Arloa Sutter

At about this time last year, Breakthrough was going through a very difficult season. It had become clear to us that we had to make cuts in our budget in order to match our expenses with our income. We agonized and strategized. Finally, in desperation we called for two days of prayer and fasting to cry out to God for help. As I prayed in faith I fully expected money to come flowing into the ministry.

It didn't. We had to follow through with pruning our budget. It was very painful. In retrospect, I see that God did answer our prayers. He used our period of cost-cutting to refine our focus, prompt us toward organizational restructuring, and open the door for our transition to East Garfield Park. He used the time of confusion to humble us and cause us to cry out to Him. Now, a year later, the clouds have lifted and Breakthrough is moving forward with strength and clarity of vision. Clearly, our time of prayer and seeking God for guidance was the turning point.

So, we ask you to join us again for a day of fasting and prayer to seek God's direction and power for the ministry and to thank Him for his goodness to us. We plan to meet at the Joshua Center at 3330 W. Carroll on April 9th from 9:00 AM until noon. Please join us! James 5:17 tells us that the prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective.

PRAYER AND FASTING FOR BREAKTHROUGH
Join staff and board members as we pray for Breakthrough.

9 am - 12 noon at the Joshua Center (3330 W. Carroll Ave.)

Click here for more info.

John says friendships have encouraged him.

For many homeless men like John, Breakthrough's overnight shelter is more than just a place to sleep. "This is one of the best shelters I've stayed in," he says. John is thankful for the personal attention, friendship and spiritual encouragement he has experienced during his month-long stay at Breakthrough.

Having slept in other shelters, John cites the size of Breakthrough's overnight program as one benefit. "The staff have more time to listen when I really need to talk," he says. "With less men, it's easier to enforce good standards and have less fighting." John adds, "I have a brotherhood here, a close-knit community of people who encourage me."

John often chooses to participate in devotions, held after the men's evening meal. "I've been encouraged to not give up hope," he says. "I often ask, 'Why am I in this situation?' I wasn't involved in drugs or alcohol and I've worked hard. But a lot of people are just one paycheck away from homelessness. It can be a tough pill to swallow," he says. "It's a test of faith."

Encouraged by the fellowship he's experienced at Breakthrough and his own determination, John continues to pursue his goals. He's taking classes that will earn him a certificate in food sanitation and put him closer to finding a job. On Fridays, John volunteers at Breakthrough's community food pantry. "I don't like just sitting around," he says. "It's up to me. Am I going to take advantage of the benefits before me?"

Your gift helps Breakthrough change lives! Click here to make a donation.

Click here for more information on the Men's Services program.

Eddie Sturgis is the Overnight Coordinator of our Men's Services program. He and his family live on Chicago's north side and attend Outreach Community Church of God in Christ.

How do you interact with the guests?
People are more receptive to what you have to say when they've seen your previous actions. The men at Breakthrough sense whether or not I am being genuine. It's important to treat them with dignity and compassion. By building a friendship with them, I'm able to demonstrate the truth of God's grace.

You've worked at Breakthrough for almost nine years. What has the experience taught you?
I've learned to be more patient. Sometimes it's easy to be judgmental, especially when guests are difficult. God reminds me that we are all capable of sin. I've also grown to rely on God for working through me here at Breakthrough. On my own strength, I can become tired, frustrated and less compassionate. But when I allow Him to work, something greater happens and I am so much more at peace.