Genesis Ministries continues to move forward           

[JUNE 9, 2005]  You may recognize the Genesis Ministries' women's facility if you remember the once-abandoned Bartmann Nursing Home. The site is located nine miles north of Old Route 66 on Nicholson Road. The building and 6-acre grounds were turned over to the board on Jan. 9, 2003. The board had been working on acquiring it for nearly three years. It came as quite a surprise when Father Muscari, who had first received the property from the Bartmann estate, said he would like to give it to Genesis.

"Since that date we have been working to remodel and reconstruct the facility to meet the needs of the ministry," a Genesis board representative said.

During the last two years many volunteers and financial contributors who are committed to the vision have enabled great progress toward opening the facility. It is by prayer that the ministry hopes to open this fall or earlier.

The plan is to be a residential women's ministry designed solely for women age 18 or older whose lives have been destroyed by alcohol, substance or personal abuse. Along with these problems, a woman's children, spouse and other loved ones also suffer due to her loss. Many of these women are lacking family support, life skills, relational skills and marketable skill sets. Therefore emphasis is placed on reconciliation to family and community.

These women are right here in Lincoln and Logan County, now. One of them may be someone you know. Others may live anonymously on the streets or may be released from jail or prison. The ministry's goal is to offer them the tools and time they need, in a Christ-centered, peaceful and safe setting, and be restored to their families, loved ones and society.

In order to accomplish the ministry's spiritual and educational goals the ministry has made strategic alliances with local churches, Lincoln Christian College and Seminary, the IETC job center, and Heartland Community College's adult learning program and Project READ. They hope to further the work of Genesis by enlisting other churches, organizations and individuals in the ministry.

The ministry aims include spiritual training, counseling, job training and placement, literacy courses, and G.E.D. and education as needed by the women residents.

As the time draws closer to bringing women to the facility, the Genesis board has diversified leadership. A board of directors began meeting in December 2004. It is composed of faithful and respected men and women in our community. That board will serve to enhance the ministry provided to women and further communication with the community.

During a recent fund-matching campaign, over $14,000 was given. These funds were dedicated to providing heating and cooling to the facility. "There are no words descriptive enough to say thank you to those who sacrificed financially to assist women with their new beginning and further the cause of Christ," the board states.

The next monthly workday is set for this Saturday, June 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be provided. Cleaning, outdoor work and construction are on the list of chores. You can call [phone] for more information about helping or just show up.

[News release and LDN]