Greetings everyone,

We want to thank Roy and Martha Herschberger and all individuals that helped provide such a warm, gracious evening.  The food was delicious.  The entire evening was filled with joy, laughter, and conversation.  Truly a wonderful evening and all that spoke did exceptional. 

I would like to start by letting all know of a ministry Roy and Martha did not speak of that evening but started back in 2003 when they visited Thika, Kenya.

Abba Heart Ministries International – with a “Purpose” to rescue orphans and help widows that are in need James 1:27 – a “Vision” to raise the next generation of leaders that will impact their community and culture – and Mission to equip those children with the moral values and skills they will need to flourish in Christ’s love.  From installing wells throughout the region that give rise to new communities, construction for housing and feeding - their acts of love and teaching of Jesus is life changing for those they encounter and serve.  To learn more about this ministry please visit https://www.abbasheartministriesinternational.com/about-us

Jessi Bowland, Valerie Gal, and Andrea Woodmansee, of Open Arms Pregnancy Center in Cambridge shared what God is doing through OAPC in Belmont Co and surrounding regions.  This month the mobile clinic visited Barnesville and Bellaire.  The personal testimonies shared – tell of the hope and inspiration the center brings to so many well beyond their free medical services.  To learn more please visit https://oapcfriends.org/

Heidi Berk, with Royal Family Kids Camp, shared a video and informed us how the camp ministry and mentoring program cares for “the at risk” children between ages 6 -12. Seamlessly, the TRAC camp, then cares for the teens.  By sharing the love and hope of Jesus – building trusting relationships they see lives change. 

• Heidi also informed us of the “Care Portal/His Refuge”.  The social media platform that vents the needs of those in crisis in our area to the churches in our area

• Heidi’s “personal vision” is to see the creation of a transitional shelter for kids caught between a biological home and foster home.  A home run by volunteers and community churches where children could stay 24 to 72 hours until placed in a safe foster care family.  She is currently fundraising while searching for property.  To learn more about any of these ministries please contact Heidi at heidiberk777@gmail.com – or call (740) 336-4846. 

Unbeknownst to us, Kama, Kamaoskama Moussignac, a former TRAC camper was in attendance for the first time. Impromptu, Kama openly shared his story and informed us of a the “World of Assistance” ministry with the vision and goals to be able to come as one and make the world a better place for everyone – currently focused on “helping to feed the homeless” in the US” - support kids from orphanages in Haiti, the Philippines, and Africa – and support the kids on the streets of Haiti. To learn more please contact Kama at - moussignacyoskama62@gmail.com – or call (614) 353-8094.

Scott Mallory, Cody Balch, and Chris Kelly, with ForColumbus, from Columbus joined us.  The ForColumbus vision to unite the Church of Columbus has now reached well beyond central OH in their support of “unity”.  Their message was one of encouragement and inspiration – to move at the speed of relationships and “imagine” what this might look like in a decade.  To see what the fruit of their “calling” patience and obedience please visit https://www.forcolumbus.org/

Unity Discussion - following our guest speakers, we engaged in an ”open discussion” - how we continue pursuing “Unity” in our region.  While picnics and festivals, are constantly on our minds – and may be in our future - the overwhelming thought to emerge was – “it is time” to also invite the communities to join us at dinner in “open conversations” of faith led by area church and ministry leaders - engaging in answering the many questions of those searching for the truth in Jesus.  Our hope would be for us to come alongside anyone – regardless of where they might find themselves in their faith walk and be willing to help them find the church family or support group they need to grow and mature their faith. 

“Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.

They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,  praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.

And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”

Acts 2:46-47

All of this reminds me of the message Scott had for us at dinner – “move at the speed of relationship” and the scripture which Roy shared with us before dinner.

“that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”

John 17:21

We realize the demands and responsibilities our church and ministry leaders have daily and want to make sure everyone knows – this is an “as you can” basis.  Whether you have time now, later, or when time allows – know your voice is always welcome and needed.  Evening topic(s) of conversation will be decided in advance allowing all time for prayer and preparation. More the better as we show-up in unity for our communities. 

We are also looking to establish locations and dates for these Group/Community Dinners in 2026. 

If you would like to take part in furthering this discussion – please join us at our next Team Meeting – Tues. Oct 14, starting at 6:00pm – at the St C Chamber of Commerce Office located at - 117 East Main St. St. Clairsville.  Time limited - we are also available to “come to you” for a “one on one” to discuss and gain your insights.  Just call upon one of us or email us.  We know all insight and reflection will be valuable and useful as we move forward and look forward to all. 

Special thanks - to all that submitted ideas and thoughts for future dinner conversations – all are extremely insightful as we look ahead.  

“Working Together in Harmony to Unite our Communities in Christ.”  

Grace and Peace,

Jim and Joyce

Jim Dietz