October 2025 News
Verse of the Month
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you” – when you already have it with you.
Proverbs 3:27-28 (NIV)
Greetings
I love our verse of the month. It’s one I try to practice daily in my life. When my husband and I were first married, his mother’s advice to me was, “Do not hold on to the things of this world too tightly.” Her words and this verse frequently flow through my thoughts.
Jesus clearly taught that our life doesn’t consist of the abundance of things we possess. (Luke 12:15). It’s taken me a long time to really grasp His teaching, but I’m on a path that reminds me daily that what I have is not who I am.
I was recently sharing this with the participants in our Living Forward class. They sat with only the clothes on their backs and a few items given to them after being released from prison. I wanted them to know that even when we are starting over, God sees us, hears us, and will supply all our needs.
One of our instructors brought in clothing to give to the participants for job interviews. They were all new or like new. He didn’t hesitate when he discovered a need. One of our volunteers shared her experience with returning citizens and reminded them of the value they have, regardless of what they own. I heard one of the men call her “mom” on his way out that day.
I realized that the team at Tangible Hope Ministries is really good at not holding on to the things of this world too tightly. My mother-in-law would be proud!
Thank you to those of you involved with our programs for having the same mindset.
Paula Creswell
Executive Director
Tangible Hope Ministries
Here are some photos from our 2025 Fall Living Forward Program
Tangible Hope Ministries will be sharing an update on Cards For Prisoners on Sunday, October 12th, at 9:30 a.m. at Standale Reformed Church, located at 202 Cummings Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534.
Standale Reformed Church believes that there is joy in community. They strive to create a supportive and welcoming environment where everyone can come together to worship, learn, and grow in their faith. Whether you are new to the area or are looking for a church home, you will feel welcomed at Standale Reformed. Learn more: Standale Reformed Church
Contact PaulaC@TangibleHopeMinistries.org to about partnering with us and becoming a Tangible Hope Church
PEN PAL PALOOZA IS BACK!!!
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2025
Mars Hill Bible Church
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
(Drop by and leave at your convenience)
NEW THIS YEAR!
****An opportunity to select from thousands of 12-packs of assorted greeting cards, yours for a donation of any amount. While these cards can’t be used in our pen pal program, they are new and in perfect condition for personal use. Every dollar received goes directly back into supporting the Cards For Prisoners ministry.****
WALK ALONGSIDE THE FORMERLY INCARCERATED WITH US!
Tangible Hope Ministries is committed to reaching the formerly incarcerated to help them get their life headed in the right direction.
We have just finished a pilot program called Living Forward. The first cohort has been a success and a blessing! We would love to continue running this program on a monthly basis, but we need your help. We provide employment opportunities, clothing, hygiene items, resume building, mock job interviews, and a chance to meet with a long-term employment company. Additionally, we offer assistance with signing up for college classes using FAFSA and scholarships!
When you note it on your donation, the full amount will be directed to our Living Forward program.
Checks may be mailed to:
Cards For Prisoners
PO Box 413
Grandville, MI 49468
