Interfaith staff and volunteers were very sad to say goodbye to Margaret Scales, who resigned as Volunteer Coordinator in March, due to health issues. Margaret held the position for nine years, and was a tremendous asset to the organization. Her creativity and willingness to explore new ways of doing things helped Interfaith keep a fresh approach to “doing business”. We know that God will continue to use her for His purposes, and pray for His leading for the next phase in her life.

Here’s an introduction to our new Volunteer Coordinator, in her own words:

I would like to take this time to introduce myself. I am Tanika Lewis. I am a member of Eastside Baptist Church, where Rev. Larry Lewis is my pastor (my father). I am a youth teacher and a youth department sponsor. I also will be attending Midwestern State University to finish my Bachelors Degree in Business Administration/Management. I was in the Army Reserves in Fort Sill, OK, for almost 6 years. I was mobilized in 2003 for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Noble Eagle for 10 months. I was a Human Resources Specialist 42A/75H. I am looking forward to meeting and working with the IMI volunteers.

If you have questions about volunteering at IMI, please contact Tanika at 322-1365, or send her an email.

God truly led the Interfaith Ministries Board and staff, as well as the many contributors who helped make our dream a reality. Last November 26 the office at 1006 11th Street officially closed, and on November 29 we celebrated our 25th anniversary as Interfaith Ministries, Inc. in our new home at 1101 11th Street. A great many volunteers helped the staff with moving and setting up the new office and pantry, cleaning up the building, decorating, preparing food for the celebration, and planning the program, awards and entertainment. It was very fulfilling to share our wonderful facility with the volunteers and donors who made it all happen!

Board President Connie Johnson installed the board members for 2008 with insightful encouragement for each one. Special recognition was given to those instrumental in the planning and implementation of the Campaign, and praise was given to God for His
direction and provision throughout every step of the process. Glorious music was provided by harpist Rachel Kapelski, and the building was filled with the voices of people happy to share the excitement. It was a grand event!

The Campaign goal of $850,000 had already been exceeded in November, but final figures bear witness to God’s provision. Gifts and pledges of $972,225 have been received, and in-kind goods and services totaled $107,300, for a grand total of $1,079,525.

For more Interfaith announcements see our latest newsletter, the February/March issue.

Hallelujah!!! We are in our new home and the celebration last Thursday was a wonderful success with somewhere between 150 – 200 people in attendance. If you did not get a chance to join us, please stop by for your own private tour. The love and support we have received through your constant prayers is evident in the fruits of many persons labor. We are eternally grateful for you and your support.

As we continue learning to live in our new surroundings and as we continue to count the donations and pledges that come in through the end of this month, we ask that you continue to pray for smooth sailing.