In just a few weeks, Star of Hope Ministries will reopen the Christian Community Empowerment Center for its third consecutive year, and we are excited.

Equipping ministry leaders and community residents is a visible way of showing love to our neighbor and to our God. Believing every person is created in the image of God, we become reconcilers as we empower. Reconciliation involves seeing others as Christ sees them and as you see yourself; whole. The challenge for each instructor and student is to intentionally enter the life of each other with God’s worldview. Empowerment involves reconciliation as we build upon inherent dignity and worth through an exchange of knowledge and skill. Developing relationships is much easier when the focus is on achieving God’s purpose for your life through disciplined study and prayer. As Star of Hope faces poverty and its deep-seated pain of indifference, we address the deprivation it brings resolutely understanding the restorative nature of reconciliation.

Equipping begins with classroom instruction, is realized through practical application, and results in changed communities because of changed people. The most immediate change in our students is in their demeanor, which is evidenced by great joy. Authentic relationships begin to develop as persons from diverse backgrounds, experiences and culture spend six weeks together discovering who they really are in Christ, working through the pain of deficiencies extending beyond formal education and life experiences. At the end of the class we see the liberated smiles of being reeducated, of increased technical knowledge, self worth and accomplishment. When people have their dignity affirmed and feel sufficiently armed to live lives worthy of their calling, they are empowered; and their witness is powerful and effective.

What makes our center unique is the style, approach, technique and small class size. Curriculum and delivery are based on the educational and life-skill level of each student. Our course offerings, while limited, are particularly effective in addressing neighborhoods disproportionately impacted by poverty. Not everyone obtains employment, but some do. In some cases, domestic violence is reduced, respect and order return to the household as a stabilizing factor. Most importantly, our students no longer accept the moniker of victim and are able to relate to other people in love.

Star of Hope Ministries, Inc. needs your partnership as we continue developing the people of Paterson through the Christian Community Empowerment Center. We have waiting lists of people desiring a changed life and see this ministry as the first step on the journey. We need your financial gift to purchase curriculum, class materials, and to offer scholarships to those who cannot afford the cost of a class. We do not pay instructors. They are all dedicated volunteers who extend their time well beyond the classroom and the six-week semester. We need your gift to complete the work God has called us to in supporting the local church in transforming communities by addressing the pain of impoverished people. We need your prayers as the ministry continues to live among and within a desperate community of people whose hope is fleeting. In the name of Jesus, we ask you to give generously to this kingdom endeavor.

In His Grace,

Wanda M. Tugman
Executive Director