Jerry had been retired for a year when a note came asking if he would like to come teach Bible Study for Mission Arlington®. After a few months of prayerful consideration, he began at an East side community. Jerry now works with the adults and teens on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

A month later, he came by the office to visit and began volunteering in the “Front Room” where people come for assistance with bills, groceries, housewares, and more. Many recognize him from teaching the Story during the Christmas Store, and tend to trust Jerry and let him pray for their families. They feel like they already know him.

Currently, he is leading Saturday basketball leagues. Up to 70 children and youth have come each week to play and pray. Children are able to play basketball in a safe, Christian environment. When one child reacted in anger and threw down the ball, Jerry and the other adults were available to intervene in a loving way. With one week left, that has been the only discipline issue they encountered.

Jerry wears many hats at Mission Arlington, and the community, but one thing he finds of utmost importance is the Sunday Bible Study that began it all. In the past year, the adult Bible Study has gone from zero to active. The youth class is so strong, some of his high school students volunteered at the basketball leagues.

He says, “There are lots of agencies who do (benevolent assistance), but not a lot that go out to the apartments and build relationships…being out there with them on a regular basis.” Because of the consistent presence, of Jerry and the Bible Study team, people know where to come for prayer when they are in crisis. People grow in Christ and discipleship happens.

We are grateful for Jerry, and all those like him who lend a hand here at Mission Arlington®.