As many of you know Bill Riemer and I have been working and praying to put together a plan that would be as inclusive to everyone involved in furnishing the Corona Norco Rescue Mission. Please be sure to read the last paragraph for an opportunity to help. We will both be in the foyer Sunday @ Crossroads on Sunday March 11^th & 18^th if you would like to talk to us directly…Todd

The Corona Norco Rescue Mission needs your help in doing something extraordinary for homeless men, women and children here in Corona.  Construction is complete and we are now working on furnishing the newly remodeled CNRM.  We invite you, your family, your office, church or community group to take part in furnishing, assembling and/or decorating the 17 individual living areas that will provide a safe and secure environment for up to 70 of the least, the last and the lost of our community.

In keeping with the Rescue Mission’s successful philosophy of creating an environment of beauty in order to elevate expectations and increase student motivation to succeed; we are seeking to furnish the living spaces with new items, provided by individuals and organizations who share our vision of making a significant impact in the lives of the less fortunate.  To assist these individuals in rising to the challenge of transforming their lives in order to meet the common goal of achieving a self-sufficient lifestyle, we desire to provide a space where they feel welcomed, loved, safe and secure.

We have four separate categories of living areas defined below.  Each category has its own specific needs in terms of type and amount of items.  All rooms are in need of beds, bedding, storage and furnishings.  We would greatly appreciate your donation of time, treasure and talents in order to meet these needs.  For your prayerful consideration we have put together the following donation packages:

Ø  (3) Family Rooms @ $1975 each (beds, bedding, storage and furnishings for a family of 5)

Ø  (3) Single Mother Rooms @ $1,875 each (beds, bedding, storage and furnishings for a single mother and 3 children)

Ø  (6) Semi Private Female living areas @ $1,725 each (beds, bedding, storage and furnishings for 4 single women, or a single mother with up to 3 children)

Ø  (5) Semi Private Male living areas @ $1,725 each (beds, bedding, storage and furnishings for 4 single men)

If you would like to partner with us by sponsoring a room or living area please click on this donation link (active beginning on 03/10/2012).  During the donation process you will be given the opportunity to indicate whether or not you would like to assist in assembling and or decorating the living spaces, and will be contacted shortly thereafter by our volunteer coordinator to arrange a time and date.

If you are interested in purchasing and donating beds, bedding, storage or furnishings for a room separately, please contact CNRM staff at 951-279-1300 in order to discuss the specific needs of a particular room and have any questions answered.  

”At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly” Acts 10:1&2

It’s a theme that runs through the Bible, giving something to those who “had need”. Jesus healed those who had “need”; it would be silly to heal someone who didn’t need healing. They gave money or food to those who had “need” in the Book of Acts. Jesus washed the disciples feet and when Peter wanted his whole body washed Jesus still only washed Peter’s feet, because that was all that was needed. It was tough for Peter to separate what he needed over what he wanted; it’s tough for all of us.

One of the unexpected things that have come up working with CNRM is trying to determine what I needed over what I wanted. I have been blessed with a wonderful job and a good income. God has blessed me with the opportunity to volunteer both for CNRM and Crossroads. It’s taught me about what I “Need,” over what I “Want”.

On-site at CNRM, we have the daunting task of trying to accomplish something amazing during a time when the construction trade has been hit hard. In some cases, we are aware that we can help those in need and still get the job done for little cost. We find ourselves balancing the tasks between those who can donate money, and over those who can donate labor. Sometimes those who donate money don’t have time. Sometimes those who have time don’t have money.

We have literally been brought to our knees in prayer for those of you who have stepped into help with the CNRM. You have shared with us stories of personal tragedy, brokenness, unemployment and financial devastation, and you still look to help others who are in need by devoting your time and money to CNRM! When others might have looked at their own condition and sought financial gain, “In Faith” you put your own needs second to the needs of others. Because of confidentiality, I don’t want to start naming people, but everyone has been absolutely remarkable in their service.

I know that God sees each of your needs and from all of those involved in CNRM I want to reassure you that you are being prayed for in your time of need.

Jobsite:

You will begin to see this format throughout the project. These 4 posts are the most relevant. I attached a Word document with a complete list of projects. If you do not have Word and would like them in an email format, please let me know.

Project: Repave parking lot/install drainage
Synopsis: We are rebuilding the parking lot in order to properly drain and provide handicapped parking.
Materials: concrete/asphalt
Lead Person: Rowdy Williamson rowdy_williamson@yahoo.com (951) 314-2377
Crew: As needed-general labor, shoveling, rubbish removal, cleaning …
Tools: Personal Safety equip. shovels, brooms etc.
Special notes:
Start date: Current. Contact Rowdy for progress


Project: Enclose closet space in west dorm
Synopsis: Enclose w/stud, drywall. Install door frame.
Materials: metal or wood stud, drywall.
Lead Person: None, Contact Todd Holtkamp
Crew: 2 people, lead and helper
Tools: As needed
Special notes:
Start date: Anytime

Project: Kitchen Ceiling
Synopsis: We will be replacing the existing T-bar, ceiling panels and lights
Materials: T-bar, panels & lights on-site
Lead Person: Mark Hines hines.construction@hotmail.com (951) 833-6905
Crew: 4-5 people. Need experience with T-bar, connecting lights, general labor.
Tools: As needed
Special notes: We will coordinate shutting down the kitchen and doing some clean up during the construction. Some general labor will be needed to move equipment, clean and help get the kitchen back into operation.
Start date: We are in the process of coordinating this now.

 
“All the believers were together and had everything in common.  They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:44-47


What’s Happening:
I knew I was slacking on getting the blog out, there have been so many exciting things happening. I kept thinking “Okay, I get this thing cleared up and I have to let everyone know!” I looked this morning and I haven’t blogged since the 3rd of January!

In a nutshell:
We have corrections to be made on the plans that we submitted to the city. Kirk and Rowdy are working on getting those done and as soon as those permits are cleared, we will be starting on-site construction of the building.

Oltmans Construction came onto the project with a generous donation of labor. We will be able to use their labor talents to build the foundation for the façade. Lennar Homes will do the framing for the façade. Oltmans will finish the stucco and color coat and help with other projects. Behr paint will be donating the paint for the project. PlyGem windows gave us a great donation of 22 windows, 3 donated and the rest at cost. Sea Gull Lighting donated lighting. Home Depot gave us a substantial donation of gift cards. Robertson Concrete is giving us a great cost on concrete.

Rowdy is working on the drainage issues of the parking lot. New sidewalk has been poured and changes are taking place.

Mattresses:
Many heard Chuck announce that Crossroads would be donating 80 mattresses to the project. That gave me multiple calls and follow-ups trying to coordinate all of the donations and connections. The final decision was to accept an offer by Laura Castro of World Bed. They produce a tempur-pedic type mattress. She offered to donate all the mattresses for the project! I approached Crossroads and they will now be using the funds dedicated to mattresses to purchase bunk beds, unless God is getting those donated also!

Closing thoughts:
Playing on the floor with my granddaughters is always an adventure that leaves me sore the next day. It’s tough crawling around the floor being the horse, or the dragon that is slain by the beautiful princesses. At four & two years old, getting them to share always becomes a point of correction from grandpa. You are always waiting for that shout of “Mine, Mine!” or the older one using distraction techniques to get what she wants from the younger one.

As adults we find it’s easier to share when we have excess; it’s not easy to share when we feel our sharing will be a sacrifice. As adults we think that we have learned the art of sharing, which generally is not true. What we have learned is to give what we have in excess or those things that we really didn’t want any more, the art of distraction. It is the appearance of sacrifice, when we are actually just giving from our excess.

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1&2

Each of us have those things we hold precious, prestige, time, money, we all have something we hold precious. In the Book of Acts they gave what they had to those in need. They gave three things, property, possessions and time. This was above their tithing, Peter is preaching to the Jews in Jerusalem at this time. How much more, having the full knowledge of Christ’s sacrifice do we give or sacrifice those things precious to us, or do we give from our excess?

Opportunity to Serve
Steve & Silvia Cervantes are new at leading the Saturday food service in God’s kitchen. They could use some help. This would be a good way to start the New Year in helping someone else. Contact stevelcd@yahoo.com cell# 951-833-1348

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” - Micah 6:8

Holidays are over, time to get back to work ….We hope that you were blessed this holiday season. Last week we submitted plans to the City. We are now waiting for corrections and permits. We are looking forward to start construction soon.

Kiosk.
We will be having a kiosk in the foyer of Crossroads for the next three Sunday mornings. Feel free to stop by to say “Hi!” and get the latest information.

Opportunity to Serve
Steve & Silvia Cervantes are new at leading the Saturday food service in God’s kitchen. They could use some help. This would be a good way to start the New Year in helping someone else. Contact stevelcd@yahoo.com cell# 951-833-1348

On Site Rules and Conduct

Our desire is for everyone to have a safe and joyful time in their service to help the homeless at Corona Norco Rescue Mission. The following guidelines have been established to reduce the liability of those organizations involved. Please understand that this is home for many people and we are interrupting their normal routine.

Hours of construction are from 8am to 6pm. Please get specific permission if you need to work at another time.

Conduct Concerning the Homeless

• Please do not distribute food while on the construction site. Those in need should be directed to God’s Kitchen for food.

• You can bring donations to Gods Kitchen. Food products must be prepared or packaged in a certified kitchen. Example: You can donate raw or frozen meat or other foods that require preparation. You can donate store bought or packaged goods, you may not bring homemade goods. Please contact the kitchen staff for specific needs.

• Please do not give money to those who ask.

• You may pray and share the Gospel with those whom you come in contact.

• Outside restrooms are provided; please do not use the restrooms in the facility.

Tools and Equipment

• You are responsible for you own tools. We suggest that you mark them before you bring them on-site.

• We do have seatainers onsite to secure larger items.

• Please lock your vehicles and secure your personal property when possible.

Safety

• No open toed shoes or sandals are allowed on-site at any time.

• Proper safety apparel should be used in association with the task being completed. Safety glasses, ear plugs, dust masks. We ask that you provide your own.

• No one under the age of 16 is allowed on the construction site without specific permission from a Team Leader. Children between the ages of 16 to 18 must be accompanied by a parent at all times.

• Each section of the building will be isolated for water and electric. Please do not energize any section without permission from supervisor.

Security

• Each section of the building will be isolated. Please do not enter areas outside the work area. This facility is still in operation and you may be walking through someone’s living area.

• Please park your vehicle outside of the lot unless you are actively loading equipment.

• Please be sure that you secure the storage area and building if you are the last on the site. It is not the responsibility of the staff.

http://www.rescuemissioncn.org/Home.aspx

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6: 9-10

Sometimes I plant my face in my pillow at night thinking “I could sleep for a week.” Only to have by eyes open the next morning just as early as they did the day before. Weariness can take its toll on our souls, I wish I could give you those magic remedies that would take away weariness, get more sleep, eat better, think happy thoughts …. But I still hit the pillow with the same resolve “Sleep for a week!”

I do take comfort in knowing “I did the best, to do the best I could”. I don’t always get it right, but I tried too. Taking the opportunity to do good is “Doing the best to do the best you can”. It’s just a moment, it might just be a smile, a “Hi” or it might be some hard work, all depends on your ability to see an opportunity.

The first time I met Jim Palmer, the president of Orange County Rescue Mission was on email. His signature quotes Thomas Edison "Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work". Don’t miss an opportunity to do good because it looks like work.

Onsite.
The facility is looking bigger as Rowdy Williamson, Keith Fisher and Jon King came on-site with back hoes, chainsaws and dump trucks and removed the vegetation around the property… Looks great, wonderful job guys.

Opportunity
It all started with the “Twelve Days of Christmas” That is a quote from Bill Riemer. Instead of doing a single Christmas event, there is a list of events happening at the shelter through Christmas Day. The outpouring from the community has been remarkable. There are a few needs …

Contact Steffanie @ steffanie.jarrell@rescuemission.org

From Steffanie:

First and foremost, we have the Toys for Tots, Toys “R” Us event on Monday – it is early – 4am – but our bus has fallen through – if anyone has a connection with a bus we desperately need it – we have 32 people going! We actually have a driver, we just need the vehicle (unless they feel uncomfortable with that and are willing to provide their own). At the last resort we need volunteers to drive kids and a few parents… Please Email me if you can help

Secondly, The only opportunities for volunteer ( 6 – 10 at most) is to help us set up our Family Christmas event 12/23 6pm to 8pm at CNRM, also if people who would like to perform that night. We are also looking for desserts as well as soft drinks – and then to serve refreshments – so lots of people can drop off desserts etc… but we don’t have a lot of space, so only a few will be needed to help serve (and again if a few others want to do a skit or sing a song or read a story/poem I am open to that as well).

Lastly, I can also use a few volunteers to come and help me organize the toys – but that is going to be the 21st, 22nd, and 23rd – You can come any of those days. We also need donations of large gift bags that we can put some of the toys in and all of the items for the adults. If you want to donate wrapping paper and come by and wrap gifts that would be great!(we will not have most of our gifts till the 20th or 21st) Blankets are greatly needed – these are things we can give to the schools and outside people as well! Please contact Steffanie by email.

There is more!
Mark Chow has been an amazing resource for us and other non-profits with his “A Foundation for Kids”. If you are looking for a way to help out this Holiday season, please contact Mark.: 909-923-0415 mvchow12455@hotmail.com

Dear Friend of AFFK -

Please consider helping us for Christmas by volunteering some time picking and packing gifts at our Donation Center in Ontario for a few hours!

We are trying to process about gifts for 15k - 20k children by Dec. 24th!

Dec. (Today) Dec 17th: 9 am - 7 pm

Dec. 19th: 9 am - 5 pm

Dec. 20th - 21st - 9 am - 7 pm


A Foundation for Kids
2021 South Archibald Avenue (60 fwy & Archibald Avenue)
Ontario, CA 91761 909-923-0415 mvchow12455@hotmail.com

Gifts for Kids - we can use more gifts for kids; sports balls, skate boards, games, dolls, EVERY DONATION WILL COUNT, etc.
Thank you & God Bless! ...Mark Chow.


Make this holiday special by helping someone in need!

“He who gives to the poor will never want,
But he who shuts his eyes will have many curses.”

Proverbs 28:27

It’s a game we have all played with our children when they were little; a game of “Hide and Seek”. We pretend that they are invisible when they cover their own eyes. We exclaim “Where did Jimmy go?” as the little one sits with his eyes covered, giggling, thinking that no one can see them. Child psychologists will tell you that a small child sees things from their own point of view and have difficulty thinking about other people’s experiences.

It’s been said more than once “I don’t want to know”. Knowledge would require me to do something rather than just sit in my own ignorance. Sometimes I have not matured any farther than my own childhood when I choose to sit with my eyes shut and ignore the problem.

God calls us to maturity, and maturity is defined as thinking beyond ourselves. So with poverty we are asked to act and there is a reward for those who do. We think that it would be a physical reward, but actually it is maturity that we will discover and having maturity we will lack for nothing.

Bookmark it:
The website has been redone and soon you will be able to see more ways to serve at Corona Norco Rescue Mission. http://www.rescuemissioncn.org/Home.aspx

On Site:
Thanks to Rowdy for setting up Regan Paving to slurry the back alley so we could place storage containers.
Lucas Oil donated two Seatainers that were placed on-site for storage . Thanks, Tom & Brian for your generous donation.

Thanksgiving Day Event:
The Thanksgiving event was a big hit. Thanks to everyone who dedicated time during your holiday to make it happen. We had teamed with Mark Chow from “A Foundation for Kids” to put together a great day for those less fortunate, to give them something to be joyous about on Thanksgiving Day. You made an impact, you thought beyond yourself to bring a gift of celebration to others. We were overwhelmed with the response of volunteers … Thanks

“But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

I Peter 2:9-10”

It’s a very simple need that exists within all of us; it’s the need to belong to something. I have a daughter who is disabled, so that propels my wife and I into advocating for the disabled many times. I have a simple statement that seems to open up the eyes of many people who ask questions about the handicapped: “They just want to be like you.” They want to be included and considered as an important part of our society. They want to belong.

The Holy Spirit does the same thing through Peter in the above verse; He makes us special because we belong to him, not disabled from our sin, but Holy from His Mercy; not just “A people”, but a “People of God”. We belong to God.

This Thanksgiving Day many will take time to include serving the homeless and needy in the Thanksgiving Day event planned at the shelter. You might be someone that has invited a family to join you in your home. Remember, many do not choose homelessness in the same way many don’t choose to have a disability. They just want to be like you.

Bookmark it: The website has been redone and soon you will be able to see more ways to serve at Corona Norco Rescue Mission. http://www.rescuemissioncn.org/Home.aspx

Thanks to everyone who helped with the sandblasting project. It was finished on time.

Thanksgiving Day Event:
The response has been amazing and it sounds like it will be an amazing event. We received a great response of volunteers; if you have any questions direct them to Volunteers@rescuemission.org

We have teamed with Mark Chow from “A Foundation for Kids” to put together a great day for those less fortunate, to give them something to be joyous about on Thanksgiving Day. Over 300 families in the community were invited, so it sounds like it will be great fun. Thanks Mark!

9:00am – 12:00
Set up time


12:00 – 3:00pm
Game booths,
Prize booth
Snack bar - popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, snack bars, beverages
Face painting
Arts & crafts
Family gift basket distribution (gift bag for every family)
Meal Box Distribution
Inflatable’s

3pm – 4pm
Breakdown/Cleanup.

Contact: Christina Wollin at Volunteers@rescuemission.org and put CNRM Thanksgiving Volunteer in the subject line.

The subject line is important, so that your email will be seen in a timely manner! Thanks for your heart to help the less fortunate in Corona!

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving” Colossians 3:23-24

As I mentioned last week you are going to be hearing about more opportunities and less philosophy, so here goes…

Bookmark it:
The website has been redone and soon you will be able to see more ways to serve at Corona Norco Rescue Mission. http://www.rescuemissioncn.org/Home.aspx

Current:
Sandblasting the exterior is continuing, Dave should be finished the first half of Friday. Dave has been relentless with his crew. Jon King and Edwin Hernandez have been a great help. If you can make it to help cleanup, contact Dave Armas Cell # (909)367-5800.

This Friday, November 19th. 10am @ CNRM.
Dave and his crew have worked hard all week sandblasting the facility and now we need to clean up the mess in preparation for Thanksgiving Day.

Lead Person: Jon King broncos29x@yahoo.com (714)381-0499

The Need: 10 people onsite.

Expertise: Labor, cleaning up debris, cleaning pavement areas.

Tools: Push brooms and shovels are optional. We will have some on-site, but if you are fond of using your own, you can bring them.

Personal Safety Equipment: Gloves, eye protection, dust masks. closed toe shoes (no open toed shoes on site)

Thanksgiving Day Event:

Here is a chance to do something good in Corona this year! There will be a Thanksgiving Day event at the Corona Norco Rescue Mission on Thanksgiving Day! Need to get out of the house for a few hours with the kids? Looking for something good to do on Thanksgiving? Need to burn off some of those Turkey Day calories? Here is a chance for you to make a difference.

We have teamed with Mark Chow from “A Foundation for Kids” to put together a great day for those less fortunate, to give them something to be joyous about on Thanksgiving Day.

9:00am – 12:00

Set up time (6 volunteers)

12:00 – 3:00pm

Game booths – (5 volunteers)

Prize booth – (2 volunteers)

Snack bar - popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, snack bars, beverages – (3 volunteers)

Face painting – (2 volunteers)

Arts & crafts – (2 volunteers)

Family gift basket distribution – (4 volunteers) (gift bag for every family)

Meal Box Distribution – (4 volunteers)

Inflatable’s – (2 volunteers)

Security – (4 volunteers) will be issued a SECURITY vest and radio

3pm – 4pm

Breakdown/Cleanup – (6 volunteers)

There are over 600 people on this list. You can serve all day or part of the day. If 120 people can give 2 hours, then everyone can serve and enjoy the holiday with their family. Start a tradition of service with your family.

Contact:
Christina Wollin at Volunteers@rescuemission.org and put CNRM Thanksgiving Volunteer in the subject line.


The subject line is important, so that your email will be seen in a timely manner! Thanks for your heart to help the less fortunate in Corona!



It is going to be great to see everyone come together and make this happen!

Doug Husen asked some of us to write letters for his son Keanu's passage ceremony. I thought it might deserve repeating, so here it is .. enjoy ..

Dear Keanu,


When we as a society try to understand at what point a boy becomes a man. I would put forth that a man is a man from birth; a boy is just an age. Uninterrupted by Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection (see www.darwinawards.com) every boy will become a man by simply reaching the age of majority, saying that at some time before the age of 30 he has not accidently removed himself from the gene pool, he will probably be considered a man. Unfortunately most of these individuals have reproduced before our societies DNA has been cleansed , if for no other purpose than to provide entertainment to future generations with films such as “Jack Ass 15”.

What really becomes the sign of a man is our ability to use the frontal lobe of the brain; I like to call it our “Man Brain”. It doesn’t mean that you are a “Big Brain”, smarter than everyone else, it means you have chosen to utilize the part of your brain that God gave us making us different than the animals.

“The frontal lobe is an area in the brain of humans, located at the front of each cerebral hemisphere and positioned anterior to (in front of) the parietal lobes and above and anterior to the temporal lobes (i.e. directly behind the forehead or "temple"). It is separated from the parietal lobe by the post-central gyrus primary motor cortex, which controls voluntary movements of specific body parts associated with the precentral gyrus posteriorly, inferiorly by lateral sulcus [slyvian] which separates it from the temporal lobe, superiorly by the superior margin of the hemisphere and anteriorly by the frontal pole.


The frontal lobe contains most of the dopamine-sensitive neurons in the cerebral cortex. The dopamine system is associated with reward, attention, long-term memory, planning, and drive. Dopamine tends to limit and select sensory information arriving from the thalamus to the fore-brain. A report from the National Institute of Mental Health says a gene variant that reduces dopamine activity in the prefrontal cortex is related to poorer performance and inefficient functioning of that brain region during working memory tasks, and to slightly increased risk for schizophrenia."




The schizophrenia episodes that most males experience are followed by a person of authority saying “What were you thinking?”. This is generally spoken following a near death experience. The truth is you weren’t thinking, your Man Brain malfunctioned. That is generally a normal part of development, but shouldn’t be considered a point of achievement, rather a minor setback in development. If your Man Brain was functioning properly you would have kept your mouth shut, taken your foot off the gas pedal or said “I don’t think this is a good idea”.

To put it simpler, it’s your frontal lobe that makes you different than a simple ape. The frontal lobe is the part of our brain that works as a “Filter”. Let’s say that you are hanging with some friends, when one of them decides to hit on your girlfriend. The fact is that this idiot has the inability to see that you are actually superior to him in every way, except physically, he proceeds to encroach on your man territory. The fact that he outweighs you with 50lbs of muscle and bench presses 350lbs on a bad day should be enough to deter you from showing him you Wii karate moves. It is your highly developed frontal lobe (Man Brain) that keeps you from telling that ape what you really think of him. Notice I use the term “Ape” a clear sign of an underdeveloped Man Brain. Don’t confuse the ape reference to later years of your life when you develop back hair that resembles “The Great Silver-Backed Ape”. This should be recognized as a sign of prestige admired by all females of the species, this is why it is reserved for “Chronologically gifted males”.

It is also the Man Brain that generally keeps us swinging from trees, throwing our poop, and answering the question “Does this dress make me look fat?” You will find in the years to come that the size of your Man Brain does matter “Use it or lose it”. The use of your Man Brain will serve you well in every avenue of your life. Be careful showing your “Man Brain” to your friends as to seem arrogant, even though the female of the species will be appreciative of your talents.

“For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1Corintians 3 9-11

It’s a big brown box on the corner of Harrison and Sheridan. We know it now as the Corona Norco Rescue Mission. I’ve heard it affectionately called the “Pig”. While walking through looking at plans, someone walked by and simply said “Have you thought of tearing it down?” I smiled and said “Yes, that’s been suggested”. Its past is a bit sketchy, we know by design it was possibly a packing house for fruit and a warehouse at various times. It was once owned by the Salvation Army as a detox center. Since 1986 it’s been functioning as an emergency shelter for the homeless.

In the months to come it will go to a new level, not just in looks, but in what it will offer. A holistic approach to homelessness providing food, shelter, medical, dental, vision, job training, peer counseling, child care, but most of all a foundation laid in Christ. I would love to tell you that we have all been sitting back on our laurels waiting for Santa to bring us a new building, but that hasn’t happened. In the months to come, you are probably going to hear more of the structural things that are happening rather that the spiritual or philosophical, but I think that is what I am here to do.

• Kirk Bennett is still working on the design plans. Kirk has done a great job of creating something from nothing. There were no plans for this building when we started. Structural Engineering is required for the exterior façade. Title 24 engineering for the lighting changes and engineering for the changes in plumbing. This should be done in the next few weeks and presented to the city for permits. Lead and asbestos samples were taken and came back negative. The Decorating Team is going over paint and tile specifications.

• The modular was moved from the site thanks to Rowdy Williamson, Dave Armas and their crew. This will give us an accessible area for the children’s play area. With the reorganization of space on the interior, we have several areas that we can use for learning centers. McDonalds Restaurant has donated a large self-contained playground structure to place in the outside area.

• Baxter Miller Landscaping has given us plans to submit to the City for landscaping. This includes sprinkler layouts, plant choices and hardscape features.

• Rowdy also was instrumental in installing a steam table in the serving window of God’s Kitchen. Larry Berryman stepped up and did the electrical for the installation. Both were rewarded with a kiss from Bettie.

• Before construction starts we will remove the palm trees and set the foundation for the façade. You will be hearing more about that in the weeks to come.

You should be hearing some random “Shout-outs” for certain labor needs in the weeks to come. I will also keep you posted on holiday events that will involve the mission.

Knowing “For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” We continue to pray and look for guidance on the things we do, knowing that the building is secondary compared to what God will do in the lives of those that touch it.

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus.”

Titus 2:11-13

The grass is neatly cut and manicured along the parkway, trees line the walkway. As you approach you notice a tent with someone sleeping on the ground outside. The closer you get you notice people just standing around holding cardboard signs saying “Will work for food” or “God Bless you”. There are children just sitting, not playing, not listening to IPods, just sitting with their parents.

The closer you walk; you begin to notice the car that apparently hasn’t run for a while is filled with someone’s belongings. The shopping cart holding blankets and recyclables is next to a shabbily dressed man carrying one of the cardboard signs. He looks directly at you, but you don’t make eye contact. Now you recognize that you have wandered into a homeless encampment, but that was not where you were headed, you were going to church.

This was the first thing you saw last Sunday morning as you walked toward the main Sanctuary at Crossroads. Once people passed our “Encampment” they were exposed to other areas of the world in which poverty exists. There were shanties erected, live animals, and outdoor cooking with food to sample. You could witness the physical relief in many people as they began to understand that we were only part of the display and that the church grounds had not been taken over by the homeless.

Patrice Maturkanich did a great job organizing our encampment, from the car and tent, to the actors playing the part of the homeless. Everyone did a great job. The most interesting thing was the response of many before they realized that these “Homeless” were members of our church. No one was rude, many people actually tried to give money; some actually insisted that we take their donation.

For many we noticed that we had intruded into their life, an unexpected interruption. We watched as one woman, kids in tow, stopped and walked around our display, toward the offices and down the stairs to avoid contact.

I would not put forth that anyone is indifferent or adverse toward the homeless; for the most part we just don’t know how to effectively help a stranger without jeopardizing our own well-being. This is a natural response for anyone.

How do we overcome these feelings? By increasing awareness of the problem, training on how to resolve the problem and resources to overcome the problem. The fix doesn’t come from one person becoming involved; it comes from all of us doing what each has the ability to accomplish.

From a Spiritual standpoint it looks like this, though each of these attributes applies to each of us, not just the homeless.

Awareness: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men”.

Training: ”Instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age”

  Resource: ”Looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus.”

From a physical standpoint we are becoming more aware of the homeless problem that exists in our community. We are putting things in motion to train those interested in helping and we are organizing resources to make sure that the needs are being met. So we are on the right track.

Photo's by Dianna Lopez. MakeUp: Joanne Stevens and Malory Giboney

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3

Today I am going to make my blog a social experiment using you. We are surrounded by visual stimulants that feed our brains a continual influx of information. We each believe that the things we see with our eyes are true. Today I would like you to take one minute, forty two seconds and watch “The Monkey Business Solution” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGQmdoK_ZfY

There are no tricks or spyware downloaded to your computer, just take a moment now and watch the video. If you have seen this type of video before, watch it again, this one has a new twist. Do it now, before you continue with the blog.

In the Annual Homeless Assessment Report of 2009, Housing and Urban Development reported to Congress that there was an estimated 643,000 homeless in America. http://www.huduser.org/publications/pdf/5thHomelessAssessmentReport.pdf

“Nearly 1.56 million people used an emergency shelter or a transitional housing program during the 12-month period (October 1, 2008 through September 30, 2009). Two thirds were homeless as individuals, and one-third were homeless as members of families.”

So when we drive down the street, what do we see? If you watched the Monkey Business Solution, can we trust what we saw? I think the video proves that we do have selective vision. When we are looking for that “New Car” we see them everywhere. A pregnant woman sees pregnant women everywhere she goes. The homeless that we are looking for are not those who generally walk the streets with shopping carts or stand in underpasses looking for handouts.

It’s those that are living in their cars or camping as a means of shelter. It’s those that are looking to get off of the streets, it’s those who are seeking shelter for their family; an opportunity to re-enter society and be self-sufficient. Sometimes it’s the obvious things that catch our attention and we make judgments on the obvious.
A better answer would be that we “Call to Him” and ask Him to reveal to us what the need is and our personal ability to help solve the problem of homelessness.

This Sunday Chuck will be speaking on the “The Darkness of Poverty”. We will also have a display in the Candlewalk, stop by and say “Hi”.

“But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work.” I Thessalonians 5:12

It’s Clergy Appreciation Month. To be honest I am somewhat offended that we have to have a “Hallmark Day” in order appreciate those whom we work with preaching the Gospel; we need to be appreciating them every day.
There was a point in my own life that I was making that career decision. I was actually looking at several schools and had applied to a Bible College to go into ministry full-time. Because of several “God Circumstances” and a lot of prayer, I followed the path of Paramedic/Firefighter. Having made that decision, I vowed to be the best volunteer in service to our Lord. I never regretted that decision and God has truly blessed me in being what I call a “DuVoc”, Dual Vocation. I am a firefighter by trade and a full-time Christian by passion.

I am in one of those professions that many in the community consider as a “Hero”. “Doc” is one of our firefighters, who as a black man stands six foot three and a biscuit short of 260 lbs. He can be pretty ominous. When referred to as a “Hero”, Doc will reply back “A Hero ain’t nothin but a samich (sandwich)”. I tend to agree with Doc.

If I have to look for “Hero’s”, I look to those who can save the soul, not just the body. For every time I have interrupted Death, Death still looms in the future, waiting for age, disease or trauma to be given an opportunity again. Saving a soul is eternal.

I do not need someone to designate a month or a day for me to recognize the “Hero’s” in my life. I see them every day seeking to distribute the Gospel to those who are weary and just short of Death, seeking to bring the soul back to life. They take a pulpit, sing a praise, visit the sick, tend to the needy, teach a child, feed the poor, solder pipes, paint walls, drive nails … the list is endless, all in the name of Christ..

What defines a “Hero” to me?

“Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.” James 1:21-22

Go now and be a “Hero” in someone’s life.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

This is one of the toughest verses in the Bible for me. I want the “Peace that surpasses all understanding”, I just don’t want to wait for it. I tend to work in 911 times, the phone rings, the call comes, I grab my stuff and head for the door. All of those sermons of reaching the poor, the lost and the needy? Okay, let’s go! “This is broke? This needs repair? Let’s get some guys and fix it”. So you can imagine my angst as we wait on the Lord to give us the go ahead with the CNRM project. I’ve learned over the years to pray more than I push when it comes to doing things for the Lord. As we try to orchestrate this project, we find ourselves working against the upcoming Holidays. We are continuing to keep our construction dates in prayer. Thanks for your patience.

The following is coming from Patrice Maturkanich.. If you can help, Please contact her. patricem@crossroadschurch.com

Global Outreach Day, Sunday October 24, will showcase the mission work of Crossroads Church throughout the world in a realistic scenario of living conditions in various countries, as well as in the U.S.

The Corona-Norco Rescue Mission is our local mission field outreach. We'd like to demonstrate the living conditions of those who have lost their homes. We are looking for volunteers with a heart for these people to help us make this demonstration an effective success. The scenario will look like this:

*an old car parked on the Candle Walk patio, filled with clothing, quilts, laundry basket, misc. bags of "stuff", etc.
*adults sitting in or near the car, wearing well-worn clothing, unwashed skin (we have makeup for that), uncombed hair. Some holding cardboard signs with words such as "will work for food", etc.
*children similarly dressed, playing near car or quietly resting in a melancholy fashion near "mother"
*possibly a tired, faithful dog lying next to these people
*EZ-up shade covering with a table holding rescue mission flyers, trifolds, business cards, sign-up sheet for more info, etc. EZ-up will be covered all over with quilt-like scraps of old, mismatched material roughly sewn together.

If you feel called to serve in this ministry outreach day, we would appreciate your participation so much! We welcome 'donation loans' for any of the materials we will need, and of course we welcome anyone who would like to participate as a homeless family member.

Bill Reimer, the Chief Program Officer for the Rescue Mission efforts in the Inland Empire, will be present to answer questions all morning, as well as Todd Holtkamp, the Project Manager for the Corona-Norco Rescue Mission refurbishing.

Please respond with your interest to Patrice, admin volunteer for CNRM.

patriceM@CrossroadsChurch.com

On a personal note: Heather is home and continues to recover. thanks for all of your prayers and support.

It would probably be a lot easier for me if God just sent me a note and said “Hey Todd, you need to work on this in your life”. Maybe He has and I was too busy to see it, or maybe it got lost in my other emails. Being a paramedic for 24 years has not helped me become anymore compassionate toward the homeless; in fact it has allowed me to build defense mechanisms. For many homeless, they use the emergency medical system to avoid the weather and get a shower and comfortable bed for a few days. Show any amount of compassion and they will be sitting in the Fire Station watching TV while you are out on a call, it’s happened to us! The guys at Station One had befriended a local homeless man only to come back from a call and found him sleeping in one of the chairs at the fire station.

My family and I were eating lunch at the mall when a woman approached our table with a child on her hip and another in tow. She was carrying a small sign that explained her plight and a request for money. I asked her if she had checked with the local shelter and social services, she needed to get off the streets. She shook her head and scurried away. I was irritated as I watched her move through the food court collecting money. I felt she was using her children as props to collect money.

The next day I was in the parking lot of Home Depot and another woman approached me, child on her hip, a small sign explaining her need and asking for money. I wanted information from this woman, and felt I had something that I needed to learn. “Do you have an I.D?” I asked. She replied in a heavy accented voice “No, immigration has it, no I.D.” With that reply I realized that I am not equipped to show compassion at this point. I have a lot to learn about what we can do in our community.

I was icing my shoulder, thumbing through You Tube, when I stumbled upon http://www.youtube.com/user/invisiblepeopletv . Mark Horvath makes a cross country documentary interviewing the homeless and their plight. I watched a segment of a woman with 5 children and the first thing that came to my mind was “What were you thinking when you had 5 children”? I continued to thumb through the numerous videos always looking for a “Cause” to their homelessness. Drugs, alcohol, abuse, failed marriages, unemployment all the reasons are there, so I am still questioning God “What do you want me to learn?”

Compassion not Judgment
That night I made my way to men’s group and I saw myself in the lesson.

“To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable:"Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.' "But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 18:9-14.



I got it God, I am the Pharisee, and I was surprised by that revelation. For me it was that I had made the “Right Choices” in life. It’s amazing how “Right Choices” sounds like Righteousness. “To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable”. I was looking at others who had made the wrong choices and judged them as less. When I look to Jesus to study compassion, He didn’t hand out $20 bills to show compassion, He sacrificed His life for mine. When the world expected riches of a worldly kingdom, He gave them a Heavenly Kingdom. He gave us Love and direction, dignity not welfare. He adopted us as children of the most High God and most of all He accepted us as we were sinners and brought us to understand His Grace. We became “Family”.

I am still on that journey to understand what it means to be compassionate, I am sure I still have a lot to learn.

The latest on the Corona Norco Rescue Mission.

Thanks for all of the response and questions concerning the progress of the Harrison Ave facility. The meetings with the city have been very productive. We are about to finalize drawings, file for permits and then we are looking at about 2 weeks to start construction. Funding is all lining up. I will keep you posted on our progress. Please continue to keep the project in prayer.

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58

I took a much needed vacation last week with the family; it was a nice break, after the Pancake Breakfast. I remember before we left that I just felt tired. I prayed countless times to the Lord saying “I am just tired!”. Because of the surgery on my shoulder I wasn’t sleeping well. I was only getting 4-5 hours of sleep per night. I am also not much of one to just “Sit”. I am used to being active and that seemed to be wearing on me also.

We have all become “weary” from the day to day grind of life. There are times that we all look to the Heavens and cry out “I’m tired of this Lord! Why am I doing this?. For me the answer always comes back that I am a servant of the Most High God. I understand His Grace and Love for me and that keeps me going. God does honor my prayers, eventually I do find rest. But, when we give up doing good because of our fatigue, we short change God’s ability to bless our lives.

I was sitting at breakfast with Bill Riemer and we were discussing the time schedules for the remodel on the Harrison facility. I just simply said “If this works, it will be a God thing, not a Todd thing.”. Sometimes we are so busy trying to accomplish things (And I am one of the worst offenders) that we don’t allow God’s power to come through. We work ourselves to exhaustion and then look to the Heavens asking “Why aren’t you helping Lord?. For me the answer is generally I have been standing in the way of God’s working. I am reminded of the 23rd Psalm

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.”

Did you catch that? “He makes me lies down in green pastures …” Like a little child, who is cranky and needs a nap. God makes us rest, and in doing so restores our souls.

Don’t neglect God’s desire to maintain our souls to good works.



Progress report.

In the past few weeks we have been meeting with the city discussing various issues. Most of the biggest issues have been resolved and everyone is excited about the project. Kirk is working on finalizing the drawings and requesting permits. All of the funding needs are coming along. As soon as we get a few more things confirmed you will hear me publishing construction dates. I’ll keep you posted. Please continue to pray.

“Open to me the gates of righteousness;

I shall enter through them, I shall give thanks to the LORD.

This is the gate of the LORD;

The righteous will enter through it.

I shall give thanks to You, for You have answered me,

And You have become my salvation.

The stone which the builders rejected

Has become the chief corner stone.” Psalm 118:19-22.

The verse on Psalms is a messianic prophecy that is repeated by Jesus in Mark the 12th chapter, but can you see the application to the Corona shelter? We are opening the gates of righteousness to those who have been lost in our society. The little brown building nestled in that commercial area, rejected by some, neglected by others, will become the corner stone of salvation for many through Jesus Christ. It will be there that many will regain their dignity and freedom from sin and affliction, stepping back into society as a whole person.

Some have asked if we abandoned the vision of building a new facility from the ground up, the answer is a resounding “No”! We knew that serving the homeless in Corona would start with what we already have, which is the shelter on Harrison Street. Vision and prayer is already being lifted up to expand our service, the Harrison St. Mission is just the gate opening to greater things.

The Pancake Breakfast was an amazing event! We had 109 people in attendance. Everyone was so excited about the vision and the work to be accomplished at the Harrison St. Mission. Thanks to my wife Jolene, Patrice Maturkanich, and Beth Hassman for helping to organize the event. Doug Husen, Kirk Lansea and the Men of Crossroads for cooking breakfast. Cameron Thomas for making sure we all had coffee.

Bettie Shultz fell ill during the event and is doing better, she should be home now. She is thankful for all of the prayers.

What’s Next? Our team continues to work on design and funding. The next 30 days is crucial, as we set about finalizing plans and putting them in motion. We continue to pray that these are God’s plans and that we are doing His will. We will keep you posted on our progress.

It’s always interesting on what adventure God take us on when we surrender to Him. We did the last of the scheduled tours of the Village of Hope in Tustin last Saturday. We had a total of about 70 people make the trek to Orange County to be inspired by what God is doing there and it was a chance to see what is possible in Corona


The vision continues: This Saturday, at the pancake breakfast, we will talk about the changes that will take place for the existing facility in the next few months. Bill Reimer will talk of the service the mission will begin to provide. Whatever your occupation or talent, this is the meeting you want to attend if you plan to be involved. There is still room at the table for you!

I look forward to seeing you this Saturday August 7th 8am.
420 Harrison, Corona. The corner of Harrison and Sheridan (God’s Kitchen)



Prayer Requests

• That all lives are changed that come into contact with the Mission.

• For the overall purpose of the project and safety for all those involved in the project.

• We need a Structural Engineer.

• We need Roofing Contractors.

• Construction dates.

Information:

Village of Hope/Orange County Rescue Mission http://www.rescuemission.org/

Corona Norco Rescue Mission http://www.rescuemissionCN.org

Join Corona Norco Rescue Mission on Facebook.

We will be truly blessed this Christmas with six grandchildren under the age of five years old. We look forward to the excitement, as cousins get together and view all the gifts under the tree for each of them to unwrap. I imagine wrapping paper flying through the air, screams of joy and parents prompting the appropriate “Say, Thank-you”. Toy trucks and princess dolls will be the topic of discussion throughout the day.

I see the same excitement in the eyes of those who have toured the Village of Hope in Tustin and then reviewed plans for the work at the Corona Norco Rescue Mission. It’s going to be a lot of work, but so is Christmas. Both celebrate the Birth of our Savior and rejoice in His redemption of the lost. People are talking about all the gifts they can bring to the project and how it will bring joy to the hearts of all of those involved.
Unlike Christmas that is over in a day and to quote my granddaughter who at the end of last Christmas showed a pouty face and said “Now we have to wait a whole year till Santa comes again!” Corona Norco Rescue Mission will continue to bring a gift of joy to the community throughout the year.

Come join the celebration. This Saturday will be the last scheduled tour of the Village of Hope in Tustin. The following Saturday, August 7th ,will be the Pancake Breakfast at the Corona Norco Rescue Mission. See you there.

Prayer Requests

• That all lives are changed that come into contact with the Mission.

• For the overall purpose of the project and safety for all those involved in the project.

• We need a Structural Engineer.

• We need Roofing Contractors.

• Construction dates.

Coming Events

• Tours of the Village Of Hope in Tustin. July 31 at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Please RSVP to alexis.broske@rescuemission.org . A map and information are available at: http://www.rescuemission.org/about/location/location.htm

• Pancake Breakfast and tour of the Corona Norco Rescue Mission. August 7th at 8 a.m. This is an opportunity to be able to walk through the current facility and discuss the construction changes that will be made in the months to come. If you would like to know what you might be able to do, come and sit with us, enjoy breakfast and talk about what God will do in the Corona area. Please RSVP to Todd@crossroadschurch.com

Information:

Village of Hope/Orange County Rescue Mission http://www.rescuemission.org/

Corona Norco Rescue Mission http://www.rescuemissionCN.org

Join Corona Norco Rescue Mission on Facebook.

Many of you have asked about the upcoming changes to the existing Corona Norco Rescue Mission. Please plan to attend the Pancake Breakfast August 7th at the Corona Norco Rescue Mission (God’s Kitchen). This will be an opportunity to review the plans, connect with other workers and contractors and talk “vision” for this facility. See “Coming Events”.

Looking at my notes would tell me that I started on the shelter project about the beginning of April. Now that July is upon us, it has just been a blur of meetings and introductions to different people. I have enjoyed the process greatly. Many times we wonder what kind of commitments we will experience when we say “Yes” to God’s call!

A few years ago I was considering another one of those church projects that was going to take some time to accomplish. I was trying to follow my own advice to other guys by doing my homework first, in other words to ask my wife for her opinion before I said “Yes”. I had all of my pros and cons rehearsed about how this would be a great project for the Lord, our church and our family. Her words of wisdom have always rung true with every project since then “God will always ask more of you than you prepared to give.” It is the difference between giving a gift and being a sacrifice.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship” Romans12;1

The amazing things that you will see change in the months to come, will not just be the building at 420 Harrison, but the changes to each of us. As we go beyond giving and into sacrifice, we will all experience a worship that will be a sweet song to the Lord. There will be a bond that we did something good for someone else that we didn’t even know. We gave someone the opportunity to get a second chance at a productive life. Most of all, we will see a change in our relationship with each other and in our relationship with God.

Prayer Requests

• That all lives are changed that come into contact with the Mission.

• For the overall purpose of the project and safety for all those involved in the project.

• We need a Structural Engineer.

• We need Roofing Contractors.

• Construction dates.

Coming Events

• Tours of the Village Of Hope in Tustin. 10 & 11 a.m. July 24th & 31st. Please RSVP to alexis.broske@rescuemission.org . A map and information are available at: http://www.rescuemission.org/about/location/location.htm

• Pancake Breakfast and tour of the Corona Norco Rescue Mission. August 7th at 8 a.m. This is an opportunity to be able to walk through the current facility and discuss the construction changes that will be made in the months to come. If you would like to know what you might be able to do, come and sit with us, enjoy breakfast and talk about what God will do in the Corona area. Please RSVP to Todd@crossroadschurch.com

Information:

Village of Hope/Orange County Rescue Mission http://www.rescuemission.org/

Corona Norco Rescue Mission http://www.rescuemission.org/cnrmweb/

Join Corona Norco Rescue Mission on Facebook.