles and challenges because of how this makes us hunger for Him more.

~ I am thankful that Jesus Christ is my Savior, for my husband Paul, and our sons and their families. I’m thankful I can trust in the faithfulness of God. And I’m especially thankful that I can help at Agape House.

~ I am thankful for my true friends that I know will always be there for me, mostly my sister. Also, a relationship with God is so rewarding. I know He will never get mad at me for stupid things, and He loves me unconditionally.

~ I am thankful for friends to wake up each day and know that loving, caring people, sent by God, are in my life and are going to be there for me. I love to see their beautiful expressions; to be in their presence is just awesome.

~ I am very grateful for my parents and brother because they’re absolutely wonderful, and they put up with my unique sense of humor. I am also grateful for the people that haven’t given up on me and encourage me to do my best in everything I do.

~ I’m so thankful for everyone at Agape; you all rock. I love my family, and am so happy for them and all of my pets and friends.

~ I am thankful for my family; I love them so much. I am thankful for all of my friends, books, music, poetry, art and writing, and so much more.

~ I am thankful for my dog, Melvin - he’s my best friend. And also for my siblings and friends; for a roof over my head, a bed to sleep in, and food to eat. Can’t forget my parents.

~ I am thankful for Ria, even though we fight, its never about anything dumb. I’m also thankful for friends that don’t degrade me, or think that they are better than everyone else because that’s not a healthy relationship. I’m also thankful for my Mom and family; they help me out a lot. Also, medicine and music, because they cure.

~ I am thankful for my family, my sisters Ava and Lean, and Brianna, even though she’s not a part of my family for real. I am thankful for my brother and for the love and healthy relationships I have with my besties, and Megan and Gerrick.

~ I am thankful for the love of God and family; the healing I’ve received this past year; the joy of the journey and the refining process; the splendor of His goodness and glory, each and every day; and the privilege of being a part of His work at Agape Home and School.

~ I am thankful for God’s love, joy, peace and grace; friends, family and co-workers, and God’s provision.


Prayer Requests:
~ Pray for the families we minister to over the holidays, as this can be a difficult time of year for so many people.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4

Rejoice in the Suffering . . .

Prayer Requests:
~ Pray that the girls will draw strength from God, not old coping mechanisms, as they work through the recognition of their healthy and unhealthy behaviors.
~ Pray for our new students as they adjust to many new routines and changes in their lives, i.e., eating habits, sleeping schedule, wake up time, following through on things they need to do, and pressing in to draw closer to God, especially if they are new to this.
~ Pray against the spiritual warfare we deal with at Agape every day, some days worse than others.
~ Several students are starting to deal with some difficult issues; please pray that they continue to work through them.


“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.” I Peter 4:12-13


Praise Reports:
~ The girls are working through their individual issues.
~ The girls are recognizing healthy and unhealthy behaviors – beautiful things are happening.
~ The students are making it through the day without any outbursts; and they are speaking to one another with respect and are really sincere in the way in which they are communicating their thoughts, feelings and emotions. Once again, we were blessed with some heartfelt acts of forgiveness this past week - grace in action!
~ It is so beautiful to watch the maturing process, and the love being shared as they grow in their relationship with our Savior, Jesus.
~ The commitment to this ministry of our faithful volunteers is tremendous – love in action – Glory be to God!


Wish List/Needs:
~ Chicken (whole or cut up)
~ Ground Beef
~ Pasta
~ Fresh Vegetables
~ Fresh Fruit
~ Juice
~ Milk
~ Lunch meat for sandwiches
~ BBQ Sauce
~ Electric Can Opener
~ Crock Pot
~ Thank You note cards
~ Christmas Cards
~ Blank note cards
~ Stamps
~ $5 Gift Cards from fast food restaurants

Volunteers Needed:
~ Tutors and Readers to help our new student(s)
~ Computer database entry needed a few hours a week


Renovation Needs/Update:
What would you like for Christmas? Thank you to all of you who have already made donations in response to our October letter for the renovation process. To review this letter, go to our website (www.agapehouseforgirls.org); click on the ‘Help This Ministry’ tab, and you will see a link for the letter.

We are still in need of youth groups or young adult groups to scrape linoleum; thank you to all the groups who have already helped (YEAH – we are half way there!)

We’re also in need of dry wall mudders and tapers – if you know of anyone interested, please have them contact us.


Our faith is the VICTORY that overcomes the world – just BELIEVE!

The Gift of Hope . . .

Agape School has been blessed with many learning opportunities outside of the classroom, and the trip they took this week was no exception. They visited the Supreme Court of Wisconsin, and sat in on a live court hearing. The girls asked such wonderful questions, and answered respectfully when called upon. Their behavior was superb, and they were even invited to sit on the court and have their picture taken with Justice Prosser! An experience like this outside of the classroom is one that gives these girls hope that they can make a difference in this world, and that it is worth it for them to pursue their dreams.

“Show me your ways, o Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are my God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:4-5


Praise Reports:
~ Last Friday the girls teamed up with the residents at Inspiration Ministries to wrap gifts for Operation Christmas Child. One of the resident’s said we were “stuffing the boxes with love”. I’m not sure who was blessed more by this event, the girls or the residents at IM. In addition, the girls took skirts they had sewn earlier this year that will be sent along for the women in Africa; they were very colorful, yet practical!
~ The girls worked hard to help with the Barn-Load of Fun event last Saturday evening; what a blessing to share this time with all who attended.
~ The girls did an awesome job helping to serve a Thanksgiving dinner at Southern Lakes Evangelical Free church on Sunday. They worked very hard at serving before and during the meal, and they all really worked hard at clean up. We received many appreciative notes from church members about the girls work.
~ Paul tells us to speak the truth in love, and we are happy to report that our girls are modeling this all-important means of communication. They also continue to think about how they respond to people; there have been several heartfelt apologies this week!
~ The volunteers and staff at Agape House and School are INCREDIBLE!


Prayer Requests:
~ Pray for the girls to find their hope in God; hope for their day-to-day situations, as well as for their dreams for the future
~ Pray that the girls come to know who they are in Christ “In Him we live and move and exist.” Acts 17:28
~ Pray for our new girls who have just started at Agape, or are yet to come here


Needs:
~ Sandwich bags for lunches
~ Aluminum Foil
~ Waxed Paper


Volunteers Needed:
~ Tutors and Readers to help our new student(s)
~ Computer database entry needed a few hours a week


Renovation Needs:
What would you like for Christmas? We recently sent out an appeal letter in the mail with this question as the lead paragraph. We would ask that you prayerfully consider how you might respond to this request to help complete the living quarters of our Teen Home. If you did not receive the letter, please go to our website (www.agapehouseforgirls.org) and see it attached on the ‘Help This Ministry’ tab.


“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” Colossians 1:9

Perspective from our Resident Assistant. . .

In the picture above, the girls are practicing line dancing for Saturday night.



The following paragraph was written by our Resident Assistant for the Teen Home; and it should give you some insight as to what it is like to have ten teenage girls in one home. These are her thoughts on serving in this ministry.

The girls are such a joy to work with. Of course, they are not always a joy to be around because they have their moments like we all do, but watching them grow is amazing. If I am remembering right, every girl currently living in the Home has decided that they believe Jesus Christ is their savior. It was not that way at the beginning of the year. That alone brings a huge smile to my face and to my heart. To know that I can be a part of these girls learning the Gospel, some of them for the first time, and truly understanding what it is all about. I have built good relationships with them all. I love being able to just listen to them when they are struggling with something. When they are sad, mad, depressed, happy, or even exploding about something, I love to be a person they can come to and talk about it, say what they need to say and figure out a rational way to deal with their feelings. I have seen all of them overcome some sort of obstacle, whether big or small, and I have only been here one quarter (9 weeks) so far. I am truly thankful God has called me to work at Agape House.


Prayer Requests:
~ Pray for discernment for the staff as to when to press on and when to back off with the girls.
~ Continue praying for each of the girls; as you can see by the praise reports below, your prayers are being answered


Praise Reports:
~ One of our girls helped an adult accept Jesus as her Savior
~ Two girls who left Agape School at the end of last year decided to return this year.
~ One girl commented that she’s starting to feel good because she’s learning and taking responsibility for her education, and she likes school now. When asked what she would like for a treat to reward her for her hard work, she said, “I don’t need a treat for doing what I’m supposed to do.”
~ One girl made it through the entire day without a ‘blow-up’, and even joined in on the morning walk with the other girls. Also, she completed her goals for the day for the first time ever this school year!
~ For the gift of laughter; we’ve had a blast this week!
~ For our faithful volunteers and the staff working together beautifully
~ For our senior volunteers and all their energy


Needs:
~ Sheet protectors (couple of large packages) for our PACE Score Keys
~ Diary of a Teenage Girl by Melody Carlson for our school library

Weekend Events:

Barn-Load of Fun – Last chance to sign up for this event is by calling and leaving a message at 262-275-6466 (no more e-mails) by 12 noon on Friday, November 6th.



This will be a night of information, testimonies, food, dancing and fun (yes, in a barn)! The event takes place on November 7th, from 7 to 10 p.m., at the Seth Hansen Farm at W2644 Loveland Road, Elkhorn (between Bowers Road and Hwy. 120). The cost is a donation of $10 per person; payment will be collected at the door.



If you’re out enjoying the beautiful weekend, stop by The Lodge at Geneva Ridge November 7th and 8th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and visit the Women Entrepreneurs Shop & Spa Holiday Boutique. Admission is free; Agape House will have a booth there with two items being raffled. Services and products represented at this Boutique include items such as jewelry, cosmetics, candles, clothing, purses, Christmas wreaths, chiropractors, etc. So treat yourself to some fun and stop by at W4240 State Road 50, Lake Geneva (f/k/a Interlaken). Donations are being accepted to support Agape House.


By the grace of God . . .

Agape Angels visit Angel Museum . . .

Last Friday, the 'Agape Angels' visited the Angel Museum in Beloit. This museum is located in one of the city's historic landmarks, a Catholic church, which was slated for demolition. Joyce and Lowell Berg proposed that this building be used for their internationally recognized collection of angels and angel memorabilia, and opened their doors on May 1, 1998. The mission of The Angel Museum is to promote a unique and personal experience that stimulates and enriches the human spirit. We pray that our girls were enriched by this visit; the tour guides were absolutely delightful!

Prayer Requests:

Please continue to pray for all that is taking place at Agape House and School; we are seeing results from all of your prayers! We have a couple of specific girls we would like you to pray for as follows:

~ Pray that one of our girls will seek Christ in every aspect of her life, as she is being drawn to the wrong music, books, etc.

~ Pray that one of our girls will press into God and all that He can do for her, instead of the worldly ways.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:12

Praise Reports:

~ One of the parents made the following comment this week: "I am seeing the transformation in her face, her body language, and her attitude."

~ One of our faithful followers received good news from the doctor this week; their cancer is in remission!

~ Renovation Update: We were blessed with someone who worked on the plumbing this week.

~ Building Maintenance: We were blessed with someone who did some exterior priming/painting to touch up the windows. We were also blessed with a crew who installed siding on the front of the building, as well as a few other exterior projects that needed to be done.

Reminder: Make your reservations for our Barn-Load of Fun event. Help us share the miracles God is doing at Agape House by inviting your family and friends to a Barn-Load of Fun! This will be a night of information, testimonies, music, food, dancing and fun (yes, in a barn)! The event takes place on November 7th from 7 to 10 pm at the Seth Hansen farm at W2644 Loveland Road, Elkhorn (between Bowers Road and Hwy. 120). The cost is $10 per person; please call 262-275-6466 or e-mail agape7@pensys.com to make your reservations. Payment will be collected at the door.

Needs and Wish List: Please see previous entries

Peace and Blessings on your week!

Help us share the miracles . . .

~ Help us share what God is doing here at Agape House by inviting your family and friends to Barn-Load of Fun! This will be a night of information, testimonies, food, dancing and fun (yes, in a barn)! The event takes place on November 7th, from 7 to 10 p.m., at the Seth Hansen Farm at W2644 Loveland Road, Elkhorn (between Bowers Road and Hwy. 120). The cost is $10 per person; please call 262-275-6466 or e-mail agape7@pensys.com to make reservations; payment will be collected at the door.


Praise Reports:
~ We received a donation of a pork (a whole pig) from Sorg’s Meat Packing Plant

~ Watching the girls talk to one another is beautiful. Even in conflict the girls are learning to speak the truth in love, expressing themselves, and listening to their classmates. Communication is improving.

~ The girls were so appreciative of the field trip to Royal Oak Farm Orchard. The tour guides were very informative, the wonder of God's creation awesome, the fellowship in sharing all the delights of His handiwork - breathtaking. "Taste and see that the Lord is good." Psalm 34:8a

The girls were treated to a hayride around the orchard where they each were able to pick a pumpkin and an apple. In addition, they learned some interesting facts about the orchard. For example, did you know that you can tell how many bees pollinated an apple by counting the number of seeds it has? The girls also enjoyed the Petting Zoo and the Play Area, like little children (see picture above) – what a delight to watch!

“But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." Luke 18:16-17


Prayer Requests:
~ Pray for new students as the Lord prepares each child for a new school environment, as well as all the teachers, and especially our girls so that they welcome each new student to Agape School.

Wish List:
~ Non-perishable food items for the Home
~ Musical Instruments – Do you have a gently used saxophone for one of our girls that is musically gifted and would like to continue her study of this instrument?


Ways you can Help:
~ One of our students is musically gifted and would love to continue her study of the
saxophone. If anyone has instruments that are no longer being used, please consider donating them to Agape.

~ If you are interested in helping in any way with the renovation project, please let us know. We are still in need of finances for materials, appliances and furniture.

Waiting on God . . .

“Those who wait for the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” ~ Isaiah 40:31

Renovation Progress – While Phase I, II and III of the renovation work have been completed, the current living quarters for the teen home are less than ideal conditions. The gymnasium is being used for multiple uses, including the dining and living room for the girls. We’ve waited and prayed, wondering what God has planned, and when He plans to move this project forward with the final phase of renovation – the Sanctuary.

I am thrilled to say that our prayers have been answered, and God’s plans are moving forward! Many people have stepped forward and offered their services to get this project done – praise God!

On September 21st, the 1st annual Trifecta took place – a fund raiser for three local Christian ministries, of which Agape House was one of the benefactors. This was when we saw God begin to respond to our prayers. In a time when the economy is at its worst, at the end of the summer after many other golf outings have taken place as fundraisers, this event netted a profit of $13,675 to each of the three organizations! We are very grateful to all who contributed to this success, and would like to especially thank Geneva National for their support, as well as all who were on the committee for the Trifecta.

In the month of October, Agape House has been asked to speak or be present at local churches for their Mission weekends. It started at East Troy Bible Church the 1st weekend, where people who didn’t even know about Agape House came forward to support the work being done here. The next weekend, Pam Patterson was at Calvary Community Church, who has supported us very generously over the years in so many ways. And now we see God moving even more dramatically then ever before. How awesome it is to see the response to God’s calling – we are in awe!

[God] acts on behalf of those who wait for him. ~ Isaiah 64:4


Praise Reports:
~ One of the Mom’s of our students, Agi, volunteers at Agape School one day every week to do whatever we need to have done. In addition to making some fabulous meals for us, she loves to make herself at home in so many delightful ways. This past week, Becky, our house Mom, was surprised when she came to make dinner after Agi had been there, and found the kitchen sparkling clean and fresh - what a blessing!

~ Elkhorn Chemical will be assisting us with streamlining the cleaning of both buildings and providing the majority of our janitorial supplies – another huge blessing!

~ We are so thankful in the school for our ‘Friday Fun Days’ wherein we experience so many non-academic learning opportunities. The girls are working hard to earn these special Fridays and the benefits of our 4-day week is evident in many areas of the girls' education. Here are some of our extraordinary events:

1) In September, we had the pleasure of visiting the home of our ‘Pet Therapy’ teacher, Ava Von Koch, in Lake Geneva. The beautiful scenery, visiting all the horses, dogs and cats, and the wonderful fellowship with Ava, her husband, and Nancy Turner was a cherished time in the country.

2) Last week we were blessed with tickets for the performance ‘Of Mice and Men’ from the Arts4All Program at UW-Whitewater. This was a great learning experience for the girls, and we look forward to continued theatre opportunities.

3) We also had the privilege last week of visiting the David Weinberg Gallery in Chicago. The girls were treated to an exemplary tour of the gallery, enjoyed three photography artists' exhibit with the theme of Social Landscape. The girls and the chaperones enjoyed the tour and the train ride to Chicago.

~ In the Teen Home, Becky had the following praise report:
I am very proud of all the girls as they are truly working through the many challenges they are facing in their lives. It is not an easy task and it can cause much pain. Often times when someone is going through the healing process, it is found that they will lash out to those who are around them the most at that time. However, I see the girls using their coping skills quite well. Praise God - keep up the hard work girls!


Prayer Requests:

~ Please pray for healing for one of our volunteer teachers, Judy Kidder, as she receives a new treatment plan for RA.

~ Please continue to pray for Ava's husband as he battles cancer.

~ Please pray that the girls at Agape will continue to use their coping skills and trust in our Lord for healing.


Wish List:
~ Non-perishable food items for the Home


Ways you can help:
~ One of our students is musically gifted and would love to continue her study of the
saxophone. If anyone has instruments that are no longer being used, please consider donating them to Agape.

~ Please help us share what God is doing here at Agape House by inviting your family and friends to Barn-Load of Fun! This will be a night of information, testimonies, food, dancing and fun (yes, in a barn)! The event takes place on November 7th, from 7 to 10 p.m., at the Seth Hansen Farm at W2644 Loveland Road, Elkhorn (between Bowers Road and Hwy. 120). The cost is $10 per person; please call 262-275-6466 or e-mail agape7@pensys.com to make reservations; payment will be collected at the door.

~ If you are interested in helping in any way with the renovation project, please let us know. We are still in need of finances for materials, appliances and furniture.


“How great you are, O Sovereign LORD! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears.” - 2 Samuel 7:22

Reaping the Harvest . . .

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up”. Galatians 6:9

Fall is such a beautiful time of the year where we see the Glory of God’s creation as we prepare for the changing of the seasons. Agape House is keeping busy with a variety of activities this Fall, and it is such a blessing to get out and speak to people who have heard about what God is doing here, or who have never heard of Agape House, but are so glad they know about us now. God is so good, and His timing is always amazing!

JOYS:
We were recently blessed with the good news about one of our past students. She wasn’t at Agape School very long, but we could clearly see the gifts God has blessed her with. She is now at the Challenge Academy, and doing very well!

It is such a joy to get to know our faithful volunteers at Agape House and School, and see their willingness to give and serve here. They take time out of their busy lives to tutor, mentor, prepare and serve meals, clean, assist in the office, help with renovation projects, upgrade our computers, teach extra curricular classes . . . the list goes on and on – what a blessing!

Accelerated Christian Education (A.C.E.) is celebrating 40 years of ministry; and we are so grateful we are able to utilize their curriculum at Agape School. It is an educational program that offers individualized learning, as well as Christian character growth.

CONCERNS:
Please pray for one of our Agape girls who needs a reminder that God loves her right where she is at, and that she can do all things through Christ, and that she does not need to succumb to the beliefs of the secular world. Rather, pray that she will remember that she has been transformed by the renewal of her mind, and that she just needs to stand firm on her beliefs.

Please also pray for all of those who have left Agape; pray that they are willing to walk on water, knowing that Jesus is reaching out to them if they will just take hold of what He offers. “For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness – in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thought and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God.] Hebrews 12:11

Upcoming Bible Study – Liz King will be teaching about the new covenant, The Grace Walk Experience (by Steve McVey) beginning Saturday, the 18th of October. If you are interested in participating and would like more details, please contact Jan at (262) 275-6466 or via e-mail at agape7@pensys.com.

How can you help? Do you love working with pictures and putting them together to create memories? We would love to have someone come alongside our girls to oversee the putting together of our year book in a format on the computer that can be sent off to the printers towards the end of the year. We envision someone coming to meet with a group on a monthly basis as they gather together pictures from all that is going on here at Agape House. Please contact Pam or Jan at (262) 275-6466 if God is leading you to share your gifts in this way.

Enjoy this season of reaping, giving praise and glory to God!

God's got His Hand on you . . .

Those are tears of ‘LOVE’ you see on Hailey’s face in the picture above – love for our Lord, as well as the group that surrounded her that day! We gathered together last week at Agape House to pray for Hailey Burger, our first student at Agape School. Hailey was accepted into the YWAM program, and she departed for Florida last Thursday to begin a new journey in life.

Hailey was a pre-mature baby with significant health problems, including a mild case of cerebral palsy. When she came to Agape School, she had been failing in the public school. In fact, they considered her to be a special education student. Once she began the program we offer at Agape School, Hailey began getting A’s and B’s very quickly! God has gifted her with a love for children and people with special needs, and she has always dreamed of being a missionary. Now that she is at YWAM, she can begin the process of actually fulfilling her purpose in Christ!

“With all the lost and lonely people, Searching for the hope that's tucked away in you and me, Does anybody hear her? Can anybody see?” Hailey sang this song, ‘Does Anybody Hear Her By Casting Crowns’ quite often at the different events she took part in at Agape School, and we pray that she continues to search for our Lord and the Hope that he gives us, while reaching out to other lost and lonely people.

Please keep Hailey in your prayers; and we look forward to seeing her come back to visit us at Agape to share what God is doing in her life.


Praise Reports:

- Tina Dillman donated the Scientific Calculator we needed

- Huge praise report for the girls' work at VIP; we went there last Friday to wash wheel chairs for their clients. It was beautiful to watch the girls work tirelessly to help where needed and to also become friends with the people at VIP. I was honored to work with the girls on this project. It was an awesome day and a wonderful memory. Kelly Stech, Teacher

- I would like to thank everyone for the wonderful donations of fresh garden produce. This is something I had prayed so much about! Also, a big thank you for the donation that has allowed me to purchase items from my grocery wish list! I do appreciate everything that is donated to the kitchen for me to use in my meal preparation, but it is also very nice to be able to purchase the things I really “desire” to make our meals a bit “extra special”. Again thank you for the many blessings. Becky Lambiris, House Mom

- Thank you for all of our faithful volunteers!


Prayer Requests:
- Continued prayers for God to become real in each child's life.
- Prayers for their families.
- Pray for healing for Ben Patterson, and Pam’s Mom


Donations Needed:
- Two (2) Laptop Computers – We have been blessed with an expert teacher for a Computer class, which is an answer to prayer. We just need a couple more laptops so more can learn at one time.
- Size 1 sweat pants, slacks and jeans for a student


Wish List:
- Pizza
- Frozen vegetables
- Ricotta cheese
- Italian sausage (mild)
- Frozen Hash browns (cubed)
- 1 % milk, fruit juice

Upcoming Events:
- Barn-Load of Fun – Please help us spread the word about what God is doing at Agape House. This will be a ‘FUN, FALL’ event, and if you know people who are interested in learning more about the Agape House Ministry, please plan on inviting them for an evening of food, music and fun! Flyers are available that you can hand out to people as an invite. Contact Jan at the e-mail address or phone number listed below, or stop by the school (after Tuesday, 10/6) to pick them up. The details are listed below:

When: Saturday, November 7th
Time: 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Where: The Seth Hansen Farm (yes, it’s in a barn!)
W2644 Loveland Road, Elkhorn, WI
(between Bowers Road and Hwy. 120)
Cost: $10 per person
Due to limited seating, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. Please call (262) 275-6466 or e-mail agape7@pensys.com; give your name and number of people who need tickets. Payment will be collected at the door.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support; have a blessed week!

Where two or three gather . . .

“Where two or three have come together in My name, I am there among them.”
~ Matthew 18:20

As I reflect on the overall goal of The Trifecta Challenge, I believe this picture captures the essence of what took place at Geneva National Golf Course this past Monday. The golf carts bear a resemblance to God’s soldiers heading out to the mission fields to do His work. It started out as a foggy, dreary day, and the people who gathered together that morning prayed for the clouds to clear away and the sun to shine. God answered those prayers, and the soldiers enjoyed a time of fellowship while soaking up the warmth of God’s love on the golf course. These Christian soldiers then gathered together, along with others who joined in for this time of fellowship, to share a meal and raise funds with an auction and raffle for three very worthy causes in Walworth County. God must be very pleased at all who responded to His call to support these community organizations; a total of about $13,000 was received for each organization! Even greater then that, the Christian community of Walworth County gathered together to support the goal of building up Christians to live productive lives serving His name, and had fun doing it! We give praise and glory to our awesome God for all the blessings that will pour forth as a result of doing God’s work.

Praise Reports:

- Geneva Lakes Christian Church donated enough money to go shopping for everything on the food wish list last week!
- Millard Community Church donated a digital camera for the school to take pictures of those ‘precious moments’ for our yearbook, etc.!

- One of our students in the Home was saved last night at worship!


Prayer Requests:
- For one of our students to overcome withdrawal symptoms
- For each child to learn to COPE with their strongholds in life


Ways to Help:

- Renovation Work - we're looking for an electrician and plumber at this time

- Respite Care - Someone to offer to give our house parents and resident assistant an evening off


Donations Needed:

- Two (2) Laptop Computers – We have been blessed with an expert teacher for a Computer class, which is an answer to prayer. We just need a couple more laptops so more can learn at one time.
- Size 1 sweat pants, slacks and jeans for a student


Wish List:
- Beef and Pork – Last year about this time we were blessed with ½ beef and ½ pig, and we have enjoyed that blessing since then. The supply is getting low, and if anyone is interested in donating these again, that would be awesome!

Thank you for your continued prayers and support; have a blessed week!

Trifecta on Monday – You Won’t Want to Miss It!!!

There are so many ways you can take part in the Trifecta on Monday, the 21st of September, to help support Agape House, Army of One and ATLAS of Walworth County. Come enjoy a day of golfing in the beautiful outdoors at Geneva National Golf Club, or join in on the fun for the dinner and auction. Here are just a few of the items up for auction:

~ Condo in Grand Bahamas for one week
~ Home in St. Thomas for one week
~ Condo on Marco Island for one week
~ Party / Wedding Celebration at Geneva National
~ Bedroom Facelift
~ Social Club Membership at Geneva National
~ Curb Appeal Landscaping Package
~ Golf Outing for 24 at Lakewood Golf Club in Lake Geneva (Private course)
~ A Dozen Dates
~ Bears vs. Packers Ticket Package for December 13th
~ And much, much more!

For more information, contact:
Jennifer Myers
Assistant General Manager Geneva National Golf Club
jmyers@gnresort.com
262-245-7041


Praise Reports:

- Agape School received ‘Quality Status’ from A.C.E. They were very impressed with all that has been accomplished here!
- Our faithful volunteers are such a blessing, and we are so grateful for each and every one!


Prayer Requests:
- Prayers for each girl in being the girl God made her to be. We are beginning to notice
that some of the girls are trying to impress others with stories, etc.
- For the families of our students, in particular Paige’s Mom.


Ways to Help:

- Renovation Work - we're looking for an electrician and plumber at this time

- Respite Care - Someone to offer to give our house parents and resident assistant an evening off


Donations Needed:

- NIV Strong's Concordance

- KJV Strong's Concordance

- Older version of Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (at least 20 years old)

- Scientific Calculator


Wish List:
- Canned beans in a variety for making chili (please, not chili beans)
- Sandwich meats
- Cookies and crackers
- Snack size bags of chips for lunches- Bread
- Juice boxes (capri sun)
- Juices for drinking
- Kitchen sponges

May your week be blessed!

Trusting HIM

As we watch the leaves on the trees begin to turn colors, there is a great deal of activity taking place at Agape House and School. We are all filled with anticipation and excitement as we watch to see what God has planned for the next few months.

There has been some renovation activity in the Sanctuary (see picture below), and we are seeing the kitchen take shape with an island that is 23-feet long! Some cupboards have arrived, and there are electrical wires everywhere (we will not lack for electrical outlets)!

Kelly states that the girls are still in the 'honeymoon period', and we are enjoying their eagerness for all that we offer at Agape School. They are making the annual trek to Madison to visit the Villas Zoo today, and I noticed some of them acting like monkeys during lunch break yesterday; could it be they were thinking of their zoo visit?

Praise Reports:

- We are all feeling quite spoiled by the lovely meals that have been prepared for the girls and staff in school this week, as well as the blessing of salads and extra fixings that were donated by the LaGrange United Methodist Church, Whitewater (remnants from the Walworth County Fair)!

- Praise God for the gift of so much food for the Home, as well as school supplies and clothing. God is so awesome as each one of you respond to our needs.

- Another awesome gift was a 1997 Ford 15-passenger van from Faith Baptist Church, Walworth. It was so much fun to see the girls all climb in today as they headed off to Madison to visit the zoo.

- All of our faithful volunteers in the school have been getting used to their new routines, as they come each day to assist in whatever way we need; whether it be in the classroom, the kitchen, or with office work or cleaning.

- We are also very grateful for the volunteers from First Presbyterian Church, Harvard, who came two Saturdays recently to work on the renovation of the Sanctuary. As you can see by the picture, it is beginning to take shape!

Prayer Requests:
- That each of our girls, and their families will learn to reach out and trust HIM
- For God's blessings on the Trifecta fund raiser taking place on Monday, September 21st
- That God will use each one of us as a light in the darkness around us
- That God continue to provide for all of our financial needs for this ministry
- For blessings to pour forth for the staff, volunteers and their families

Ways to Help:
- Renovation Work - we're looking for an electrician and plumber at this time
- Respite Care - Someone to offer to give our house parents and resident assistant an evening off
Donations Needed:
- NIV Strong's Concordance
- KJV Strong's Concordance
- Older version of Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (at least 20 years old)
- Scientific Calculator

Wish List:
- Laptop Computer for School
- Digital Camera for School
- Gas Cards
- Gift Cards for Wal-Mart, McDonalds, Taco Bell, Subway, Burger King, Etc.
- Gift Certificates to go bowling

Thank you to all of you who pray faithfully for Agape House and School. There are so many needs, and we do see prayers answered here every day - God is so good!!!

Staff updates....

After four years with Agape, Tina Ferguson is leaving the position as Pam's assistant. Jan Baker is taking over as the contact person and Pam's assistant for Agape House while also overseeing the administrative duties of Agape School. Liz Pieters has come on staff as receptionist for the school. Karen Hinz is new to the classroom at Agape School as a Teacher's Assistant. We are also pleased to announce Sally Combs as our Volunteer Coordinator.

We have twelve students in the school, with 9 of them residing in the Teen Home. Teacher Kelly Stech reports that the first day went extremely well. The students all adapted to the new schedule and new faces quite readily. We are beaming proud of them ! If you would like to be involved with the School as a volunteer, please contact Jan in the office at 262-275-6466. We are currently in need of volunteers for the hot lunch program on Mondays. The time requirement is approximately 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Items needed:

Laptop for the Agape School for computer class

Toilet paper

Kleenex

Manila file folders

Colored 2 pocket folders

Photo paper

Grocery wish list:

Salad dressing (ranch is the favorite)

Butter

1% milk

taco seasoning

Pastas - 3 lbs. per variety

Tuna

Nacho chips

Frozen pizza

Can soups

Back to School

UPCOMING EVENT: Trifecta Challenge golf outing, dinner, and auction - Monday, Sept. 21

GENEVA NATIONAL GOLF CLUB

Visit the website for more info: http://www.gntrifecta.com/

Due to State licensing regulations, we are required to close down for two months during the summer. In many ways this is difficult, it is also a chance for our staff to step back, get some rest and reflect on the past year. As we enter into our third year at Agape School, we are excited to welcome back previous girls and welcome in some new girls.

Four girls graduated the program and will not be returning. Three are returning back into the Home and will be attending public school and one is enrolling with YWAM (Youth With A Mission) to become a missionary. As sad as it is to see these girls leave, we are blessed to see them go back home set free from the bondages they came to us with. Even though we know they will struggle from time to time, as we all do, we know that they can trust in Jesus to overcome those struggles. These girls have worked very hard and we are very proud of them.
Please pray for the girls who have left the program, for the ones who are returning, and the new girls who are coming in. We thank God every day for each of you !

Agape School is in need of a few volunteers:

An individual to come in on Wednesday night, once a month, and teach a craft or baking project

An individual to come in on Thursday night, once a month, and lead worship

Grocery Wish List:

Pasta

Tuna

Canned chicken

Peanut butter/Strawberry Jelly

Snack crackers

Salad dressings

Beans for chili

Laundry soap

Tortilla chips

String Cheese

American or Colby Cheese

Bacon

Whole or cut chicken

Sandwich meats

Sandwich baggies

Paper lunch bags

Toilet paper

Summer update

As I reflect back on this past school year and the first year of the Teen Home being open, we have much to be thankful for:

Our Teen Home opened in November
We had 12 girls reside in the Home
We opened a second classroom
We had 15 girls attend the school
We saw many girls be set free from addiction
One girl was set free from severe depression and anxiety
One girl overcoming a major eating disorder
Girls learning to deal with anger more effectively a nd getting to the root of their anger
Families being reunited
all of our girls learning more about their God
Many girls learning who they are in Christ
Most importantly we had seven girls make a commitment to Christ and now they have an eternity with Him. (All the other girls came to us saved)

Even though it has been a rough year financially and we have not always been able to pay our staff or all of the bills, we have seen God's faithfulness. As we continue to trust and depend on Him, He continues to meet our basic needs. But most importantly, our emotional and spiritual needs.

Because of state laws, the school and home shut down in June and will be re-opening in August. Please pray; we currently have a waiting list of eight new girls who want to come to Agape in August. In order to take on more girls, we need more finances to cover another teacher for the second classroom and a second counselor. Please pray for us and share with others what God is doing here. We thank you for your generosity. Without your faithfulness, we could never have helped the 15 girls we did this year.

Pam Patterson, Executive Director

June 4 Update !

Agape House received this card in the mail today:

"I've become friends with Tina Ferguson via Face Book. We have some mutual friends on there. It is through her that I have learned about Agape House. We were given random increments of money this past week at church and were told to bless those that God laid upon our mind. Immediately Agape House came to mind. I received $10 from the church and am matching it. I know it isn't much but I pray God is glorified and the news will spread about your ministry. Your sister in Christ, Jessica Robertson"

Jessica is from Ohio and she and I have become "friends" on FB through a common interest in the ministry of Grace Walk Ministries and Pastor Steve and Melanie McVey in Riverview, FL. I have heard about various churches doing this exercise of giving random amounts of money and asking congregants to give as the Lord leads. What a blessing !

We are so blessed that God moved upon the heart of Jessica to donate to Agape House and we wanted to share this story to encourage you that NO amount is too small and each child of God that He speaks to is a vital part of this ministry. We appreciate each and every one of you...from our faithful supporters that give whatever amount they can each month....even as we think back to the two crisp dollar bills we received during our capital campaign when God blessed us with the nearly half a million dollars required to purchase our current facility, in ninety days.

We were blessed by Cyndie DeVries and friends who have held a clothing exchange and for the second year in a row they have donated the proceeds to the ministry of Agape.

At our recent fashion show, a young girl walked up to our Executive Director and said she wanted to help the girls and handed her eight dollars that she had saved. What a gift !

Current Needs:

4" tubes of acrylic paint (Liquitex)

Blank note cards (card stock) for girls to make cards

Envelopes

Scrap booking materials, photo albums, photo album sheets

Gas cards

Thank you for your faithful love and support !

P.S. If you are a "Face Booker" Agape House does have a group you can join, to help spread the word about our ministry. We have been so blessed to now have supporters all across the country !

May 27th Update

Agape House is pleased to announce that you can now make donations with the use of your Mastercard or Visa. You can make a one-time payment, or set up a monthly donation. You can call the office at 262-275-6466 or email us at agape7@pensys.com to set-up payment.



Prayer Requests

· Finances for weekly expenses at Agape House and School
· God’s will be done in every aspect at Agape School
· All volunteers, staff and families
· Every student and their family
· Prospective students - we are now taking applications for summer and fall enrollment

Items needed

Toilet Paper
Paper Towel
Handsoap
Fresh fruit & produce
1 % milk
healthy snacks
band-aids
butter/margarine
cheese
eggs
jars of spaghetti sauce
mayonnaise
ketchup
fruit juice

Thank you for your faithful support and prayers for the ministry. We are excited to be wrapping up our second school term, and looking forward to two summer sessions.

Friday, May 15th, 2009

The missions program at Agape School has been getting to know what VIP Services, Inc. in Elkhorn is all about, and agreed we would like to do something for them.

The task that we could help them most with was the washing of wheelchairs for their clients.
We were told it has been about 2 years since some of them had this done. While this was not a very exciting task, the girls did it with enthusiam and caring hearts.

God provided us with a warm and sunny day on May 7th to do this task. We also took time out to eat lunch with the clients, which gave us a chance to get to know them a bit more. The thank you note we received from VIP indicated that the clients were "beaming with pride" over their clean wheelchairs!

Some of the girls in the Home have also been giving up a few hours each Saturday morning to help out with the food pantry at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Walworth. It is great to see the girls give back to our community with a willing heart! - Jan Baker, Agape School Administrator

We are asking for donations of some of the girls "favorite things", that we reward them with from time to time:
Razzle brand candy
Sour patch kids candy
Sour patch gummy candy
Starburst candy
Skittles candy
Cans or bottles of diet coke
Also gift cards in suggested $5.00 increments from the following; these the girls can use to purchase needed items or as incentives:
Target
Forever 21 (clothing store)
Gift certificates from King Dragon, China One, Moy's, or Su Wing's
WalMart, Burger King, Starbucks

The Teen Home is in need of the following:

Cheeses
Yogurt
Eggs
Milk
Toilet Paper
Paper Towel
Hand soap
Decaf coffee
Coffee creamer
Bandaids
Pledge

Dear Friends:

I felt the need to communicate with you today to make you aware of our current needs. So many of our friends and supporters have told me time and time again that I should let them know when we need help and how exactly they can help. We are in a challenging time financially in the ministry and need your help.
The truth is that during challenging times like these, we get more requests than ever for our services. We realize that you may be going through difficult economic times, and we have seen a shortfall in giving as many of our own families and supporters are struggling, yet we are grateful for even the smallest donation. For those of you who are blessed financially, we ask that you help make up the loss of those who have been unable to give. I want to give you an opportunity to help. If you are able and feel led, please help by giving a gift today. If you know someone else who might want to help us, please send this email to a friend and know that regardless of the amount of your gift, it is greatly appreciated. Your contributions can be automatically deducted from you checking or savings account, and we now accept VISA and MASTERCARD. Together we can make a great difference!

Thank you,
Pam Patterson, Executive Director

Agape Spring Fashion Show and Afternoon Tea - a HUGE success !

Much thanks to ALL who helped and to the following businesses for donations of clothing:

Fit for a Queen

Anne Klein

Jones New York Factory Store

Bradley’s Department Store

Clearwater Outdoors

Lola's

Strawberry Fields

Jewelry was provided by Jeannie’s Jems and the hairstyles were courtesy of Styles Unlimited in Walworth.

The following is a first-hand account from the event:

Did you see the transformation of the Agape Angels at the Fashion Show/Afternoon Tea on Sunday? This wasn't your ordinary fashion show. Rather, it was an event where you could see God's work as the girls gained confidence in who they are in Christ! This was a first-time experience for them to get up on a runway as a model in front of their friends, peers, and unknown guests. This was also an opportunity for them to worship God with their musical talents as they sang 'You Raise Me Up' while they were all dressed up like the princesses they are. It was also an inspirational time as a couple of the girls shared their testimonials and a song as to how God has truly transformed their lives since coming to Agape School. It is fun to imagine how this event will affect their lives as these girls go forward dreaming about their future.

Thank you hardly seems to be enough to say to all who contributed in so many ways for this event. Everything was beautiful, and the desserts were irresistible!

Agape House wishes to thank Calvary Community Church in Williams Bay, Mary Ann Kahl, Claudine and Larry Wells, Sandy Heinitz, Beverly Kummer, Steve Jensen, Gene Ingersoll, Adwoba Erzumiah for emceeing, the entire Calvary cleaning staff and the families of the Agape girls for helping to make this event a smashing success!

Request for Donations – As noted in an e-mail last week, we are in need of donations for the following basic items for the school and the home: toilet paper (only 6 spare rolls left – that’s one extra roll in each bathroom), 13-gallon garbage bags, Kleenex, and pasta (3 lbs. any kind). Please consider purchasing some of these items while you are out shopping. We are also looking for an erector set.....thanks !

April 15th Update !!

Agape Home and School for Girls to host Spring Fashion Show and Afternoon Tea at Calvary Community Church

The Agape House, a 501 ( c ) 3 home and school for girls located in Walworth will be hosting a Spring Fashion Show and Afternoon Tea at Calvary Community Church in Williams Bay on Sunday, May 3rd from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Fashions from Fit for a Queen, Anne Klein, Jones New York Factory Store, Bradley’s Department Store in Delavan, and others will be modeled by students, parents, and other supporters of Agape House. Jewelry will be provided by Jeannie’s Jems and the models will have hairstyles courtesy of Styles Unlimited in Walworth.
Tickets are available by calling the Agape office at 262-275-6466. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children under 16, and a discounted rate of $60 for a table of 8.

This makes a GREAT mother's day gift, or a way for your business or small group to sponsor a table and then invite friends !

Please pray for:

Wisdom for accepting new girls into the program - we currently have three in the application process

We are in need of respite workers to relieve the houseparents - can be an individual or a couple.

We are asking for donations of some of the girls "favorite things", that we reward them with from time to time:

Razzle brand candy

Sour patch kids candy

Sour patch gummy candy

Starburst candy

Skittles candy

Cans or bottles of diet coke

Also gift cards in suggested $5.00 increments from the following; these the girls can use to purchase needed items or as incentives:

Target

Forever 21 (clothing store)

Gift certificates from King Dragon, China One, Moy's, or Su Wing's

WalMart, Burger King, Starbucks

Thank you for your faithful prayers !!

We enjoyed a time of corporate prayer today, April Fool's...because we know that God uses the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. As we joined; staff, students, board members we just enjoyed the manifest presence of God.

We are so grateful for those of you that are the hands and feet of Jesus, as you minister to Agape through your faithful giving and prayers.

Current needs are as follows:

We are asking for donations of some of the girls "favorite things", that we reward them with from time to time:

Razzle brand candy
Sour patch kids candy
Sour patch gummy candy
Starburst candy
Skittles candy
Cans or bottles of diet coke

Also gift cards in suggested $5.00 increments from the following; these the girls can use to purchase needed items or as incentives:

Target
Forever 21 (clothing store)
Gift certificates from King Dragon, China One, Moy's, or Su Wing's
WalMart
Burger King
Starbucks

Again, these are incentive awards for achievement...as the girls progress in their educational, spiritual, and behavioral endeavors....we can bless them.

We also have a need for 8 to 10 Embroidery hoops for a class.

BLESSINGS !

March 18th Update

In the past month, we have seen many miracles take place in the lives of the girls. As you can see from the photos, God is moving. The bottom photo is from a recent Chapel where Kym Mack came and shared her testimony and then shared a time of worship with the girls. The fabric is symbolic of the girls placing themselves under the blood of Christ to receive healing. Then they moved to under the white fabric which symbolizes the righteousness and purity of Christ. It was a moving time of worship !

Thank You:

To all those who have provided and/or served lunches, including parents and volunteers
To all those who have cleaned the school, including parents and volunteers
To all those who have donated paper goods and food
To all those who volunteer in any way at Agape House

Prayer Requests

· Good health for all of the girls at Agape House (spiritual, emotional and physical)
· Finances for weekly expenses at Agape House and School
· God’s will be done in every aspect at Agape School
· All volunteers, staff and families
· Every student and their family
· Prospective students

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Sunday May 3rd - Agape Fashion Show - details to come ! Save the date !

Trifecta Challenge - hosted by Walworth Trifecta - which benefits Agape House, Army of One youth groups, and ATLAS of Walworth County - details to come ! Save the date !

WHAT A WEEK !

Last Friday, we celebrated Valentine's Day with an event that included gifts for the girls from Jesus, and a "spa day" provided by Sheila Osborne, a spa and relaxation specialist. This is her second year ministering to the Agape Girls and she has really blessed each of them.

At Thursday night worship, we had an awesome time of worship, culminating with two girls committing their lives to Christ. What was most exciting was that one of them was lead to the Lord by another Agape girl, who just gave her life to Christ back in October ! It is so exciting to see God moving mightily in these girls lives; seeing them ministering to each other.

So on Friday, we had a "Celebration" party to honor the two new creations in Christ !

And our teacher, Kelly, had to show the girls how it's done...old school ! : )

We are blown away by the power of our God to changes lives at Agape. We are excited to see what He is doing and we are honored to be called to share that work to the surrounding communities.

Today, we travelled to Calvary Community Church to share with the Prime Timers group there. What a wonderful and benevolent group of believers; they shared lunch with the girls, and then the girls shared testimonies and special music under the direction of the music pastor Tom Hilker. We were blessed by the company and the generosity of those who were there.

Prayer Requests: Good health for all of the girls (spiritual, emotional and physical)
Needs: Stamps, Photo Paper for occasional pictures we print out, Garbage Bags, Sanitary Products for the girls, and Toilet Paper

Also, please pray if the Lord would have you support Agape House financially. At this time of year, giving is typically lower and with the current economic climate we are also seeing a crunch.

If you would like a resource to share with individuals, we have a letter, called the Circle of Love which references the ministry here, and includes a testimony from a girl who lives in the home, and also includes a donation insert. You can contact the office at 262-275-6466 and we will send those out for you, or you can make arrangements to pick up copies of the mailing. BLESSINGS !

Immediate Needs for Agape

At this time of year, our donations fall to a lower level, but our expenses remain the same. Please prayerfully consider if you could provide any of the following:

Cheeses
Yogurt
Eggs
Milk
Arts and Crafts supplies of any kind
Toilet Paper
Paper Towel
Hand soap
Decaf coffee
Coffee creamer
2 clip on lamps for desks
$90 for Readmaster software
Antiobiotic ointment (Neosporin)
Bandaids
Pledge
6 copies of the book "The Shack" by William P. Young

Thank you for your faithfulness !

Also, please keep the School in your prayers. When new students are added to the classroom, it creates a range of different issues; please pray for these spiritual battles, for God to touch each girl as they find wholeness and healing in Him !