February 2008

Dear Friends,

Sometimes working at a children’s home is can be draining mentally, emotionally, and physically. That is one of the things I appreciate about my wife. She is my team mate, my inspiration, and my level. Wendy and I work together to make sure everything is done and take the pressure off each other when we need to slow down.

This month, Wendy got the flu bug. By the grace of God, it did not go through everyone in the family but it knocked her out for about 10 days. And boy did I miss her. She usually gets up and takes the kids to daycare, teaches the home-school lessons, make sure the kids do their daily chores, as well as a million other things. With her being sick, I was responsible for everything. I did get a lot of help and encouragement from our friends, Kim, Dusty, and Cindy. I’m sure glad she’s feeling better.

We took the teenagers on a trip to Tennessee this month to visit to colleges. We stopped at Boone, NC to see Appalachian University and then we went on to Johnson Bible College in Knoxville, TN for homecoming. The kids really liked the trip and it sparked some great discussions on what the kids want to do in their futures. 

We lost a long-time supporter of Open Door Christian Ministries this past month. Brother David O’Neal was often seen at the home helping out with cutting wood, helping the kids work on their bicycles, and getting ready for homecoming. He participated in the Advisory Board meetings and often had an encouraging word for Wendy and I. At the annual meeting in January he told me not to get “burned out”. He also gave me some advise about the garden and the grape vines. David passed away early in February. He so loved Open Door Christian Ministries that the set up a memorial fund in his name. Gifts can still be sent to Open Door for this fund.

2008 has got some great promise. The board is talking about the future and God’s vision for the home. The board is investigating the possibility of opening Unit 2 up for more kids in need. If we proceed with the plans it means that we will need to increase support so that we can afford new house parents, operating expenses, and transportation needs for the kids.

Good News, thanks to the generosity of the churches, boy scouts, and individuals, our pantry is well stocked for the moment. The only things we really need now are the basics of toilet paper, paper towels, and bathroom wipes. If you are interested in helping out with needs, please check the updated needs list on our website (www.opendoorchildren.org).

Thanks again for your support, prayers, and well wishes.

God Bless You,

Loren Harold Lung

houseparent