Previous Year Storytime Postshttp://www.ehands.orgTue, 22 May 2012 14:02:22 GMTWed, 31 Aug 2011 15:54:25 GMTA Day of Beautyhttp://www.ehands.org/beautyWed, 31 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTJuli HobinThis past Saturday Hands of The Carpenter hosted a “Day of Beauty.” Single parents and widows from Hands, Red Rocks Church and Lookout Mt. Community Church were treated to a day of manicures, haircuts, massages and facials. Delicious refreshments were served, along with a spa-like atmosphere of soft music, candle lit rooms and aroma-therapy. Women received paraffin treatments and hand massage as they waited for their services. Those who so generously gave of their time and skills greeted their clients with gracious smiles and a kind touch. Volunteers also came to visit and pray with the women and help care for their children. The women served were deeply moved and most grateful for the care that was shown to them in thought, word and deed. It truly was a beautiful experience for everyone. If you would like to participate in our next “Day of Beauty,” please let us know.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/beautyThank you from Angela - to the Hands communityhttp://www.ehands.org/angelaMon, 29 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTDan Georgopulos Hands - Without your help I wouldn't be able to go to my weekly appointments.  I have injections, therapy, physical therapy and installation procedure all every week.  Without your help, I wouldn't be able to take my daughter to girl scouts or my sons to their band/orchestra concerts.  I wouldn't be able to seek work or make it to my human serice appointments and last but not least, i wouldn't be able to visit church's while the kids and I look for a church home where we can fit in at and feel safe.  It is hard not having family around and me being so sick buy you make things easier!!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/angelaWe Are Blessedhttp://www.ehands.org/we-are-blessedTue, 08 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMTJuli HobinWe frequently write of the single parents and widows in need that we are able to offer hope to through car repair and maintenance. Today we want to share with you how we are blessed – every day – by the women God brings across our path.

The women we have the privilege of serving teach us of the Lord’s faithfulness. They are beautiful, strong, brave, tender, wise and wonderful women. They display courage and humility with the way they have chosen to live. Many are in the process of healing and becoming whole from very difficult and painful circumstances. They show us a side of the Lord’s relentless love towards those who seek to walk in His ways. Most of our clients have children at home – often raising them without financial or emotional support. They teach us perseverance. They exhibit their dependency and trust in a God who is an ever present help in their time of need. These are the women we are blessed to journey with and honored to know.

Through your generous gifts, you too are a part of building into their future and their hope - Thank you!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/we-are-blessedThe Journeyhttp://www.ehands.org/the-journeyTue, 08 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMTJuli HobinIn our journey of walking with single parents and widows, we often see a glimpse of the kindness and the glory of God displayed in the women we encounter.

We recently met with Cathy*, an amazing woman of courage, strength and hope. Cathy shared part of her story with me – a story of profound loss, abuse and abandonment. She is a single parent of three teen age children; an enormous undertaking for anyone! When she met me at our car shop for her initial interview, Cathy brought her dog Charlie along with her. Charlie also came from a background of abuse and abandonment. Charlie goes to work every day with Cathy as a “helper dog” to those who live at the facility for mentally challenged adults where she is employed. We talked about the joy the residences receive from being able to love for and care for Charlie during the day. We talked about what she is learning of the love of God for those who have been abandoned and abused as she gently cares for her dog, and offers him safety, security and hope. Safety, security and hope – these are basic needs of the human heart.

Many of the clients we serve come to us with the daily need of safety and security appearing to be out of reach in their broken lives. When they walk through our doors, it is our prayer that we are able to offer the women and their families hope. First through car repair, and then through continued relationship with our support groups for single parents and widows. As Cathy is learning to trust God for her safety and security He is healing her heart and restoring her life. That is our prayer for everyone we meet – that they will experience the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort in tangible ways through the ministry of Hands of The Carpenter.

Please join us in being the expression of God’s love to the widows and orphans of our day.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/the-journeyWomen Caring For Womenhttp://www.ehands.org/women-caring-for-womenFri, 14 Jan 2011 06:00:00 GMTJuli HobinRecently Hands of The Carpenter served two different clients who work for other organizations that serve single parents and widows in need! Cathy* works with Jefferson County on a part time basis with children and youth of single parents; Mandy* works for a Christian outreach in the inner city of Denver which cares for the single parents and families of their neighborhood. Both women are single mothers. It is always a delight to serve the women the Lord brings our way; there was an extra measure of joy to serve other women who serve the widows of our time. Both vehicles needed brake repairs; one car was in desperate need of new tires, and the other needed work on the steering column. As we visited with each woman, they realized that even though they care for women in difficult situations, they themselves need support and encouragement. So, they both are going to join our women’s group beginning this month!

Women walking along side women – learning to trust in God, and care for each other – what a beautiful ministry to be a part of!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/women-caring-for-womenA Christmas Miraclehttp://www.ehands.org/a-christmas-miracleFri, 24 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMTJuli HobinA Christmas miracle.  I truly believe I have received a gift from God – the transforming of my heart.  I was meeting with a client.  I cannot tell you what we discussed, or how this happened.  But somehow in the middle of our conversation, I started to cry.  For the first time in many years I could honestly say that I was thankful in my heart for the Lord allowing me to go through this time of being single. A woman without the covering of a husband. My client just kept on talking. As I sat there with tears streaming down my face, I prayed to the Lord, “I am grateful for all of the places you have allowed me to travel – even this time and place of being single.  For on this journey I am seeing your kindness and goodness; your grace and your mercy; your very great love for me. “   Jesus truly is my comfort and compassion.  He is faithful and true.  Without this road that He and I are walking on together, I would not know and trust and believe this about my God. In that moment of giving thanks, my heart was being transformed; set free. I began to feel like a captive being released from prison.    

I literally felt my heart “turning.”  Almost as an act of repentance.  Turning from profound grief and loss, anger and doubt, paralyzing fear and bitterness, numbness and self sufficiency.  Turning from death to life – as if being raised from the dead – a newness of life! Turning towards a place of greater rest, greatest trust, greater healing.  I am wondering if He is actually going to give me my whole heart back.  If so, it is yet to be seen what life will look like, as I have not had a whole heart in a very, very long time.   I might have to learn to live again. Does my heart still mourn that my marriage ended in divorce? Yes. Do I still desire a husband and companion? Yes.  Am I still lonely? Yes.  I was not created to live alone, but rather to share life with a man of God’s choosing. Do I live with the consequences of a broken marriage and the responsibility of single parenting?  Almost daily.  But the deep anguish and sorrow of my heart is changing …  To something beautiful. To something hopeful. To something new.

The night before God had me read Ephesians 2.  “But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead.” My heart, or at least part of it, had “died” for so many reasons. As I sat in our car shop giving thanks to the God I am coming to know, He changed me.  Just like that. Like a gift. Completely and utterly given by grace.  “…that He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus.  For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.”  This is God’s gift of grace to me.  A heart that is being transformed.  By no work of my own – so that I may not boast!  A heart that can truly say I am thankful for this season in my life.  This season of being single.  I am learning to bend my will a little bit faster to His will.  I am experiencing a glimpse of the joy that comes from depending on Him, and not in myself.  I am coming to trust in His provision, His protection, and His great and glorious love.  

Recently the Lord has been telling me,” In the twinkling of an eye, things will change.”  He has been speaking this to me over and over.  I had no idea what He was talking about.  I looked it up today: “Listen, I tell you a mystery. … In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet … the dead will be raised imperishable and we will be changed. … Where, O death is your victory?  Where O death is your sting?  The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.  But Thanks Be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  1 Corinthians 15:51-56 . This dear ones, is the Jesus we celebrate this Christmas.  He has conquered death!  And in the twinkling of an eye, we are changed.  Here on this earth, and someday forever in eternity with Him.  Thanks be to God.   If God, by His great love and mercy and grace, can transform my hardened, wounded heart to a place of being thankful for this time of being single, then He is able to raise the “dead” in all of us! Jesus is the kindest person I know.  He is able to make all things work together for good.  All things.  For good. Our good; the good of others; and above all – for His glory!  This holy Christmas season I pray you discover once again the wonder of having faith in the One who came to set us all free.  He might just have a Christmas miracle for you as well!    

]]>http://www.ehands.org/a-christmas-miracleA Widow In Needhttp://www.ehands.org/a-widow-in-needThu, 23 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMTJuli HobinLeslie’s* husband died four years ago this month. She has three small children, ages 7, 6 and 4. With very little family support she has struggled to find a way to make ends meet. Her children have suffered physically, emotionally and mentally since the death of their daddy. For a short period of time, as Leslie was working and going to school, the children went to live in another state with relatives, as Leslie was not able to care for their basic needs of food and clothing. Leslie came to us in desperation – isolated and feeling fearful for their future.

As we visited with her and shared God’s heart and compassion and comfort for the widows and orphans of our day, she began to have hope. Her Jeep Cherokee was in need of radiator and heater repairs. With no heat in her car, she had been worried about the cold winter ahead. Hands of The Carpenter was able to repair her car so that she is able to feel safe and secure when driving her children. Just as important, we were able to invite her to join our growing group of women which meets twice a month – so that she can begin to develop a community of support and encouragement with other widows and their children.

What a privilege it is to care for the women and the families God sends our way. Please pray for them - that the Lord’s provision and protection for them becomes the foundation they may rest upon; that the body of Christ becomes a real, visible example of the love of God, which changes everything.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/a-widow-in-needHands participates in "Colorado Gives Day" on December 8thhttp://www.ehands.org/coloradogivesSat, 04 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMTDan Georgopulos Hands is participating in Colorado Gives Day on December 8th. Sponsored by Community First Foundation and FirstBank, this initiative provides matching funds for online gifts given through www.givingfirst.org on December 8th. As you consider year-end giving (or even monthly gifts in December), please consider giving this way to make your gift go further!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/coloradogivesHands Storytime - Heat and brakes - necessary during winter!http://www.ehands.org/heat-and-brakesWed, 24 Nov 2010 06:00:00 GMTJuli Hobin*Shannon came to Hands of The Carpenter by a referral through her own employment – Department of Human Services for the city of Denver. She is a single mother of three children, seeking self sufficiency through a full time job. She has a heart for serving those in need, so it was our joy to be able to serve her and bring hope to her family through needed car repairs!

When Shannon first came to us we were unable to assist her. After the generosity and support of so many who attended our banquet on November 5th, we were able to replace and fix her rear window defrost, heater, and front brakes. Shannon was so very thankful! She is going to join our women’s group the next time we meet in December.

What a privilege it is to walk with those who are also walking with others in need. Thank you for the love of Christ expressed through the way you care for so many!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/heat-and-brakesFirst Car Clinic In The New Shop!http://www.ehands.org/octclinicThu, 14 Oct 2010 01:16:26 GMTJuli Hobin Four times a year Hands of The Carpenter hosts Car Care Clinic for our clients and single parents and widows in the community. This is a time where time and many talents are freely offered to change the women’s oil for free, and do a 52 point inspection on their vehicle. This past weekend we had the privilege of hosting our first clinic at our new auto repair shop in Lakewood (pics are on the right of the blogs).

Over 25 volunteers served, including students from D’Evelyn High School. Besides servicing the cars, students were painting the shop’s office and adding to the joy of helping God’s people. One of the women who came to us for the first time was *Martha. Martha is a precious woman, almost 90 years old, full of life and gratitude. She was deeply touched by the kindness and love shown to her while waiting for her car. Her husband passed about 7 years ago and her car is one of the main tools she has to remain independent. It is also the tool that gets her to water aerobics class every week!

It is our hope and prayer that as we continue to care for the widows and orphans in the Lakewood area, that the Spirit of God will be experienced in real and tangible ways throughout the community. May we all be a light that shines with the love of Christ where ever we go.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/octclinicGathering and prayers of thanksgiving for the new shop!http://www.ehands.org/shopprayersThu, 09 Sep 2010 16:04:11 GMTJuli HobinIt was a time of celebration and rejoicing. It was a time of gathering together and giving thanks and praise with grateful hearts to God for His provision for Hands to be able to operate our own trustworthy and reliable automotive repair business to expand our reach in helping single parents and widows in need.

On Friday, September 1st, board members, and many of those who have walked with us in prayer and faith and support came for a time of prayer and breaking bread together to bless the ministry and work of Hands Automotive (for now called Colorado Auto-Tech.) Prayer was lifted up for our new staff – Ray and Sean; for all who enter for their own car repair needs, and for the single women who will come looking for hope and care. We prayed for the community is which we will serve – We prayed for wisdom and protection. Above all, we worshipped with humble hearts the God who has provided more than we could have hoped or imagined.

Please stop by and visit the new shop – a six bay service center providing a full range of auto motive repair and maintenance services to the public. Your auto repair = hope and care to someone in need. Thank you for sharing in our joy!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/shopprayersHands Automotive Purchases "Colorado Auto-Tech"http://www.ehands.org/shopblogMon, 06 Sep 2010 18:08:29 GMTJuli Hobin / Dan Georgopulos In April of this year, Hands of The Carpenter began a campaign of “Driving Towards the Dream”. The dream was to operate our own automotive repair business to expand our reach in helping single parents and widows in need. We truly believe that this is God’s dream – shared by men and women who partner with Hands of The Carpenter. On September 1st the dream became reality! Through prayer and generous, abundant giving of time, talent and resources, Hands Automotive, Inc. is now in existence and operating!

Hands Automotive, Inc. (for now called Colorado Auto-Tech)
1510 Kendall Street, Lakewood, CO 80214 (Colfax & Kendall)
Ph: 303.233.8780 Web: www.coloradoautotech.com

The six bay service center provides a full range of automotive repair and maintenance services to the public. The shop and the resources it generates will eventually lower repair costs and help expand services for single mothers and widows in need. This truly is a dream come true. Through the process of many people joining hands in prayer and anticipation, we have seen the Lord’s provision in ways that we could not have even thought or imagined. Our excitement is matched by very grateful and thankful hearts for all the blessings God has poured out – on His dream , and on our dream, and on your dream. A way to serve the public with a trust worthy and reliable auto shop, which will enable us to serve even more single parents and widows who are in need.

Please come visit! Say hello to Ray and Sean—the two newest members of the Hands team! Tell your friends, neighbors and co-workers about the shop! Everyone who uses the shop will be providing Hope and Care for a client. We all should rejoice over what the Lord has done – and will do—through many of you!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/shopblogThe Rodeo - A Father's Day for the fatherlesshttp://www.ehands.org/rodeo1Thu, 22 Jul 2010 18:19:56 GMTJuli HobinPlease click the link below to open this story in PDF format.

The Rodeo - A Father's Day for the fatherless

]]>http://www.ehands.org/rodeo1July 17th Car Care Clinic Sets Records!http://www.ehands.org/clinic-sets-recordsThu, 22 Jul 2010 17:10:14 GMTJuli Hobin
 

Hands of The Carpenter hosted our largest Car Care Clinic this past Saturday at Lookout Mt. Community Church. Four times a year, we serve single parents and widows with a Car Care Clinic. The clients receive an oil change, along with a 51 point vehicle inspection, all free of charge. We have been hosting these for 6 years now, and there is a strong possibility that this will be our last one to be held at this location, as we are hoping to move to our new auto shop soon!

The Car Clinics are about more than just changing oil. I’m not sure who is having more fun – the volunteer mechanics – who have a friendly competition going among themselves on which team is the “best” - or the clients being served – as they visit over coffee and pastries, sharing life stories, and encouraging one another. Perhaps it’s the children as they run inside for one more donut, and then back to the playground for more excitement and play. This specific clinic, it may have been Dan and Brenda Georgopulos, watching and wondering in amazement at all the Lord has done throughout the years with a ministry that began with much prayer and a cell phone.

I am a single parent. I am deeply touched every time my car is serviced, so that it will run safely. I am just as touched by the more than 20 volunteers who give of their time and commitment on a Saturday to serve. I am touched by the women and children who come – and get a taste of God’s goodness through the simple act of having their oil changed. I am grateful for the care that you offer to those in need. Thank you – to everyone who has served, or donated needed equipment and oil products. You truly are the hands and feet of Jesus – lightening the burden of those God calls us to journey with.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/clinic-sets-recordsDream becoming a reality!http://www.ehands.org/realityFri, 16 Jul 2010 20:42:16 GMTDan Georgopulos It is with a grateful and excited heart that I announce that on July15th, Hands of The Carpenter executed a letter of intent with an auto repair shop in Lakewood to purchase the business. HOW AMAZING IS THAT?!?. In just two and a half months, the dream is very close to becoming reality. We are grateful to our Father and all who are part of that blessing!

To follow through with the purchase we need to finish raising the funds. At this point, we are short $25,000 from having all funds needed to cover the purchase and initial operating expenses. Would you, your church, or your business please consider being a part of this final step in “Driving Towards The Dream”?

As an Enterprise Zone Project, financial gifts to Hands of The Carpenter receive a state tax credit equal to 25% of the gift.

Check out www.eHands.org/driving for updates and to help make the dream a reality through an online gift an many other ways!


]]>http://www.ehands.org/realityMore than brakes!http://www.ehands.org/brakesThu, 15 Jul 2010 22:47:58 GMTJuli HobinCindy is a recent widow. Her husband passed away in January after a long battle with cancer. She has 3 children at home – 2 of them with serious health issues of their own. With their constant need for medical attention, Cindy tries to work several part time jobs that work with her children’s schedules. Because of her grief and stress over the death of her husband, she found herself pulling away from family and friends, and isolating herself from any real sense of community. Cindy came to us with a need to get the brakes replaced on her Dodge Dakota. As we visited, her deeper need was for a place of comfort and support. Some of the clients of Hands of The Carpenter have begun to gather once a month – for just this purpose! They encourage one another, and build each other up. They pray for one another and help carry one another’s burdens. As friendships are being formed, these times together are becoming vitally important to each woman and their children who sometimes attend.

Yes, we were able provide to HOPE to Cindy that began with her brakes, but just as importantly, however, we were able to invite Cindy to our next time together. She is looking forward to joining us in July. Thank you for your support of Hands of The Carpenter! Lives are being changed because of you and your generosity. May God bless you, as we serve single parents and widows together.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/brakesLost and found!http://www.ehands.org/lostThu, 15 Jul 2010 22:51:12 GMTJuli HobinBeth is a widow, living on Social Security. She is diabetic, and has other related health issues. She has raised 5 children on her own, and now is an actively involved the lives of her 12 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren! Her car was having difficulty shifting, and seemed to skip gears at times. She was hesitant to drive “up the hill” on her own for our initial meeting, so a friend offered to accompany her. They got lost several times trying to find our office, so another neighbor volunteered to come as well to help with the directions. At last, all arrived safely! As we visited in the lobby, our next client arrived for their appointment. As God would have it, the two clients, along with the neighbor, knew each other, and their friendships were re-established. God’s timing and God’s ways are perfect – if either of the clients had arrived at different times, their relationship might not have been reunited.

This is encouraging as we seek to journey with the many single parents and widows He allows us to serve. Beth’s vehicle was diagnosed with needing a new speed sensor. Through the generous gifts of our donors, we were able to repair her car. She is now able to get to her various doctor’s appointments, and visit her family members in a safe automobile. Thank you for the many ways you support Hands of The Carpenter – God is always at work in all of our lives. How exciting to be walking the life of faith together!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/lostWidows Walking With Widowshttp://www.ehands.org/walkingTue, 08 Jun 2010 21:58:48 GMTJuli HobinWhat a joy it is to watch our clients begin to reach out to one another!

We are meeting with some of our clients in small groups for support and encouragement. These times are filled with laughter, love, and tears – the sharing of hopes and dreams, breaking bread together, and fears and needs that are committed to prayer. One of our single parents with two children needed to move because of a very difficult living situation with relatives. As she shared, we prayed for her to find a new “resting place” for her family. One of the other women came to help clean her current place before she moved out – and to then clean the new home before they moved in. Single parents walking along side one another. Learning how to give their gifts to those in need, and learning how to receive from those who offer a hand in love.

It is a beautiful privilege to serve those God brings our way –thank you for your support and your care for the widow!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/walking"You''ll be blessed if you do!"http://www.ehands.org/blessedFri, 28 May 2010 17:49:47 GMTJuli HobinMany of the women Hands serves have left abusive relationships and situations. Most of them have children, and are faced with the challenge and responsibility of parenting on their own. Biblically, a “widow” is a woman without the covering of a husband; an “orphan” is a child without a father. Daily, the Lord brings each of us “widows” and “orphans” to care for. God is a “father to the fatherless and a defender of the widow” Psalm 68:5. He calls us to join Him. Throughout scripture, it says we are blessed if we serve and care for the widows and orphans. We are to invite them to our celebrations; set aside food for them to eat, and give them shelter where they may sleep. We are to defend their justice and bless them with open hands and open hearts. We are grateful to be doing this together through Hands.

I challenge you to look around your world today. Who are the single parents and children without fathers in your extended family? Your community? Your place of business? Your church? Take time to reach out in love and in service to those in need – you will be blessed if you do!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/blessedGeorge's Heart for Widowshttp://www.ehands.org/georgeWed, 12 May 2010 21:31:45 GMTJuli HobinHave you ever wondered what draws someone to care for the single parent and the widow? What causes a human heart to respond to the heart of God? Throughout scripture, God’s heart for the “widow” (a woman without the covering of a husband) is clear. We are called as a community of believers to care for, feed, clothe, and walk with (visit) the widow in their trouble and distress (James 1:27) Old Testament passages declare “the Lord your God will bless you in all the work of your hands” if you do these things, (Deuteronomy) and “cursed is the man who withholds justice from the widow” (Deuteronomy).

People serve alongside Hands of The Carpenter in our desire to support single parents and widows for various reasons. Sometimes people come to us because they have personally seen and experienced the struggles and sufferings of the “widow” through the life of someone dear to them. Perhaps their mother was a single parent (through divorce or death.) Or maybe their sister or close family friend has left an abusive relationship. Often volunteers come to us because of their love of the automobile. As a mechanic, they are passionate about their cars! They serve single parents and widows by helping to repair and maintain the woman’s vehicle, so that the woman can remain self-sufficient and care for her family. Other times, someone is responding to the call in scripture – they come and give of their time, their talents and their resources because they are touched by the word of God and His heart for the single parent and widow.

And sometimes, God gives us a gift named George. George is an eight year old boy whose heart has been touched by the heart of God for single women and widows. George is the son of some dear friends of mine. We had never even met, but George began to send me gifts from his heart to encourage me as a single parent. Before Christmas time, I received a beautiful hand written card from George with a present – to encourage me. “This is a gift from God through our family to you” he wrote. George gave me more than money – George gave me hope – that indeed God was taking care of my family and meeting our needs – through the most unlikely source – the generous heart of an eight year old boy. George had no shame or disappointment; no contempt or disregard for our needs. He simply responded to what the Spirit of the Lord laid on his heart – and he gave.

George has continued to surprise me. After I sold my townhome (Thanksgiving weekend) and needed to be moved out by January 2nd, George sent me another gift: a homemade card with three one dollar bills taped inside, saying,” This is to help with some of your moving expenses.” George deeply touched the hearts of some of our clients at a recent car care clinic – by handing out cards of encouragement to everyone present. He washed their cars and played with their children. In one aspect, George is a very typical boy. He plays sports, goes to summer camp, loves his dog Breck, and has to do family chores. But George is anything but average. George has been changed by the heart of God. He responds with a child-like faith. And that is changing those around him.

He sent me a copy of a “poster” he created for his neighborhood. It read something like this:

HELPING SINGLE MOMS
“I’m trying to help the Widows and the single moms though encouraging notes and helping them not feel lonely. My plan is for you to find them at your churches and talk to them and encourage them to not be stressful and lonely. So, if you have any questions please call George. We will be happy to answer all your questions. If you want a reference, please call Juli.”

The heart of a child –caring for those around him through action and above all, through love. It’s really quite simple. Jesus asks us for what we have. We give out of obedience, and the abundance of our own lives. Jesus blesses, gives thanks, and multiplies our five loaves of bread and two little fish – to feed the thousands of hungry souls, hoping and waiting to be fed. With baskets left over. What will you give to encourage the lonely and suffering widow? How will you respond to the heart of God for those He has called us to serve? Will you give as freely as a child – with hands and heart open – to love?]]>http://www.ehands.org/georgeComing to America - Coming to know Jesus!http://www.ehands.org/comingFri, 07 May 2010 15:54:47 GMTJuli HobinFran* came to Hands of The Carpenter in need of car repairs. A beautiful woman from Africa, with a most gracious spirit – Fran came with hope and joy and expectation. She came to America with only the clothes on her back, hoping to leave behind a desperate life. She cleans residential buildings as her profession, and is dependent on her car to get to the various locations. We were able to fix her automobile needs, and through this contact, a relationship is being built. Fran is Muslin - and says Jesus comes to her in her dreams! She has a hunger and thirst for the truth, and often speaks of wanting to know “your Jesus.” Through the generous donation of one of our supporters, we were able to give Fran a bible – and encouraged her to start reading the book of John. She said she keeps her bible by her bed, and is committed to reading it every night. Fran is very involved in our support group for single parents and widows, and is hosting our next gathering. She can’t wait to open up her home and share her African coffee with us! Fran’s son Daniel joins us for our women’s get togethers, and often supports and encourages those women who he senses are struggling. We are so grateful for the opportunity to share Jesus with Fran – and will celebrate with the angels when she calls Him her own!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/comingTrue worship meets desparationhttp://www.ehands.org/worshipFri, 07 May 2010 15:50:44 GMTJuli HobinPaula* is 33 years old. She has been in a relationship for 20 months – 17 of those being very abusive; both mentally and physically.

Paula contacted Hands of The Carpenter in her desperate need for a car of her own. She is currently working, and did not feel as though she could leave her living situation until she had a dependable vehicle, so that she could remain self-sufficient, which includes transportation to her job. Periodically, Hands will receive a generous donation of a car. So we began to pray that the Lord would provide a vehicle for Paula. As we waited upon the Lord, which required patience – especially for Paula – we experienced His goodness and unfailing love once again! Last week a car was donated to Hands. Not only was this automobile in perfect condition (despite being a 1997 model) but the owner had filled it with a tank of gas. This is true worship and the walking out of our faith – straight from the Father’s heart for single parents and widows. Today we were able to give the car to Paula. After she got her temporary plates, and with a police escort went and got her belongings, Paula is going to be able to begin a new life. This might not have been possible without the obedience and kindness of the one who donated the vehicle.

May we all have ears to hear and eyes to see where the Lord is leading us to join Him in serving those around us – and may we have joy in being a part of His journey with those in need.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/worshipHomeless to college!http://www.ehands.org/homeless-to-collegeSat, 20 Mar 2010 15:30:03 GMTDan Georgopulos Cindy (name changed) is a single mother of a two-year-old son and learned about Hands from the website. The mounting pressures a single mother faces financially caused her and her son to be homeless for six months until they were able to secure an apartment through the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless. Cindy is attending college full-time to become a pharmacy technician. Her car needed the master cylinder replaced for the clutch. She knew the likely repair costs involved and was careful to make sure it would be worth our investment before asking for assistance. It is our privilege to walk with single parents such as Cindy, who are seeking to achieve self-sufficiency for their family Her car was fixed just a couple of weeks ago!

]]>http://www.ehands.org/homeless-to-collegeA story of Courage, Perserverance & Desire to Succeedhttp://www.ehands.org/courageMon, 21 Dec 2009 23:39:24 GMTDan Georgopulos Susie heard about Hands of The Carpenter through KLOVE.  She is a single parent of three children – the youngest is still living at home – a 10 year old daughter.  She has two grown sons.  Susie is divorced after many years in an abusive marriage.  She is attending Red Rocks Community College full time to get an accounting degree.  Susie lives with her aunt and uncle.  She hopes to save enough to eventually live on her own, and to create a better life for her   children and herself.  Susie exemplifies courage, perseverance and a desire to succeed.

 The brakes on her car are failing, and her set of tires are tread –bare, making it dangerous to drive her car to get to school, the store, etc.  When we met her, the registration for her car was not current so we prayed with her for that provision.  Immediately after we prayed her brother called, offering to pay for the registration!   We saw God’s faithfulness and perfect timing at work in her life.  Her car will go to one of our trustworthy repair shops so that she will have a safe      vehicle to drive in time for Christmas. Thank you – it is because of your generosity and prayers that we are able to offer hope to women such as Susie.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/courageCrying outhttp://www.ehands.org/crying-outMon, 21 Dec 2009 23:34:22 GMTJuli HobinOur story time this month is a story of prayer – of our crying out to God, and of His faithfulness to answer us quickly!  Last month we had calls from four single women whose car repair requirements  were beyond what is financially wise for us to invest in (replacing transmissions, engines, …) So as our prayer team gathered, we ask the Lord to meet these “widows” (single women without the covering of a husband) at their point of great need.  We had a hopeful expectation to persevere in prayer and press into our God – to trust Him – for nothing is impossible – and we were blessed beyond what we could have hoped or imagined!  In one month, four cars were donated to HoTC!  The Lord provided a safe vehicle for each of the specific women we had prayed for (on average, we might receive two or three cars a year!)

What a beautiful reminder that God hears the cries of our hearts, He sees our needs, and to never give up in prayer.  Luke 18:1-8

]]>http://www.ehands.org/crying-outShouting with JOYhttp://www.ehands.org/shouting-with-joyTue, 15 Sep 2009 16:04:03 GMTDan Georgopulos Recently we heard from a client we had previously helped with needed car repairs back in 2004.  She is a single mother due to divorce from an abusive marriage.  She is involved in various outreach ministries – in her own words … “I believe in my heart of hearts I use this truck in doing what I believe GOD wants me to do.  I have moved a lot of people, help with our local food bank and pick up people for church.  I often let my pastor use my truck for his ministry.  Please pray about helping me again at this time so that the work of the Lord can continue.”

Her brakes are down to the rotors, and in desperate need of replacing.  Her truck is her only transportation to work.  Our client is in a Christian band, and she recently told them she would not be able to join them any longer as her truck was not safe to drive.  When we let her know we would be able to help her replace the brakes, she shouted with joy!  She had just been praying that the Lord would provide all of her needs.  This definitely included the practical needs of car repair.

The community of Hands of The Carpenter was able to provide hope and encouragement to our client.  What a blessing to be able to be the heart of Jesus to those He has called us to minister to.  Thank you for the many ways we walk together passionately serving those God has placed in our midst!  

]]>http://www.ehands.org/shouting-with-joy'Still"http://www.ehands.org/stillThu, 04 Jun 2009 21:48:29 GMTDan Georgopulos As the Hands community of individuals, corporations, foundations and churches serves more and more single parents and widows, we are privileged to be invited into their situation.  Jody has written a song that shares a bit of her story of brokenness, hope and clinging to our Father.  The video below includes that song along with an interview in which she explains a bit of "where she was" while this song was born.

"STILL", by Jody Tucker

 

 

]]>http://www.ehands.org/stillThank you from a single motherhttp://www.ehands.org/thank-you-from-a-single-motherWed, 03 Jun 2009 20:03:09 GMTDan Georgopulos I am a single mother of three beautiful girls.  I have truly been blessed in my life, but I had a particularly bad set of circumstances hit me recently.

On September 23 of last year, I found myself suddenly unemployed due to cutbacks at the company I was working for. On September 25, my car stopped running. Needless to say, I was devastated.  I contacted Hands (for the second time, by the way), and between conversations with Joe and Dan , I was able to get the clutch repaired in my vehicle and later when another issue presented itself, again you all were there to help!

I have been blessed before, but never as much as with Hands of The Carpenter. I am truly grateful to you all, and wish nothing but continued success and blessings in the future.  May God’s beautiful light continue to shine on you!

There are a number of stories, poems, videos and songs on this website to provide encouragement to us all in the blessing that is ours in giving to and receiving from the women and children we serve together.

]]>http://www.ehands.org/thank-you-from-a-single-motherCelebrate - Single Parents Day!http://www.ehands.org/celebrate---single-parents-dayMon, 06 Apr 2009 19:04:15 GMTDan Georgopulos Did you know?  Denver's Gov Ritter proclaims March 22 as Single Parents Day in Colorado

Proclamation 5166 - National Single Parent Day, 1984
March 21, 1984

By the President of the United States of America - Ronald Reagan
A Proclamation

Before they are eighteen, about half of our Nation's children will have lived part of their lives with a single parent who strives to fill the role of both mother and father.

Many single parents in America are making valiant efforts on behalf of their children under trying circumstances. Whether it is a deserted spouse forced to work and care for children simultaneously, or a spouse who is not receiving child support that has been awarded by a court, or an unwed mother who has bravely foregone the all-too-available option of abortion, or a widow or widower, single parents deserve our recognition and appreciation for their demonstrated dedication to their young.

At the same time, we should also recognize the vital and ongoing role a large percentage of non-custodial parents play in the nurturing process of their offspring. Their sacrifices, devotion, and concern reflect the bonds of caring for those they have brought into this world.

Single parents can and do provide children with the financial, physical, emotional, and social support they need to take their places as productive and mature citizens. With the active interest and support of friends, relatives, and local communities, they can do even more to raise their children in the best possible environment.

The Congress, by H.J. Res. 200, has designated March 21, 1984, as "National Single Parent Day" and has requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of that day.

Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim March 21, 1984, as National Single Parent Day. I call on the people of the United States to recognize the contributions single parents are making, sometimes under great hardships, to the lives of their children, and I ask that they volunteer their help, privately or through community organizations, to single parents who seek it to meet their aspirations for their children.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and eighth.

RONALD REAGAN

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:13 a.m., March 22, 1984]

]]>http://www.ehands.org/celebrate---single-parents-dayHow many lumps?http://www.ehands.org/how-many-lumpsFri, 19 Dec 2008 05:37:25 GMTDan Georgopulos A few days ago we met a single mother who has taken more than her share of lumps lately.  A few years ago, she fled her home while facing a hurricane down south.  She spent time in a shelter in Colorado whle looking for a job and a home.  She landed a good job and was recently able to move her family into a home - along with a friend and co-worker. 

Shortly after moving in they realized the person they had rented it from was a fraud and not the owner of the property as they had been led to believe.  He disappeared while they were at work with the money they had given for rent.  Now the real owner needs rent money which is having to be paid from food money and other essential sources - including Christmas money.   

Another "lump" hit her after that.  Now, the brakes on her 12 year old car were too bad to drive on so she had to park her only car.  Thankfully, her employer had heard of Hands of The Carpenter and told her to try giving us a call.  She did, we had the opportunity to meet with her shortly after and are now honored to be in a position to help.

Our community of 'Hands' is helping her now and getting the brakes fixed, providing a safeway card and may be sponsoring her family for Christmas.  Wow - it is truly a gift for us to be working together in this way...thank you all for your support, encouragement, engagement and most of all...your heart.

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