Jim and Julie Nelms
In March of 2005 we arrived on Guanaja to work with the youth of the island. After being there only a short time we realized there was a greater need not being met. The family unit was a wreck. Drugs and alcohol were wreaking havoc on the island and the community was at a loss as to how to help. Now the Lord has called us to be instruments of His transforming power and to bring His healing touch by establishing a “City of Refuge” on the island.
A “City of Refuge” is far more than a mere detox center for addicts. It is a combination of three distinct ministries combined under one umbrella. It differs from traditional models. Why? Because of the synergy produced by combining a Christian regeneration program with a specialized “recovery” church designed to meet the needs of wounded men and their families and a training center where graduates may continue on and give back to society - all on the same campus. This is not better than traditional church - just different.
In John 10:10 Jesus says, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” We are forming “Abundant Life Community” based on our belief in this message and our commitment to follow the Messenger. We are called and committed to this charge. May the Lord go before us and to Him be the glory!
