As the National Field Director, Joseph connects regularly with staff around the nation to encourage, train and develop them within their ministries. During a training Joseph was doing with all the regional directors, the Midwest regional directors shared how Becky and Zak in Wisconsin, who work with international students, were applying the evangelism and discipleship training we utilize in Cru Church Movements.
Becky was recently reconnected to a local high schooler named Jovanna. In middle school she was bullied terribly which led to her to self-protecting, stuck in isolation and struggling with anxiety. Becky also discovered that six months ago she was battling demons, depression, drugs, and suicidal ideation. She even had her suicide note written. But by the grace of God her mom found the note and got her the help she needed at a Christian conference. Jovanna had been set free, learned to forgive her enemies and was now looking for discipleship. When she heard of Becky’s group, she felt comfortable and compelled to push through her fears and join.
Becky shared that recently Jovanna brought her friend, Clara to their prayer group. Clara was not shy. She announced she had never been to a youth group before and asked what to expect. During the bible study, she was the first to share her insights. She also acknowledged how open and honest everyone was as a group about struggles, which made her open up about her anxiety. Then by the end of the night, after wrapping up the bible study, she told Becky with a big smile on her face, “I’m not a Christian. You probably noticed I don’t use the same words as you… but I like to learn. I felt something different here. For some reason, when Jovanna invited me, I felt eager and drawn to come and I don’t know why.” Returning her smile, Becky said “I know why… and I know who else was drawing you here.” She smiled back. Clara then expressed her thankfulness for Jovanna inviting her and what a joyful light Jovanna’s been at work. And without skipping a beat, her friend Jovanna leaned over- “And that light is Jesus.”
The Spirit is moving! Clara has tasted and seen something good within the community. They are continuing to pray that Clara will continue to come and open her heart to the true Light, who not only rescued her friend from darkness, but now is pursuing her.
“Every ONE Free is making miracles possible, the ripple effect, the butterfly effect is the answer to countless prayers for those before us, for those to come, and for everyone doing their best today” (*Emily)
The Butterfly Effect describes how small changes in initial conditions can lead to dramatically different outcomes.
Walking alongside human trafficked survivors, such as *Emily, is such a privilege as these women are unbelievably strong in all they have endured. As Michelle partners with Every ONE Free as their case manager she is committed to walking with survivors of human trafficking on their journey to freedom and empowerment. She provides support, community, and resources to help survivors recover, heal, and thrive.
Michelle has worked with *Emily for over 2 years and coming from a place of unbelievable pain being trafficked, losing all her family and support systems, addictions, legal needs and feeling hopeless *Emily is now thriving! Michelle has been able to help *Emily connect to legal help to clear her record of charges due to being trafficked, increase her credit and be able to sign a lease for an apartment, find trauma informed therapy, enroll in college and begin working towards a degree, receive scholarships for her education and find new support and encouragement from people who care for her and experience the Lord’s never-ending love. “A big HELLO and big hugs! I received a confirmation from the scholarship, and they will be taking care of my tuition. I couldn’t have done this without you. I appreciate everything you do, and it helps to know I am seen, supported and loved.”
*Emily is a joy to connect with and it is because of the prayers of so many that she is truly thriving. Thank you for praying for these women. Because of your support and prayers these women truly feel seen for the first time.
Family Update…
We just celebrated 27 years of marriage! We praise the Lord for these years together, serving the Lord side by side together, being blessed to raise 4 amazing children, and building a life together in the good and hard times. Thank you for your prayers for our marriage and family all these years.
Thank you for your continual prayers and support to us here as we minister withing Los Angeles and nationwide. Helping to train and disciple leaders, plant churches and serve trafficked and exploited women through sharing the love of Jesus and providing resources and hope. We are so thankful.
Cru City Los Angeles 