Say the words

Halloween finally ended tonight. I say "finally" because it seems like decorations have been up in the neighborhood and seasonal isles out in the local stores since mid-September. Kaiden has a nice inventory of costumes including Iron Man, Spider Man, Batman and Optimus Prime, but we opted for a new Superman suit this year. One thing that I did notice; however, as I handed out candy to a cast of characters is that most kids don't say, "Trick-or-treat" anymore. They just stand there with bags open or buckets held out. Odd. Of course, I still gave them a treat but I did ask a few of them to say the words. Reminded me of a spiritual shortfall I make frequently. I get busy living a life of ministry or Christian service and I begin to expect things from God without asking. I just hold out my pillow case and expect a treat. There is nothing like good ole' fashion communication. In spiritual terms, we call it prayer. Don't forget to say the words.

Fall Family Retreat was incredible last weekend. This year we invited some alumni parents to join us and that was a smash hit with the current parents. The alumni provided much needed volunteer service, shared personal testimony and even held a special Q&A session. From the evaluations we received at the end of the weekend, the parent group sessions and alumni Q&A we're among the most appreciated times. I especially enjoyed the personal conversations with parents and the packed-out worship time on Sunday morning with over 230 folks present.

On Saturday afternoon of Parent Weekend, our founder, Richard Beach passed away in Denver, CO. Rich battled cancer for over 15 years. Doulos was started in Rich's basement with a few young adults he chose to mentor in obedience to a call from the Lord. Shortly after, he took in the first struggling teenager from a desperate parent. Interaction with Richard was memorable for all who were blessed to share it. A man of God.

Fall Parent Weekend

Shelterwood Fall Family Weekend is underway. Started last night, actually. With 28 guys and 25 girls in the program it has been interesting with lots of logistical hurdles, seminars, conferences and new faces. Next week I will bring some personal insight, but for now, you are welcome to check out out the Shelterwood Facebook link above for real time updates. It will be a long weekend but worth every minute. Parent Weekend has always been the most impactful and life-changing event in Doulos Ministries as we come face-to-face with the families we serve. I as sit here at my desk and pause to write this blog, your prayers and your support are making a difference.

The weather has been beautiful here in Kansas City. All the colors of fall are on display. There is also an estimated one million leaves in my backyard. I split time last Sunday between raking and watching my football team lose another game--all with the help from one of my favorite residents, Josh. We filled at least 40 bags of leaves, although I lost count after the fourth box of trash bags. I am starting to think Spring is my favorite season. The Fall brings the leaves. Winter brings the snow shoveling and during the summer you have to cut your grass weekly or be shamed by the neighbors. Gotta love Missouri!

Breakpoint

A few weeks ago, Shelterwood was featured on the Christian radio broadcast, "Breakpoint" by Chuck Colson and Prison Fellowship. I actually had a chance to hear it live and it was pretty cool. One listener, a retired professional photographer from New Mexico, heard the show on the radio and decided to come out and take some promotional pictures for us. That was amazing. The link is below if you would like to listen. Look for the show title "Shelterwood." http://www.breakpoint.org/bpcommentaries.

Later this afternoon, one of our boys is graduating the program. A fine family from Missouri. Those are always fun to share and celebrate. Believe it or not, parent weekend is coming at the end of next week. We will have a property serve day tomorrow to prepare for all the families.

Last weekend, I had a chance to go camping with some friends down in Devils Den State Part in Northern Arkansas. Never been there before and it was worth the 300 mile drive south. Beautiful country, great hiking and plenty of camp stories.