Newsletter

February 2009

Dear Friends, 

     Peter Girouard, one of our Life Boat mentors, received this letter from a man he has been mentoring:

Dear Peter,  It was nice to hear from you. I have been extremely busy catching up with life and bankruptcy, probation, health care, clothes, and everything you must deal with when getting out. I am trying something new- every night I get on my knees and ask God for help with all my problems and the world’s, I am also trying to pray for my ex-wife even though she continues to make my life harder…. I have seen a few people since I have been out and I always mention you and the Life Boat Program. I feel very lucky to have met you. Your friend, Steve  

      Life Boat helps released prisoners, like Steve, build new lives. Mentors Peter Girouard, Jean-Marc Mourant, Pat Wetmore, Gary LeMay, and Merrick Finn, along with Life Boat Director, Bud Yoakum aim to be there to make a difference at the most critical time in a former prisoner’s life- that moment when an encouraging word, a prayer, or a scripture can tip the entire weight of his or her life in the direction of victory. It’s discouraging at times- not every one wants to change. However, it’s men like Steve and moments like this that make it all worthwhile. 

     By the grace of God, 2008 was a great year for ministry. An annual report of our activities is enclosed. Your prayers and your gifts have made it possible for us to touch the lives of thousands of prisoners, former prisoners and their families throughout New England. Thanks for being part of the team.

     I am believing that the Lord has even more in store for us in 2009. New doors are opening, and doors that were barely ajar a year ago, are open wide. Pray for wisdom and pray that the Gospel of Jesus Christ will continue to break forth behind prison walls and shine into prisoner’s hearts.  

Much grace and many blessings,

Mark Hemenway, President 

P.S. Thanks for helping us surpass our end-of-the-year financial goals. Your gifts are already bearing fruit in the lives of the men we serve. However, the need continues to grow as former prisoners struggle with a shrinking job market and rising prices. Remember the prisoner.