July 2009

Dear Friends,

It was a great experience to take the children to Louisville, Kentucky for the North American Christian Convention. We talked to many people at our booth and even the children got into the spirit of handing our brochures and talking to people about the home. We saw many old friends and made some new ones too. We paid a visit to the Louisville Slugger factory and then headed to Indianapolis for some R&R with my folks. We also used the time to visit with some friends at New Lisbon Church of Christ in Indiana. We talked with the college class about the ministry and enjoyed worship with them. We spent the day with the Dave and his family and that night the children got to play "shaving cream wiffle ball" with the high school youth group. It was a wonderful vacation.

At the July Directors meeting the directors continued our discussion about the future of ODCM and the vision. In order to grow the ministry at Open Door we are going to need to do more public relations work. The board asked me if I would be willing to present the ministry to church, organizations, clubs, and individuals in order to share the vision and to broaden the support base as well as finding new resources for potential residents. I humbly accepted the position and resigned as minister at Holly Neck Church of Christ.

We hosted a work group from North Hampton Church of Christ towards the end of July. These energetic junior high and high school children and their sponsors helped us dig a trench that was 250' long for a new water line. They did not complain in spite of the heat and hard work. The work was greatly appreciated. Thanks friends.

It has been a very busy month with the children going to camp, vacations, visiting churches, and workgroups. We would like to invite you to bring a church group, Sunday School class, youth group, or civic club out to Open Door to visit with the kids. In fact, keep September 26th on your calendar as the date for the annual appreciation meal. The fun starts at 2:00 p.m. with music and activities for the children. This year we are going to be barbecuing pork shoulders and chicken on the grill. There will be potatoes, coleslaw, and some great desserts as well. Hope to see you there!

Thank you again for your support.

God Bless You,

Loren Harold Lung

houseparent