bmblackmon@cableone.net

http://www.prayerbears.org

A few months ago we shared with you a special ministry, the Prayer Bear Ministry, Inc. This special ministry, founded in 1993, handmakes copyrighted bears for distribution to those in crisis: at hospitals, crisis centers, nursing homes, through the mail to someone special or hand delivered. But there is a special new touch GOD has brought to the ministry.

In the fall, the ministry delivered bears to local military bases for distribution to troops headed to Afghanistan. On the efforts of the people involved in the ministry, no follow up occurred. Despite many pushes and efforts, no growth or response was found.

Financial problems burdened the ministry to find a way to pay for the many bears being made for the troops. Grant applications have come back void and donations have not come as the ministry had hoped. 

But the Lord has taken care of things to ensure HE receives credit for growing HIS ministry for HIS purpose. First, Fort Hood responded out of the blue…with donations for bears for entire regiments being sent to the Gulf. The demand was so significant that a satellite ministry was founded. Shortly thereafter, Fort Sill responded out of another blue…same story…more donations, more bears, a demand so great, a satellite ministry was born. And again, a base in Colorado followed up on a previous delivery…the bears are serving their true Creator because of the love sewn into them by the hands of many.

Patriotic bears showing off red, white and blue are currently being made to be included in packages shipped to soldiers fighting in the war with Iraq and those serving in Afghanistan. The bears are designed to fold up so they can be placed into a person's pocket. Every where this ministry looks God is provided growth and His glory is crowing the support to our troops. 

Whether you agree with war or not, the troops are fighting because they believe in what they are doing. They are children of God who deserve support and that is the support these bears are sending. The homemade bears also contain cards with messages of hope and encouragement, Gospels, and other books. Support to the families left behind and support to the troops defending our country. Visit the ministry on the web at www.prayerbears.org and learn more about the love the Lord has placed into these special bears.

Copyright 2003 by Michelle Blackmon