At OIM, Art Group is more than just a creative outlet; it’s a safe space where youth can find community, acceptance, and support. Recently, one of the young people involved in the program approached me to apologize for how she had behaved in the past and to express her gratitude. “I know how I behaved before at Art group wasn’t always the greatest, but I’m trying hard to be a better person. Art group is really one of my biggest helps in my recovery. Thank you so much, Jordan, for being so kind and patient with me.” She also felt comfortable opening up about some of her current struggles.
I am deeply blessed that this individual chose to share with me. Creating a safe community and developing trust is a goal of this ministry, and this is one story that tells me this goal is being accomplished. Art group is about more than creating art, its about the people that come and the connections that we make. It is an opportunity to love our neighbour, and to spread the love of Christ to people in need.
“By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” – 1 John 3:16-17.
Please continue to pray for the youth who come to Art Group. Pray that they find hope, healing, and the love of Jesus.
~ Jordan, Youth Program Coordinator
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