Off to a great start!

We have certainly had a great start to the school year here at The Compass! I can't believe we're already over a month into school. We have many of the same kids as last year, but a few new faces as well! It's been fun getting to know the new kids and watching the dynamics of this new group. Everyone seems to have adjusted well into the routine of school and The Compass.

It continues to be such a privilege to serve in this incredible ministry! Today, at church, Rob Henschen and Becky Branch shared about their experiences with The Compass; not only as parents of children who attend, but also as volunteers. It's so exciting to see how God can impact our lives when we choose to serve Him. The volunteers are doing an incredible job this year! And it never ceases to amaze me that when we try to touch the lives of these children and their families, we end up receiving a blessing as they touch our hearts!

I have really enjoyed the times we spend doing devotions with the kids! At times the kids wonder why we always do devotions, and it's so fun to explain to them why it's SO important to learn about Jesus and all that He's done for us! I love it when they "get it". It's also been really cool to see them praying for others. A day hasn't gone by when they haven't remembered to pray for Rob. They're so great!

I encourage you to get involved if you haven't already! As we approach the day that will mark a year since Lisa went home to be with Jesus, I am reminded of her dedication to Jesus and how greatly she impacted the lives of those around her. I pray that each of us will seek that kind of dedication to Him and work to reach out to those around us who don't know Him.

2009-2010 School Year

It's hard to believe that summer is almost over and a new school year is right around the corner!

I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself. I'm Kristy Cripe, and I started as the Director at the Compass at the end of last year. It's been such an honor to be a part of this incredible ministry that Jeff and Lisa began! I first met Jeff & Lisa when I was in high school, when they were youth leaders at our church. They helped to instill in me the great love I have for our Savior. I remember countless hours spent at their house and looking back on that time, I can see that they were just "being Jesus" to all of us kids. They continued to be a support in my life throughout college and beyond. I will never forget the love, compassion, and devotion to Jesus that Lisa lived and how deeply that has touched my life. This is why I am so honored to be a part of this ministry.

As we begin this new school year, we already have 20 students enrolled, leaving 4 spots open. We are also in need of more volunteers! The volunteers are a necessary part of this minstry to keep it running from day to day. I appreciate each of them so much! Here is a portion of a blog written by my sister, Kathy, who has been a volunteer at The Compass from the beginning:

"I have been a volunteer at the Compass and I LOVE IT!! The children, although sometimes crazy, are such a blessing and a joy to hang out with. I love teaching them about God and His Word, and how the stories apply to our lives today. I enjoy helping out with their math problems, and then finally seeing the light bulb turn on when they say, "Oooh, now I get it.""

"School will be starting soon, and we still need loving volunteers to make this another great school year. No matter what your interest or skill level, there is a place for you! Whether you volunteer once a month or once a week, you can be a great influence for the children. If you, or anyone you know, would be interested in investing some of your time into the Compass, let me know." Kathy Welker

I think that says it all! The Compass is a GREAT place to get involved in ministry! If you would like to volunteer at The Compass, please contact me by calling 574-354-7308.

Please continue to keep The Compass, the children, families, & volunteers in your prayers!