Small Seeds, Big Rewards

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“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.’” Matthew 13:31-32 (NIV) 

As a child learning about the Word of God, I remember hearing the parable of the mustard seed. I must admit, it didn’t make much sense to me. We did have a garden where we grew a variety of different fruits and vegetables, but none of the plants grew to be trees, and I certainly couldn’t understand that mustard came from “a tree”. I can also say that I didn’t fully understand the hyperbole that was being used in this parable either. In my parents’ front yard, there are many large pine trees that I grew up playing around and working under. I understood that pine trees grow very tall, produce much straw and pine cones (the latter two led to many hours of work raking and picking them up). I didn’t, at the time, understand that those large pine trees grow out of seeds from the pine cones that they drop. I guess looking back, there were a good many concepts I didn’t understand! What we do know is that the example of the mustard seed Jesus was using in His parable would have been easily understood by those who were listening because the mustard tree (plant) grew in the Middle East. 

I am certainly no gardener or farmer, but I do know a few ways to get plants to grow. For plants to grow, they need water, light, air, proper temperature, nutrients, space and time, to name a few. As humans, we have many of the same needs as plants, in addition to many more needs. If you are familiar with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, you know that we have physiological needs, safety needs, and love and belonging needs. So, while plants and humans have dramatically different needs holistically, the parable communicates well what can emerge from something so small. A small seed can grow into a tree, and a small act of kindness can change someone’s eternity. 

As you read through this Messenger, you will see stories where giant trees are being grown. You will see where small seeds of faith and opportunity were given, the Lord took them and grew them into great accomplishments. The growth part for us all can be very difficult. We can fight our selfish desires and motivations, but as we learn to trust and focus on God, we will grow into the “trees” He so desires us to be. Here at STCH Ministries, we see God moving in dramatic, life-changing ways! 

In our lives, we fall into the trap of thinking that we have to do great things to make an impact for the kingdom of heaven, but this parable shows us otherwise. We can’t make seeds grow. Yes, we can provide ideal conditions such as good soil, appropriate sunlight and water, but we can’t make a seed grow. In the same way, we can’t make the kingdom of God grow. We can provide ideal conditions for that faith to grow through devotions, Bible study, regular worship, mission trips and sharing our faith with others. But the results aren’t up to us, they are up to God. Please join us in prayer for those mentioned in this Messenger. What a privilege it is to be a part of their story! 

1 Corinthians 3:6 “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” 

Radical Love > Radical Change

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TWO YEARS. In the grand scheme of life, two years may not seem like much, but for the mothers and children on our Homes for Families campuses, it can dramatically alter their lives. For Brooke and her son Jacoby, their two years on the Bluebonnet Campus have brought healing, new life, incredible growth and inexpressible joy. 

At the young age of 17, Brooke found herself struggling with drugs and the lifestyle that accompanied them. After Jacoby’s birth in 2013, she felt the weight of her decisions beginning to crash down around her, as she did not know how to escape the bondage of drugs. A few years later, Child Protective Services opened a case and ultimately decided to remove Jacoby from her care. Brooke felt lost, confused and broken. “I was in the pit, I didn’t care anymore, and I didn’t know what to do,” Brooke shared. 

In her brokenness, the Lord began to move in her life in ways she could not comprehend. Shortly after Jacoby was taken from her home, Brooke moved to a faith-based recovery home where her healing began. One day, she shared with a staff member how exhausted she felt and how ready she was for a change. The staff member explained how a relationship with the Lord could offer peace beyond understanding. Brooke decided to give her life to Christ that night and start anew. “The feeling of being free is unbelievable,” Brooke exclaimed. Soon after that moment, she moved to the Bluebonnet Campus as she reunited with Jacoby. 

Coming onto the campus, Brooke faced many difficulties, including reading. In first grade, she discovered she struggled with reading due to dyslexia. The moms on our campuses are encouraged to read their Bibles and participate in Bible studies daily. This became a major roadblock for Brooke as she felt she could not participate. The staff did not give up on her, though, and taught her ways to cope and excel in her reading. 

“God and the women here have helped me learn to read,” Brooke shared, “I am reading better because of God, and I have learned God will help your needs if you just let Him in.” 

She worked diligently to learn to read and now can read her Bible and looks forward to reading and learning the scriptures. What once caused her pain now brings her joy. 

Many other areas of Brooke’s life beyond reading have been impacted. The staff on our campuses work to equip the mothers with important life and parenting skills. Since moving to the Bluebonnet Campus, Brooke has learned how to cook, how to be financially responsible, how to care for her household and how to parent Jacoby with confidence. Recently, Brooke finished the Raising Highly Capable Kids course, which provided her with the tools and skills necessary to raise her son to be healthy, caring and responsible. She took every lesson to heart and is excited to put what she learned into practice. 

While learning to read and being equipped as a mother were major accomplishments for Brooke, her biggest success has been the growth in her relationship with her son. When they first arrived, Jacoby shied away from his feelings and acted in frustration towards his mom. Through the support of the staff and other moms on campus, Brooke has learned how to respond, support and show love to her son. More than anything, though, she has learned how to pray and share God’s love with him. She finds purpose in being an example for her son and discipling him. 

Their relationship has drastically changed due to Christ being the center of their lives and the lessons they learned. Jacoby talks with Brooke now instead of responding in anger, and they share conversations about feelings, hardships, celebrations and everything in between. “I am all he has,” Brooke said through tear-filled eyes. 

“He doesn’t know his dad, but now he knows his heavenly Father.” 

Brooke works hard to show Jacoby that he can trust her, and she is there for him through everything. While they are both still growing, she is confident their relationship will only become stronger. 

The Lord has moved radically in Jacoby’s life as well. Brooke can see God in him now and speaks about the immense transformation in her son. “He loves taking his Bible to school and sharing Christ with other students,” Brooke shared. “He even asked to give a Bible to a child who didn’t have one.” 

Every day, Brooke and Jacoby pray together. They pray before he leaves on the bus for school, before meals, before bed, any opportunity they find; they pray together, something they had never experienced before. 

Today, Brooke is sober, free and praising Jesus every second of every day. She acknowledges that the Lord came knocking on her door in her darkest moments, calling her to live for more. She loves the woman she has become and enjoys encouraging the other mothers who come to live on the Bluebonnet Campus. Brooke shared, “If I can do it, anyone can do it. The Lord has helped me with my needs, and He will do it for other women, too.” She looks forward to the future and life after graduating from the program. She dreams of becoming a cosmetologist and using her job to share Christ’s love with others. She wants to give back to the community she came from by serving in ministry to the homeless community and using her spiritual gift of evangelism to help lead others to a relationship with Jesus. 

Brooke often reflects on her favorite Bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” She recognizes that only God knows what their lives would have been if they had not come to the Bluebonnet Campus. Because of Jesus, the staff, volunteers and other mothers, Brooke and Jacoby are living examples of the impact radical love can have in just two years. 

If you or someone you know is in need of help, please visit www.STCHM.org/campus-ministries or call 361.645.3005. 

Transforming a Life: The Story of Daurys

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LOST IN A SEA OF NUMBERLESS CHILDREN, living in one of countless poverty-scarred barrios in the Dominican Republic, lives a young boy named Daurys. In addition to poverty, Daurys’ early years were shaped by insecurity. He was born with a heart defect that required surgery as an infant, and additional neurological challenges that made his survival a miracle. His father was absent, and his mother struggled to provide even the basics. There was little energy left over at the end of the day for affirmation and affection. 

As a result of these significant challenges, when Daurys began the 2024–2025 school year, he was in 5th grade without possessing the basic knowledge required for that level. He had already been expelled from a private school for lack of academic progress, and his current school was also considering expulsion due to his learning delays and inappropriate behaviors, such as running away from the classroom and vaping in the bathroom. 

It would be reasonable to label Daurys as a child without hope and with limited opportunities for the future. That changed when leaders from STCH Ministries met Daurys and visited with his mother, Oniris. Daurys had a spark of determination inside of him—a quiet determination—and through the Samuel’s Fund sponsorship, God was going to cultivate it. Samuel’s Fund does not simply provide a child with resources, it is a holistic approach based on an evaluation of need and the potential to develop into Christian leaders in their own culture, churches and families.

Two of t h e key players in this story are Scarlet and Esmirna, both young women who serve as mentors—known in the program as “tías”—under Samuel’s Fund. One of the key aspects of the program that enables a child to be successful is the assignment of every child to a specific caregiver. They invest 20 hours a week to follow up, mentor and walk alongside a specific group of children to ensure their success in both academic and spiritual goals. Scarlet and Esmirna were not only mentors—they were also sponsored through this program in the past. As former sponsored children, they exemplify the vision of the Samuel’s Fund program: raising Christian leaders who will give back to their community and especially the next generation of younger children. 

Esmirna was originally sponsored as a six-year-old child by the Kemp family, who continued their sponsorship through grade school and college. Esmirna’s life had not been easy, requiring her to overcome significant family issues. When she began college, she decided to pursue a counseling degree. Upon graduation, she was recruited to fill the position of a therapist for the Samuel’s Fund children. 

In her position as therapist, Esmirna joined forces with Scarlet, who was Daurys’ “tía.” Together, they led the investigation into Daurys’ situation and then reported: 

“We understand that Daurys’ academic deficiencies, combined with behavioral issues, may require us to consider expulsion. However, I would like to share what Esmirna and I think about this situation: if we make this decision without first exhausting our spiritual, psychological and educational resources, we may be contributing to this child being handed over to a lifetime of delinquency and hopeless poverty.” 

To determine possible interventions for Daurys, they requested an evaluation by both educational and psychological specialists. The findings provided insight not only into his learning difficulties but also into the root causes behind them. Academically, Daurys was described as a non-reader with significant gaps in phonetic decoding and comprehension. However, there were notable strengths: he recognized most syllables, had solid motor skills and showed potential for growth with consistent support. 

Psychologically, Daurys was found to have experienced significant emotional trauma, rooted in abandonment and a chaotic family environment. The family drawing test revealed a home filled with conflict, undefined roles among siblings and deep emotional coldness. He lacked a strong father figure, and the most stable relationship he had was with an older sister who no longer lived at home. The results also revealed that although Daurys had many learning gaps, he had the cognitive maturity appropriate for his age. His ultimate prognosis was hopeful, especially with the introduction of structure, emotional support and spiritual mentoring. 

The team knew that addressing Daurys’ struggles required more than just academic attention. His case demanded an integrated plan that addressed both his learning challenges and his home environment. 

Two options were proposed. PLAN A recommended moving Daurys to a new school, where a 5th-grade teacher was just completing a master’s degree in literacy for children with special needs and was willing to dedicate additional tutoring time to teach Daurys to read, plus work on his concentration. In addition, it offered a structured curriculum and access to additional counseling by a local pastor. However, with the cost of transportation from his home to the school and additional fees, the total cost added up to approximately $151 per month. PLAN B offered an alternative: keeping Daurys at his current school but supplementing his education with targeted tutoring twice a week, combined with counseling sessions and follow-up testing, all for about $84 per month. 

While PLAN A was more expensive, it was recommended and approved by Cindy Graves, STCH Ministries’ Sponsorship Director, as having the highest probability of success. Within just a few weeks of implementing PLAN A, unexpected results began to surface. The boy who had once fled the classroom and failed to read basic sentences began an amazing transformation! Daurys demonstrated the ability to decode words, understand passages and complete reading comprehension tasks—skills that had previously seemed out of reach. 

In addition to his academic gains, Daurys began participating in group work, contributing ideas and even mentoring peers who faced similar challenges. These behavioral improvements reflected a deeper transformation: Daurys was gaining confidence. He was no longer reacting out of frustration or fear but instead learning to navigate his emotions and surroundings with courage and calmness. 

To sustain this progress, the family needed support as well. Fortunately, Daurys’ mother was excited to participate in the success of her son. Scarlet and Esmirna crafted a home-based plan for Oniris, focusing on structure, patience and behavioral reinforcement. Oniris learned to praise Daurys for every small success and introduced a clear system of rewards and consequences. Charts with stars track daily achievements. Time-outs and reflection replaced yelling and harsh discipline. 

Types of positive reinforcement included stickers, extra screen time, small toys and even outings together. Negative behaviors were addressed with immediate, offense-related consequences like short loss of privileges, a time out and making amends. The system was designed to be consistent, predictable and always motivated by love. They encouraged Oniris in the importance of building a positive and secure emotional connection with her son. 

The sponsorship support was a significant factor in the ability to meet these needs. To supplement these funds, STCH Ministries committed increased funding for six months, with the understanding that an extension might be possible if significant improvements were made. Supervisors reviewed the plan and endorsed it as a wise investment, noting that while the ministry’s resources must be used wisely, Daurys’ situation represented a promising opportunity with a clear path to improvement. 

The results have been profound. Scarlet shared recently, 

I would like to share with you a very positive update regarding Daurys’ progress. Currently, Daurys continues to attend the new school under the extended school schedule, and he is giving his 100%. The chances of him finishing the school year as planned are very high. 

We have observed significant progress in his reading skills, showing that he is hardworking, motivated and demonstrating a strong interest in his studies. He now reads aloud in class, deciphers new vocabulary with increasing independence and is able to summarize what he has read with growing confidence. 

Additionally, Daurys is actively participating in all classroom activities. He works well in group settings, participates in collaborative projects, and has even volunteered to help other classmates who struggle with reading. This not only shows academic growth but also emotional maturity and leadership potential. 

His teacher shared that he brings a positive energy to the classroom, and his willingness to help others has made him a role model for some of the younger students. This is a remarkable transformation from the child who once avoided class participation and was considered for expulsion. We believe that Daurys is well on his way to completing the school year successfully and is on track for promotion to the next grade level. 

The decision has been made to extend the support needed for Daurys to continue at this school through the next year, when he will transfer to secondary school in the seventh grade. 

This transformation was made possible through Samuel’s Fund, a program led by International Ministries for the last 18 years. It began as a vision to help children in poverty without resources or hope for the future, and to enable them to become Christian leaders in their own country. The goal: to give children with potential the opportunity to receive an education, grow in their faith and strengthen their families by honoring parents and caregivers. Today, the Samuel’s Fund program for children ages four through high school has expanded to include a college scholarship known as CLEP (Christian Leadership Educational Program). These programs support 388 children in the Dominican Republic and El Salvador. Its impact is now multi-generational, as former sponsored children have become leaders who invest in transforming the future for other children. 

This is not just a story of change—it is a story of transformation inspired by God, and empowered by ordinary people doing extraordinary things. When the world may have labeled this child as hopeless, Samuel’s Fund saw a possibility for a different destiny, a Christian leader with potential to make a difference in the lives of others. 

Daurys’ story is more than an example of a successful intervention—it is the realization of a vision. The fact that two young women, once helped by the program, now lead other children is proof that the vision that God gave is attainable through the partnership with donors, sponsors, American and local ministry staff, infused with love and many prayers. The story of Daurys demonstrates what is possible when many hearts come together to offer one child hope. 

There are many more children like Daurys—full of potential, yet trapped in cycles of poverty and trauma. Samuel’s Fund exists to identify these children and surround them with the love, care and resources they need to thrive. Will you be part of the next transformation story? Whether through sponsorship, prayer or hands-on involvement, your partnership makes stories like Daurys’ possible. 

Week of Hope 2025

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WE WANT TO THANK EVERYONE who made Week of Hope 2025 a success! From April 27th to May 4th, we celebrated all that God is doing across our four ministry areas. The purpose of the week was to raise awareness about STCH Ministries and to invite new churches, organizations, and individuals to partner with us. We also aimed to raise $500,000, and we are excited to announce that we exceeded this goal, raising over $540,000. During the week, we commemorated 73 years of ministry and acknowledged how God continues to expand STCH Ministries’ reach. We are grateful to everyone who participated in Week of Hope, and we cannot wait to see how God continues to move. 

The Depth of God’s Love

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IT IS AMAZING TO CONSIDER how a single decision can dramatically alter the course of someone’s life. It may seem trivial in that moment, but as life unfolds, one can reflect and recognize its true impact. For Cruz and Sophia, the decision was not theirs to make; rather, it was the choice of others to place them on the Boothe Campus in 2018. Little did they know, this moment would profoundly change their lives forever. 

When Sophia first moved to campus, she felt uncertain about her future. She quickly connected with her houseparents and those around her. She witnessed the daily outpouring of love, which allowed her and others to heal from past hurts. More than anything, she learned what a true relationship with Christ looked like. “I grew up thinking you believe Jesus died on the cross for your sins, you get baptized, and you’re saved,” Sophia shared. “It wasn’t until I went to Boothe Campus, where I was taught you need to have a relationship with Jesus.” This was a pivotal moment in Sophia’s life, one that would change her future. 

A few months after Sophia arrived on campus, Cruz was placed with his siblings. Much like Sophia, he felt anxious about his future and what his life would be like. With only a year left in high school, he did not know what to do after graduation. He quickly bonded with his houseparents and appreciated the love they shared and their relationships with the Lord. 

“The moment I came to the campus was the first time that I had been introduced to His love, and it was throughout everybody, the houseparents, the staff, they’re just filled with so much love,” Cruz shared. 

After six months on campus, Cruz had the opportunity to leave Boothe Campus with his siblings, but he decided to stay because he recognized the impact the people had already had on his life. 

During their time on the campus, Cruz and Sophia started dating. After graduating in 2019, Cruz began school at Coastal Bend College with the help of STCH Ministries. During COVID, he moved to Corpus Christi to be close to his family. While there, he decided to leave college and start a landscaping business. The distance did not keep Cruz and Sophia apart, and shortly after Sophia graduated in 2020, Cruz proposed. Later in 2020, they married in the chapel on the Boothe Campus with houseparents and staff surrounding them in support and love. 

After marrying, Cruz and Sophia started their little family. Sophia stayed home while Cruz worked on growing the landscaping business. They faced difficult moments in their marriage, as Cruz admitted that even though he was introduced to Christ while living on the campus and had gone through the motions, he was still living in sin. Through every dark moment, Sophia stayed by his side and supported him. She asked hard questions and encouraged him to seek a true relationship with the Lord and to stop living in the world. 

One night, after a tough conversation, Cruz felt a strong pull on his heart to truly surrender to God. He wanted to be the leader of his household and lead his family well. They started attending a new church where they instantly felt connected, started serving and spending time with the Lord daily. “I started seeing who God really is, what He can really do and the amount of compassion He has for sinners like me,” Cruz shared. 

“And when I stopped identifying with my sin and started identifying myself as a son of God, it was the biggest shift of my life.” 

Cruz started allowing God to move through his entire life, including looking at his business differently. “I realized it’s not just a business for the earth, it’s a business for the kingdom,” Cruz shared. He wanted people to see the Lord in him while he worked; he wanted his business to be set apart. This shift changed how he started every day. It made him love his work more, which led to a better atmosphere at work and home. 

After their two beautiful daughters, Amiah and Araceli, were born, Sophia decided she wanted to do more. She always found j o y i n c re a t ing floral arrangements and wanted to attend the Floral Design Institute. Unsure of how to move forward, they contacted Campus Ministries’ staff for guidance. Since Sophia graduated in care, she had the opportunity for support from STCH Ministries, not just financial, but someone to walk hand in hand with her as she maneuvered this new journey. 

The couple returned to Boothe Campus to talk with staff about college, and it allowed them to be reminded of what the campus meant to them. They stopped to see their houseparents and other staff and share about their lives. “I personally got to thank all the houseparents, just for everything that they’ve done,” Cruz shared. “When you’re a teenager, you don’t realize how much they do for you.” It also reminded him of the first time he was introduced to the Lord. He could see more clearly now how all the houseparents live out the fruits of the Spirit daily and the impact that had on him. 

Both Cruz and Sophia recognize how deeply STCH Ministries has changed their lives. 

“The biggest impact was being surrounded by godly people,” Sophia shared. “Always being encouraged and having someone there that you can talk to about anything, and they will lead you back to the Lord. Without STCH Ministries, I would still be living in the world and wouldn’t have the beautiful family that I do now.” 

She also recognizes that she has a safe place she can go back to and relationships that will last a lifetime. 

For Cruz, he admits his life would not be where it is today without the love and support he received on the campus. “STCH Ministries will always, always, it’s not even partially, it is always going to play a part in my testimony, because it is when I first encountered the Lord. I didn’t even realize it at the time because I was so naïve. What I didn’t realize was what God was doing right in front of me.” He prays often for the children being placed on the campus that their lives would be impacted the way his was. 

In the beginning, neither of them could understand why they were placed on the Boothe Campus. Now, as they look back, they see God’s plan for their lives as it unfolded. “Out of all the campuses there are in Texas, out of all the foster care placements I could have gone to, I ended up at STCH Ministries, Cruz shared. “I think it is cool to see the Lord’s sovereignty in that as well.” While they may not have understood, the Lord knew that this one decision would change their lives forever. 

Our Texas Samaria – Waiting Down The Road

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WE MAY OFTEN SENSE CHRIST’S PRESENCE in beautiful sunrises, on mountain tops and in magnificent cathedrals. Yet, in reality, Christ began life in a smelly stable, spent his time walking among the poor and the powerless, and healing the infirm. He called the least of these “my brothers.” Philip Gulley stated, “I think we ought to look for Christ in the poor, in the common, in the lady who rings up our groceries, in the man who mops the grocery floor, in the kid who delivers our pizza.” In April 2025, International Ministries and Community Ministries partnered to step into communities where physical and spiritual needs intertwine and answered the call to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the Rio Grande Valley, our Samaria. 

Along the Rio Grande Valley, the population is estimated at 1.4 million people. An estimated 500,000 people live in areas identified as Colonias, the Spanish word for neighborhoods. Living conditions are substandard. Many families began with homes built from humble materials—an abandoned trailer, a converted tarp, some folding chairs, rough wood, and concrete blocks with some plastic sheeting, old crates and discarded roofing materials. As they continue to work, they are able to significantly improve their housing and socio-economic conditions. Although more than 40 percent of residents live below the poverty line, these conditions often hide life-giving communities. Most of the people living in these neighborhoods are industrious, hardworking, some working multiple jobs to make ends meet, and the homeless rates are low. The high value that Hispanics often place on families encourages the inclusion of additional relatives as part of “la familia.” 

We joined a group of believers, led by pastor Ezekiel and his wife, Betty, from Iglesia Familiar Cristina. Hard workers, humble and loving—loving Jesus and each other. Out of their poverty, they generously gave to their neighbors, embodying the Gospel with every smile, every plate of food, every prayer, while passionate to share Jesus as the only Way, the Truth and the Life. STCH Ministries joined with them to offer help and eternal hope. 

The church had recruited several neighboring businesses and friends to participate in the weekend outreach. 

– One barber recruited a total of eleven other barbers to offer free haircuts to multiple children from 10 AM to 3 PM. Other cosmetologists and hairstylists gave manicures and haircuts to the ladies: a simple but meaningful service that impacted the practical needs of families. 

– A young lady who earns extra funds with a home-based baking business shared her baking talent, gifting cupcakes that brought sweetness to the day. 

– The next-door businesses, Tortilleria and Cricket, rented moon-jumps and served popcorn to delight the children. 

– The adult daycare donated hot dogs, and the community of believers chopped tomatoes and grilled red and yellow peppers and onions along with the hot dogs, and joyfully served them “a la Mexicana” to all who came. 

The mission team from STCH Ministries served in every capacity according to the need. Some welcomed the visitors; others registered each family. Outside, they painted bluebonnets and butterflies on little faces and engaged children and adults in endless rounds of a cake walk. Some helped children to decorate a flowerpot and plant some seeds, while others helped them decorate a rock with reminders of God’s love. Perhaps the most fun was the breaking of a piñata and the joyful scramble to pick up the falling candies. 

Inside the church, short seminars were offered on preventing suicide and the dangers of sleep deprivation. Off to the side, a table staffed with dedicated church members offered to pray for every interested attendee, as the Spirit moved mightily. 26 individuals opened their hearts to Christ, leaving their names for follow-up and discipleship. Another decision for Christ was made on Sunday after the message preached by Eder Ibarra, Director of Community Ministries, affirming the lasting impact of this outreach. 

The STCH Ministries team reflected: 

– I really enjoyed feeling like I was supporting the local church in reaching their community. 

– It was deeply meaningful to me to connect with children, showing them love and creating a space where they feel seen, valued and safe. Knowing that I could play even a small part in planting seeds of faith in their hearts filled me with joy and a sense of purpose. 

– Using the gifts God has given me was such a blessing. It reminded me how fulfilling it is to serve and to be a part of something that makes an eternal impact. 

– I realized that missions are not about distance or traveling to another country. It’s about obedience. The opportunity to serve Jesus is just down the road, waiting. 

Charny Beck, Vice President of Community Ministries, shared, 

“We were able to join the church to reach their community for Christ. We used face painting, animal balloons, a cake walk, crafts, games, hot dogs and more to offer a safe place for community members to come as church members, and the STCH Ministries team shared the love of Jesus. It was a beautiful picture of the Church coming together to reach the community for Christ.” 

Research and our own experience confirm that while material needs are significant, true transformation cannot be delivered by resources alone. It is the love of Christ, lived and shared, that transforms hearts and communities. Relationships, motivated by love and grounded in faith, outshine any statistic or obstacle. 

This is not a mission bound by distance. It is right here, across the road, calling us to bring Christ’s transformational hope to the doorstep of those who need it most. Through honoring Him and reaching out with His love and truth, we may weave our churches together in partnership and purpose. We will also see lives changed, families strengthened and entire communities renewed in His name. 

For 73 years, STCH Ministries’ mission has been to “Honor God, reach children and families with His love and truth, and enable others to join us in this ministry.” President and CEO, Eron Green, shared, “What a blessing it is to grow the impact of STCH Ministries in the Rio Grande Valley. We look forward to how the Lord will lead in future opportunities.” We invite you to consider partnering with us to impact children and families, and to encourage pastors and churches struggling to reach countless families and individuals for the Kingdom. 

Live Resolved

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New Year’s resolutions are nothing new. I am not sure about you, but I have never been a New Year’s resolution type person. I am, however, someone who takes account often to see if the need to adjust would be beneficial. Whether you make New Year’s resolutions or not, we should be looking at our lives to assess how matters are progressing. The areas I like to assess in a broad sense pertain to spiritual, personal and professional health. As I look at these areas of life, there are physical and emotional aspects to process as well. As we assess our overall health and well-being, we must decide the areas that are working and those we need to change. 

Habits are habits; they can help us to accomplish great objectives, or they can cause us to fail. So, what separates those who are able to make sustainable, significant changes in the way they live, so they can ultimately be the person they desire to be? Simply put, they are able to create habits that lead them to success. Some might say you should take your resolutions and make them your lifestyle. But what does scripture say about personal resolutions? 

In Romans 14:13, Paul instructs Christians to make a resolution. “Therefore, let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.” In these kinds of matters, Paul is saying, let us not decide as to how others should behave. Instead, let us decide as to how we will behave. Let us resolve never to do anything that will cause our brother, who is convicted differently than we are in this instance, to stumble into sin. So at least in this instance, the idea of making a personal resolution, a personal and determined commitment, to change or improve our own behavior is given to us as a command. And nothing in the Scriptures would indicate that it is wrong to make such personal resolutions. 

As you read through this Messenger, you will see stories where resolutions are made – let’s also call them commitments. Cindy resolved she wanted to change her life and she came into care in our Homes for Families program. Her story is one of powerful transformation! I also think of Sam’s story and his resolve. Almost more importantly, I think of his housepop, Jesse, and his resolve to want to care for and love Sam. When we live lives of personal commitment to God’s grand plan for us, amazing transformational moments can be seen. 

I challenge you to think about your life, your resolutions, your commitments, your habits. What do they say about who you are or who you desire to be? If you aren’t pleased, then change them and create new habits that will help you to be the person you want to be and, more importantly, the person God wants you to be. The great John Wooden famously said: “Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is yet to be, the only way to affect tomorrow is today.” If you have a history of not following through on resolutions and commitments, today it all can change. 

I pray you enjoy this edition of our Messenger! 

2 Thessalonians 1:11–12: To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you. 

God’s Beautiful Masterpiece

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SOMETIMES, LIFE CAN FEEL LIKE A PAINTING, each moment a brushstroke from God. The brushstrokes may seem thick and harsh during difficult times, while the pleasant moments appear light and airy. Yet, as a whole, the artwork remains unique and beautiful. One STCH Ministries Boothe Campus student, Sam, described his life as a painting from God, each moment perfectly planned. 

In July 2022, Sam and his brother Lane moved to Boothe Campus – a place their stepmom had learned about over 15 years earlier but had not considered regularly. One night, as their stepmom prayed for a safe place for the boys, God placed STCH Ministries on her heart. Shortly after, their family began the process of moving the boys to the campus. 

“I was struggling to get through life,” Sam shared. “But God got me here. After being on the waiting list and finally getting here, I felt protected, safe and happy, and God has been here for me ever since.” 

Upon arriving on campus, the brothers were placed in separate cottages. Lane moved into Love Cottage, while Sam lived in Youker Cottage. Although Sam did not enjoy living away from his brother, God knew he needed to spend time in Youker Cottage before moving. Sam quickly became close with his housepop, Jesse, who showed Sam around the campus and helped him understand how everything worked. Little did Jesse know that he was showing Sam something much more valuable. 

“Every day, I would see him wake up, get ready, make breakfast – all with the biggest smile,” Sam recalled. “He would talk about Jesus and devotions and just be so excited.” Even though Sam was young (only in 5th grade at the time), he noticed something different in Jesse, something he had witnessed when attending church with his grandmother when he was younger. He saw both a fire and peace in him and began to ask questions. 

A month after arriving on the Boothe Campus, everything changed for Sam. “One day, Mr. Jesse shared about how God loves him and God loves me,” Sam shared. “After he told me that, I got so happy, and my heart felt different. I went from feeling sad deep down to being filled with happiness, and I felt butterflies. That night, I talked with Mr. Jesse and on August 22, 2022, I got saved.” From that moment, Sam began noticing a difference in himself. He felt happier, started trusting God’s plan for his life and accepting where he was. 

Shortly after having this life-changing moment with Jesse, Sam moved to Love Cottage to be closer to his brother. However, he recognized the time spent in Youker with Jesse was an integral part of God’s painting of his life. Over the next two years, Sam’s life illustrated 1 Timothy 4:12 daily, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” He used every moment to be an example for the other children and adults on the campus. On July 14, 2023, Sam and his brother Lane were baptized together in the Boothe Campus pool. Sam loved the opportunity to make an outward profession for the whole campus to witness. He wanted them to see how God had changed him – and that God could change them too. 

Sam did not stop there, though. He wanted to learn how to speak and share the good news – he wanted to preach a sermon. He started to talk with a caseworker on staff who also preached at a local church. The caseworker agreed to work with him and allowed Sam to preach at his church. Sam knew immediately what verse he wanted to focus on: 

Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” 

This verse helped Sam through difficult times, and he held it in his heart as his life’s verse. 

Sam and the caseworker spent weeks preparing for the sermon. Sam struggled with the anxiety of speaking in front of a room of people, understandably, as he was only 12 years old. One day, they went into the Boothe Campus chapel so Sam could practice. He felt like he had only been speaking for two minutes when the caseworker told him he had been up there for 15 minutes. At that moment, Sam felt he was ready. On Thursday, August 15, 2024, he went to Normanna Baptist Church and preached his first sermon. Now, he cannot wait to preach his next and feels he is called to be a pastor. 

From a young age, Sam faced difficult times that helped shape him into the young man he is today, but his age and his past do not define him. He has allowed God to shape him into a leader for those around him. When asked what his favorite part about being at Homes for Children is, he responded with a smile on his face, “Getting to know Jesus and His plan for my life. Getting saved, being baptized and getting to preach my first sermon!” The staff on the Boothe Campus shared how they have seen Sam grow and what his life has meant to them. 

“Sam is a great kid, and I remember the day he gave his life to Jesus. We were sitting together talking and he said he was ready to be a Christian. We both prayed and I’m sure we both shed a few tears. He has grown in his faith since that day, and he is not ashamed to tell people about the big change in his life. It was a joy to share this experience with him.” – Jesse, housepop – Youker Cottage 

“Sam is a constant reminder of what it means to live with unwavering purpose and steadfast faith. Every time I see him rise to the challenge, I’m compelled to grow deeper in my own walk with Christ. His faith is a powerful example, and the way he leads by his actions stirs me to be a better follower and a stronger disciple.” – Benjamin, Student Ministries Coordinator 

“Despite the many obstacles that Sam has had to overcome, he manages to always remain a kind and caring person. Getting to see his walk with Christ has truly been a blessing and I know that I will cherish the memories of his baptism and first sermon for the rest of my life. I am so very proud and honored to be a part of his life, and I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for him.” – Melissa, housemom – Love Cottage 

“You can visibly see the man within the boy that is Sam. His maturity sometimes conflicts with his youth, but with each step, he moves towards a stronger relationship with our Lord.” – CJ, housepop – Love Cottage 

God is not finished with Sam’s painting, He has only just begun. While Sam knows he will face trials and tribulations in life, he also knows that God will be by his side every step of the way, using every moment, every brushstroke to create a beautifully unique painting. 

From Battleground to Breakthrough

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COUNSELING HAS BROUGHT HOPE AND HEALING to many families through STCH Ministries, and for Seth and his family, it opened the door to lasting change. Katherine and her husband, Travis, loved their children, but parenting their youngest son, Seth, was becoming overwhelming and exhausting, causing tension they were not sure how to overcome. At nine years old, Seth was full of energy and strong-willed. His siblings, Alexis and Noah, often joked that he was the “problem kid.” Katherine did not like hearing it, but she understood why they felt that way at times. 

Seth had been a happy baby, but his behavior began to shift around age four, becoming more challenging as he grew older. Simple boundaries, like hearing the word “no,” often led to full-blown tantrums. “He had a hard time accepting life on life’s terms,” Katherine shared. “If he didn’t get his way, he’d get really angry – and that happened a lot.”

Small tasks frequently turned into battles. Homework, chores or even transitioning from video games to dinner often triggered Seth’s frustration. “It felt like every request turned into a fight,” Katherine recalled. The tension in the home was not just affecting Seth – it was wearing down the entire family.

“We wanted to be good parents, but we just didn’t know how,” Katherine admitted. In their frustration, they often responded to Seth’s anger with their own. “He would yell, so we would yell louder, trying to get him to listen. But it never worked.” Seth’s siblings were also caught in the cycle of frustration. They began to view him as “the baby” who always got his way. This sibling dynamic only added to the tension.

The peaceful home Katherine and Travis had envisioned felt more like a battleground. Katherine often found herself bracing for the next meltdown. “I didn’t enjoy being around him,” she confessed. It was not the family dynamic they had hoped for, and Katherine knew that if nothing changed, the frustration and anger would keep hurting their relationships.

Their introduction to STCH Ministries came when Alexis began counseling. Katherine had not expected to need help for the family, but when Alexis’ sessions ended, it became clear that Seth could also benefit. “As soon as she was done, I knew our son would probably need some help as well,” Katherine recalled.

Faith played a vital role in their decision to choose STCH Ministries. “Faith is very important to us,” Katherine explained. 

“I wanted Christian counseling because I didn’t want someone telling my daughter or Seth that their behavior was fine when it wasn’t,” 

For Katherine and Travis, finding counseling that aligned with the values they taught their children was essential. They wanted to ensure that the lessons learned in counseling reinforced the biblical principles they instilled at home.

After Alexis completed her counseling sessions, Katherine placed Seth on the waiting list. That simple step marked the beginning of a journey toward healing – not just for Seth, but for the entire family.

When Seth began counseling at STCH Ministries with his counselor Megan, Katherine was unsure about the play therapy she recommended. “I didn’t understand how just observing a child play would tell her anything,” she admitted. Megan explained that play therapy allows children to express their emotions and experiences in the way they know best – through play. Unlike adults, who process feelings through conversation, children often “play out” their thoughts and challenges.

The Association for Play Therapy (APT) explains that play therapy is a structured way for trained therapists to use play to help their clients. Through play, children can work through their difficulties and develop in healthy ways. In simpler terms, the therapist uses play to connect with the child, gently guiding them toward healing and growth.

For Seth, this approach created a safe and comfortable environment to process his emotions. Though Katherine initially had doubts, she chose to trust the process. Megan used play to help Seth express what he could not verbalize and over time, the playroom became a place where he felt safe and understood. As the sessions continued, Megan shared insights that helped Katherine and Travis better understand their son’s behavior and emotional needs.

The sessions did not just help Seth – they helped the whole family. Megan provided Katherine and Travis tools to support Seth at home. One of the biggest lessons was understanding how Seth felt within the family dynamic. “Seth felt like he didn’t have any say, any control or any place in the family. He was just the baby, being told what to do all day long,” Katherine shared.

This realization was eye-opening for Katherine and Travis. It shifted their approach to discipline and daily routines. Instead of defaulting to punishment and taking away privileges like video games, they began using positive reinforcement. By rewarding good behavior, they found that Seth responded more positively.

The family also applied the practical tools that Megan suggested. A visual schedule became one of their most valuable resources, helping Seth understand and anticipate his daily activities. This predictability helped reduce his frustration around transitions. Within this structure, Seth was given choices about the order of certain activities, like whether to do homework before or after his afternoon snack or which chores to complete first. These small but meaningful choices gave him an appropriate sense of control while maintaining necessary boundaries.

Most importantly, Katherine and Travis learned the importance of modeling emotional awareness for their children. By openly sharing their feelings and showing healthy ways to express and cope with frustration, they gave Seth and his siblings the tools to mirror this behavior. This approach matched their goals as parents: teaching their children valuable life skills while keeping healthy limits in place.

The changes extended beyond just rules and routines. Megan emphasized the importance of building trust and connection through spending quality time together to strengthen the parent-child relationship. These special times of positive interaction helped rebuild trust and connection, making the other strategies work even better.

Over time, the transformation became clear. Katherine and Travis responded to Seth’s outbursts with more patience and understanding. 

“We learned that when he yelled, we didn’t have to yell back,” Katherine said. “We started to understand how Seth was feeling instead of just reacting.”

Seth’s relationships with his siblings improved as well. As the home environment shifted to one of mutual respect, Alexis and Noah began to see Seth’s feelings as real and important. “Now they all play games together without fighting,” Katherine shared. “My daughter and Seth like to do Pokémon, and they talk about it. They see him as a person now, not just an annoying sibling.”

Looking back on their journey, Katherine feels grateful for how far their family has come. “We wanted to be good parents, but we didn’t know how. STCH Ministries showed us the way,” she shared. The changes they experienced went far beyond Seth’s behavior. They brought the family closer, filling their home with patience, love and respect.

“Counseling didn’t just help Seth. It helped all of us learn how to listen, respond with love and understand each other better.”

Faith remained at the center of their journey, working together with the practical tools they learned in counseling. “We try to teach our kids to rely on God for all of our problems,” she said. The combination of professional counseling and spiritual guidance provided a holistic approach to healing. Through STCH Ministries, they found that their faith could work together with therapeutic techniques, creating lasting change that aligned with their values. The experience reminded them that healing is possible when trust is placed in Him.

Katherine encourages families considering counseling: “Take the step. It’s worth it. Just knowing someone is willing to listen and walk alongside you can make all the difference.” For more information on STCH Ministries Counseling Ministries, visit www.STCHM.org/counseling-ministries. 

Joy in Doing Good

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Joy IN DOING GOOD 

IMAGINE A PLANNING MEETING between angels (God’s messengers) in the throne room of Heaven. “How can we bring joy to our earthly family?” God asks. A chorus of ideas follows: “Bigger cars and homes? More power, more leisure, more Instagram followers?” “No. Through the ages, they have received those things, yet they are still restless – seeking something new, something else.” They conclude, “Joy comes from doing good for others – loving, sacrificing, giving and serving.”

Joy in doing good for others creates a sense of personal fulfillment and happiness. It crescendos into a chorus of gratitude and thanksgiving for all we have received from our good Heavenly Father. It is the primary motivation for mission trips – a sacrifice of time, hours of preparation, planning, shopping, packing and a significant investment of money and resources to personally love and serve in His name. What are some of the joyful moments that result? 

JOY IN GIVING THANKS

In El Salvador, a small team of “newbies” from Bear Creek Church in Katy arrived at the El Riel school and church. A brilliant rainbow of promise painted on their new computer science building formed the backdrop for welcoming children. Older girls danced, younger children sang and accompanied with rhythmic clapping while the littlest boys beat their drums – all garbed in traditional Salvadoran clothes. Let the joy begin!

The children led the way to their new worship center, rising up in the midst of poverty as a monument to faith-filled donations and hard work. Loud and robust praise music filled that small temple with the joy of the Lord. Then, a drama group of third graders seated missions pastor, Danny Quintanilla in a lone chair facing the congregation. Vaguely familiar music began, soon recognized as the Spanish version of “Thank you for giving to the Lord…I am a life that was changed.” Children, costumed in various occupations, gathered one by one as the song continued: “Sacrifices made, unnoticed on the earth, in heaven now proclaimed.” Two angel-garbed children escorted another child dressed in a white robe with a crimson sash. There was not a dry eye as the children placed a shiny gold crown on Pastor Danny’s head. It was only paper, but the crown of God’s blessing shone brighter than any 14k metal it represented. 

JOY IN CELEBRATING 

Makeshift instruments and a raucous chorus of “Feliz Navidad” greeted the mission team upon their arrival in the Dominican Republic. They came prepared to share Christmas joy with over 300 sponsored children. Christmas a la Dominicana included crafts, games, a picture booth and lots of traditional holiday snacks – empanadas, quipe and cake heaped with icing. A Dominican Christmas also included sudden tropical rainstorms!

Costumed actors, puppets and an elaborate stage were assembled, then quickly scurried away as dark clouds signaled imminent rain. With squeals and shouted directions, everyone scrambled to cover the cake, crafts and puppet stage. In a short time, after the clouds worked their mischief and everything was drenched and dripping, the sun began shining again. Seemingly rehearsed and choreographed, all the components re-emerged, and the celebration of Jesus’ birth continued. First in English, then in Spanish, they dramatized the familiar story of a virgin mother, a stable, shepherds and angels. Bright eyes shone with joy as they responded to the newborn baby who came to save us from our sins. With hugs all around, each child departed with a small gift bag containing a toothbrush and their favorite treat – American chocolates of all kinds!

JOY IN PARTNERSHIP

The foundation of STCH Ministries International Ministries is partnership with faith ministries that prioritize children and families – existing churches, schools and orphanage ministries led by competent local leaders called by God. Believing that God can equip individuals in every country to reach their own people, STCH Ministries seeks to identify these ministries and determine how a partnership can help fulfill the calling and vision that God has given them. 

Usually, this means an American-based church team partners with a Dominican or Salvadoran ministry to offer training, support, construction and resources. Recently, a unique partnership was formed between our Dominican workers and Salvadoran ministries to help construct missionary housing and provide the training needed to host additional mission teams. 

Russell Jerez, our Dominican Director of Construction, flew together with two young helpers and spent over two weeks helping transform an old building into mission-team housing. Later, a second team including Russell, Maria Maggallenes and our Dominican head cook, Ondina, came to help train Salvadoran ladies in the art of cooking for Americans and continue construction work. Ondina had never been out of her country before, but she thoroughly enjoyed sharing an important part of the Dominican mission history – recipes handed down to her from missionary Dorretta Brown. One night, Ondina, the Salvadoran cooks and mission participants joined their talents to make an international meal – pupusas, Dominican chicken, plantains and yucca fritters.

JOY IN TRAINING

There is no greater joy than to experience how God multiplies our “widow’s mite” or our inadequate offerings of loaves and fishes when we offer our talents to train others in another country, in another language. 

Opportunities are many and varied and have included:

A presentation on communication in marriage for couples and additional moms who attended without their partners.

ESL classes that help translators and teachers practice and improve their own skills, as well as develop effective strategies to teach the children in their schools.

A college student shared coping strategies for anxiety with teen girls, many acquired from her own experiences. Using real-life examples shared by the Dominican girls, they paired stressors with Scriptures written on paper swords to confront and overcome the effects of anxiety.

Language development, using principles from speech therapy and early learning methods, provoked “aha” moments and lively discussions with the directors and staff from the Christian schools.

JOY IN OUTREACH TO NEW MINISTRIES

In Ciudad Arce, children greeted the team with personalized posters declaring their Bienvenida/Welcome, followed by the opening prayer and the reading of Psalm 100, both led by six-year-old children. The ministry includes early childhood grades, English and computer classes for adults and an open-air church that meets on the patio. Formerly the headquarters of an infamous gang with a painted skull at the entrance, today a fledgling church visibly proclaims the power of the Gospel to transform.

A special joy accompanies the privilege of assisting partnering local churches to accomplish the vision God has given them. Tromping up, down and around ruts and cow patties, the team followed the Salvadoran leaders to the Escalon village to view a rough lean-to, the site of a new church plant. Earlier, a local resident begged the Peniel church at Zaragoza, “Come over and help us.” Although economic circumstances have severely limited their resources, the Peniel churches share a strong calling to reach their people for Christ. Stretched beyond capacity in their own churches, they asked our mission team, “Would we be willing to come and see?” The answer had to be yes! We saw and participated in a service and now we wait on God to fulfill His promises: “My God will meet all your needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus.” We ask for your prayers.

JOY IN SATISFYING NEEDS OF THE HUNGRY

Solomon promises that sharing our bread with the poor will be blessed. Each STCH Ministries mission trip schedules time for participants to purchase groceries and make personal visits to the homes of identified families with a high level of need. The shopping list contains no snacks or pre-prepared foods common in United States culture. We avoid perishables and items they can grow themselves. The list includes many unfamiliar items, such as Munne chocolate bars, canned or powdered milk, cornmeal and brown sugar (white sugar is considered unhealthy). There are lots of sardines, tuna and canned vegetables, along with three-foot-long rolls of salami and large cans of tomato paste. Toothpaste, bars of soap and toilet paper are also included. 

There is an air of excitement mixed with unfamiliarity as the shopping team divides into groups of two and competes to see who can finish their list first. As each bright yellow cart is filled and passed through the checkout, the grocery bags are numbered to identify the family who will receive the food offering. A Dominican translator accompanies each delivery group. Stark empty cupboards give mute evidence to the shy confession, mixed with relief and gratitude: “We had no food. We prayed God would see our need. My children didn’t go to school because we had no breakfast and nothing for their lunch bag either.” Givers and receivers bond as prayer needs are shared. A special joy accompanies the delivery to each home. With new awareness of our blessings, we are challenged to live more responsibly with the resources God has granted us. 

Much of the work of a mission week occurs before the group arrives. The joy of anticipation accompanies Zoom meetings between the team leaders and STCH Ministries staff in both countries, making lists and checking them not just twice, but multiple times. Boots-on-the-ground prepare the rooms, reserve transportation, and plan menus, special music and activities. Lumber is purchased and prepared for participants to build beds for children and tables for a school. Yes, we could send money and supplies, but the joy of presence far outweighs the sacrifice and efforts invested. 

Jeremiah records God’s words: “I will find joy in doing good for them…” God finds joy in doing good things for us, His children. Later in Hebrews, we read, “For the joy that was set before Him, Christ endured the cross.” It was joy that motivated the cross. What an amazing thought! Made in His image, created on purpose for a purpose. Sent to love in His name, sent to give, sent to sacrifice. Joy is our motivation, and joy is our heritage as we serve and do good for others.