Some changes come when we least expect them, and some come after much discussion and prayer. Such is life when it comes to change, both the expected and unexpected give us an opportunity to see God at work and trust in His leading. Some changes are exciting and some are not so, but both have the opportunity for good when we have faith in God and follow His leading. (Romans 8:28)
Most of us are experiencing unexpected change because of the COVID-19 virus. In a very short time, most of Oaks required programs, such as Celebrate Recovery, Church Meetings, Bible Study, Counseling and Sewing Classes have been cancelled. This change we did not expect. Therefore, we have had to make changes and we have requested that our Managers lead regular, formal Bible Study Classes in house. Both homes are at full capacity and all of the women are employed and working hard toward financial stability. Only one of our residents has lost their job because of the COVID-19 restrictions. Our Board has agreed to suspend the program fees of any resident laid off because of COVID-19 until they are back to work. We are doing our best to be part of the COVID-19 solution and we are striving to implement all suggested lifestyle changes such as washing hands more frequently, disinfecting more often and social distancing as we pray for a healing in our land and continue to trust in our God. This is another opportunity for our residents to see God at work in their lives and the lives of those around them. (Philippians 4:19)
After much discussion and prayer, our Board made a planned change to our program that we think will help us serve our residents better. Our Board decided to change our program from a 12 month program to a 9-18 month program which consists of 3 (3 to 6 month) phases. We are excited about this change as each phase has goals to be completed before moving on to the next phase. This also gives our residents the potential of another 6 months to work on Christian growth as well as financial stability. (For a description of the 3 phase requirements, visit our website at oxfordoaksministry.com Click on “House Policies and Application” at the bottom of the Home Page. There you will find a PDF of our House Policies which includes a description of the 3 phases)
We are still searching for a 3rd Oaks Ministry Home. We have had 4 calls this past week from women looking for a program that supplies housing and we have had to turn them away for lack of space. Ideally we would love to be able to purchase a building in which to house more than 4 women. If your church owns a home and would be interested in partnering with us in a rental lease, please make us aware. If you know of a home that may be available for sale or rent at a very reasonable cost to be used for our purposes, please contact us at 484-368-7268. We pray for God’s will, done in God’s way, in His perfect timing, therefore we have peace as we continue to trust in Him while following all leads.
We are still looking for a Sewing Assistant, Ministry Photographer and Event Coordinator. There are many ways you can volunteer to help us do what we do. Visit our “Volunteer” page on our website or contact our Volunteer Coordinators for more information. John and Judy Federoff at 610-283-6920
Normally our ministry plans a Spring Event to raise funds for the ministry. As of now we have made no plans because of the current restrictions. We want to thank those of you who have sent in monetary donations. Without faithful donors like you we could not do what we do. If you desire to help us financially, you may send your tax deductible donation to: The Oaks Ministry, 290 Bethel Road, Oxford, Pa 19363
Please know that you are in our prayers as I hope we are in yours. Our current prayer is for a peace that surpasses all understanding to guard your heart and your mind as you deal with the COVID-19 changes and concerns. We know that trials come so that we can learn to persevere and perseverance must finish its work so that we may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1: 2-4) Therefore PRESS ON for the best is yet to come for those of us that love the Lord!!
Jesus Never Fails!!
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