Dear Friends,
 
Recently, there was a front-page article in the Post-Star newspaper (for the full article, see the "updates" page) about the fact that local law enforcement agencies have acknowledged the presence of gang activity in the area, and that they are actively working on working together to solve this problem.  As you know, these are tough times in which we live, and there are many concerns which affect our region and our neighbors. 
 
Please covenant to pray for these concerns, and especially for each of us to know what God would have us do to help the people in our community live in greater safety and in the hope that God has for them.  We need wisdom to make the right choices at the right time in the right way.
 
There are many things we have to work on as God's people in this area, and they are not limited to matters of employment and living expenses.  We especially need to redefine "family" as the people of God working together and pooling resources for those in need, to counteract the current often negative definition of "family" as held by a gang and many others in our society. 
 
And, I would ask that you pray for us at The Open Door, as we work with individuals to help them change their lives around toward productivity and positive citizenship.  Also, please pray for wisdom for us as we try to get the various groups in the community to work together toward much needed solutions for our region.
 
We can only do this with God's help.  Thank you so much for your prayerful support.
 
God bless you as you pray.
 
Bruce Hersey, Director
The Open Door