It’s a common scenario in church mission work: A congregation goes into an area and provides a much-needed ministry, and then they leave for whatever reason and never see the results that follow. But every now and then a chain…
Baylor and Buckner remind us: We’ve not yet reckoned with our past ties to slavery
A special commission at Baylor University recently reported on its historical research about the university’s founders and their connection with slavery and the Confederacy. This follows on the heels of a discovery reported in September 2020 that R.C. Buckner, for…
Orphan care takes center stage in LGBT/religious liberty debate
Adoption and foster care are taking center stage in the latest conflict between LGBT equality and religious liberty. In the Texas legislature, State Rep. James Frank (R-Wichita Falls) is proposing an amendment to the state’s Human Resources Code to protect…
They volunteered to help, only to be helped themselves
The cool thing about volunteering to help others is that it’s usually the volunteer ends up being helped. Any nonprofit manager or pastor can tell you that. And so can Robert Buelna and Janeth Wilson. Buelna is a sophomore at…
Faith, determination propel teen immigrant past social and language barriers in U.S.
It’s amazing how something like a plastic shopping bag — and faith in the good of others — can have such a positive impact on a life. Marilin Garcia, 18, can testify to that. Shen she was in kindergarten, her mother couldn’t…
Millennial’s foster care calling shatters 30-something stereotype
From outward appearances, Christy Haston is a typical single 30-something. An assistant principal at a North Dallas elementary school, Haston likes to spend time outdoors with friends and family. She likes to travel and enjoys running. But a closer look…
Sense of hopelessness, as mother takes kids to homeless shelter
It was 6 p.m. when Leticia Harley, her 2-month-old son and 2-year-old daughter could re-enter the emergency homeless shelter in Dallas. They would file in line early, three among many, looking for a safe place for the night.
Texas teens finally find spiritual, physical home in foster care
So much of growing up has to do with finding a sense of belonging. That’s also known as home. Twin brothers Taylor and Tyler Savoy say they know all about that. “Our dad used to take us to the McDonalds…
Big questions lead to big answers for woman, son living in camper
Angel Hardy knew living in a camper parked in the backyard of her friend’s house was no way to live — for her or her son. The shower never worked; the toilet never worked. Eventually, the water in the kitchen stopped…