Pray For Fortress

Summer Blog Series

2009-06-24T16:47:00.001-05:00

Please follow this link to our new blog site, featured on www.fortressydc.org. Student bloggers will be giving regular updates on their experience working at Fortress this summer. Follow along, and leave comments to encourage our awesome teams of volunteers!

Thanks, and happy summer!

A thankful staff

2009-04-28T08:57:00.008-05:00

At a recent staff meeting, Michael asked us to share praises and things for which we’re thankful. Everyone enjoyed and appreciated the positivity of the exercise.

Please join us as we thank God for His faithfulness, His goodness, and His presence here at Fortress YDC.

Michael
-thankful for this group of employees and what we do here, for our passion, and that each of us see this as more than “a job”. For Cara, who puts up with a lot, especially his weird work hours
Stacy
-thankful for Sunday’s worship experience at Mid-Cities, that God was so powerfully present. For Sunday JAM, that the kids were amazingly cooperative and attentive. That Dani’s college decision is final, and that she’s accepted a job at Camp of the Hills. For Darren and his consistent support and encouragement.
Ms. D
-thankful for being able to come here each day and not sit at home feeling sorry for herself like so many people with her condition tend to do. Being able to communicate easily with people she cares about.
Jessie
-thankful for the staff here, and the service, love and humility shown to the kids and to each other. For Michael, who has led such encouraging staff meetings for the past several weeks.
That God brought her to such a great season of her life. She came to Fort Worth to teach, but God had other things in mind….For the family she found at Richland Hills and that there are so many like-minded, God-loving singles there.
Ramon
-thankful for the accountability we have with each other here, and that when something isn’t right, we get it out in the open and then let it go, not dragging it back up over and over. That Cecily loves Fortress and is as excited about ministering here as he is.
Robert
-thankful for the ability to do what he does here, and knowing that it’s gonna pay off at some point. That God continues to provide and sustain financially. “He gives you what you want whether you realize it or not.” For the way the staff works together, even though we have such different personalities. That Janell and baby boy are healthy and that the pregnancy is going so well this time.
Kristen
-thankful for her singleness. “The reason I’m not married is because God thinks I’m more beneficial to the Kingdom right now as a single person.” For friends who are so supportive of the ministry here, that they participate as mentors and tutors and volunteers, even those who live an hour away. For opportunities to learn.
Terri
-thankful for family. That she and Jeff are weathering the financial crunch so well – his job as a consultant could’ve gone either way. That God’s vision for Building Blocks was so much bigger and broader than her own, and that He’s doing such great things through it.

you found me

2009-03-11T22:18:00.004-05:00

I'd heard this song before, but until Monday, I'd never paid much attention to the lyrics. Somehow, the first words caught my attention that day, and I found myself listening, intrigued, hanging on every word as I drove Dani to work.

I found God On the corner of First and Amistad
Where the west Was all but won
All alone Smoking his last cigarette
I said, Where you been? He said, Ask anything.

In my mind, I pictured the Marlboro man, silhouetted as he leaned with his back against a light pole, cigarette dangling between two fingers, his chin low, almost touching his chest. He looked out the top of his eyes, his focus grazing the brim of his traveled hat, as a young man made known his questions.

Where were you When everything was falling apart?
All my days Were spent by the telephone
That never rang And all I needed was a call
It never came To the corner of First and Amistad.

I've been there... waiting for the rescue, for the answer, and wondering why it never came.

[Chorus]
Lost and insecure You found me, you found me
Lying on the floor Surrounded, surrounded
Why’d you have to wait? Where were you, where were you?
Just a little late You found me, You found me

At this point, I started anticipating the lesson, the answer to the questions, the resolution.

In the end Everyone ends up alone
Losing her The only one who’s ever known
Who I am Who I’m not, and who I want to be
No way to know How long she will be next to me

[Chorus]

Early morning The city breaks
I’ve been calling For years and years and years and years
And you never left me no messages
You never sent me no letters
You got some kind of nerve Taking all I want

I love this verse, especially the last 10 words.
I love that God allows us to rant and rave and demand answers and to wag our finger in the air and tell him He's got some kind of nerve. I love that He's big enough to take it, and real enough to understand my need for it, and gracious enough to love me through it. As the song continued, just like in real life, I grew impatient for the reasoning, the answer, the resolution. I was sure it was coming in the next verse.

Lost and insecure You found me, you found me
Lying on the floor Where were you, where were you?
Lost and insecure You found me, you found me
Lying on the floor Surrounded, surrounded
Why’d you have to wait? Where were you, where were you?
Just a little late You found me, You found me
Why’d you have to wait To find me, to find me?

It didn't come; the song ended with the same questions. For a half a second, I was annoyed that the lyricist didn't wrap the story up with a neat little bow and call it a day. But as soon as that fleeting emotion died, I celebrated that it was left open-ended. It makes the song so much more meaningful.

And isn't that the way it is in life anyway? Do we ever really know WHY God does what He does? Is it ever our RIGHT to know? Job never knew. He suffered for reasons that he NEVER had a clue about. I'm sure he asked the same questions.

In the end, "You found me."
That's all that really matters, isn't it?
That IS the resolution. The reasoning is irrelevant.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." -Jeremiah 29:11

My First Month at Fortress

2009-03-10T13:52:00.004-05:00

by Jessie Sorenson

Well, here I am, sitting at my desk in the Fortress Literacy Lab, with a month of the Fortress routine under my belt, feeling this odd mixture of the comfort of home and the realization that I still have so much to learn.

I have learned a great deal about the children during this month, but only enough to realize how much I have yet to learn. I am a recent college graduate, having majored in everything from English to Music to Physical Therapy: they call me the professional student where I’m from. With that in mind, you’d think I would have figured a few things out by now, but God keeps surprising me with just how small I am and how limited my perspective is in the grand scheme of things.

I am so thankful for this experience because it has opened my eyes yet again to the great rich diversity of God’s creation. Each of us has experiences in life that shape and mold us, form our perspectives and the lenses with which we view the world. These children have enriched my life in such a way that I feel like my lenses are expanding. They are opening my eyes to an entirely different culture and flavor of life. Their dancing, singing, rapping, laughing, and storytelling give me joy and fill me with an overwhelming sense of God’s goodness.

I thought I was taking this job so that I could impact them, teach them, and show them God’s love (and yes, I still pray that God is using me in that way), but the most astonishing reality is that the very thing I thought I was to bring into their lives, they are bringing into mine. While we don’t always share the same musical taste (I’m working on my appreciation for Lil’ Wayne), we do share the same Lord, and His love is the force that transcends every single cultural, racial, or even personality difference. Our differences only illuminate the power of God’s love working in and through us, creating a unity in spirit that can only be possible because our Creator has made it so.

Jessie is Fortress YDC's newest employee. She facilitates the Literacy Lab with an enviable mix of fortitude, authority and grace. The infectious, euphonious laugh you hear in the Fortress building? That belongs to Jessie. The hearts of both the rowdiest and sweetest kids on our roster? They belong to her, too. :)

Prayer Requests, week of 2-02-09

2009-02-03T15:56:00.002-06:00

Continue to pray for Robert's sister is dealing with pregnancy complications
Continue to pray for Robert and Janell, for an easy pregnancy and healthy baby
Cessilye's aunt is in hospital and might need surgery
PRAISE report! On Sunday, Cessilye danced for the first time since injuring her leg almost 4 months ago. It went well.
Kristen's mom is getting her boot removed tomorrow.
Kristen's brother-in-law Tedashii is completing his 2nd CD and doing a lot of traveling/driving
Jessie is looking for an add'l part-time job to make ends meet
Ramon prays for our beautiful, loveable, sometimes mischievous, wonderful kids, that we love them and that they love one another.

A Day Not Soon Forgotten

2009-01-27T11:04:00.009-06:00

written by Dr. Kristen Guillory
Director of Programs

Barack Obama became our first African American president on Jan 20, 2009. It was a day I will never forget.

As I watched the inauguration, I teared up quite a bit. They were tears of joy, as I didn’t think I would see this day so soon, with African Americans not having the same rights as others just 44 years ago.

As I teared up, I thought about my relatives and ancestors and about the youth we serve at Fortress YDC. Being raised in "the 'hood" by a single parent is a formula, to some, for failure. But on Tuesday, our students saw someone who grew up somewhat like them become president.

This election was also different in that even 5 year olds were interested and knew the names of the candidates. Many days when I would pick up the students from school, they would talk about Obama and McCain. I am somewhat embarrassed to say that I did not get remotely interested in an election until I was about 18 or 19. On Inauguration Day, the students got into the van elated, saying, “Barack Obama is President!!! And we watched the Inauguration.” The students felt a sense of pride.

Each day upon arrival, our students have to do "the Fortress Welcome", which includes stating their name, age, and what they want to do when they grow up. Last Tuesday, they all said that they wanted to be president! I was in awe of our 6, 7, and 8 years olds being this excited. Markel, one of our 3rd graders, is his 3rd Grade Class President and one day said to me, “Call me President Obama,”. I replied, "No, you are President Milstead.” Who knows, in just 40 years, he might be the president of our country.

Whatever the students want to do, they are excited about the future. So it is my duty and the duty of all adults to not only pray for President Obama, but for our youth.

photo: Johnnia Milstead with her brother, President Markel Milstead

Prayer Requests, week of 1-12-09

2009-01-13T15:06:00.002-06:00

Praise God for the new volunteers who contacted us this week looking for service opportunities.
Ms. D prays for Nookie, whose family is still mourning the loss of their grandfather.
Ms. D prays for the family of Mrs. Washington, who died Saturday. The family will be going through lots of changes.
Ms. D’s cousin was found dead on Saturday. They think it was a heart attack.
Staff prays for Kristen’s speedy recovery.
Ms. D’s daughter is seeking employment.
Regular monthly funds are slow this month. Praise God for continually providing for Fortress’ needs, and ask that He see us through this slow season.

Prayer Requests, week of 1-5-09

2009-01-08T14:26:00.002-06:00

Ms. D prays for Nookie, whose grandfather passed this morning.
Ms. D prays for her neighbor John’s father, who lost both legs and requires 24-hour care, but wants to come home. John cannot care for him, which is very hard for both of them to accept.
Ramon prays for the kids to slip easily back into the Fortress routine, and for staff to have consistency with them.
Staff prays for Kristen to get well.
Staff prays for Kathleen, who left Fortress to work with junior high girls at a church that will pay for her grad school. We pray for an easy transition and for God's richest blessings on her as she embarks on this new journey. We'll miss you, Kathleen!
Staff praises God for sending Jessie our way to fill Kathleen's spot. :)

Looking Back - Laying Stones

2008-12-29T13:26:00.006-06:00

Throughout the Old Testament, God reminds His people to look back and remember the things He has done. In fact, written across the door of our scrapbook ministry closet is this verse from Psalms:
"We will tell the next generation the praise-worthy deeds of the Lord, His powers and the wonders He has done."

In one of my favorite Bible stories, God tells Joshua to erect a monument of stones to mark the spot where He stopped the flow of the Jordan River for the Isreaelites to cross. After Joshua instructs one man from each of the twelve tribes to carry a stone from the middle of the river, he says, "When your children ask you, 'What are these stones to you?' you'll say, 'The flow of the Jordan was stopped in front of the Chest of the Covenant of God as it crossed the Jordan—stopped in its tracks. These stones are a permanent memorial for the People of Israel.'" (Joshua 4:7) Verse 9 of the same chapter says that the stones are still there today. Later, after Joshua erects the monument, he again emphasizes the purpose: "In the days to come, when your children ask their fathers, 'What are these stones doing here?' tell your children this: 'Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry ground.' Yes, God, your God, dried up the Jordan's waters for you until you had crossed, just as God, your God, did at the Red Sea, which had dried up before us until we had crossed. This was so that everybody on earth would recognize how strong God's rescuing hand is and so that you would hold God in solemn reverence always."

God wants us to look back and remember how strong His rescuing hand is. He wants our children to ask, why? He wants us to pass on the praise-worthy deeds of the Lord.

At our year-end staff meeting, we did just that. The eight of us reflected on the last year and offered praise for the ways we've witnessed God at work at Fortress. Here on this blog, we're laying the stones... in words ...a monument of sorts. Please sit in on our meeting and join us as we glorify God for the great things He has done!

Michael - This year, I was blessed by the commitment in some of the kids to strive to know Christ. James really stepped up - it was exciting to see his journey, the transformation in his life, his renewed focus in school, his determination to be a positive leader. Rosa and Jose have a tough home life - constantly moving - yet they're always happy to be here, eager to please, easy to love. God shields them from their own circumstances so much that they've become a beacon of light to us!

Terri - Building Blocks has had amazing support. From the initial brainstorming to the reality of it happening, it's been an amazing thing to see. At the last minute, things just fell into place - furniture that was exactly what we needed, teachers who were retiring who just happened to hear about us and wanted to help, etc.

Ms. D - The twins have changed so much since they first came; their language has improved. Another child came out of her shell a lot. We were in doubt that we'd have enough kids [in the Building Blocks program]. Now look at us; we have enough and more!

Kristen - I think it's great that our [kids'] parents feel comfortable enough to contact us and share some pretty personal info [regarding finances and other confidential details, making it easier for us to minister to the kids]. This past year, Destiny was encouraged to say she's beautiful and believe it. JC's principal says he hasn't been in trouble in three weeks! His aunt called to say thank you because he's changed so much since coming to Fortress. His mentor has played a big part in that.

Ramon - I'm blessed by the staff accountability here - the trust and comfort we have with each other. It's awesome to be part of a team that cares enough about the mission and each other to hold each other to higher standards.

Robert - I thank God that it's been such an enjoyable experience. Watching the kids' improvements in just one semester has been amazing. And the staff is like family - loose and fun, open and easy to talk to, but responsible at the same time, giving back. [A mentor once told me,] "The older you get, the less your life is about you." That's sorta become my motto, and it's so true here.

Kristen - You really do have to be called to work here. There's a level of commitment that... you just have to be called to do it. The staff commitment is awesome.

Kathleen - I struggled at first, wondering if I was making an impact. But so many things have happened that make me see that I DO make a difference.

Stacy - God is faithful to remind us why we're here. I've shared this story before, about my stolen cell phone. I had a feeling when I couldn't find it that one of the kids had taken it. When I asked if anyone had seen it and all the boys dog-piled on the floor - at first I thought they were just looking for it. But in reality, they were wrestling it away from the boy who had it. Up to that point, it was just a stolen phone. But in that moment, it became MY phone, and they had my back. They got it back to me. I knew then that my being here is just as much a blessing to ME as it is to THEM. It's about the relationships.

Michael - It's awesome to be a part of something that's eternal and real.

Thank you, faithful Father, for gathering us here at Fortress to work with these kids, to be blessed by them, to share Your love. Thank you for working so boldly and actively in their lives, and in ours. Continue to use us for your Kingdom in this neighborhood and beyond. May all that we do bring glory to You. In the name of Your Son and our Saviour we pray. Amen.

Staff Prayer Requests, week of 12-1-08

2008-12-02T14:52:00.000-06:00

Mr. P and his wife are both battling stomach flu. Please pray for a quick and full recovery so Mr. P can come back to work and so they can both resume their busy schedules.

Pray for all staff during this busy holiday season - for blessing and protection over their families.
Staff members by name: Michael (Executive Director), Kristen (Director of Programs), Ramon (Youth Coordinator), Robert, aka Mr. P (FLC staff), Kathleen (FLC staff), Terri (Director of Finance and Administration), Ms. D (Kitchen Oversight), and Stacy (Director of Communications/PR).

Pray blessings for the volunteers who come every week/month, even during the busy holiday season. We give thanks for our dedicated volunteers!

Pray for next summer's interns, whoever they are, that God starts preparing them for a great work, that he makes clear to them that this is where He wants them. Pray also for us - especially Ramon - as we begin earnest preparation for the summer program. May God prepare us to minister to them and prepare them to minister to our kids.

Pray for Michael and Kristen as they fill a part-time position in the after-school program - for God to send the right person for the job and for the transition to be smooth and easy.

Pray for our future Education Specialist - an important staff position that will be a big piece of the academic puzzle here at Fortress. Pray for God to provide the salary for this position, and also the perfect person for the job.

And finally, pray for our students. Each day, between 60-75 kids enter the doors of our building. May we be a light in their lives, a soft place to fall, a steady comfort, an encouraging friend. May we truly ignite hope in them, by loving them as God loves us.

staff prayer requests week of 11-17

2008-11-19T13:17:00.000-06:00

Pray for wisdom and guidance as we continue to dream about the possibility of a new building. The land that would be perfect for us is available and at a huge savings. Pray that God provides people and resources to make buying it possible if that's His will.

Michael has been feeling run-down and fatigued and just not himself for a month or so. He had blood work done this week to try and figure out what's going on. Pray for the doctor to be able to see a clear reason for Michael's malaise and to know exactly how to address it, and especially for complete healing over whatever's ailing him.

Pancho Torres, the father and grandfather of several of our YDC kids, is having serious heart problems again. Pray about his diet, his cholesterol, his doctors, and his family, and for a complete turnaround in his overall health, so that he can continue to provide for and love his beautiful family.

Stephanie, the group leader for our regular weekly volunteers from The Mission Texas, requests prayer for two of her friends who are in critical condition in the Philippines. Pray for God's healing hand to be evident in an area where medical care isn't the best, and for the doctors attending to these young people to know exactly what to do. And finally, pray for comfort and unrelenting faith for the families and friends back in the States who are worried and anxious.

Stacy prays for her daughter as she seeks college admissions and scholarships this month and for the next several months, that God direct her and increase her desire and diligence to geteverything done on schedule. And ultimately, for God to open the doors He wants opened and to close the doors that He doesn't.

Fortress is closed for the Thanksgiving holiday next week. Pray for our students, their families, our volunteers, and our staff as we travel, enjoy family, and renew ourselves for the remainder of the year.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving, and thanks for praying for Fortress!

week of November 11, 2008

2008-11-12T13:25:00.001-06:00

Prayer requests from the staff meeting:

Michael prays for the Board of Directors, that God grant them wisdom and guidance, that they be good stewards of this ministry and its direction.

Kristen prays for Royleesha and the many other family and friends who are still mourning the death of her cousin Myron.

Stacy thanks God for her new postition at Fortress, that it allows her to support the ministry she loves and help support her family at the same time.

All staff gives thanks that last week's Family Night for the Fortress Literacy Center was the most well-attended event to date, and that the parents were excited to be here and offered suggestions on how we could more directly meet their needs.

We pray that God continues to send volunteers and donors our way, especially in these tough economic times.

Michael prays for the staff, that they stay rested up and prayed up as we enter a busy season of work and ministry.

Terri prays for her 85-year old aunt who is miserable with shingles, and asks for complete healing and good health.

Stacy gives praise that her foot is healing well and she's able to walk and drive again.

Ramon gives praise that his wife Cessilye's leg is also healing and that she has full motion in her knee again.

God is good all the time, and all the time, God is GOOD!

Prayer requests week of 10-12

2008-10-16T10:20:00.000-05:00

from Robert, our Homework Room Supervisor:
Pray that his relationship with the Jr and Sr High students continues to develop and that they calm down and be a bit less unruly. Pray for him to show the students how to modify their behavior in a positive, encouraging way.

from Michael:
Pray for patience and wisdom as he learns as he goes, navigating the building process,. Pray for God to send people to help with what needs to happen, and for him to keep a good attitude and perspective on everything.

from Ramon, our Youth Coordinator:
thank God for each child in our care and remember that they were given to us for a reason - to love and nurture and introduce to God and His unconditional love. Pray also for Ramon's wife Cessilye, who is dealing with a serious leg injury. Cessilye is a gifted dancer and teaches dance - pray for complete healing.

Staff Prayer Requests, week of October 6th

2008-10-07T17:10:00.000-05:00

MRIs: Both Stacy and Ramon's wife Cessilye have injuries that will be re-evaluated this week. Pray for complete healing for Stacy's broken foot/torn ligament, and for the injured ligament in Cessilye's leg.
Our Auction/Dinner is only 2.5 weeks away. While we busy ourselves with last minute details, pray that we stay focused on the mission of honoring God through this effort. Also pray that we not focus on simply bringing in funds for the Fortress programs, but on helping tranform potential givers' hearts.
Our YDC staff and regular Fortress volunteers are under constant attack because of the work we do here and the difference Fortress is making. Satan hates to lose a battle, and he's doing as much as he can to slow our efforts and depress our spirits. Please pray for a hedge of protection around each of us and our families as we continue to love the kids in this neighborhood.
One of our YDC families has moved to Forest Hill suddenly. We'll miss them and wish them the very best. Please pray for April, Erik, Brandon, Patrick, Nicholas, Corey, Amber and Christopher.

Start looking for regular Fortress updates again! :)

Week 1 Summer JAM 2008 Work Group: Quail Springs Church of Christ – Oklahoma City

2008-06-25T08:37:00.000-05:00

We had a great work group from Quail Springs join us again this summer! They were able to share the love of God with a grandmother raising seven of her grandchildren by painting her house. Although the woman did not speak much English, the group spent time with her and her grandchildren as they painted the house. The group went the extra mile and even bought the family a new microwave and some soccer balls for the kids. The grandmother and the whole family were so grateful for the service and love that the group shared with them. The group also had the opportunity to serve lunch at a local shelter and at a women’s and children’s shelter. We know God will grow the seeds of love and service that were planted by these young people. Thank you Quail Springs for serving God in our community and letting your light shine among our neighbors! We hope that you will share your experience on this prayer blog about God used this trip to change your life.

-Michael Thames

Week 1: Fortress Summer JAM 2008

2008-06-25T08:36:00.000-05:00

-The Choice-

“I’ve got choices; you’ve got choices, all of God’s people got choices”
-Fortress Summer J.A.M. 2008

Everyone has choices, I’m certain young people can think of other alternatives to serving the inner city with excitement and energy. North Street Church of Christ youth, however, are one of the groups who are dear to the hearts of Fortress staff and interns. They took on the enormous task of being the pilot VBS group for summer 2008. In our first week, I was able to witness first hand the hands and feet of Christ demonstrated in the hands and feet of Jr. High and High school students as they ran, sang, ate, and essentially chose to love someone other than themselves this summer. Whenever someone tries to show discouraging statistics to me of the plights of today’s young people, I am so thankful that I will have a vivid picture of young people choosing to serve others with excellence, love and zeal. North Street, from Fortress to you, thank you for every one of your “choices”.

In Christ,

Ramon A. Smith

"From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise..."

2008-06-18T08:37:00.000-05:00

Fortress strives to "ignite powerful change in the lives of urban youth," but people do not often get to see that change right away, if at all. In the daily struggle to get kids to line up, sit still during assembly time or stop playing chase inside the building, we often wonder if anything we say or teach is even soaking in. Are we making a difference? Do they even hear a word we are saying about making good choices? Sometimes I find myself asking, at the end of a busy day, what did we even do today?
We received a phone call at the end of the first day from a mother who has three kids enrolled in Summer JAM. She called to thank us. She told me that her kids came home from Fortress so excited about Jesus. The three children could not contain their joy and excitement about the LORD and all they had learned. They told the mom about learning to make good choices over bad choices. Imagine the mom's surprise when, later that night, her kids corrected her (in a loving way I am sure) about the tone of her voice. "Mom, you should not get angry like that, that's a bad choice!" This opened up a good discussion about good and bad choices and about how to correct bad choices.
The title at the top is from Psalm 8 verse 2. It goes on to say, "because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger." God puts praise on the lips of children to fight a spiritual battle we cannot see! I believe He wanted me to know that we are making a difference! I needed that phone call telling me that kids were excited about Jesus in order to silence Satan's nasty voice, which was making me doubt what was accomplished.
More importantly, this community can be changed when the children, the future generation, rises up and silences "the enemy" with the praise of God. "Powerful change" can truly take place not just in the lives of urban youth, but through the lives of urban youth.
Pray for the kids. Pray that they will continue to be excited about Jesus. Pray that God will use their praise to silence Satan. Pray that powerful change will come through the lives of urban youth. And thank God for using children in His plan for redemption and spiritual warfare!

-Clayre Allen, Summer College Intern 2008

New Careers at Fortress

2008-06-18T08:26:00.000-05:00

Fortress has recently been searching for a new staff member under the title of Education Specialist. Our goal is to have that position filled by mid-July. We ask that you join us in praying that God sends us the right person for the position and gives us wisdom, discernment and clarity as we interview different candidates.

Fortress Launches a New Program

2008-06-12T14:01:00.000-05:00

Building Blocks Early Learning Center

Since 2005, Fortress has been about providing opportunities for inner city youth to experience powerful life change in order to become productive Christian adults. Each of YDC’s programs—Fortress Literacy Center, Sunday JAM, and Summer JAM---has been designed to reach the youth of southeast Fort Worth by forming authentic relationships and equipping them with life skills using the best spiritual, emotional, social, physical, and educational resources available.

After much prayer and planning, Fortress will expand its reach to include preschool-aged children. In September, Building Blocks Early Learning Center will open to offer care for children, ages 2-5, from 9:30 to 2:00 each Monday and Wednesday during the school year. The program will offer a quality early childhood program. Its students will be offered a fun, learning environment where they will not only learn academics but will learn about God’s word and His plan for their lives.

The Building Blocks program, like all the Fortress programs, is based on building intimate relationships with children and their families for the purpose of discipleship and offering hope and opportunity. The goal of the program is to develop a relationship with the child and the parents.

The Building Blocks program is designed to provide:
· Comprehensive academic curriculum
· Spiritual training
· Enrichment programs
· Social and emotional training
· Loving, nurturing care

We solicit your prayers for God’s guidance and provision as we start this adventure. If you enjoy working with young children and would like to volunteer with this program, give us a call.

Terri Henson
(817) 335-1007
terri@fwydc.org

Memorial Road Church of Christ Work Group

2008-06-11T10:03:00.000-05:00

A group of almost 70 youth and adults from Memorial Road Church of Christ in Oklahoma City, OK, served at Fortress on June 3-4. This group of Jr. High students has been coming to Fortress for many years and has blessed Fortress in countless ways. Last week they all got to experience the Fortress Prayer Drive-where we drive through the community and stop in different areas to pray for the community, the kids and all that God is doing at Fortress. The group also did a community clean-up in which they cleaned up several blocks in the surrounding neighborhoods, provided an activity for our kids at the park and helped prepare our building for the summer program. The students got an opportunity to visit with the staff and other community members about urban life and the impact they can have in the world as followers of Christ. We know that God opened the eyes and hearts of these young people to what He was doing in our city and to what they can do in their own communities. God is faithful and we are excited to see how He will continue to answer the prayers of this group and grow the seeds that were planted through their service. Fortress was truly blessed by this special group and we are grateful for all their hard work and investment into what God is doing at Fortress and in our neighborhood.

Pray For Our 2008 Fortress Summer Interns

2008-06-11T10:02:00.000-05:00

Summer is an exciting, fun and busy time at Fortress! We hope that our prayer warriors that check this blog will commit to pray for our kids, volunteer groups and summer interns over the next two months. Please pray for Clayre Allen, Broderick Ellison II, Royleesha Mills, Viola Petite and Charcey Petite. Clayre joins us from the University of North Texas and Broderick from Prairie View A&M University. Three of our high school students here at Fortress, Royleesha, Viola and Charcey will also be joining us as interns this summer. We are blessed to have a great group of young people who will diligently work long days, pouring themselves into our kids and working with the different summer groups. Although we have fewer interns than last year, we know God will use each of these young people in a mighty way for His kingdom here at Fortress. We already have more children enrolled in our first week than all of last summer and plan to reach full capacity of 60 children and youth next week. Please pray that God will bless our interns as they provide a loving environment for the kids and help facilitate our summer program.

Dear Lord...

2008-05-28T10:21:00.000-05:00

Mrs. D PRAYS for Stacy Kocur to have safe trip as she goes to visit her mother; and for her neighbor John Carr's health

Kristen PRAYS for her uncle who in the hospital

Michael PRAYS for all the interns who will be working with us this summer

Dear Lord...

2008-05-13T11:10:00.000-05:00

Michael PRAYS for God to send us the right person for our new Educational Specialist position and for the next year in general-that it's an important growth year and gets us closer to our core purposes.

Ramon PRAYS for the Summer JAM program and that we have a productive, educational and spiritual summer with the kids.

Robert PRAYS for his DTS application and that God opens up doors of opportunity to fund the things in his life he is working towards.

Brittany PRAYS for her brother and his wife as they prepare for their first child.

Fortify

2008-05-06T22:41:00.000-05:00

by Ramon Smith

Matthew 9:36-38
Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest."

Matthew 10:1-The Twelve Disciples; Instructions for Service

Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness.

What an honor it is to be called on as Christ's solution to His compassion. For the first 10 chapters of Matthew, we hear all about the lineage of Christ, the baptism of Christ, His teaching. His disciples have been right there learning from Him, watching His miracles and hearing His teachings.

In Chapter 9 of Matthew, when His compassion is expressed, the first thing He teaches is for His disciples to pray that the LORD of the harvest would send laborers into the harvest. The next thing that we hear from Matthew after this request is Jesus commissioning His disciples to go to the house of Israel, with the message of the kingdom, to cast out evil spirits and to heal diseases...the very work that Jesus was doing.

Working in ministry in general and with "inner-city youth" specifically, we can easily see Jesus' compassion if we open our eyes. Just as Jesus saw, they are helpless and confused like sheep without a shepherd. They are following anyone who seems to have an answer.

Pray that Christ and His teachings be presented in a way that is easily understood, and will that out youth will choose to follow HIM. We are Christ's solution to Christ's compassion.

May we be faithful,
Quest

Dear Lord...

2008-04-30T10:03:00.001-05:00

The Fortress Staff PRAYS for our summer program and that God blesses us to find more interns to help out and have successful interaction with the children.

Brittany PRAYS for guidance and strength as she finishes up her last week of grad classes.

Mrs. D PRAYS for the health of her two brothers (Lawrence and Bryce) and for John Carr's health.

Robert PRAYS for his family and career/ministry direction.

Nikki PRAYS that Victoria, a teen in the after school program, gets the help she needs and that all the Fortress kids wrap up the school year strong.

Dear Lord...

2008-04-16T12:53:00.001-05:00

Michael PRAYS for guidance in the next steps of the new building project and for doors to be opened with TAD and the city.

Kristen PRAYS for the kids' safety and for her home buying process to go smoothly.

Ramon PRAYS for the kids in the after-school program and his immediate family.

Nikki PRAYS for her both her brothers who are struggling with their relationships.

Robert PRAYS for his family and his health.

A Timely Reminder

2008-04-11T14:10:00.000-05:00

I've had the blessing and honor of ministering to urban youth (and having urban youth minister to me) for almost 10 years. Over the years, as I transitioned from volunteer to youth minister to executive director, my role and hands-on involvement has changed some. I still get to interact and love on kids each week, but I also have to fulfill my ED responsibilities such as strategic planning, HR, fundraising, etc. Often I get so caught up in all the tasks that God has to remind me who I am and why I'm here. Last week was the latest reminder.

A couple of kids in our after school literacy program got in trouble and I had to take them home early. I was frustrated with them for not behaving and costing me an extra trip out of the office. Trying to stay positive, I prayed a short prayer for God to give me encouraging words for the young boy and girl on the ride home. As God often does, he answered my prayer with what I needed versus what I asked for. Before arriving at the apartment complex of the young girl, I mustered up a few kind words and said something along the lines of, "you know I love you, but you can't act like that", which in hindsight is not all that encouraging.

As we drove through the neglected complex, I became heavily burdened by the cloud of spiritual darkness that lingered all around us. Walking through the cluttered breezeway to the door of the apartment, I felt a deeper sense of despair. Once inside, the little girl sat on one of the two couches - the only furniture in the apartment - and I explained to the seemingly disinterested parent why she was home early. I left with a heavier feeling of hopelessness, and on the verge of tears that I would not shed in the presence of the young boy I still had to take home.

Driving out of the complex, my mind raced about what it must be like to live in poverty. Not the poverty of having little money, but that of lacking hope, dreams, emotional support, nurturing, love, etc. The absence of knowing God's promises that are there for the taking, that you could and should have more. No words were spoken on the short ride to the boy's house. We pulled in front and I tried to regain my composure to speak to the guardian. The boy unlocked the door with the key that hung around his neck. Grandma was not home yet so we sat on the porch and made small talk until she arrived.

When she pulled up, 4 other children jumped out of the car and took off on their bikes. While I helped unload a few grocery bags, I explained why the boy was home early. She listened as we walked into the house, but seemed exhausted and did not have much to say. With an aching lump in my throat, I drove off and watched in the rear-view mirror as the young boy jumped on his bike.

Instead of giving me some magical words for these children, God opened my eyes and made me feel. It's easy to harden your heart and become blind to the injustice; doing so protects you from hurting over the suffering of innocent children. But that is not what God did. God, through Jesus, came to walk and suffer alongside his children, to give of himself for the sake of his children.

Praise God for the reminders of who we are - his children, and what we are to do - share his promises with others.

-Michael Thames, Executive Director

Fortress February Feature Family

2008-04-03T12:53:00.001-05:00

Fortress February Feature Family

Dear Lord...

2008-04-02T12:15:00.001-05:00

Mrs. D PRAYS for her neighbor Joyce Crump; the family of Willie Lusk, who passed away recently.
Nicole PRAYS for patience with the kids and in her life as she goes through a transitional phase.
Robert PRAYS for his health as he gets over an illness.
Michael PRAYS for his health and that God touches the hearts of those who he has sent grant information too, in that they realize how their help could postively impact Fortress.
Kristen PRAYS for that she successfully continues her journey of buying her first home; for the kids (that they see Christ through us) and the staff.

Dear Lord...

2008-03-31T13:01:00.002-05:00

Kristen PRAYS for her uncle who is looking for a job.
Ramon PRAYS for his family who is looking for a church home and financial provision.
Robert PRAYS for his family.
Fortress PRAY for Robert who is joining us to work part time in the after school program through May.
Terri PRAYS that the Building Blocks program design meets the needs of the community.
Michael PRAYS for hearts and doors to be open in fundraising efforts.
Fortress PRAYS for Nikki and family's safe return.
Fortress PRAYS for Michael's brother-in-law as he goes into drug rehab.

Dear Lord...

2008-03-13T13:48:00.001-05:00

Fortress PRAYS for the quick recovery of Maddie Glover and Mallory Dollar.
Michael PRAYS for the safe travels of everyone over Spring Break, as well as his wife while he is away; that relationships can form and thrive with the children in the new mentoring program.
Mrs. D PRAYS for Andrea as she undergoes her chemo treatment; for the quick and painless recovery of her neighbor John Carr.
Terri PRAYS for her father's speedy recovery from his thumb and back injury.
Kristen PRAYS for her friend Shaerice as she prepares for her trip to Africa and that the busy high school, college students can have a moment of relaxtion over the spring break.

Dear Lord...

2008-03-03T10:06:00.000-06:00

Mrs. D PRAYS for Andrea as she goes through her first chemo treatment and Ligia, who had her first child on the 29th of February.

Michael PRAYS that God will open doors for us and send people here that will help through that process.

Nookie PRAYS for strength as she begins her 90 day religious fast on Monday and for the kids in the program.

Nikki PRAYS for the wonderful kids that God has sent to her program.

Kristen PRAYS for safe travels for the groups this week and safety for al l the students while at Fortress and at school.

Brittany PRAYS for the strength and wisdom to finish up her second semester of graduate school successfully and that God continue to bring awareness about the programs/initatives at Fortress.

Dear Lord...

2008-02-11T13:23:00.000-06:00

Michael PRAYS that God continues to what He does in the hearts of people who come here; also for his sister's physical and spiritual health.

Ramon PRAYS that the kids pursue wisdom and understand that it is a privilege and not a chore to be here.

Mrs. D PRAYS for Frankie's sister Andrea; also for Ligia Clark, who is an expectant mother

Kristen PRAYS for more volunteers and the continued communication development

Brittany PRAYS that she stays on task and for her parents, as they begin the adventure of trying to build their first home.

Terri PRAYS for her father who is ill.

The Lord at Work in Fortress

2008-01-30T16:06:00.002-06:00

Our free optical screening on Sunday, January 27th was a great success. 60 people received a free eye exam; 40 of those 60 needed glasses and the optometrists that generously donated their time and equipment has offered to cut the glasses and provide frames at no cost! This is a huge blessing to our community. Many of those that needed glasses are the youth and the families of those that participate in our after school program. Praise God for the giving spirit of His people.

Our first Fortress “Hype Night” on Friday, January 25th was also a great success. Christian rap artists shared their talent and love with over 30 youth in attendance. “Hype Night” will be held the last Friday of each month at Fortress and is an opportunity for our youth to invite friends in for a time of praise, fun and fellowship.

Staff Prayer Requests:

- Ramon – pray for family in the loss of wife’s great uncle and dad’s cousin. Pray for the kids!
- Kristen – pray for brother-in-laws family; death in family
- Ms. D – asks for prayers for Pam (daughter) and Erika (granddaughter)
- Michael – prayers for a productive board meeting next week

Dear Lord...

2008-01-23T22:35:00.000-06:00

Terri PRAYS for continued direction, aligning her efforts and plans with God’s will here at Fortress.

Kristen PRAYS that God will send more volunteers to the after school program

Ramon PRAYS for his wife’s family-had 2 deaths in the family; for his wife’s health-she has a leg injury; and wants to continue praying for the kids and God’s will for their lives.

Michael PRAYS for favor with the many potential donors we are speaking to about God's work here

The Lord at Work in Fortress

2008-01-23T22:34:00.001-06:00

Brittany Wall began her Communication graduate internship today; we're very excited to have her on the team.

We have surpassed our enrollment goal of 48 students in our after school literacy center! Pray for consistent attendance!

God has brought Fortress 5 new monthly donors so far this year; thank you for your prayers!

Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow!

A Special Message from Michael

2008-01-17T02:02:00.001-06:00

As in our individual daily journey with God, Fortress YDC seeks to keep and strengthen our dependence on God. As an organization we constantly try to keep in front of us that the work God has called us to, is more than we can handle. If we could figure it all out and make it all happen, it would be a good idea, not a God-sized vision. A divine vision necessitates divine provision. We pray that we can keep the perspective of doing what we can do and knowing that God is always working behind the scenes and on the hearts of those we minister to.

Dear Lord...

2008-01-17T02:01:00.000-06:00

Ramon PRAYS for Provision; kids to be loved on this week
Kristen PRAYS to keep the purpose and vision at the forefront of mind while working toward 2008 objectives
Ms. D PRAYS for “Red,” whose daughter passed away; pray for him and his granddaughter; pray that Fortress will have an opportunity to reach out to their family
Terri PRAYS for continued clarity on big picture and YDC vision
Michael PRAYS to get back into routine; continued prayers for Cara’s family for the loss of a family member

Dear Lord...

2007-12-13T13:02:00.000-06:00

Fortress staff and prayer team strive to pray for our children daily.
We ask you to remember all of those we have the blessing and privilege to serve alongside here at Fortress Youth Development Center.

Kristen PRAYS for time management and balance in her schedule.

Ramon PRAYS for discipline in personal life.

Ms. D PRAYS for Terry Boyce’s mother (grandmother to one of our youth) in the biopsy to be done this week.

Terri PRAYS for continued vision for God’s direction/plan.

Michael PRAYs concerning the Ministry Ventures certification process as he wraps up the year long training.

PRAY for our children and families this holiday season, that they may experience the love of God through Jesus Christ.

Dear Lord...

2007-12-12T01:14:00.000-06:00

Ramon PRAYS that our children will see their value as a child of God. Pray for his family to trust in God through trying times.

Kristen PRAYS for God to send volunteers for the after school program.

Ms. D PRAYS for Pam and Erika (daughter and grand daughter)

Terri PRAYS for God’s will and direction at Fortress.

Michael PRAYS for family as they face struggles.

The Lord at Work in Fortress: We have had several new students sign-up for the elementary after school program, allowing us to have reached full capacity at 24 students when we start back in January. Pray God will send Jr. High and High School students; still have about 8 spots open.

week of 11-11-07

2007-11-12T13:56:00.000-06:00

Fortress is blessed to pray for our staff! ....

Ramon: feeling run-down and under the weather. Pray for his health.

Ms. D: brother recovering from heart attack; stepmother in the hospital; continued prayers for Pam and Erica.

Terri: to have the time to finish up organizational stuff she's working on

Michael: feeling run-down and under the weather. Needs to be productive and efficient with his time, and be able to prioritize all the things that need to be done. Way over-extended right now.

Fortress is happy to welcome Nookie Forbes back to the staff! She's here as a temporary employee, working in the after-school program through the end of the semester. Please pray for her as she and the kids transition into her role, that they may bless each other and be lifted up.

Always, pray for financial and spiritual provision for our programs, staff, and the children/families we serve.

Remember our board members, who dedicate their hearts and time to making sound decisions for Fortress YDC. Pray for wisdom, clarity, and courage.

Fortress is blessed to pray for our donors and volunteers! .....

Jareen (donor): has been under stress about things at her church; pray that God will do what's best in that situation.

Stacy (volunteer): gives praise for Fortress, as the staff and kids really ministered to her without even realizing it one day last week when she desperately needed a lift.

Fortress is blessed to pray for the kids in our programs! ....
Frankie (15) is celebrating her Quinceanera this weekend, and prays that everything goes as planned, and that everyone has a safe and fun time at the party.

Please leave comments, so that those we pray for will know that you're out there praying.
:)

week of 10-22-07

2007-10-23T13:19:00.000-05:00

Kristen:

Praise for seeing God work in the lives of the youth; they are asking important questions, more students volunteering to pray as a group and for each other.
Prayers for finishing dissertation; getting close to the end, but has a lot of writing and finalizing to complete

Ms. D: For her in her family; loss of family member over the weekend

Terri: - Praise for successful surgery and recovery for her father

Ramon: Prayers for he and his wife as they look for a church home

Michael:

Pray for and over the staff in regard to staffing adjustments and changes having to be made.
Pray for protection from Satan for the staff and their families; as God works in the lives of our kids and their families, the staff becomes more and more of a priority for the forces of evil to distract, discourage and destroy.
Pray for Nathan and his family.

The YDC Board of Directors meets this Thursday night. Pray for them as they make decisions regarding the programs and other important issues that affect the kids we serve.

week of October 14

2007-10-16T02:01:00.000-05:00

Kristen – for the kids and for her to finish her dissertation
Ramon – time management between work and family; financial aid for school next semester
Michael – time management; patience
Ms. D – Pam (daughter), Erika (grand daughter); Brother Bryce, Ms. Border (health issues);
Terri – Dad had surgery this morning, praise that everything went well; pray for recovery

week of September 23

2007-09-24T23:38:00.000-05:00

Kristen - Pray for God to continue to send kids our way for the Literacy Center.
Pray for Lety and Ligeia.

Terri - Small Steps; for direction and a good meeting in Houston this week.

Ms. D - Red, friend in a car accident; Don's family, sister passed away

Michael - Burned out; pray for renewal and rest

Week of 9-10-07

2007-09-10T23:03:00.000-05:00

Prayer Requests from today's staff meeting

Kristen: God to send the kids He wants here for the FLC and for more parent involvement this year. Pray for the family of Carl Smart, head of FW Code Compliance; his wife passed away last week.

Ramon: God to prepare the hearts of the kids enrolled in FLC. Pray for his wife, who lost a cousin last week.

Ms. D.: Pray for Tonya’s family; step-father hit by a car, not doing well.

Terri: Small Steps planning

Michael: God to continue to guide Fortress in the building and strengthening of our organizational structure.

Week of August 27, 2007

2007-09-03T00:53:00.000-05:00

I apologize for not posting last week. I'm getting over a nasty case of pneumonia, and wasn't online much all week!

Here are the requests from Michael:

Praise for new staff and the fresh enthusiasm and passion they have brought to Fortress.
Pray that God will put on the heart of his people to volunteer and financially partner with Fortress in our efforts of bringing the hope of Jesus to the urban poor.
Wisdom for the board of directors as we continue to build the infrastructure of the organization in order to become more effective and glorify God in all we do.

And from Fortress staff:

Nikki- Brother find a job. Praise report-able to take classes
Nathan-Brother find job; Praise report- started job
Kristen-Lord sends kids He wants to the program. Able to get data analyzed. Brother beginning his sophomore year of college. Former youth who started college
Ramon-safe travels back from Jamaica

Week of August 20, 2007

2007-08-21T23:23:00.000-05:00

Here are the latest things about Fortress to lift up in prayer:

Our new Youth Coordinator, Ramon Smith makes these requests:

a smooth move and preparations for his wedding
a clear mind for exams on Friday
protection for he and his fiance on their honeymoon
productivity and creative wisdom in lesson planning
that the community youth will be introduced to the love of God and His Son Jesus
that those youth will see that God is good and will therefore trust Him with their lives
that Satan's grip and influence will be thwarted
provision for insurance and their first month as man and wife

Fortress Board meeting Thursday evening at 7:00:

for wisdom for the directors
for God to send passionate, qualified volunteers to serve on Board committees (Program, Financial Stewardship, Fundraising, and Small Steps committees)

Also, please pray for financial provision to support the newly hired staff.

And, especially, pray for the kids as they prepare to go back to school next week.

Week of August 13, 2007

2007-08-14T15:48:00.000-05:00

From Michael:

This week I would like for us to pray for the new staff. Kristen and Ramon started yesterday and we have a lot to do in order to prepare for the fall. Pray that God will help us manage our priorities and show us what those priorities need to be.

Praise God for a wonderful summer! Pray for our interns as they head back to school and for God to grow the seeds that were planted by the interns and the over 500 volunteers that came through Fortress this summer.

Prayer Requests, week of August 6

2007-08-07T23:54:00.000-05:00

Praise God for a great summer at Fortress!
The program has been wrapped up, the interns are heading home and back to college, and Michael is gearing up for the fall semester. Please pray this week for the following:

new full-time staff arriving August 13. They will be training and planning and getting to know one another. This time will be crucial. Please pray diligently and boldly for God to be present and visible to them during this time.
one of our summer interns, Nathan, is staying on for the fall semester as a full-time volunteer. He really feels that this is where God wants him to be, and he's eager to see how God plans to use him!
our summer interns (Robbie, Justin, David, Isaac, Amanda, Olivia, Lauren, Vanessa, Kathleen, Nikki) who are returing to college this fall.
Russell, a summer intern for two years running, who is beginning his new career this week!
Luke, our summer director, who is preparing to tour this fall. (http://www.myspace.com/poorrichfolk)
Amanda, one of our summer interns, and her family. On the way back from the summer's-end girls' retreat, Amanda received word that her 14-year old sister was killed in a car accident. The funeral was today, burial is tomorrow. Amanda and her sister were very close, and Amanda is understandably devastated.
Pray also for the Fortress adults who will continue to love and minister to Amanda during this time, that God gives us the words to say and that we recognize what's needed of us. We love her so much. SO much.
Pray for Michael, our Executive Director. So much transition, so many details, way too much on his plate. Pray for clarity, for honesty, for organization, and for dependance on God to get through it all.

Prayer Requests, week of 7-16-07

2007-07-16T09:48:00.000-05:00

For our high school kids who will be at camp this week; for safe travel, good attitudes/ good times and that God will work mightily in their lives this week.
For financial provision; we are running a deficit still and are about to bring on 2 new salaries in August. Pray that God brings the right people to us that He can use to meet our needs.
Continue to pray for the interns; they have 3 weeks left. Pray that God will continue to keep them focused and transform their hearts through their service.

Prayer Requests, week of July 1, 2007

2007-07-02T02:41:00.000-05:00

This week, Fortress YDC is on vacation. The interns have all gone home to visit, the staff is taking a much-needed break, and the kids are enjoying the 4th of July at home.

Please pray for the 50 or so kids who are part of our summer JaM program... that they stay safe, especially with all of the high water in the rivers and lakes, and that they come back next week ready to spend more time developing and cultivating the relationships that've started at Fortress.

The following are prayer requests from Michael and each intern, in their own words:

Michael - Thanks again to each of you for a great summer so far at Fortress. I’ve seen Jesus in so many ways through every one of you and I’ve been blessed to see God work through you. Here are the off week prayer requests, please take some time each day to pray for each other and yourself.
Russell – Praise for sister; set aside time with God over week off
Luke – God’s direction and guidance for fall plans
Nathan – God will show him something in his week off experience; safety
Royleesha – Pray for sister and new baby; better attitude for second half of summer
Vanessa – Patience
Olivia – Home church divisions; continue to fight internal battles and continued peace with those things
Lauren – Friends family going through tough times; consistent with daily time with God
Justin – Plan/direction after school; give confidence in leadership role/abilities
David – Support; both relational and financial
Frankie – Make good choices in upcoming school year; pray for family
Brian – Spring Break plans at Fortress; relationship with Fortress
Kathleen – Strength to finish summer; direction after school
Isaac – Rest; focus; strength; encouragement
Robbie – Unity of the body of Christ; direction/calling on life/future plans

and finally... Fortress is in need of dedicated prayer warriors.... people who can commit to pray daily for our kids and staff, who will communicate those prayers to and with the rest of the prayer team... who are able to dedicate a few minutes at least once a week to actively participating with the prayer team through email, this blog, and occasional conference calls. Please pray that God will prepare those individuals, speak to their hearts, and lead them to us as we continue to build this prayer ministry.

We thank ALL of you - prayer team members and strangers who happen upon us, volunteers and interns, community members and financial supporters - for your continued prayers.

Prayer Requests, week of 6-25-07

2007-06-27T00:56:00.001-05:00

Terry Brand, the dad of one of our Fortress kids, Terie. He's been very ill, and is home from the hospital now, but unable to work. Pray for his health, his family, their finances, and for God to be real to them in their time of need. Also, for their Fortress family to realize and address their spiritual as well as physical needs at this difficult time.
Johnny Keys, who had to have 14 stitches in his forehead today.
Pray for the teenage Petite girls and the Lacy family; that God can bind them together with His love.

Groups for 2.25.07

2007-06-26T07:51:00.000-05:00

VBS Group
Little Rock Church from Little Rock, AR - leader Chad Nail. I don't know much about them, but from I've seen it looks like a great group!

Work Groups
2.25-27. Leander Church - leader Jared Hobby. They did amazing work on Monday, and the prayer drive-by went great. A few of the adults have been to Fortress before, but almost all the students are new to the experience and community. Pray that they are touched with their time spent here, and that we can get the bathrooms and kitchen in full order by Wednesday:)

2.27. Garden Ridge Church of Christ from Lewisville, TX - leader John Cooper. They will be coming in Wednesday to help with a car wash. Pray that the weather permits it, and if not that there is other good work we can get done.

2.28. Crossroads and Grandberry. These are our constant groups through the summer. Pray that we can find a good project for them to work on with us through the whole summer.

Last week was a great week all around. Most of the interns even got treated to Six Flags on Friday by the VBS group! Thank God for open people, and those that are willing to listen and then help, before just helping.

Youth Prayer Requests

2007-06-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

Roylesha's older sister is very pregnant. She is due at any moment. The baby's father is incarcerated.

Christopher has expressed concern about possibly never being able to get along with his brother, Nicholas. He has asked for prayers in this issue.

Juan's grandmother is fighting poor health. He could give very few details.

Dion and Deondre's grandmother is slowly dying. She (as I posted before) has kidney and lung failure, and was diagnosed with cancer recently. Against the wishes and pleas of her family, she will not stop smoking.

Jordan's uncle (to whom he is very close) is suffering from a brain aneurysm. Keep praying for Jordan as he gets accustomed to the boy's ranch in western Texas.

Prayer Requests, week of 6-18-07

2007-06-18T23:05:00.000-05:00

Please pray for our newest employees.
Michael recently hired two full-time employees who will begin working August 13th.
Kristen will be the Director of Programs, and Ramon will Youth Coordinator. Please pray for them as they transition out of the current jobs and prepare for their roles at Fortress.

Also, please ask God to bless us financially. Fortress runs largely on faith that donations will come in to pay the salaries of the staff we need. In order for us to continue reaching the kids of the near southeast side, we need an increase in our financial contributions, and we need commited donors whose contributions can be counted on for budgeting purposes. Ask that God lead us to those people who are looking for a place to share their financial blessings, and that He lead those people to Fortress.

Pray for Terry B., the father of Terie, one of our Fortress kids. Terry has been in the hospital with liver problems and gall stones.

Groups for the week of 6.18.07

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Hopefully the end of last week went well. I know that the first two days were trying, juggling the two groups. And I know that more came after I had left. The tile is almost done in the hallway and kitchen area, and it's looking great. The stage is essentially done for the music ministry.

VBS Group
Mount Hope Church; 16th-23rd. From Joplin, MO this group got in Saturday evening. They have about 20-25 students, with David Scott leading them. I didn't work with them any yet, but I did talk to a few of the kids. Looks like it will be a fun and interesting group.

Work Group
Christ Journey; 18th-21st. Residing in Ft. Worth, the leader, Blake Kahla, has previous experience with Fortress. They expect to have around 5 or 6 students in all to come help. But today only three were there. The group definitely has a driving work ethic. They will be working with the Woman and Children's shelter, hopefully doing a car wash a Chuck-e-Cheese on Wednesday or Thursday (providing we can get in touch with them), they planted flowers outside of Fortress, and will be helping out with other odd jobs around the building.

Third week, and still we stand strong! Much love to all:)

Groups for the week of 6.11.07

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Last week was a great time with all the wonderful groups that came in to help. The barn is looking better for now, as well as the streets concerning trash. Pray that God continue to send such wonderful students and volunteers to Fortress as He did the first week. They were a true delight to work with.

VBS Group
Longview Church of Christ (10-16); Lead by Robie and Debbie Bennett. I hear this is their third time back. Their energy is definitely prevalent. They are also the first group staying in the building this summer. Pray that things go smoothly, with the construction that will be going on this week in the bathroom and hall.

Kirk Lundblade family (11-16); I believe they have been here many times before. How beautiful when people come to give of their time and love even when their congregation might not be at that time!

Work Groups - this week is packed full of them!
First pray for Lauren and Willie. One of their fellow interns is running out on them Wednesday till Sunday. They will have a lot of work to cover, but I know they can handle it.

Quail Springs (10-14); Leader Charles Northcraft. They will be re-tiling the downstairs bathroom, that hall, and the kitchen. As well as building a transient stage for the music ministry, and perhaps it will have other uses as well. Come out Monday nights at 8 if you haven't heard!

Memorial Road (11-12); Leader Phil Brookman. They will be doing some work with local shelters, and hopefully providing joy to some down and out souls! Pray that their trip also provides their souls with great blessing.

Both these groups come from Edmond, OK (the ones above)

Highland Church of Christ (13-16); Not compleatly sure what all they will be doing yet. Probably some planting of flowers, and making the yard more beautiful at Fortress and VZQ. With 20+ middle school girls, I think the job will be done wonderfully.

Crossroads Church of Christ (14); They will be coming in often on Thursday's to do work with Fortress. It might range from working with shelters, to organizing the barn, to trash detail around the community. God bless their commitment

Either Grandberry, or Southlake Church of Christ will be back on Thursday as well. I have not gotten confirmation dates on how often they will return, but I know both groups are wanting to come back each week they can. Thank God for their hearts as well.

Prayer Requests, week of 6-11-07

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Please welcome Rob the Intern, who has agreed to be an author on this blog! Robbie is here at Fortress for his second summer of internship, and has a really good relationship with the kids. He'll be able to keep his pulse on what's going on in their lives, and relate those needs to us. Thanks, Robbie, for agreeing to be a part of the Fortress Prayer Team in this way.

Also welcome Nathan, who will be providing us with details and prayer requests for the volunteer groups who will be working with Fortress this summer. This is Nathan's first summer at Fortress, working as a community intern. Thanks, Nathan, for keeping us in the loop as far as the volunteers and groups are concerned.

Both of these new authors will post on Mondays, or as specific prayer requests arise during the week.

Prayer Requests from Michael, our Exec. Director:

Monthly fundraising campaign. We are praying for 50 new donors in 100 days using contacts from the board of directors and we have had very little participation, thus success. Along the same lines, pray that I can be patient and loving through these expectations not being met and rely more on God when I get frustrated about it.

Interns and kids. First week went great for a first week. (Praise and answered prayer!!!) We have several new kids we want to form relationships with. Pray for the focus and perspective of the interns, to remember this is God’s work and God’s kids and He will grow them how and when He wants, we’re just planting and watering.

New Staff. We hopefully will be hiring some new full-time key staff positions in the next week or two for the fall. Pray for our new people and for God’s will throughout the process of hiring.

Thanks for the prayers and getting those out to other prayer warriors. We look forward to seeing God work through all of your prayer covering and petition on our behalf.

Prayers

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1. For Dion and Deondre: Their granny, who already suffers from some problems associated with kidney and lung failure, was diagnosed with cancer last week. Deondre told me that he is quite worried about her. Pray for their peace and faith. Pray for their granny's health and comfort.

2. For Anthony, who is searching for a job. He asked for prayers so that he might be accepted at either Jack-in-the-box or the Zoo.

3. For my own grandmother: The odd result that they found on her mammogram turned our to be scar tissue instead of a return of her cancer. Praise God!

Prayer Requests, week of 6-4-07

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From Michael: I would really like for everyone to pray for the summer; the kids, interns, staff, volunteers and all the groups. First week is going to be crazy - pray that we can be patient and make the needed adjustments as we go.
Pray for Michael... for wisdom and clarity concerning executive decisions that need to be made.
From Luke: Give God praise and thanksgiving that today (the first day with volunteer groups and community kids) is going so smoothly. Everything's running great.
Pray for Jordan, who has an interview with the Boys' Ranch tomorrow, which will determine whether he goes there for a year, or stays here in Fort Worth. Pray for God's guidance in that interview, and that His will for Jordan be evident and acknowledged.
Pray for the Fortress Board of Directors... that they find renewed commitment and enthusiasm for the tasks they've been called to, and that they seek God's counsel diligently as they make decisions for Fortress.

Prayer Requests, week of 5-28-07

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Summer Interns... pray for continued safety, spiritual focus and strong relationships as they continue to train and prepare for the summer. This is a work week... kids' programs start next week.
Interns by name: Amanda, David, Frankie, Isaac, Justin, Kathleen, Lauren, Luke, Nathan, Olivia, Robbie, Royleesha, Russell, Vanessa, Willie
Host families: thankfulness and praise to God for these loving families who are providing housing and care for our interns this summer. By name: Bettis family, Bower family, Kocur family, Neely family, Stites family, Sullivan family, Swafford family, Thames family, Young family
Jordan (YDC student) and his mom as she determines what's best for him this summer. (Boys' Ranch, or continue living with Luke)
Work groups and volunteers who are here this week... pray for their safety, that they can reach people and touch their hearts, and that God blesses them for their selflessness and sacrifice.

Welcome

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I want to thank you for accepting this very important role as a prayer team member for Fortress Youth Development Center. I'm excited to see what the power of prayer can do for our ministry, our kids, and our community. I think it's beautiful that we have a group of commited Christians who are dedicated to praying for the needs, hurts and triumphs of Fort Worth's near southeast side. Thank you for answering this call!

Prayer requests will be added every Monday.
When a prayer has been answered, we'll update that, too.

God is good, all the time.
And all the time, God is good.

Thanks for being a part of this ministry!