Christian Ministries Houston

103 Years Ago... New Religious Enterprise on Franklin Avenue

Thursday, July 1, 2010 by Scott McKinley

This morning I was reminded about the beginnings of Star of Hope Mission and the importance of what was then a "new enterprise" to our community over the last 103 years. The Houston Post reported this story on July 1, 1907:

The Star of Hope Mission
New Religious Enterprise on Franklin Avenue Will Be Launched Tonight

The Star of Hope Mission will open tonight in its quarters, 714 Franklin Avenue at 8 o’clock and all are invited to attend and take part in the services.

Dr. D. R. Pevoto, in charge of the mission, stated yesterday that no formal program had been arranged or would be arranged. “We want it to be a spontaneous meeting and we hope that the Christian men of the city who want to see some help extended the unfortunate class who are down and out, we hope that these men will come out and help us in our efforts.”

Services will be held in the mission every night this week. On the first floor of the two-story building occupied by the institution a comfortable meeting room has been fitted up, and here the daily religious exercises will be held. It is proposed to make the mission serve the unfortunate of all classes and as soon as the work can be fully organized, lodging rooms will be fitted up in the second story, a lunch room will be added, a reading room will be installed, an employment bureau will be maintained, and every agency contributing to the physical, mental and spiritual elevation of man will be employed.

The gentlemen already interested in the mission undertaking are earnest and active in their support and are determined to make it accomplish the work that they believe […unreadable…] Houston for it to accomplish.

As was reported in The Post last Monday, Mr. Richard Dowling, who was converted during the preaching of Evangelist Ham here last December, has been secured as superintendent of the mission and will arrive shortly.

Over the past 103 years Star of Hope has stayed true to its mission, expanded services, updated facilities, adjusted to changes in our city and innovated programs. All of us who are part of the Star of Hope community (donors, volunteers, alumni, employees and those currently receiving care) are all part of an awesome legacy.

Visit Star of Hope at Supporting Homeless Shelters Houston for a summary of the many programs and ministries offered today and join the Legacy.

ACTS Bowling for Souls: August 7, 2010

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 by Troy Williams Sr.

Star of Hope's Men's Development Center Alumni (ACTS) are “Bowling for Souls” again on August 7th at Emerald Bowl at 9307 Boone Road Houston, TX 77099. This is the second year that ACTS is hosting a bowling tournament. Last year the event raised roughly $8,000, which included a 100% matching donation, which was used to meet the needs of individuals who are less fortunate in the city of Houston.

Below are a few ways ACTS have served over the last several months. During the first quarter 2010 alone, ACTS impacted over 6000 people. Members of ACTS have lead worship services, which includes preaching, praising, praying, and sharing personal testimony. They have ministered on the streets in the Montrose area, in Herman Park, at the Salvation Army, at Open Door Mission, and several other places. Their aim is always to do their part in saving souls for Christ and encouraging others to grow in the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Dozens have come to Christ over the last year.

As stated above, ACTS partner with several other Houston ministries and shelters to facilitate life change in Christ. Last week ACTS ministered at the “Church in the Park” in the court yard of Palmer Episcopal Church in the museum district where hundreds of homeless migrate. Many homeless individuals struggle with some kind of barrier that prevents them from living productive lives. These issues range from a lack of social skills to mental illness. Some have multiple felons and cannot obtain gainful employment. Whatever the barrier may be, ACTS is willing to do their part to assist them along the way.

Last Saturday, Farren, a 40 year old man from Nacogdoches, confided in one of the alumni. Farren needed a change of clothes because he had been wearing the same clothes for weeks. One of the alumni took him to SOH and helped him get a change of clothes, a hot meal, and a preached Word from God. While this may seem like a small feat for some, Farren was living “high on the hog” so to speak with clean clothes, a cool bed, and a freshly preach Word. As they journeyed to the Star of Hope together, the Alumni shared how he was once homeless and hopeless but now he is working, on his feet, and helping others. Farren asked for a change of clothes and God used a willing vessel to provide so much more.

One of the issues with homelessness is that most people know what they want but don’t know what they need and where and how to get what they really need. I know that was a tongue twisted but life can get twisted sometimes too. Farren now can see just a little more Jesus at the end of the tunnel.

ACTS also work closely with graduates as they finish the programs. ACTS provides alumni movers to help graduates purchase furniture through the Furniture Bank and provide one day Metro bus passes so that men in the program and graduates can attend church services on the weekend.

Because many “friends of ACTS” gave to the ACTS Ministry last year, they are able to win more soul for Christ and help somebody along the way. Thanks for your generosity, prayers, and your participation to make ACTS what it is in Christ.

Learn more about ACTS (Alumni in Community, Transformation and Service) at Christian Ministries Houston.

Celebrating the Service of MDC Alumni

Monday, June 28, 2010 by Troy Williams Sr.

On Friday, June 18, 2010, Star of Hope Men’s Development Center hosted the Fifth Annual Alumni Fellowship Celebration (AFC). We celebrated the victory of “new lives” in Christ. We celebrated the victory that God has given the alumni over drugs, alcohol, and habitual sin. We celebrated the victory that God has given them as servants of the Gospel of Christ.

Men who have satisfied Client Services and Spiritual Recovery Program requirements and now live off SOH property in their own residence are classified as alumni. This year we celebrated their acts of service in the community and within the Star of Hope facilities. Three different awards were given to the alumni who rendered Acts of Service:

Eleven alumni received the “Redeeming the Time Award” which was given to men who volunteered through ACTS Ministry (Alumni in Community Transformation & Service).
Five alumni received the “Sowing the Seed Award” which was given to men who taught or preached at the any one of our four Star of Hope locations.
Eleven alumni received the “Stirring it Up Award” which was given to men who discipled another alumni

Private Dale C. shared a brief testimony about how the Star of Hope played a tremendous role in saving his life, changing his life, and redirecting his life. On October 20, 2008, Dale signed up for the Spiritual Recovery Program (SPR). While at the Star of Hope, Dale accepted Christ as his Savior. While sharing his testimony during the fellowship, he said in so many words that his life was going now where fast. After completing the SRP, he left to sign up for the United States Army. Looking back over the last two years, Dale has completed two rigorous programs, the SRP and the Army Boot Camp. Dale talks about how rigorous the SOH and Boot Camp training was. He now knows that he needed both of these painstaking training programs to prepare him to serve his country for Christ.

Dale is a true solider for Christ. Dale entered the doors of the Star of Hope at the tender age of 19 homeless and hopeless. Today he is 22 and has a new home in heaven and hope for a brighter future in Christ. He is a great servant of the Most High, and we love and support him.

In the words of the Apostle Paul, “We give thanks to God always for you all (alumni), making mention of you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.” 1 Thessalonians 1:2-6

Visit Christian Ministries Houston to learn more about ACTS, Star of Hope's Alumni Ministry.

The Storms of Life--Prayers Answered

Tuesday, June 1, 2010 by Erika Wise

Star of Hope is among many Non Profit Organizations Houston! And, during Hurricane Season, it has been one of the few Shelters Houston Texas which remain occupied during the some of the storms. The closest storm in my recollection--as for many of us--is Hurricane Ike, Fall of 2008. However, the stories I want to share today--the FIRST day of Hurricane Season--are from Hurricane Rita...

Still ministering to the evacuees and victims of Hurricane Katrina--a human flood coming from Louisiana and Mississippi to Houston and the surrounding areas--Star of Hope's Women and Family Shelter began to prepare for the landfall of Hurricane Rita. With the devastation of Hurricane Katrina still on everyone's mind...we were working with frightened, hurt, confused, abandoned and broken people leaving all they had--even loved ones--behind.

We as staff were used to working with those dealing with the "storms of life"--unemployment, drug addiction, abuse, and brokenness. But, this STORM was different--these precious men, women and children were clinging to the last few things they had left in this world--EACH OTHER!! The trauma was real...the fear was real...and, they were about to experience it all again!! Now these families and individuals faced a new threat; another STORM of life...Hurricane Rita...was threatening a direct hit to the Galveston/Houston area.

Outpouring of donations from all across America--Houston Non Profits, Christian Ministries Houston and Houston Non Profit Donations --SOARED. America responded to the material needs of the evacuees who fled to the Houston area. Food, blankets, clothing, water and other material items were coming in by the truckload...an answer to prayer!!

A few last minute buses were able to evacuate some of our residents (elderly, sick, very young)--an answer to prayer. The rest of us "hunkered down" in the cinder block safety of the Women and Family Shelter. I was among about 8 staff members who volunteered to "stay behind" and ride out the storm with the ones who had nowhere else to go or who could not be evacuated. That Friday night we held a Worship service--we prayed, sang hymns, and thanked God for His protection. All the residents and some locals who joined us went to bed early and staff began a vigil to pray and "watch this storm."

Of all the "storms of life" we had helped others through--this was the first one we could actually WATCH the progress and path!! We prayed for the storm to lessen--it was a Category 5; we prayed for the storm to turn--it was due to hit Galveston Bay directly. In the wee hours of Saturday, September 24, 2005, the storm came ashore in Louisiana as a Category 3 storm--answered prayer!

As we woke up Saturday morning (some of us had not slept), we found some wind damage and the lights were out--a generator provided some emergency lighting. Some of those Houstonians who had sought shelter with us as a "last resort" wanted to return to their homes and we all wanted to get on with life. As a few "relief staff" joined us later in the morning, we prayed again--for "light" and for transportation for those who wanted to return to their homes. As soon as we said, "Amen" and lifted our heads from prayer--a YELLOW TAXI CAB appeared in our driveway--an immediate answer to prayer! Staff talked with the cabbie and made arrangements to transport those who wanted to return home. The cabbie even returned to ensure all who had a place to go were taken there. We ate breakfast and lunch in the dim light seeping in through the skylights.

The mood was light, and happy as the residents rejoiced in God's protection, love and provision. And, as more staff began reporting to work to relieve those who had stayed through the storm...the electricity was restored at 2:00pm...it was only out about 12 hours--an answer to prayer!!

So, as this year's Hurricane season officially begins...and, predictions are made...I rely on the only thing I KNOW to be true---God answers prayer!!! In the midst of the storms of life--"hope floats up" as God answers prayer!!

"We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield." Psalm 33:20

Never despise meager beginnings...

Thursday, May 20, 2010 by Erika Wise

When I got to Houston I searched for "Non Profit Organizations Houston". I wanted to work in an industry which would allow me to utilize both my sociology and religion degree to further the organization's mission statement. I was certain among the Christian Ministries Houston, I would find a suitable job. I was not certain I had any business being where I was. But, God had greater plans.

Flash forward three months---October 12, 1992--It was my FIRST day on a new job...I had just moved to Houston from Indiana. I was dressed in a nice sweater and skirt--I thought I looked professional. I was 24 years old and in my THIRD job working in Social Services. I was nervous, excited, hopeful, anxious, and ready for whatever God handed me. Well, almost ready.

I had been at work for two hours...I was overwhelmed! Thirty families, over 50 children, and I was supposed to know their names, ages, and needs!!?? What did I get myself into?? I was introduced to my shift-partner--what was her name, again? Oh, yeah, Denise. But, Denise What?

I thought I had just gotten the hang of things when a resident of the Transitional Living Center walked up to me. She was smiling, thankfully. Then, the assessment; she looked me up and down and said, "You won't last a week."

Oh, my...here I thought I had gained my footing; knew what I was doing...her statement had me reeling. Was I really in the right place? I prayed all the way home--asking God to reveal His will to me. Was I really where He wanted me to be??

By the time I reached my home (a 45 minute drive), I had my answer. I looked at the seat next to me with all my "first day on the job papers"...and, there ON TOP, was a little picture one of the children drew for me. "Welcome, Miss Erika," it said, scrawled in the crayon-handwriting of a child. That was my answer--hope had floated up...and, I was where God wanted me to be.

And, I still am...

The Smell

Wednesday, May 19, 2010 by Dick Druary

My first experience with the Star of Hope Men's Shelter (or with any shelter, for that matter) occurred when I was 17 years old. Without knowing what a rescue mission was, one Sunday evening I joined several older men from my church who regularly made their way to an old brick building in the bowels of downtown Houston. Having recently been brought to faith in Jesus I was hungry for the witness of life-changing ministry. I was assured that I would not be disappointed at Star of Hope. I wasn't.

Our little band of missionaries arrived at 7:15PM for a season of worship with the men. It was an oppressively muggy August evening and, as was the habit at the time, showers were subsequent to the chapel service. 350 homeless men were packed into a relatively small space, the resulting odor unlike anything I had ever before encountered. I immediately fell in love with it. To this day, 42 years later, I can still pull up the fragrance. It was the aroma of despair and hopelessness. It was the scent of wasted lives and unbelief. It was the smell for which He died.

Each and every day at the Men's Development Center we are given front row seats to the Gospel drama as the stench of the world rises up like incense to our Great High Priest. He draws the lowest to Himself, bathes them in forgiving grace, sets them up as a chosen generation, and then prepares them to be world-changers for His glory.

Learn more about Star of Hope's Men's Development Center at Christian Ministries Houston.

My Beginning

Monday, May 17, 2010 by Chad Smith

About four years ago, I was led to the Star of Hope Mission to work with youth (ages 13-17) through a three month internship between my junior and senior year of college. After graduation, I began to work full-time in the position I have now- Youth Minister. And through these years I look at these youth and the same thought comes to mind, "I cannot say enough!" It would be impossible for me to say all the great and marvelous things that God is doing with these precious teenagers at the Star of Hope Mission.

Our group of teenagers has grown and changed so much through the years. For example, last year we officially named this teen ministry the Stars of 2morrow along with a cool logo. This captures the vision and heart of our staff. To learn more about the Stars of 2morrow visit Christian Ministries Houston.

Nonprofit Careers in Houston

Tuesday, May 4, 2010 by Scott McKinley

I spent some time last week editing a video that we are producing for Star of Hope's HR department. As I listened to my colleagues talk about what brought them to Star of Hope and how God is using their skills and talents, I found myself feeling... grateful... and thankful. Watching, I remembered back to my first days around the Mission.

Catherine Taylor, VP of Human Resources, was the first person I met and interviewed with. She was the first who explained to me the depth of the programs offered here.

I joined Marilyn Fountain, Director of Community Relations, for a Graduation at our Transitional Living Center. After the celebration, she look me on a tour of the facility. It was an eye opener! I had volunteered at Women & Family Emergency Center several times, but didn't know anything about Star of Hope's Substance Abuse Recovery Program for women... New Hope. I remember how impressed I was when I learned about GED/ABE Training, Personal Development, Career Development and more.

Then there is Dick Druary, Director of Men's Development Center, who walked me through MDC, explaining the ministry and programs offered to the homeless men of Houston. As he told me about the first time he preached at Star of Hope as a teen, I remembered back to my first visit as a teen and playing guitar at a chapel service.

Back to the video... it will be completed in a few weeks. Until then, take a look at our Career Page at Christian Ministries Houston and consider a career with a ministry in Houston, that truly offers help, hope and life to the homeless in our community.

How's This For A Great Spring Break?

Thursday, March 25, 2010 by Hank Rush

My family and I had a great Spring Break this past week, so glad to have time together and no homework! Have you ever wondered what Spring Break might be like for a homeless teenager living in a shelter? Well, here’s what Star of Hope’s teenagers did last week. Below is a short summary by Chad Smith, one of Star of Hope’s Teen Ministers, of the fun and educational week they had together with our “Stars of 2Morrow”:

“To summarize what we did for spring break, Tuesday morning we went to Carino’s Restaurant. One of the servers took them on a tour of a working restaurant. They were able to meet all of the staff of Carino’s and ask questions. After that, they went to the tables and made their own personal pizzas starting from the dough adding any topping they wanted. Then, of course, when they finished the pizzas, they baked them and ate them! It was a lot of fun."

"Wednesday morning we took them to the University of Houston and met up with the soccer team staff and a few of the players. They told us about the athletic department in the University of Houston and then they gave us a tour of the facilities where the athletes train and play. At the end of the tour, the staff answered more questions and then they gave us U of H t-shirts. On Wednesday evening, the teens went to the Rodeo. The seats were amazing and the food was incredible (hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken fried steak). They were able to see the cowboys lasso the bulls and other typical rodeo events followed by the musical performance of Gary Allen. Overall the teens had an amazing day."

"The neat thing about Wednesday is I have a 13 year old girl who loves soccer and has wanted to do nothing this month but go to the rodeo. And she has diligently tried to go with family or friends, but with no success. And let’s just say Wednesday was a very special day for her. She was able to interact with the UofH soccer team and then head to Rodeo for an amazing evening! It was kind of a dream come true for her."

"Friday, we took the teens on a hiking trip. They love those trips and they are always so surprised the places you can get good exercise around the city."

"Saturday evening they went to a Hope for Youth event where they enjoyed barbecue and fellowship with other teens and volunteers from Second Baptist. So that was our eventful spring break."

We are very thankful for Chad and our Teen Team, and especially thank the very special sponsor organizations mentioned above, and so many of you in our community who offer your time and resources to positively impact the lives of our Clients!

Learn more about Stars of 2morrow, Star of Hope's minstry for teens, at
Christian Ministries Houston.

Jobs For Hope - Putting Star Of Hope Graduates To Work

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 by Hank Rush

All of us know how difficult the job market is in the United States at this time. And for someone who is recovering from homelessness and is preparing to re-enter the job market, the prospect of finding gainful employment is daunting to say the least. But I am excited about new initiatives, led by our Board of Trustees, to build the network of employers who will put our Star of Hope graduates to work! Our goal is to increase the number of jobs found in 2010 by 30% over 2009, and to double that number in 2011. Is this ambitious? Yes. Is it impossible? No!

Finding meaningful work is so essential for all of us. It is especially important to the success of an individual or family who fall into homelessness, to achieve normal living capability once again.

If you have job openings and would be willing to consider Star of Hope clients, please contact Dick Druary at ddruary@sohmission.org. “For nothing shall be impossible with God.” Luke 1:37

Learn more about Star of Hope programs and family of ministries
by visiting Christian Ministries Houston.