Stories of renewal are fundamental to the Lighthouse Mission which has been helping people for well over 100 years now. We’ve been blessed to watch as God utilizes His people through your monthly recurring donations as they effect real people, with real lives, that are transformed as they get introduced to God and His grace.
Let’s See How God Helped Another Lighthouse Mission Guest
As Rafael reaches across the table to pray with a friend, the tattoos on his arms give a glimpse into his story… on his left forearm, Jesus is holding a lamb. On his right, a lighthouse. But there are also dark chapters in Rafeael’s story too…
Growing up on the streets
“I grew up in East LA,” says Rafael. “It was a very rough neighborhood—Gang-infested. Full of drugs, crime, and dysfunction.” Drugs are what first brought Rafael to Bellingham. “I first came up here as a drug mule, transporting drugs,” he said. “And eventually I got stuck here.” As time went by, things got tough for Rafael. Homelessness. Addiction. Run-ins with the law. “That’s when someone pointed me to the Lighthouse Mission,” he said.
Your Donations are a Beacon of hope
“At first, I just used the Mission for shelter and meals,” he said. “But I was always received with open arms. There was always a hug in the kitchen. That’s what kept me coming back. That’s what gave me hope. That’s what just kept me alive.” As Rafael began to get counseling and participate in classes, “God did some amazing work in my life.”
Your Intervention Provides New Life In Christ
Today, Rafael participates at the Mission in a different way. The 56-year-old is now on staff, serving for the past four years at Base Camp, formerly called the Drop-In Center. “My role is to just love on people,” says Rafael. “To welcome them right where they’re at and make a connection.”
Your generosity at work
“The only reason we’re here is because of our donors,” says Rafael. “They’re the reason we have a meal today—and that we’re no longer invisible. We all thank you so much!” What a deeper dive into this story – watch Rafael tell his story on video.
Rafael is just one of countless other beautiful people that Lighthouse has been honored to support over the past 100 years Lighthouse Mission has been in service. We support well over 300 hundred beds every single day – and the need is only continuing to rise. Keep us ministering to area of Whatcom county by creating a monthly online donation. Join us in this campaign against homelessness, and hopelessness today.
