"Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others... Either way, Christ's love controls us and compels us forward." - II Corinthians 5:11-15
I’m excited to share a remarkable development with you all. River of Life Mission, in partnership with another compassionate organization, has successfully helped a man reunite with his wife and children in Texas. This is a moment of gratitude, especially as many of you donated at the end of last year specifically to create a “transition bank,” which allows us to quickly provide funds to help someone move off the streets and either into a recovery home, discipleship program, or—ideally—reunite them with their family. And thanks to your prayers and support, another miracle has taken place.
While details are still unfolding, we know that this man, whom we’ll call Frank, came to one of our HUBs several weeks ago. He was greeted by Aleni, one of our staff members, along with some caring volunteers. What began as a relationship full of compassionate conversations has now led to a life-changing turn of events. Thanks to the dedication of Aleni and others, Frank is currently on a plane to reunite with his wife and three children, who had almost given up hope of seeing their father again. Frank still doesn’t fully understand how he ended up at the HUB after living on the streets, but we believe it was all part of God’s plan. A key moment came when Aleni made the bold decision to call Frank’s wife right then and there to see how God might move. Through that conversation, a miracle happened—Aleni prayed with Frank and his wife, helping them rededicate their lives to Jesus and to each other. In that moment, an entire family was restored.
As we wrap up the first month of January, we’re already celebrating this major victory. Frank is on his way home, and we ask for your continued prayers for this precious family as they work toward full restoration.
I also want to express deep gratitude to those who’ve made this possible. None of this would have happened without the vision and compassion of our founders, Jack and Audrey, who 40 years ago felt led to start River of Life Mission in Chinatown. Pastor Bob Marchant further expanded the Mission’s reach, growing it into a powerful extension of Christ’s love in the streets. Today, we are seeing a new season of growth, with a movement of compassionate individuals bringing hope to communities across Oahu through our HUBs. These relationships are transforming lives and providing a path to healing.
Mahalo to all of you who’ve supported us throughout the years and to those who’ve recently joined us on this journey. Mahalo to our amazing staff that have made a complete transition to a new way of doing ministry. Mahalo to our board of directors, for providing stabilizing leadership over the years, hearing from God about buying our building and then hearing from God to make a bold decision to pivot to a new ministry model, while staying completely dedicated to extending Jesus, no matter the cost.
As II Corinthians 5:11–15 says, "because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others…" We will continue to work tirelessly to share the love of Jesus with all of Oahu. Christ’s love controls us and compels us forward, and no matter how many challenges we face, we will press on in His name.
Finally, I invite you to visit our website at www.riveroflifemission.org and check out our “Year in Review” page. You’ll find short videos from guests who were transitioned last year, and we believe you’ll be encouraged by their stories. Also, be sure to explore our “Road to Redemption” page, which offers a new resource to help anyone move away from the streets. It’s an incredible tool, and we’re excited for you to see it.
God bless each of you in this new year of opportunity. Let’s continue to help those who are down and out, lifting them up and reminding them that they are not out.
With gratitude,
Pastor Paul Gates
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