Coming Alive in 2025 at the Veterans Coming Home Center..P. 4
Lives are Being Changed in New Bloomfield....... P. 6
Discovering God is on my side... P. 7
Safe Houses Save Lives...P. 8
Everything kept going wrong...P. 9
Who are Living Outside...P. 11
A Single Message Told in Many Ways...P. 12
Praying with Power...P. 14
In the Storms of Life...P. 15
Doing Justice...P. 17
Jesus the Troublemaker...P. 18
Caring for All of God’s Creation...P. 19
Taking the Hands of a Hurting Person...P. 20
Why do the Homeless?...P. 21
A New Year with Great Possibility...P. 23
Who is New Life Evangelistic Center
New Life Evangelistic Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) church center composed of over 50 staff members and countless volunteers, all dedicated to providing effective support for the poor and homeless in Saint Louis and beyond. Founded by Rev. Larry and Penny Rice, NLEC has been headquartered in the Saint Louis area since 1972.
NLEC Mission: The mission of New Life Evangelistic Center (NLEC) is to provide Christian hospitality and respect for life through the services of food, clothing, shelter, education, and job training programs. As well as physical, mental and spiritual health care, to the poor and homeless in Saint Louis and beyond.
NLEC Values: New Life Evangelistic Center has founded its values on the love of Jesus Christ for all people, and especially for all who suffer from poverty, homelessness, addictions, and abuse. NLEC holds the following values in the highest regard: empathy, advocacy, empowerment, dignity, responsibility, faith, hope, and love.
Who is NLEC? You are! Through your prayers and faithful support, you are indeed a valued member of NLEC.
WANTED!
People Who Care How YOU can HELP
Every Day, New Life Evangelistic Center has daily Street Patrols where the NLEC First Responders go out into the streets to do Outreach. This involves the provision of food, shelter and direct assistance to the hundreds of poor and homeless people throughout Mid-America who come to NLEC for help. There are presently many ways that you can get directly involved.
• Circulate the New Life Zoa Free Paper 2.0 at your church and place of employment.
• Gather food, blankets, gloves, thermal underwear, coats, hats and boots for the poor and homeless and bring them to NLEC.
• You can also help with street outreach, taking emergency supplies to the homeless living outside.
• New Life Evangelistic Center receives no United Way funding nor any government funding. That is why your financial gifts to New Life Evangelistic Center are very important. Please encourage your church, place of employment, friends, relatives, and neighbors to also give to the work of New Life Evangelistic Center.
• Please pray. Your prayers will make a big difference. Remember in special prayer the full time staff of NLEC, along with NLEC’S financial needs and the many who come to NLEC daily for prayer.
• Make sandwiches once a week for the homeless and hungry or prepare personal hygiene care and weatherization kits.
The Fascinating History of the New Life Zoa Free Paper
Wow. It’s amazing to think the New Life ZOA Free Paper has been around now for 53 years. I think I could safely say that I was passing out ZOAs on the streets in St. Louis as soon as I was able to walk. I’d say, “Jesus loves you, can I give you a ZOA Free Paper?” and they’d say, “ZOA what’s that?” Then we’d explain that ZOA means ‘Life’ in the Greek New Testament. Since that time I’ve learned that ZOA must have been a street lingo departure from the Greek. The correct pronunciation is actually ‘Zo-aye’. The letters are zeta omega eta and the eta has the long aye sound. I guess after 53 years that’s neither here nor there now.
In order to illustrate what kind of paper ZOA is, I’d like to offer a brief glimpse into the history of The New Evangelistic Center. There were originally two papers when New Life started. One was for witnessing and the other was to explain the ministry and appeal for funds. Over time the two papers melded into one, becoming the ZOA Free Paper. NLEC began as a small community of mostly middle-class students who lived together and took classes at the New Life Training School. Later it expanded into a ministry to the homeless and poor, and in time much of the white middle-class membership bailed. I can’t honestly remember many white members in our community while I was growing up. By the 1990’s New Life had become comprised largely of single black men who’d joined the “program” to get their lives together. The ZOA Free Paper was a time piece that reflected this change. Early issues of the ZOA featured stories about receiving Jesus, street witnessing, answers to prayer, donations received, new buildings acquired, and further expansion of the work. As time went on ZOA expanded and the theme of social justice and people helping people came to the forefront.
While by the 1980’s other Christian Community street papers had turned into the full-fledged magazines or just faded away entirely, the ZOA Free Paper continued to be laid out on a long fold-up table in the “gold room” at 2107 Park Avenue in St. Louis. I remember rather vividly the layout process. My mom, dad, and perhaps half a dozen community members and or outside volunteers would be typing up, cutting out, or pasting down little pieces of the ZOA onto these huge white layout sheets (maybe 18”x48”). At first they used this big old photo-chemical machine they called “the headliner” to do the titles. It had big round plastic discs white large letters on them, a disc for each font, and you would spin the disc to
Continued on Page 10
NLEC Safe Houses for Women Are Saving LIVES!
Having nowhere to go when she was kicked out of her home, Dona found a new family with New Life Evangelistic Center! Now, she helps make sack lunches for the homeless and has found a new purpose and a deeper relationship with God. She says, “I’m so grateful for my new family and for God leading me to New Life Evangelistic Center!”
Shirley
Shirley was sleeping in a car before she came to a New Life Evangelistic Center Safe House. Grieving over the death of her son, she found compassion and hope in Jesus through the love of Christ shown to her at the New Life Evangelistic Center.
Mike, who has only one leg, was sitting on a curb on Gravois Avenue when he was found. After learning that he had been robbed the night before of everything, including his shoe, Mike was invited to come to the NLEC Residential Leadership Training Program in New Bloomfield. Since then, Mike has been growing in his faith as he lets the love of Christ flow through him into the lives of hurting and homeless people.
You can make a great difference in so many lives!
Andrea
Andrea came to New Life having been abandoned in St. Louis with nowhere to go and knowing no one to turn to. She says, “Having the opportunity to live in a NLEC Safe House and rebuild my life is more than I could have ever hoped for! God is changing me day by day and I am so grateful for this opportunity to grow closer to Jesus and help others!”
Dona
Mike
Coming Alive in 2025 at the New Life Veterans Coming Home Center
The New Life Evangelistic Center Veterans Coming Home Center is serving as a central hub for the crisis cold weather shelter system in Springfield, MO. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees additional space is made available in churches across the city and a cadre of volunteers step into action to shelter hundreds of homeless men, women, couples, and pets.
Through an agreement with the Community Partnership of the Ozarks, the NLEC Veterans Coming Home Center extends its own hours (after working since 7 in the morning)from 6 to 8:00pm. From 5 until 8 it serves as a station where people can receive food, use the restrooms, and board buses provided by City Utilities to be taken to the shelters for the evening.
Then they are brought back to the VCHC at 7am the next morning.
Because of your support and prayers NLEC is able to keep hundreds of people from freezing at night in the cold winter weather. VCHC believes in the power of prayer and knows that this faith-based ministry has been able to continue year in and year out because of the many faithful volunteers who have contributed their time and finances to see us through. Would your church or business like to get involved? We have many expenses including our monthly light bill, wear and tear to the building, and much more. By giving to this life-saving and life-changing outreach you can see the lives changed before your very eyes.
Hunger is a constant battle for the homeless.
Helping the homeless sign up for night shelter is a daily process.
Cold weather sleeping bags can save lives for those who are sleeping outside!
A safe place to sleep is vital to women experiencing homelessness!
Without Blankets, one can suffer frostbite or worse!
Boarding the Bus for transportation to shelter out of the cold.
“I left my family because they were enabling me to continue to use drugs. I am now sober and start my new job tomorrow! I appreciate all the help I get from the New Life VCHC, especially the warm showers and bus tickets, to get back and forth to work. God is still walking with me and will break my chains of homelessness!”
Jennifer
“I have two painful cancers that are attacking my body. I moved to Springfield after my mom passed, and even though I get a disability check, I cannot find affordable housing. I am now on a housing list and believe Jesus hears my prayers. In the meantime, the New Life VCHC helps support me while I am homeless. The New Life VCHC has been a tremendous blessing to me!” Jennifer
Kevin
“I had a severe stroke, leaving me partially paralyzed. I lost my job, my house, and my car. Being addicted to crack didn’t help either. Finally, I gave up the drugs. I appreciate the New Life VCHC for providing me with shelter, a warm place out of the cold. Please pray for my continued sobriety, as I pursue housing and physical rehab”
Kevin
The use of computers helps the homeless look for jobs, connect with family, and find resources they need.
“Opening Doors of opportunity for homeless veterans and civilians” is the theme of our capital funds drive in 2025.
The New Life VCHC is raising $50,000 to improve the state of the building at 806 N. Jefferson. Four new front doors are urgently needed for security purposes. In addition, the building needs new ceiling tiles, a new epoxy covered floor, paint to cover the graffiti on the outside walls, and to replace broken windows.
YOU can help by sending your gift to: NLEC Veterans Coming Home Center, 806 N. Jefferson, Springfield, MO 65803 or giving online at https://vchcenter.org.
Homeless –
A New Coat brings a smile!
A line of homeless men and women waiting to sign up for nighttime shelter.
Lawder
Lives Are Being Changed in New Bloomfield, MO
New Life Evangelistic Center provides the men who are homeless opportunities to receive shelter and training in New Bloomfield, Missouri. In New Bloomfield the men start each day with Bible reading and prayer to help them get on the right path with God. Then the men learn how to work together in many areas.
One area is with New Life Charolais Farms, where the men learn responsibility to feed and water the cattle. In addition to Charolais Farms, there is Missouri Renewable Energy which includes projects such as the Dome Home, Solar Energy, Wind Energy, and Earth Home.
New Bloomfield is also the location for the Here’s Help Radio Network. The radio station broadcasting into New Bloomfield KNLC feeds KNLH in Cedar Hill, MO and KNLN in Vienna, MO as well as KNLP in Potosi, MO and KMRF in Marshfield, MO. At the New Bloomfield training center, the homeless men have the opportunity to make a new start in life. As II Corinthians 5:17 says, “If any man be in Christ, they are a new creation, the old has passed away, and the new has come ” The Residential Leadership Training program prepares the homeless to develop skills to get and keep a job. Then, they will be able to help others who are down and out. In addition to morning devotionals, the Residential Leadership Training members have Bible Study every Sunday Morning and again every Wednesday at Noon where they learn how to let God guide them in every aspect of their lives.
Homeless, Hungry, and Jobless
“My reason for coming to New Life Evangelistic center was because of homelessness, hunger, and lack of finding a job. So, with the opportunity I took this time to get to know more about Jesus Christ and the Bible.
Since I’ve been here in New Bloomfield, Mo I have learned how to make greenhouses. I have learned about Free renewable energy and since I am a carpenter it helps me to know a bit about building dome houses. Just being able to help the animals has been a wonderful and new experience for me. Since I’ve been here, I feel safe and I’m talking to God more.”
Russell Halsey JR.
Coming Alive in 2025 in Missouri
9810 State Rd AE
New Bloomfield
Discovering God IS on My Side!
“I am 50 years young, and I had become homeless due to losing my job and everything I own. This was caused by meth and addiction to sex. I lived in hotels/motels with the money I got from the bank who bought out my lease.
When the well ran dry, a good friend of mine let me stay with him in Illinois. That was good for a while, but I was still addicted, lost and out of control.
I was asked to leave, and I had nowhere to go. I made call after call to shelters with no avail! So, on a whim I hit up Chris Rice on Face Book, we had attended grade school together but hadn’t spoken in probably 40 years. He answered me, and actually had a solution for me. He told me about the NLEC men’s program in New Bloomfield. Now I’m not gonna lie, I was apprehensive at first, but I realized, I didn’t have much choice. So, we planned for Reverand Ray to come pick me up and get me on a train to New Bloomfield. He picked me up on Friday September 27th, 2024, and got me my ticket and got my sorry butt on Amtrak. It was my first time on a train, and I enjoyed the ride but also during the 2.5-hour ride, I was wondering what I had gotten myself into. I arrived in Jefferson City, climbed off the train and 2 gentlemen were there waiting for me. It was Carl and Tony; they made me feel more at ease as we shared a little of our back stories. I felt better because I felt that they understood how I was feeling.
We stopped at the grocery store where I was given a $60 voucher for groceries. Well of course I went in there hungry and bought too much. I was about $30 over the voucher, so the cashier and I were taking things off and a man in line behind me said let me help, I’ll pay for the rest. I was floored. I shook his hand, and he said brother, no worries I’ve been where you’re at! Right then at that moment I knew God was there by my side!
Let me backpaddle a little. I’m no stranger to God. I was close to him before, but I had turned my back on him. So, I got to the NLEC farm and got into the house and got settled. The next few days were a blur. I slept a lot, and missed a 7 a.m. Bible study because I wouldn’t get out of bed.
I prayed to God; I asked him to clear the haziness in my head and give me clarity. God granted me that prayer, he cleared my head, gave me motivation and helped me get past my meth addiction. I felt like me again. I was up, attending Bible studies on time, doing my daily tasks and taking on extra. I do construction/ maintenance by trade and so I felt God wanted me to use my skills to help anywhere that was needed. I talked to Jesus, thanking Him for saving me and giving me a purpose again. I lived part of my life being a bitter, self-indulgent addict who couldn’t even make time for my daughter.
The bottom line is Jesus allowed me to lose it all, brought me to my knees to open my eyes so I would truly see what was going on.
Only by the grace of God, He saved me! I was able to save my relationship with my beautiful daughter, which I never thought would come to pass. He also has softened my stone-cold heart, allowing me to be more compassionate and hopeful. I’m getting better at reaching out, helping others putting myself last instead of first. These days I don’t feel hopeless, I have purpose again. I love doing maintenance and repairing things here, because I believe it gives everyone a better life and it’s these skills Jesus gave me. I move around the ministry as I’m needed, I don’t worry much about the future as that’s in God’s hands. All I know is that I’m thankful every day I open my eyes to see the sunrise cause that’s God granting me another day to be the best I can be.” Jeff
“Without my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I would not be here. I began the program at NLEC a couple of years ago. I have had challenges, but through the challenges I have grown closer to God. I am praying every day, reading the scriptures. The Lord has lifted the burden off my shoulders and eased my pain. Listening to the music, as I work at the Here’s Help Radio Network, my soul has mended. God heals the hurt, crushed spirit of man.”
Andre
Put
Out and Heart Broken
I became homeless because of issues with my family. I left San Francisco to help my grandmother. She lives in St. Louis Missouri. The problem I had was she didn’t allow me to take care of her. I think she felt embarrassed because I was more of a guardian to her than her mother and grandparents. I left everything to get to her and all she could worry about was her pride. When my mother came, I spoke about my issues respectfully and with care, but it made my grandmother lose it. She put me out and it broke my heart. I got hold of New Life Evangelistic Center in Overland. I was told to be downtown on Friday at a certain time and Rev. Ray made it very easy, very smooth and surprisingly welcome. I’ve been doing well here in New Bloomfield so far. The home I live in is comfortable, warm, and very clean with a nice touch of nature. I love Carl, our supervisor. He is amazing! He cares for me and always makes me feel protected. The program has allowed me Peace in many ways. I’m around farm animals, home is close to church, every second of my time here, I have for the first time in life real stability. I have time and space to take care of my mind, body and soul. Not to mention, become closer to God. He’s the gift that keeps on giving. Thank God, Praise the Lord and may He bring Peace to your soul.
Joshua Lichti
Andre
Safe Houses Save Lives!
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Matthew 7:7-8
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new”
2 Corinthians 5:17
I was homeless in Springfield, Mo. Where my son, Corey and I slept in my car. I would drive him to school each day then return in the afternoon to pick him up. After picking him up I would find a spot to park each night where we could sleep.
I tried every day, but never could get us in to the family shelter, it was always full. Finally, I took my son to a children’s shelter for homeless kids and I stayed at a women’s shelter.
During that time my car was stolen. After two months in the children’s shelter the state of Missouri contacted me and said it appeared I had abandoned my child and they then threatened to take custody of him. This really hurt me because I was doing everything I could to create a home for myself and my son.
During the day, I would go to job interviews, doctor’s appointments, or go to visit my son at the children’s shelter.
Then I met Reverend Larry Rice and his son Chris Rice at the Veterans Coming Home Center. Later, I found out that the Veterans Coming Home Center is a division of New Life Evangelistic Center in St. Louis. I talked with Reverend Rice and his son about the leadership training program and decided it was a perfect place for myself and my son, Corey.
Now my son and I have stability, a home, a vehicle, and are surrounded by a loving Christian community.
When I first came to NLEC I worked with Dulce in the development department and then began assisting with our social media department. Now I currently work as the Accounts Receivable Clerk, assist with social media as needed, and I manage one of the safe houses for women and children, and I provide transportation for some of the ladies staying at the safe houses.
God allowed the bad things I went through to provide a story of how He works for good in our lives. Now I love sharing my testimony of Christs’ love even when I was homeless. This shows how Jesus works through the lives of caring people like Reverend Larry Rice, the staff at New Life Evangelistic Center, and those who partner with New Life Evangelistic Center to help others like me.
Just a few of the women who are finding refuge at the NLEC Safe Houses.
Through the New Life Evangelistic Center Safe Houses, women are given the opportunity to have a safe place to sleep, they grow in their relationship with the Lord, and to rebuild their life from a place of brokenness to healing in Christ.
Caring people who support New Life Evangelistic Center make it possible for NLEC to be there when women and children are hurting and homeless!
Terry
Without NLEC I would have had nowhere to go
“A couple years after my Mom died I ended up losing our house due to unseen circumstances.
The day after my daughter and I moved out, I ended up in the hospital for couple of months from an infection. The day I was to be discharged, the hospital gave me resources and NLEC was one of them.
I called them and the next day I arrived and they welcomed me in.
Without NLEC I would have nowhere to go, I appreciate the help and resources available for me. I’m growing closer to Jesus every day from the Bible studies every week and going back to Church on Sundays. Thank you NLEC!!!!”
Taylor
by Gary Thomas Instagram:
New Life volunteers have helped families like Cherokees for over 50 years. Cherokee and her children, Cherrish and Sakye found shelter, love and the assistance they needed when they were sleeping in a park.
Caring people who partner with New Life Evangelistic Center help families like Cherokee with vital life saving needs when they need it most!
Everything Kept Going Wrong
“I became homeless because my health issues made it impossible for me to walk and work. I ended up having to leave my job because of transportation issues. I lost my vehicle in an accident. Everything kept going wrong and I couldn’t find my footing. I found out about New Life Evangelistic Cenenter when I googled “Homeless Shelters”, when I called for help to “Come on in”!
I have found safety, warmth, compassion, understanding, and a new family! I love the time we get to spend studying God’s Word and going to church on Sunday. My relationship with God is growing and I find myself wanting to grow closer and closer to Him.
I am so grateful for those who partner with New Life so that women like me can have a Safe House to stay in, and Hope for the future.”
Marsha
iamgarthoma
each letter you wanted and then pulled a big lever to imprint it. After waiting twenty or thirty minutes for the word to develop it would roll out on wet chemical paper which took another ten minutes to dry. Heaven forbid you misspelled a word! And believe me it happened a lot. Makes you grateful for the end of the twentieth century and the advent of the PC doesn’t it? I’m sure they were happy to see that thing go.
Given the kind of equipment they had at the time – typewriters, glue sticks, x-acto knives, rulers, and scissors, its little wonder the ZOA took so long to finish. It took about a week to lay out the ZOA paper, and it was a “burn”. Everything else stopped for my Mom and Dad so they could work day and night to write, edit, and paste down this little free street paper. If my sisters or I needed them for something we knew where to find them. Down in the “gold room”. Coming to bed at two or three in the morning or not coming to bed at all was not unusual for them during this time. The paper was particularly crucial to the life of the community before 1982 when Channel 24 went on the air. It was the only way churches, volunteers, and donors could see the work and learn about future plans for the ministry. More importantly, it showed many non-believers another side of Evangelism- the Word in Action. The ZOA was testament to a community based on Acts 2:45, exhibiting both the need and the need meter’s.
If you look at the early ZOA papers you would never think this little strapping community of believing do-gooders would ever set their sights on a ministry in television. They were trusting God for their next meals. They had very little regular support and they were living off the same donations and FDA foods they were giving their homeless guests. But as early as 1973 they announced in the ZOA that God was calling them into broadcast ministry. In 1974 an issue appeared featuring a picture of a baby laying on top of a TV crying. On the tube the words crime, porn, and commercialism were pasted. The caption read: “little Chris is crying because there’s nothing good to watch on TV”. And so began my own little foray into TV.
Over the years, no matter where I’ve been- in college, in Chicago or wherever, I still get inspired by reading the ZOA Free Paper. After reading it I feel thankfulness well up inside me. And I think it’s meant to do that. It’s like a little tribute to God’s work. The articles are written in such a way that they take the emphasis off the writer onto the work, as I look back over the history of the ZOA Paper, (which is even longer than I can honestly look back) I realize that the vision behind NLEC and the ZOA has been much bigger than the families, individuals, and volunteers that have been directly involved for the duration. History reveals that many of NLEC’s greatest achievements began quite accidentally. The ZOA is a testament to God’s faithfulness that even during the darkest hours in NLEC’s history. It proves that God can use just a handful of willing people to impact the lives of thousands for eternity.
The Zoa was published from 1972 to 2010. Last month it got a “reboot” as New Life Zoa Free Paper 2.0. We included much of the same testimonies and stories that readers have come to expect. It’s filled with news of what’s going on at New Life as well as letters from prisoners and articles about renewable energy and creation care. We’re excited about the future of the Zoa free paper. Please write to us and let us know what you think. You can also write us an email or engage with us on our social media sites. There’s now an app for your cell phone called NLEC TV that you can download for free and contact us that way.
Chris L. Rice, OFS
Prayer Walk
The prayer walk provides more than just physical exercise. It enables us to engage in a spiritual journey where we drop our worries, hurts, and false selves along the path as awe behold and thank God for the wonders of creation.
Whether it’s the yellow or purple wild flowers, the hickories or the oaks, the butterflies or the birds, the pond filled with life, oh wonders of his creation. Walking and praying in the midst of creation causes us to declare with the Psalmist in chapter 118 verse 1, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
By day our prayer walk enables us to thank God for the Sun and the light, and the warmth it brings to our lives. By night we behold the moon and the stars, lanterns God has placed in the heavens to guide us. Guide us as we pray and as we walk, our nose breathes in the fresh air, as our ears behold the sounds of creation. Everywhere our eyes witness the fingerprints of God as we touch and taste his beauty all around us. Jesus took his prayer walks with his disciples. He would teach them to drop their worries along the road and look up and behold the glory of the Lord. “See how the Lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you even Solomon in all his splendor was not dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith” (Matthew 6:28-30). by Larry Rice
“Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”
8:32
Hundreds of homeless men, women and even children who are living outside depend on New Life Evangelistic Center every day to help them in their time of need!
Angel stays warm as a result of the propane heater and blankets NLEC has given her.
The homeless that New Life is serving now urgently need blankets and sleeping bags. Please have a blanket drive at your church and bring them to:
2428 Woodson Rd in Overland or 806 N Jefferson in Springfield
For over 50 years NLEC has been going where Jesus is among the poor and homeless. Some lived underground like Larry and his dog. Please join us in helping them!
When it is below 30 degrees outside the unhoused will crawl under as many blankets as they can and layer on as much clothing as possible.
Homeless Encampments can be found all over Mid-America. Now New Life Evangelistic Center urgently needs blankets and sleeping bags. If you would like to help New Life as it directly cares for God’s precious homeless please call (314) 421-3020. Remember Jesus has told all of us in Matthew 25:40, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these you have done it unto me.”
A Single Message Told in Many Ways
by Chris Aaron Rice
Change is rarely easy. Over 53 years, New Life Evangelistic Center has experienced a lot of change. Every day brings new challenges, issues, and complications. When striving to serve the poor and homeless, these challenges are ever present and ever changing. The only One who never changes is God. He is the same as He always was and always will be. If God did change in any way, He would cease to be God.
For over 5 decades, NLEC has set their hope in a God who never changes. Another thing that never changes is the gospel. The good news of Jesus Christ is just as powerful to save mankind as it was when Christ Jesus lived, died and rose again. The hope and help it offers is still as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago. NLEC continues to serve the homeless after 53 years, because this ministry hopes in a God who never changes and spreads the same eternal message of the gospel.
Though NLEC’s hope and message have remained the same, the problems the homeless face have changed drastically over 53 years. When NLEC first began to serve in the early 70’s, most of the people struggling with homelessness were white, middle-aged men. Now we see an aging population of men and women from all backgrounds. Their lives are heart wrenching, as they share their trials and afflictions. Though the problems we face have changed drastically, God remains the same. “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God” (Psalm 90:2 ESV).
Though all of creation changes, God remains the same “from everlasting to everlasting. “Of old you laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will change them like a robe, and they will pass away but you are the same, and your years have no end.” Psalm 102:25-27 ESV Our God will outlast all that He creates. NLEC clings to the God that never changes.
Not only have the problems for the homeless changed. The culture in the United States has changed drastically from when NLEC first began to serve. Over 5 decades ago, people used to serve the poor out of a sense of duty and respect for all of life. As a culture, we recognized that it took a village to lift up an individual out of homelessness. Now NLEC is constantly confronted with NIMBYism (Not In My Back Yard). We can all recognize the problems the homeless face, but instead of striving to make it easy to serve them, we shove them
on. “Receive help, just not here,” is the attitude of most in our day
Constant political infighting from our leaders, and the clear polarization in politics also poses unique challenges. The love of many in our country has grown cold, as even the smallest differences break up our relationships. With so much fighting, it’s not surprising the poor and homeless are left outside. NLEC’s hope is placed in a God who does not change. “The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!” Psalm 33:10-12 ESV
Now, New Life Evangelistic Center serves in radically new ways. We have teams that serve the poor and homeless on the streets every single day of the year. These street outreach teams bring the message of God’s grace to where it is needed most. They spread the news of Christ’s salvation by extending His love in tangible ways. NLEC also disciples’ men and women in our residential training program. They grow closer to God as they work and learn with others. The street outreach and training program go hand in hand, as we evangelize and disciple men and women experiencing homelessness. God’s grace in the person and work of Jesus Christ remains the same yesterday, today, and forever.
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works” (Titus 2:11-14 ESV).
The problems and people we face will continue to change drastically. NLEC will change the ways we serve the poor and homeless along with these changes. What won’t ever change is God and His character as described in Scripture. NLEC’s hope rests on an unchanging God. The message of the gospel also won’t change. God intends to save all His elect through the message of His Son, Jesus Christ. NLEC’s hope and message will remain the same, in the midst of all this change, as we strive to spread the gospel with our words and actions.
How to Come Alive in 2025
1. ACKNOWLEDGE “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13). “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
2. REPENT “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3).
3. CONFESS “If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9).
4. FORSAKE “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord…For he will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:7).
5. BELIEVE “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:6).
6. RECEIVE “He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become sons of God, even to them that believe on his name” (John 1:11,12).
Why not make your eternal decision NOW: “Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, and I ask Your forgiveness. I receive You now as my personal Savior and invite You to manage my life from this day forward. Amen.”
7. ACT Now that you have received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, ACT on your belief and directly help the poor and homeless in your community. Jesus has told us, “The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’” (Matthew 25:40).
Praying with POWER
Powerful praying involves implementing four simple steps, all beginning with the letter “M.”
They are as follows:
1. Magnify God.
2. Mortify the flesh.
3. Minimize (simplify your lifestyle).
4. Maximize and manifest your compassion by serving your generation throug the love of Jesus Christ.
To magnify God and mortify the flesh means putting Jesus first and following Him in a relationship that drives and defines all we are and what we pray for. It reminds us that we are serving a person, our Risen Lord, and not a Project; a Savior and not a System. When Christ said, “Follow Me” in Matthew 4:19, He made an invitation to position Christ as our singular passionate pursuit in all things. When this happens, our prayer life will be revolutionized. We will discover that prayer not only changes things, but also that it will change us. As we get closer to God not only will the lines of communication open up, but Jesus will be further reflected in our lives as His justice, love, truth, patience, humility and power becomes more obvious in our daily lives.
As we magnify God and mortify the flesh, our lives will change from meaningless motion to lives where the motion has meaning because Christ is the center. Too much prayer is ineffective because it centers around meaningless motion which, if it were answered, will only ultimately create more motion in one’s life without meaning. To be effective prayer warriors we must just accept what Jesus says in John 14:6 when He declares, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.”
We can only pray and live when we live in Him. This means minimizing our lifestyles that accumulate what we think is essential for life. The fact is that when we die we will be leaving all this stuff behind. Why is it that we are so quick to become preoccupied by the “junk” to the extent that it frequently becomes the primary focus of our prayer life?
That’s why it is so essential to maximize our compassion. This will cause us to earnestly pray about the needs of others with the same earnestness as if the needs were our own. As we pray with compassion for others, we find our lives opening up in new and powerful ways to experiencing the infinite compassion that God has bestowed upon us by sending Jesus to die for our sins. This growing realization of God’s love for us will cause us to further magnify God by praising Him and thanking Him for all He has done. This in turn causes us to desire to further mortify the desires of the flesh and minimize our lifestyles as we reach out in compassion to others. Such an approach to prayer enable us to experience the power of prayer and answers to prayer that before seemed impossible.
by Larry Rice
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Are you looking for a change in your life? Have things just not been working out for you?
If so, then New Life Evangelistic Center has a Residential Leadership Training Program where you can build a New Life with Christ!
This is your opportunity to make a difference!
Write to New Life Evangelistic Center at P.O. Box 473, St. Louis, MO 63166 for further information. Please share information about yourself. This could be the start of a New Life for you with Christ!
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV
“God will never give you more than you can handle!” Doesn’t that sound great? This is a really popular saying in the United States. The assumption behind this statement is that a Good God would never allow or cause something so bad to happen to His children that they feel like they are about to die. If it is true that God never gives you more than you can handle, who will you turn to when you face a trial that feels greater than you can handle? The Bible offers radical hope, comfort and peace to people facing trials that are much more than they can handle.
The phrase, “God will never give you more than you can handle.” is based on a really poor interpretation of 1 Corinthians 10:13 which says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
In the context of chapter 10, Paul is urging the Corinthians to flee from idolatry. He uses examples in the history of the Israelite nation to show the very real dangers of idolatry. Then Paul exhorts the Corinthians to avoid sexual immorality, testing Jesus by sinning proudly, and grumbling against God. The temptation referred to in this verse is not the temptation to despair during a hard trial, but the temptation to worship anything other than Christ. God is faithful to maintain the purity of His children, when they are truly repentant of their sin. God has given us the Church to help hold us accountable to living a pure and holy life for Him.
1 Corinthians 10:13 is a rich theological verse that carries practical application for our lives today, but it does not say that “God will never give you more than you can handle.” In fact, in Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth, he testifies to a time when he despaired of life itself.
Paul was not a stranger to danger. All of his missions trips are stacked with danger at every turn. Paul faced imprisonment, beatings, a shipwreck, public humiliation, fear, hunger, physical pain and more. In his service to Jesus and preaching the gospel, Paul was second to none in being persecuted. He testifies to this by saying, “For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the afflic-
tion we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.” 2 Corinthians 1:8-11
The word affliction comes from the Greek word “Thlipsis” which means to crush or press together. The word was used commonly to describe pressing grapes to make wine. The idea is that the circumstance Paul and his team faced was so hard they felt crushed and utterly pressured. All their strength was spent, they had no more power to live. We can imagine the utter despair he felt as he sought the Lord during this particular trial. Cliche remarks about God never giving Paul more than he could handle are clearly untrue and unhelpful.
There are lots of ways to offer God’s comfort to hurting people and the method we use should change based on the situation. One of the most practical and effective ways to comfort others is to just be present in their affliction. The ministry of presence is powerful right after a tragedy has taken place. Words can feel meaningless when our bodies and minds are in shock. If you know someone who has just lost a loved one, or is experiencing incredible tragedy, try to visit them and be present. Another way to offer God’s comfort is to point the person suffering to truths in Scripture. This takes practice and care, because a poorly planned word can cause more grief than comfort. You can prepare to help people suffering now by spending adequate time studying God’s word. There are so many examples of people suffering and receiving comfort from God in the Bible. By reading the Bible regularly, you prepare yourself to offer truth and encouragement when others experience hardship. We know that God is a refuge for suffering people.
God is glorified most in the lives of His children when He delivers them from suffering. When others see how God miraculously delivers His children, they are amazed at the character and power of God. Despair is the natural reaction when we experience trials that are greater than we can handle. When God’s children respond to suffering by glorifying God, they draw nonbelievers to want to know the encouragement and comfort that Christians have in Christ. Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection on the cross is the greatest example of suffering and the glory that can come from suffering. Jesus, the sinless man, bore the wrath of God for you and me. He won victory over sin and death and lives eternally interceding on our behalf. When we suffer trials now, we are reminded of Christ on the cross and the glory he receives for his victory. Our suffering isn’t meaningless anymore. Instead, our suffering is used to shape us into the image of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the perfect image of God. The suffering and affliction we go through now is shaping us into the image of Jesus.
I don’t know where this message finds you today. If you are in the middle of a dark valley, I invite you to know the God who is a refuge. Trust in Him and not your own strength. If you are standing on the heights of a beautiful mountain, resting after a horrible trial, I invite you to glorify God for His deliverance and seek others who need comfort. If you don’t know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, I invite you to commit your life to him. He can understand what you are going through, because Jesus himself suffered while on earth. May the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort glorify Himself in you as you worship Him.
Chris Aaron Rice
NO BARS CAN CONTAIN SOMEONE WHO IS FREE ON THE INSIDE!
“I’ve spent 25 Christmas’s behind bars and each and everyone of then held a special memory of the people’s lives/paths I’ve crossed. No bars can contain someone who is free on the inside. Everyday is a new opportunity to inspire and bless those around us. No Matter what day of the week it is, we love God by loving His people - ALL people. May your New Year be blessed as you havew blessed those of us behind bars.
Yours in Christ, Brooke Blattner, Dickinson, TX
Woe is Me!
“I am 75 years old and need the assistance of a wheelchair. I also have some chronic care ailments. (I’ve been incarcerated 20 years).”
“Larry, you did inquire how does a prisoner cope. Alas, woe is me. (I am laughing!). I have found coveting less of the material world is helpful. A few friends, shelter, and an income. Ideally, a tiny home, a visiting living assistant and the renewable Social Security Disability Benefits. I feel like a burden, and that weighs heavily on me. I mean, how could I possibly make recompense for any assistance. Pride is one of my sins and I have difficulty being humble.”
Robert Cummings #9974
“Oh Give Thanks to the LORD, for He is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble.”
Psalm 107: 1-2
How we need to pray that the Christian community will be awakened to the need of justice at this hour! Medicaid cuts on top of ever increasing utility costs, those without adequate legal assistance locked up in growing numbers, the on-going destruction of affordable housing, the misuse of eminent domain where rich developers take the homes of the poor and struggling middle class – the list of injustices go on and on. “Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.” (Eph. 5:14) How we need Jesus to not only give us light in the ever increasing darkness of injustice, but also wisdom on how to deal with it.
“And will not God bring about JUSTICE for His chosen ones, who cry out to Him day and night? Will He keep putting them off? “(Luke 18:7) As we encounter injustice, we must never forget the importance of earnest prayer. Never underestimate the power of crying out to God day and night concerning the injustice you are aware of. I can’t help but recall the miracle resulting from the Missouri inmates who were being abused in Texas some years back. After they cried out to the Lord, a video was miraculously released showing this abuse, and before long the Missouri inmates were returned to Missouri.
As we pray, we must believe God and know that He cares about the issue of justice. As Psalms 140:12, in the Amplified Bible states, “I know and rest in confidence upon it that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will secure JUSTICE for the poor and needy.” When we pray we must also seek God as to what He wants us to do to address these issues of injustice.
The following individuals would love to hear from you and have requested a pen pal:
Charles Brown
#2230172 - Lynough 1098 South Highway 2037 Ft. Stockton, TX 79735
Jimmy Stephens #02443195 Lynaugh Unit PO Box 660400 Dallas, TX 75266-0400
Brooke Blattner #1001884 Cardie Young medical Facility 5509 Attawater Ave. Dickinson, TX 77593
Jeff Sheldon #D20502 Housing: 2B02 111UP PO Box 6134 Corcoran, CA 93212
Jon Tillman #3358778
M.O.C.C. Mt. Olive, WV 25185
Rondell Williams #152396
C/O Digital Mail Missouri PO Box 25878 Tampa, FL 33622-5678
Eric Mize, #1063768
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Dan Coffman #788247
The Alfred D. Hughes Unit PO Box 660400 Dallas, TX 75266
Jesus the Troublemaker
“Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you: therefore He will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of Justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!”
Isaiah 30:18
Christ’s compassion was a prophetic compassion, concerned with the social and theological causes of suffering.
Jesus refuses to put bandages on social cancers. He went straight for the cause. Have many in the church drifted so far from their Biblical and historical heritage that they feel such action is too radical?
In John 5, we have the example of the man at the pool of Bethesda who had laid there crippled for 38 years – No one cared enough for the man for 38 years to help him into the pool. But, Jesus cared – He told him to pick up his pallet and walk- (John 5:9) – At once, the man did this. It wasn’t long before everyone knew that Jesus had dared to break a Sabbath rule.
The establishment didn’t care about that lame man being there for 38 years. They just wanted to get this “trouble maker” Jesus.
It was not a mistake that Jesus asked this powerless man to pick up his bed and challenge the rules of an establishment that needed stirred up. It had become a social pool of a stagnant, selfish society that was content to leave a crippled man lying on the side of the pool for 38 years. Jesus not only healed a man but asked him to break the Sabbath rule which led to an attempt on Jesus’ life.
Many poor and homeless people die on our streets, not because of a lack of available resources, but because no one cares enough to help them receive these services.
The elite will block off streets in their neighborhoods, directing traffic down the streets of the poor; build football stadiums, and give tax abatements to developers for housing for the upper income; all the time, saying there are no resources for affordable housing.
The church says its cares, yet won’t dare to expose the selfishness of the elite which destroys the homes of thousands for their own selfish gain.
Remember, Christ’s mercy isn’t just received for an isolated individual’ it also strives to touch a suffering society and awakens its sleeping conscience. It troubles the stagnant waters and often receives a torrent of retaliation from the vested interests.
by Larry Rice
Caring for All God’s Creation
Coming Alive through the use of Renewable Energy
Beginning in the late 1990’s NLEC began to ask the question, what can be done about the fact that utility companies keep raising their rates on the poorest individuals? It was and continues to be a social justice issue. As Larry Rice and others studied the issue, they began to look into alternatives to the monopoly local power brokers had, including in communities where there was only one utility company. This need, born out of people’s real struggle, led them to look into solar power as a viable alternative to coal and oil use.
As Larry and Penny Rice traveled the country attending classes on renewable energy, most of which were run by persons not of faith, they began to ask, where are the churches on this issue of the destruction of Creation
mostly influenced by the hands of the few and powerful? Isn’t this a faith issue?
As Larry began to study the problem, he turned his studies into a clarion call for churches in a book titled “Waking the Sleeping Giant of the Church to the Suffering of Creation” (2003). Copies of this book were sent out to churches all across America and a copy was even put into the hands of Pope Benedict XVI. I’d like to tease out some of the major themes from this book and share the ways they have been explored through NLEC’s use of renew-
able energy.
The first theme is Realization. Many people in churches still have not come alive to the wonders of Creation and the fact that it is being destroyed by humans in this world. Even with all the work that has been done to raise awareness, Evangelical churches remain a last holdout among those who are climate-deniers and activists for “drill baby drill” in this world. First of all we must come to realize that “the earth is the Lord’s and every-
thing in it, the world, all who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1) Rev. Larry Rice writes, “Unless the church recognizes that it is made up of redeemed creatures in the midst of creation, it is nothing more than an irrelevant theological ghost.” John 3:16 says that “God so loved the world (cosmos)” and this includes all of creation. Jesus’ death was not just to form a personal religion, but to redeem an entire creation!” Rice follows this up with this quote by Gregory Petrov, Russian writer and orthodox priest writing from a Soviet labor camp in 1940:
“O Lord, how lovely it is to be your guest. Breezes full of scents, mountains reaching to the skies; waters like boundless mirrors, reflecting the sun’s golden rays and the scudding clouds. All nature murmurs mysteriously, breathing the depth of tenderness. Birds and beasts of the forest bear the imprint of your love. Blessed is mother earth, in your passing loveliness, which awakens our yearning for the happiness that will last forever, in the eternal nature land where, amid beauty that will never grow old, the cry rings out: Alleluia.”
Larry follows this poem with the question, “If we believe this how can we remain silent as creation is destroyed around us?”
Since we are of creation and this is the only world we get in this life, isn’t it up to us to care for ourselves and naturally want to care for our neighbors? The greatest commandments to love God and love our neighbor, doesn’t that involve caring for the world God gave us and the place where we and our neighbors dwell?
The second theme is that of Solidarity with creation and the poor. Through its intentional community, formerly homeless individuals are brought in to fellowship with the staff of New Life Evangelistic Center and are engaged in Leadership Training. They are given a new lease on life and taught the Scriptures and about the wonders of creation. In this way, our approach to working with the poor is not one of simply giving things away to them, but that of full time involvement, where belonging is encouraged and compassion and empathy becomes a lifestyle.
The third theme is Stewardship. We are given this planet and all of us have a part in caring for it. One of the ways we teach this is by teaching the principle of learning to live simply and with less, cutting costs and lessening our environmental footprint by taking a good look at how much energy is consumed versus how much can be used by renewables such as wind and solar energy.
Finally, the fourth theme is Action. Doing the work of spreading the word about Renewable Energy. Since its founding in 1998 Missouri Renewable Energy has sought to bring people in Missouri and the Midwest to the realization that everyone can have a part in saving our planet and caring for the earth by switching from fossil fuels to Renewables. All of us can do something, whether that be planting a garden, recycling, or engaging in alternative forms of construction that are earth friendly. It’s going to take all of us to change the current course of our earth.
---Christopher L. Rice, OFS
In quest of personal peace, power, and prosperity, one of the most neglected teachings in the church today is to remember the poor. In the same way that Paul was reminded by James, Peter, and John to remember those in need (Galatians 2:9-10) even so the church today must be reminded of its Biblical responsibilities to help the poor and homeless.
A study of Scripture quickly reveals, time and again God’s deep concern for the poor. David declared in Psalm 35:10, “All my bones shall say, Lord, who is like unto Thee, who deliverest the poor from him, that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and needy from him that spoileth him?”
Job testified in Job 29:11-16 about the blessing that comes to those who help the poor, the fatherless, and widowed: “Whoever heard me spoke well of me, because I rescued the poor who cried for help, and the fatherless who had none to assist them. The one who was dying blessed me; ...I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame. I was a father to the needy; I took up the case of the stranger.”
James in James 1:27 refers to the true and perfect religion as being that where one visits the fatherless and widows in their afflictions and keeps oneself unpolluted by the world.
Frequently the term “seed-faith giving” is used. “Seed-faith giving” is a Christian principle that means to give or plant something in faith, with the expectation of reaping rewards. Such teaching comes from II Corinthians 9:6-7 NIV which says, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under complsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
When one looks at this in context, he will clearly see that such teaching was not given to build bigger prayers towers, churches, or other structures but for helping the poor. This becomes clear as the total chapter is read, particularly verse 9 that says, “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.”
Jesus Himself, identified with the homeless when He said, “The foxes have dens, and birds have nests; but the son of Man has no place to lay His head.” (Matt. 8:20) The Scriptures are filled with hundreds of references concerning our obligation to help those in need – some of these include: Matt 25:34-36, Luke 14:13-14, Psalm 41:1-3, and Mark 10:21.
The time has come for each of us to be about the work of our Lord which involves helping the poor and homeless. For as Proverbs 28:27 says, “Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.”
“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
Why Do the Homeless...?
1. smell bad and dress shabby?
2. commit crimes?
3. not find work?
4. do drugs, alcohol?
5. have mental problems?
6. urinate outside our business?
7. sleep outside?
8. sleep in tents?
9. sleep in abandoned buildings?
10. hang out in libraries?
These 10 questions illustrate just how offensive housed persons can be in their typical understanding of the unhoused. So let me delve into the questions carefully. At New Life we don’t view the unhoused as problems, but as humans, our friends, brothers and sisters, people who need lifting up in prayer and who are and can be sources of the holy spirit’s work in changing lives for the better!
So let’s kill some stereotypes shall we?
1. Not all unhoused people smell bad or dress shabby. Many housed people do. But anyway, for some it can be very difficult to find a public restroom to freshen up or a place to get clothing that fits them. Some people have medical issues and or incontinence and yet can’t find colostomy bags or clean underwear. And its not always easy to house them with nursing homes.
Remember these are people with feelings and hurts and needs. They don’t want your pity they want a little understanding and a roof over their heads like everyone else.
2. The unhoused are not any more likely to commit serious crimes than anyone else. The problem is that in our day in age poverty is quickly being criminalized. If a place outside is not provided for the unhoused to just simply be without being accused of trespassing or vagrancy, then socially we are all responsible to make sure the unhoused have a place they can be.
3. Get a job! Its so easy to say, but not so easy to do anymore depending on your age, ability, amount of time unemployed, how up to date your skills are, whether you have a vehicle and whether you have the right clothes to wear.
4. It is not true that addiction is the number one reason people become homeless. There is no number one reason. But for those with addiction issues the why to the reason they use matters less than the fact that being unhoused itself exacerbates the situation. Getting clean is only part of the problem. Staying clean is the real issue. And that is not easy when you’re unhoused.
5. Imagine having to walk everywhere you go because of no vehicle and no bus tickets. Where do you get the money to refill your meds or make your doctor appointments? And what if you don’t get EBT or have a cell phone. What if you have no ID? Still wondering why those with mental health problems are off their meds or go undiagnosed?
6. Did I mention that many cities don’t make public restrooms available in their downtown areas? Because of discrimination they don’t allow the homeless to use the ones they do have.
7. Many communities, because of NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard), don’t open shelters even when the unhoused greatly outnumber the shelter capacities.
8. Tents offer a bit of privacy and a sense of home for the unhoused. The trouble is where to put it so it won’t be stolen or destroyed by law enforcement?
9. It’s illegal to trespass so where do you go when you’re unhoused? Where won’t you get ticketed for trespassing? It is out of desperation that some break into “vacos” in order to stay warm and dry.
10. Some complain there are too many homeless people in libraries these days. But do they ever stop and wonder about the other options the unhoused have? Do they consider that the unhoused have just as much right to be there as they too are the public.
What other group of people are so discriminated against, considered dirty, criminalized and abhorred on sight because of their economic status? Well, sadly a lot of other people groups. The fact is these stereotypes are accepted as gospel in our American society. It’s up to those of us who care to change that. To make our world a place where it is easier to do good, not harder. I hope this list of questions causes you to question the stereotypes so many live by. Let’s continue the hard work of breaking these stereotypes for our children’s future. No group of people should be judged for the bad behaviors of a few when housing is so unaffordable, and jobs don’t pay a living wage. These are the things we must work on changing and there’s a lot of work to do!
For Over Forty Years New Life Evangelistic Center has been directly helping the poor and homeless in India.
Water is a necessity of life. Without it one can live for only a short period of time. Yet in many villages throughout India where water wells can not be dug - people have to walk many miles for adequate drinking water. In those communities, NLEC water trucks deliver on a regular bases. Beside each well that is dug in India a plaque is erected which says, “New Life Water: For God so Love the World that He gave His only begotten Son so that whoever Believes in Him shall Have Everlasting Life” John 3:16
New Life Evangelistic Center in India is providing water, food, a Free education to thousands of children, two orphanages, free Medical clinics and more!
Leprosy, a chronic disease of the skin and nerves is easily transmitted in India. At the leper camp, the New Life Evangelistic Center’s doctor dispenses life-saving medicines.
Hope and direct help is being provided by NLEC to hurting people throughout India. New Life Evangelsitic Center doctors visit villages providing medical assistance along with medicines, food, and personal hygiene items.
YOU can make a difference by sending your gift to:
New Life Evangelistic Center PO Box 473
St. Louis, MO 63166
Coming Alive in 2025 with
Our vision for 2025 is one where no one will have to any longer sleep outside. It involves seeing that the utilities of the poor will no longer be shut off. This vision includes meeting four major needs in 2025.
“HOMELESS WOMEN WITH CHILDREN” “HOMELESS VETERANS”
The first program is our women’s Safe Houses. We have found that it is impossible for us to turn away a single mother with children either by day or night
There is nothing more heart wrenching than to see a mother with children who has nowhere to go. To see a mother crying and begging for help so her children won’t suffer is something you never forget.
Many times, we can’t sleep because we see their faces over and over again. These situations are horrible.
Lots of the women have been physically, mentally, and sexually abused and have no where to turn. In 2025 with your help, New Life will be here for these tortured souls providing not only shelter, but additional opportunities for these women and their children to get apartments of their own.
“EMERGENCY FOOD AND WARM CLOTHING”
As ironic as it may seem, there are thousands of starving men, women, and children living in the richest country in the world.
Every day, New Life feeds all who are hungry. You should see the smiles that come on the faces of the homeless and hungry when a bag of food and water is placed in their hands.
Also, our free store will need to have plenty of warm coats and lots of blankets available. We need additional coats, hats, gloves, warm shirts, pants, socks, thermal underwear, and boots for those who need them and can’t possibly afford them.
In 2025, it will mean so much to these suffering homeless people to have warm clothes, blankets, a week in a motel, and assistance toward getting an apartment of their own.
We have a special place in our hearts for our soldiers and veterans. Our motto at New Life is “they fought for us… let’s fight for them.”
Many times, when we meet a homeless veteran, we feel extremely guilty.
We always give them a strong handshake and thank them for serving our country. No matter how tough life gets for them, they stand proud. They wear their hats with the symbols of the units they have served with.
Many of them still wear their military jackets even if they are living on the streets. They are extremely proud of the medals they have earned.
They would never have turned their backs on our country. But in lots of situations, our country has turned its back on them.
Everyday homeless veterans show up at our door. We welcome all of them. In 2025, we intend to continue to fight for them.
“ON THE JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS”
Trainees and graduates of our various training programs have jumped by as much as 50% in 2024, and it is exciting to watch each person develop and grow.
Growth in this area calls for an increase in monthly support gifts to cover the various needs of more full-time residents in the New Life training programs.
Your support in 2025 will make it possible for our trainees to build additional homes for new trainees at the Care Center in New Bloomfield, Missouri. The homeless are learning social media skills and they are learning to use their other talents that God has given them in St. Louis. Your gift makes it possible for hundreds to be directly helped daily, at the Veteran’s Coming Home Center in Springfield.
