Real Friendship
Celeste and Jamie first connected with New Mercies through a hosting. Their child needed temporary care while Celeste and her family faced some challenges. Jeanne, one of our Family Coaches, worked with a Host Family to support them during this time.
A Faithful Start
Celeste was eager for help, but Jamie, her husband, was hesitant at first. Over time, though, things changed. At one point during the hosting, Jeanne’s husband, Mike, came along to help transport their child and began supporting Jamie. Soon, Jamie started responding and talking to Jeanne and Mike. He grew more comfortable and began to open up, and their conversations became easier.
Jamie’s desire to be involved in his child’s care stood out. He asked questions, learned quickly, and was committed to doing what was best for his family. When their child needed medication, Jamie handled it with Jeanne’s guidance.
A Relationship Grows
As time went on, Celeste and Jamie’s relationship with the ministry grew. A few months after their child’s hosting, they invited Jeanne and Mike to a birthday party at their house. It was a chance to connect with both parents and have meaningful conversations with them. During the party, Celeste introduced a friend who later reached out to ask about hosting for her own child. It was a reminder that God’s work often plants seeds that grow in ways we don’t immediately see.
Celeste made significant progress in her life. She had a court order to find a job, and she did. However, her new role required more hours and a busier schedule. Meanwhile, Jamie still faced employment challenges, but there was hope. Both of them had become more open to spiritual conversations.
Ongoing Friendship
While their relationship with the ministry wasn’t as frequent after the hosting, it remained steady. Celeste and Jamie hadn’t attended church yet, but invitations were extended. They were interested in the Gospel and open to learning more. Jeanne had a one-on-one conversation with Celeste about faith, and Mike met with Jamie as well. Jamie was interested in further discussions, so he and Mike planned to meet again.
It wasn’t an instant transformation, but Jeanne and Mike knew that their role was to stay connected, offer support, and trust that God would work in His timing. Results weren’t the goal; their part was to help plant seeds and walk alongside Celeste and Jamie as they navigated their journey. As Jeanne said, “It takes time. It’s God’s timing, not ours.”
Though the full picture hasn’t unfolded yet, we trust that Jeanne and Mike’s efforts will continue to bear fruit, knowing that God will open Celeste and Jamie’s hearts when He is ready. This is true for all the parents and children our volunteers walk alongside. We continue to walk with each family we encounter who is open to support – and trust the Lord for results.