Just a few weeks ago, the Rescue Mission congratulated its most recent group of graduates as one chapter of their journey comes to a close, and another begins. At each graduation, I have the privilege of introducing the Valedictorian, who shares a few words with their peers, friends, family, and guests. This Summer Graduation’s valedictorian […]
Thank You, Craig Furniss!
When it came time to choose a keynote speaker for the 2017 Summer Graduation, Craig Furniss came to mind immediately. Craig is a wonderful advocate and passionate liaison of the Orange County Rescue Mission. He has been a key advocate in connecting his church, Trinity United Presbyterian Church, to our community. He is a friendly […]
Summer 2017 Graduation: Stories of Hope and Restoration
How can I best describe the atmosphere at a Rescue Mission graduation? Let me do my best: You can feel it in the room. The joy of renewed hope and a life transformed in Christ. The peace, strength, and excitement of the graduates in knowing they are freed from the pain of the past, the […]
A Father’s Journey: Eddie’s Story
Last Saturday, Eddie Mejia completed the journey he began over a year and a half ago. As he crossed the stage and accepted his diploma as a symbol of his graduation from the Rescue Mission program, he reflected on the long road that had led him to this moment. A rough and difficult journey, […]
Miguel’s Story: Finishing High School for His Son
On Tuesday, I was privileged to stand on-stage and shake the hands of 14 Orange County Rescue Mission residents as they received their high school diplomas. For many, this was a very emotional moment – one they thought they would never experience because of years of hardships, mistakes and hopelessness. But on this day, they […]
Thank You, John Patterson and St. Andrews Church!
Each graduation I ask a leader from the community to come share a few words of wisdom and encouragement with our graduates. Our Winter Graduation speaker for 2017 is John Patterson, President of OC Auto Team, owner of three Orange County auto dealerships, and respected community member. John holds special meaning to the Rescue Mission […]
Graduation, Rejoice in Hope and Restoration
Another wonderful indicator of a new year is our Winter Graduation. Each January, I am blessed to witness another group of graduates successfully complete the Orange County Rescue Mission program. These are the stories that are a reminder that homelessness is a devastating reality, but also that hope and transformation are possible. At times they […]
Eternal Freedom
As I intently listened to the words shared by the 2016 Fall Graduation’s valedictorian, his story was familiar. They are the fulfillment of Jesus’ words “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom to the captives […]
Graduation, a Celebration of Life
The Rescue Mission’s graduation ceremony is a life affirming event. Many of the graduates have been part of our communities for up to two years; we have shared life together. I am reminded at the graduation of how far these friends have come, the journey they have had to travel to get to this point […]
A Great Accomplishment
For every Rescue Mission graduation, we honor the tradition of a valedictorian. I want to share with you the words of valedictorian, Geoff Jennings, who graduated in June. Geoff’s journey with Orange County Rescue Mission started at our Double R Ranch program. Jobs being exported to Mexico led to Geoff’s layoff, and the downward spiral […]