"TRAP HOUSE"

This past month, I have worked closely with Good News Chapel, located in the heart of North Central, Regina. I have been attending the weekly prayer meetings, and Jordan and I also attended a Sunday to see what an average service looks like for them. We helped make sandwiches for the Sunday meal, participated in the service, and even shared a little about my previous ministry in Prince Albert with the congregation. I know the Lord has called me to work alongside this church; that part is evident, but to what capacity? Only God knows right now.

Broken Arrow Ranch

One opportunity that I was blessed with was going on a road trip with a couple of people who were already doing the groundwork in North Central. On Monday, October 16th, Tim, Bev, and I were blessed with the opportunity to visit Broken Arrow Ranch in southern Saskatchewan. This quiet ranch, nestled in the rolling hills outside the quiet hamlet of Wood Mountain (only having a population of 20 people), serves as a beacon of hope for families seeking healing and growth. Here, up to eight children under the age of 18 are embraced by a nurturing family environment, grounded in the values of our faith, and surrounded by the love of Christ. As we experienced the life-changing work being done at the ranch, our hearts were filled with a renewed sense of purpose for the ministry we are cultivating within the streets of North Central Regina.

The "Trap House"

During our visit, our attention was drawn to the beautiful vision that the Lord had laid upon Tim's heart. Tim was blessed with a fire-burned house at an exceptional price (called the "trap house"). This house, being a blessing from God, ignited a vision to extend a helping hand to the individuals we minister to in Regina. The plan is to offer affordable housing with guidelines promoting a lifestyle free from drugs and alcohol. This sanctuary will not only provide shelter but will also serve as a haven for hosting Bible Studies, fostering spiritual growth and community support within the North Central neighbourhood.

As we look into this endeavour and seek God’s leading, we recognize the significant challenges ahead. The financial aspect of this project remains an issue, and Tim, in his unwavering dedication, has been selflessly investing his time and resources into renovating the house. Nevertheless, we trust that God has a plan with this house and that in His timing, everything will pull together for His will, not our own. He alone holds the keys to the future of this house and the lives that may be changed through it.

Reflecting on our experiences at the Broken Arrow Ranch, we acknowledge the uniqueness of their approach, particularly due to their remote location, which is significantly different than the urban home we have. We also do not have the staff to run a group home housing style. While we may not be reproducing their model, the idea is to serve as landlords and mentors. We are looking to guide the youth and young adults of this community away from addiction and abuse cycles and toward the all-encompassing embrace of God's redemptive love. With Tim residing just across the street, there is a reassurance that a watchful eye and unwavering support will be readily available whenever possible.

Please pray for guidance for this housing project and what my part may be in all of this. It is such a unique opportunity, but I want to follow God’s lead. Because this is a place where Bible Studies may be held, that might be the part I play with these youth and young adults. Right now, only the Lord truly knows how this house will be used to serve Him. Pray for Tim and his heart for North Central. Pray for the house and the finances for Tim to finish it. Pray for Bev and her part to play in mentoring those in the home.