Pastor Glen Weber
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Begin with a Desire to HelpAs pastor of New Hope Christian Fellowship in Los Angeles (Eagle Rock area), I was invited to serve on the Faith-Based Initiative of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). During one of those meetings, Dr. Tolbert presented her program called, “Covenants for Kids & Youth: Churches Helping Children in Foster Care.” She explained that Christians, who are on their way to church, pick up youth who want to attend and drive them to church. Our congregation had been looking for ways to connect with foster children. This seemed like an excellent way!
Begin with the Pastor's VisionI presented the idea to our church, and to my pleasure, over 15 members wanted to participate! After everyone passed the necessary background clearance, Dr. Tolbert, Dr. Edwina Lewis, Supervising Social Worker with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), and Sharon Morris, who coordinated the program along with other DCFS Recruitment and Placement staff, came to our church to train those who signed up.
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Begin with the CongregationSince the program began, we have had over a dozen youth attend our church. Not all have stayed for the entire time because some have been adopted to a forever-home or moved to a more distant foster home or facility. However, all those who have attended have enjoyed the experience and none have asked to stop attending. At any given time we have about 4 youth—usually age 8 to 14 years old—coming to our service.
Begin to Change LivesIt has been a wonderful experience for our congregation, even though the children can be a bit of a challenge at times when they first start attending. With lots of love from our members they soon settle down. I highly recommend Covenants for Kids for your church!
We extend a sincere "Thank you!" to Pastor Weber and to all of the members of New Hope Christian Fellowship for making a difference in the lives of so many youth! ~Dr. Tolbert and the Team |
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