I know, I know, you guys thought we had fallen off the face of the earth! I am really sorry that this report has been so long in coming. But here it is, finally!
To begin with, we are so grateful for so many of our supporters who have chosen to stay on board after our move to Lubbock. You folks are the reason we are able to continue blessing others with this ministry. We lovingly thank you all for the past support and pray that God continues to bless you like you have blessed us. Regardless of monetary support we ask that you continue your prayer support as we move forward doing the will of the Lord. We are always available to help if you or any of your family needs our services.
So much has happened since we last reported that I’m not sure where to start.
We found a house in south Lubbock, near Wolfforth. We are moved in but far from unpacked. The whole move was quite an experience.
On February 26, 2015, The Odessa Heritage Foundation bestowed the honor of Community Statesman in Religion on myself (I wish it had included Donna also). It recognized the work we do with Spring Creek Ministries. It was an evening of acknowledging several individuals in Odessa who strive to make a difference in our community. It was a huge honor to be listed among them. We appreciate the comments and support many of you gave us in regards to the award!
Hopefully, each of you has had a chance to view the promotional video that Hamil Bros Studios produced for us. It explains what we do in a concise way. Cynthia Payen, James Satterwhite, David Watkins and Arturo Lomeli were invaluable help in conveying the receiving side of the ministry.
David Watkins is currently at MD Anderson with follow-up surgery from throat and tongue cancer he survived several years ago. Please remember him, in prayer, while he faces these procedures.
Lauren Martin is going back to the Rochester Mayo clinic soon for more scans and tests. Lauren is in her mid 20s and has been plagued with a rare disorder. We prayed for her some time ago when she went to Mayo for a major surgery that was only partly successful. An interesting note about Lauren, and her loving heart, is she searches out children who need a care package while they go through treatments for various diseases. She has included Spring Creek Ministries when she is gathering goodies for these little angels. With your money we have made a donation to a little boy named Hines.
Hines and his family are people we may not ever get to see, but you have helped touch their lives! A tremendous thanks goes to Laura Watkins, David’s wife, and some of her friends who have made fleece blankets for us to give out. Hines is now in possession of one of those blankets! What wonderful people you are as part of this ministry!
Sunday, March 15th, we visited Dena Baggett and her sweet husband, Billy. Dena is in the last stages of pancreatic cancer. We were surprised and thrilled that she knew us and we had a good conversation with her. She told some tales on her longtime friends, from Sherwood Church of Christ, and we laughed together. We sang a couple of old hymns and she and her family was very appreciative of the singing and visit.
The time came for Shirley Carrigan to make her final journey home. Our hearts go out to her husband, David, and their children. We sang with Shirley and David at many weddings and funerals until Shirley had a debilitating stroke some 24 years ago. David has been a faithful and loving caretaker for her. He is a great example of faithful love.
Kaleb Hockenberry, a young man in his mid 20s, was released from Craig Hospital in Denver. Kaleb was attacked and shot around Thanksgiving last year. He has accomplished being weaned off the ventilator and was transported back home, to Lubbock, just a few days ago, where he is continuing his therapy. Kaleb has amazing determination and an incredible spirit to match! His mother, Julie Hill, has been a great example of showing faith in our Lord and never giving up!
Mama Dot Wolfe relinquished her battle with Lymphoma on January 30th. What a legacy she left her children! She was a precious saint and the Queen of Quips! Her husband apparently had a million of them. When he passed away, she kept it going. The first time we met Mama Dot, she offered to let Donna and I to stay in her room. She instructed us, “If you need something, look around for it. If you can’t find it, come ask me and I’ll tell you how you can live without it!”
Kim Nolen passed away on Tuesday evening, March 24th after several years of being incapacitated and unable to care for her self. Special thanks goes to Jayanell Mills who gave very special care to Kim over the last several years.
Recently, we requested prayers for our three-year-old grandson, Jonathan Hamil. He does not have diabetes!! He’s just a thirsty little boy. Come to think of it, most of us would be thirsty if we were in motion as much as he is. Thank you for your prayers on his behalf!
We are in the process of looking at different fund raising projects for the ministry. We are operating at about $3000.00 per month below what our goals are. Because of this we have to pass on some opportunities to minister that we would like to be able to do. The events we are considering are: Banquet with Silent Auction, Golf Tournament or a Sporting Clays Shoot. We would love to hear other suggestions from you. Please, shoot me an email at [email protected] or call me at 432/557-3029.
We greatly appreciate your ongoing prayers for our ministry and for the many folks you are made aware of through our Facebook page and these reports.
Because HE lives,
Lonnie
