February 2026 – Volume 67 Number 2

Stories shape the way we understand the world. They tell us what matters, what endures, and what kind of change is truly possible. In a culture driven by data, metrics, and quick results, it is easy to reduce outcomes to numbers on a page. But at the Medford Gospel Mission, we have learned over more than six decades that real restoration cannot be captured by statistics alone. Lives are not restored overnight, and people are not transformed by policy, programming, or provision alone. Lasting change unfolds through stories—slowly, honestly, and by the grace of God.

That conviction is the reason for this expanded newsletter format, which will be our ongoing rhythm moving forward. Each month, we want to provide more space to share storied outcomes rather than brief summaries or snapshots. These are not polished success stories, nor are they quick before-and-after moments. They are the lived experiences of men and women learning to walk in restored relationships—with God, with themselves, with others, and with creation. These stories reflect the patient, often unseen work of repentance, perseverance, humility, and hope, shaped over time within a Christ-centered community.

In the pages that follow, you will see how restoration takes root in everyday faithfulness. You will read about spiritual renewal as individuals reconnect with God through Scripture, prayer, and gratitude. You will see personal healing as people confront shame, rebuild confidence, and rediscover their God-given identity and purpose. You will notice how community life—shared responsibilities, service, worship, and accountability—becomes a training ground for healthier relationships. And you will observe how dignity is restored through small, ordinary acts of stewardship and care for surroundings.

These storied outcomes matter because they reveal something deeper than temporary relief. They show what happens when people are given the time and support needed to address the root causes of poverty rather than its symptoms. They also help explain why our approach differs from many prevailing responses to homelessness today. We believe poverty is fundamentally relational, and therefore restoration must be relational as well. Housing, services, and resources may help stabilize a situation, but without restored relationships, they cannot produce lasting change.

Alongside these stories, you will also find easy access to our monthly online articles. For those who want to stay informed about homelessness issues and better understand how our biblical convictions shape our work, these articles provide thoughtful engagement with current policies, cultural assumptions, and common approaches—while explaining why restoration, not simply relief, remains central to our mission.

Thank you for taking the time to read and reflect. Your faithful prayers and support make it possible for men and women to move beyond survival toward lives marked by purpose, dignity, and hope. As we move forward with this expanded format, our desire is simple: to invite you more fully into what God is doing—one restored life, one unfolding story at a time.

Over the past month, we have witnessed meaningful spiritual renewal among program participants as relationships with God are being restored through repentance, gratitude, and a growing hunger for His Word.

Dee shared that as she continues to read and study Scripture, the Lord is giving her a deeper understanding of who He is and how faithfully He has been working in her life. She reflected on how far God has brought her—the darkness that once filled her heart has been replaced with a new heart and new desires—and expressed gratitude for both spiritual growth and improving health.

Theresa expressed sincere gratitude for the opportunity to be here and openly acknowledged years of sin and brokenness. With humility, she shared that she is ready to pursue a strong and renewed relationship with God. She has embraced this new season with hope, encouraged by the joyful news that she will soon become a first-time grandmother.

Makenzie demonstrated openness to the Gospel, acknowledged her need for God’s intervention, and requested a Bible so she can begin reading more regularly. She shared her desire to start in the Gospel of John as she begins to build a daily rhythm of engaging with God’s Word.

Participants are experiencing meaningful healing in identity, confidence, and purpose as they learn to live with honesty, accountability, and hope. Mateo has been working intentionally to strengthen his self-esteem through affirmations and small achievable goals. While he still wrestles with negative self-talk, he is learning to recognize and challenge those thoughts. Through regular touch-base meetings, Mateo has gained insight into his emotions and behaviors, and he shared that engaging in worship services and Bible studies has given him a stronger sense of peace and purpose, motivating him to pursue daily prayer and Scripture reading.

Jacqualine recently reflected on a powerful moment of encouragement following surgery, when she received an outpouring of cards, concern, and prayers from many people and churches. She shared that this unexpected support helped her learn to love herself in ways she never thought possible and reminded her that her life still has meaning and purpose. With this renewed perspective, Jacqualine has been practicing “staying in my lane,” trusting that only God can redeem others and releasing the burden of trying to fix what is beyond her control.

Arick is also growing in self-awareness and stability. He has been reflective about his past and increasingly aware of areas that require growth and accountability. Arick has expressed gratitude for the structure and encouragement provided by the Mission community and has shown a receptive attitude toward correction. As he continues to engage in daily routines and responsibilities, he is developing perseverance, learning to manage stress more appropriately, and gaining confidence through consistency and follow-through.

Restoration is showing up in daily community life as participants practice healthier communication, boundaries, and service. Rachel has been managing her time better and is consistently getting up and prepared for the 9:00 a.m. Proverbs group. She has expressed a desire to serve more frequently in the kitchen, sharing that she loves serving God through her gift of cooking. We have observed noticeable growth as she makes sincere efforts to stay focused, engaged, and involved, contributing positively to the rhythm and health of the community.

Participants are also growing through opportunities to serve beyond the Mission. Several individuals volunteered with the Medford Food Project, working alongside one another and community members to unload and process food donations that help many local food pantries in our community. This shared service fostered teamwork, responsibility, and meaningful connection, allowing participants to experience the joy of serving alongside others while developing confidence and a greater sense of belonging in the broader community.

Jacqualine is also growing in relational health. She recently shared fears of going backwards and feeling lonely, and we encouraged her to leave the past in the past while continuing to strengthen healthy boundaries. Encouragingly, she has begun waiting tables during dinner hour and is doing well, building confidence as she prepares to commit to her new chosen church home.

Participants are rediscovering stewardship as an expression of dignity, worship, and gratitude for God’s provision. Learning to care for their surroundings and well-being is becoming an important part of restoration.

Mateo shared that time at the gym has been rejuvenating and grounding, helping him care for his body and feel more connected to the world around him. This discipline has become a meaningful way for him to steward his health and receive God’s creation with thankfulness.

Makenzie was encouraged to care for her dorm area as an act of stewardship and a reflection of our shared values. She received this guidance with willingness and appreciation. Staff reminded her that a growing relationship with God is the foundation that allows every other area of life to flourish—especially as she prepares for motherhood.

Theresa also received counsel regarding avoiding gossip and navigating the challenges of communal living. She demonstrated insight and humility as she reflected on how small daily choices contribute to dignity, order, and peace within the community.

As participants practice daily faithfulness in small things, we continue to see dignity restored—not only in shared spaces, but in hearts, relationships, and lives being renewed by the grace of God.

We invite you to visit our blog, where we share monthly reflections and articles that go deeper into the work of restoration. These pieces help explain the convictions that shape this ministry and offer insight into how God is working through the Mission. We hope you’ll take a moment to read and be encouraged.

Partner with us in God’s work of relational restoration.