Nancy Alcorn's Blog

From Generation To Generation…God Answers Prayer!

2012-02-24T12:24:00.000-08:00

I just received a wonderful praise report from 2008 St. Louis graduate, Brittany. Brittany emailed me several months back in September sharing the exciting news that she and her husband were pregnant and expecting a baby girl in February. At that time, Brittany also asked for us to be praying for her as the doctors were saying this was a high risk pregnancy, but that she and her husband were believing they’d give birth to a beautiful and healthy baby girl. I’m happy to share that Brittany gave birth on February 15th to Sierra, a beautiful and healthy baby girl weighing 5 pounds 15 ounces!

I am so happy for you, Brittany. Thanks for sharing your joy with us!!!

Too Cute Not To Share!!!

2012-02-16T12:30:00.000-08:00

It is not uncommon for me to get a batch of pictures in the mail from one of our adoptive couples sharing their bundle of joy with me. In this case, I would have to say sharing their bundles of joy with me because it is a set of twins!!! Three years ago, my dear friends Marcus and Cindy Ratcliff had the privilege of being chosen by one of our birthmothers who was pregnant with twins, and the result was the son and daughter they had been believing God for. Words cannot express the joy that these beautiful children have brought to Marcus and Cindy’s life, but I thought I would give you a glimpse and show them off in this week’s blog. Hope this blesses you as much as it blessed me when I received it.

Not only am I sharing with you the joy of the twins, but the joy of the entire family. Windsor, Marcus and Cindy’s first born son, told his mom and dad that Jesus showed him he was going to have a baby brother and a baby sister, and he told them that long before they ever knew about being chosen to adopt the twins. NEVER DOUBT THE FAITH OF A CHILD! Maybe that is a lesson for all of us today to hear and be challenged by.

What a beautiful family!

Windsor, the best big brother in the whole world

Emory

Merrick

The beautiful twins posing for the camera!

PHOTO FUN AT MERCY!!!

2012-02-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! I wanted to say hi and give you a little glimpse of how I spent my afternoon. Our media department asked me to be in a photo shoot with some of our girls, and Jude got in on the action! They needed some new pictures for our upcoming magazine, and I thought you might enjoy seeing some of the pictures we took on our iPhones while the “real” photographer was working on getting the lighting right. It was a fun time, and now I’m off to do my live radio show, Mercy Multiplied. You can listen on our website at mercymultiplied.com from 5:15 – 5:45 PM CST every Thursday and Friday.

Even Jude got in on the action!

Discover How You Can Provoke Others To Love And Good Deeds!!!

2012-02-02T15:04:00.000-08:00

One of our supporters from Springfield, MO, Lori Scheetz, just sent me this awesome blog post and I wanted to share it with you. It always means so much to me when I hear about people who sign up to become monthly partners with Mercy, thus impacting the lives of the girls who come to us for help. So many of the girls who walk through our doors would never be able to afford to get the help they need if they had to pay. The average cost of secular treatment programs is approximately $2,000 per day per individual. Mercy’s actual cost is only $200 per day per girl, yet we do not even charge the girls! Your support makes it possible for girls to come to Mercy free of charge. The comparison is obvious – our actual cost to run the program is only 10% of the cost of secular treatment programs. Not only that, but we have come to realize through experience that God is not about treatment, but rather transformation!

At Mercy, you can sign up to sponsor a girl for $200 per month. When you sign up to sponsor a girl, you will receive the young girl’s name so that you can begin praying for her, personal notes from graduates, an invitation to visit a Mercy Ministries home, and quarterly email updates. Not only that, but you will be playing a role in transforming her life! If you are interested in signing up to sponsor a girl, click here.

I hope that Lori’s story of stepping out in faith to give impacts you as much as it impacted me! Check out the recent blog post Lori shared with me about why she is passionate about helping our girls, and how she is purposing in her heart to increase her giving.

Leader's Meeting in Reno

2012-01-27T14:27:00.000-08:00

I am excited today to be in Reno, Nevada to speak at a special leader's conference tonight. Please pray that I will connect with this group and be able to impart strong vision and leadership principles to those I speak to. This is a great opportunity to connect with other leaders who are doing really special things. Time is short today so I will talk more with you next week. Have a great weekend!!!

Blessings,

Nancy

A Movie You Must See!!!

2012-01-20T14:24:00.001-08:00

I must admit that I haven’t seen very many movies in the past 12 months due to a crazy, busy schedule. However, this past week I was in Sacramento doing leadership training with our staff and teaching class to our current residents. I had a couple of extra hours one afternoon, so I went with two of our Mercy leaders to see a new movie that just came out called “Joyful Noise,” starring Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton. I have to tell you that this is one of the best movies I have seen in years and so very uplifting!!! I loved it so much that we are planning on sending all of our current residents to see it in the next couple of weeks. Not only is it a very uplifting movie, but I find the Christian content to be so refreshing. Hope you love it as much as I do! Would love to hear your comments if you have already seen it. Check out the trailer for yourself here.

New Radio Show – Mercy Multiplied Drive Time!!!

2012-01-13T15:14:00.000-08:00

Please join us for our new Mercy Multiplied radio show, which is in a brand new time slot. This show airs live every Thursday from 5:15 PM – 5:45 PM CST, and also airs at the same time every Friday from 5:15 PM – 5:45 PM CST. We are so excited about this show, because not only is it being aired on KXEN 1010 AM out of St. Louis, but it is also being streamed lived through our radio show website at www.mercymultiplied.com.

Last night’s show with special guest, Sophie Bellevue, and Producers, Vicky Taylor and Eve Annunziato

We are very, very excited to share with you pictures from last night’s show, which is aired in our brand new in-house studio from our Nashville headquarters. I am so grateful for my Executive Producer of this show, Eve Annunziato (pictured below).

Executive Producer, Eve Annunziato

We plan to eventually syndicate this show throughout the country, but we want you to join in with us on the web if you possibly can. We are already getting some great feedback from our listeners and feel like this is a wonderful way to connect with real people with real issues in everyday life. Very exciting to get some of the feedback and hear from those who are being helped! We will keep you posted on how things are progressing!

Hope you have a great weekend!

A Behind the Scenes Look at 2011…

2011-12-29T14:39:00.000-08:00

Nancy’s Assistants, Katelyn and Reid, here. We know you hear all the highlights and stories from Nancy, but thought you might like to hear some stories and special moments from behind the scenes. For example, what happens when flights get cancelled? What if you forget to pack something because you’re in a hurry? What is the best part about working for Nancy Alcorn? That’s where we come in…

Katelyn

2011 has by far been the busiest, but greatest year in working for Nancy at Mercy Ministries. With 29 speaking engagements, other ministry trips, and many guest speakers in and out of all of our homes, we have had many highlights this year with a few bumps along the way. :) One such bump was in August when Nancy was traveling to share about Mercy to a group of influential business leaders in Charlotte, NC. Nancy was traveling in casual clothes (who doesn’t like to be comfortable when they travel?!) and had plenty of time to change at the hotel in Charlotte before the event. However, when Nancy went to open her suitcase, the suit she had packed was not in the suitcase! You see, I (Katelyn) had been helping Nancy throw everything in the suitcase before making our mad dash to the airport and forgot to put her suit in the suitcase – TOTALLY my fault! Nancy didn’t have enough time to go buy a new outfit, so what does any confident leader do? …wear her comfortable traveling clothes to the business meeting and be okay with it. The best part is that a woman came up to Nancy after the meeting and said, “Don’t worry about not wearing a suit…you’re dressed how the rest of us wish we were dressed!”

With as much travel that has been booked this year, there have also been several flight cancellations, which mean more last minute car rentals and coordination on our end. It also means Nancy has taken the more scenic route on a few occasions including driving through the Tahoe National Forest to be on time for a meeting in California. We’ve spent countless hours in airports and on the phone with airline agents, yet have seen more heart and life transformations this year than ever before! No matter what situations have come up this year, we’ve all learned the importance of being flexible and keeping our focus on the Kingdom.

Reid

I (Reid) have only been working in the Executive Office for about three months and the highlight of this year for me was being able to attend the Designed for Life Women’s Conference in Springfield, MO hosted by Debbie Lindell and James River Assembly. Not only was this my first time to hear Nancy speak live, but it was also my first women’s conference. James River Assembly had also sponsored our St. Louis Mercy residents to attend, and about 100 graduates came to the conference from all over the US. It was really impacting to see all the love being poured out on our Mercy family by others and I loved seeing all the hard work that goes into planning a conference like this pay off – it was AMAZING! It was also so powerful to hear Nancy speak and see so many lives changed through her message of freedom. I am so thankful to work for a visionary leader with so much passion to see others set free!

As we go into 2012, we look forward to seeing the vision of Mercy spread to even more men and women across the world. That means there will be more flights and hotels to book, more time to spend in airports, more airline agents to talk to, and of course, a few more bumps along the way. However, we wouldn’t change any of the planning and hard work that goes in to making it possible for the message of freedom to be shared with others!

Florida State Basketball Team Visits Mercy!

2011-12-23T15:52:00.000-08:00

It is not every day that Mercy has the opportunity to host a Division 1 college basketball team, but such was the case on Wednesday. Head Coach, Sue Semrau, a long time Mercy supporter, brought her team to Nashville, Tennessee for a game against Vanderbilt scheduled on Thursday night. The team arrived at Mercy at 4:00 PM on Wednesday, the day before the game with Vandy, to tour the facilities of Mercy, have dinner with the residents, and enjoy a special time of fellowship.

The food was great, and several of the Mercy residents chose to share their individual stories with the FSU players and coaches. This was definitely a night that we will all remember for a very long time! Thought you might enjoy getting an inside look at some of the special moments from our time together, as well as a group shot that was taken immediately after the game.

Mercy showed up in full force to cheer on the Noles!!!

Christmas Event in St. Louis – What an Amazing Time!!!

2011-12-16T14:11:00.000-08:00

This has been such a great week! I have been traveling around to the different homes doing Christmas events of all sorts, including one in St. Louis last week with our awesome supporters there. I want to give a special shout out to two people: Even Sponsor, Michelle Luecal, and Event Chair, Maria Spagnuolo. They did such a great job and we had such a wonderful time. I thought you might enjoy seeing some of the pictures from the event.

Mercy St. Louis supporters Kyle and Victoria McCarter pictured with their pastors, Rick and Marjie Hufton from Faith Family Church

Nancy and Maria pictured with four of our beautiful Mercy graduates

The room was beautifully decorated!!

Nancy pictured with Mercy Canada Executive Directors, John and Helen Burns

Special thanks to Amy and Holly who shared their stories with our guests

If you would like to read more about this event and see more pictures, you can read our web story on it here.

John and Helen Burns -- Cross Country Tour in Every Mercy Home!

2011-12-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

Not only are John and Helen Burns two of the greatest communicators in the area of relationships, but they are also the co-founders of Mercy Ministries in Canada, as well as pastors of Relate Church. John and Helen have literally traveled the nations of the world and have spoken to hundreds of thousands of people over the past 15+ years. John and Helen both are best-selling authors, with their two most popular books being "The Miracle in a Daddy's Hug" and "The Miracle in a Mother's Hug."

John and Helen chose to volunteer an entire week of their time to pour out love and encouragement on all of our United States residents at our four Mercy homes that are currently open - a total of 130 girls that they reached just this week! God used them in powerful ways to cause the girls to open up their hearts to feel again and to trust again. Check out these pictures of the time they spent in each home, because I believe a picture paints a thousand words. Thank you John and Helen for the impact you made on every one of us, staff included!!!


Monday, December 5th - John and Helen with Mercy Residents in Sacramento

Tuesday, December 6th - John and Helen teaching Mercy Residents in Nashville

John Signing Books for Nashville Mercy Girls

Wednesday, December 7th - John, Helen, and Nancy with Mercy Residents in St. Louis


John, Nancy, and Helen at the Merry Mercy Christmas Benefit in St. Louis

Thursday, December 8th - John and Helen with the Monroe Mercy Residents

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2011-11-24T17:58:00.000-08:00

It never gets old hearing from former Mercy residents who contact me to express their gratitude for the help they received at Mercy and give glory to God for their transformed lives. I am always so excited because I fully believe that thankfulness moves the heart of God. I am often reminded of the story in Luke 17 where Jesus healed the ten with leprosy, yet only one returned to give thanks. It is so cool to see so many young women have a revelation of the importance of giving thanks. I thought I would share with you some of the recent posts on Twitter of girls who have gone through the Mercy program and are now returning to say thank you…

Allison on Tuesday, November 22
“Thinking on Thanksgiving, I can't help but be incredibly thankful for Nancy Alcorn. Nine years ago, I walked out of Mercy Ministries healed and whole. THANK YOU xx”

Heather on Sunday, November 20
“Nancy Alcorn, thank you so much for your willingness to be obedient to God's call on your life to help women. Mercy saved my life!”

Laura on Friday, November 18
“Hard to believe it's been three years since I graduated from Mercy Ministries! So thankful for Nancy Alcorn and Mercy St. Louis. God is good! “

Julia on Saturday, November 5
“Broken by physical and sexual abuse, years of drug addiction, cutting, an eating disorder, and suicide attempts, I found Jesus through Oasis LA and Mercy Ministries!”

As you celebrate Thanksgiving with your friends and family, I hope you will focus on the things you have to be thankful for, as well as the problems you have already faced and overcome. No matter what you may be facing today, just like our Mercy girls, there is nothing that you cannot overcome through the power of Christ who gives you strength. I hope you each have a great Thanksgiving!!!

Blessings,

Nancy

Reunion Weekend – Special Times on the Road!!!

2011-11-18T14:59:00.000-08:00

I always love going to churches that support Mercy Ministries monthly so that I can personally thank them for their support and let them know that they are a part of every life that is transformed through our program. However, this past weekend had extra special significance for me. Pastors Tim and Alicia Gilligan of Meadowbrook Church made the decision over 15 years ago to start giving monthly to Mercy Ministries out of their church missions giving. They have been so faithful in their support, and have remained close friends of this ministry over the years. This past weekend marked the third time that I have spoken at this awesome church, and I was blown away for several different reasons. First of all, the church has exploded and has literally more than doubled in size since my last visit there. That always makes me happy to see my friends doing well in ministry and impacting their community with the message of Christ.

Because of the growth of the church, there are quite a few full time pastors on staff, and two of our Mercy graduates are now married to two of the staff pastors. I cannot even begin to tell you what that means to me, because I saw the shambles that their lives were in when they first walked through the doors of Mercy several years ago. I thought it would really bless you to see pictures of these two Mercy graduates with their families.

Mercy graduate Katie is actually married to Pastor Tim and Alicia’s son, Lee, and they have a beautiful son named Gavin. Lee is the graphic designer for the church and helps lead worship for the college ministry. It was such a joy to get my picture with them and to celebrate with them the happiness they are now experiencing in their lives. Here’s a picture of me with Katie and Lee and the other young woman, Maddy, who graduated from Mercy whose husband, Tim, is the youth pastor.

Hope you all have a great weekend!

22 Young Women Graduate Mercy!!!

2011-11-04T17:50:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for and so proud of the 22 young women who have graduated from Mercy Ministries in the United States in the last three weeks. Wow!!! Not only does that mean 22 young women are out there living for Christ and telling their stories of overcoming huge life-controlling issues, but it also means that 22 more young women who have been waiting their turn will now walk through our doors. Yes, 22 young women desperate for help and hanging on, literally fighting for their lives are now on their way to Mercy!

I ask that you not only join me in rejoicing over these beautiful 22 women, but I also ask that you join me in praying for the 22 young women who are now walking in the doors of Mercy to begin their journey of healing and restoration. Those girls will remain nameless and faceless to you for now, but I look forward to the day when I will be able to post their pictures and smiling faces from their graduation for all of the world to see.

Love you all. Have a great weekend!!!

The Many Faces of Jude...

2011-10-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

It’s been over 12 years since I picked up my eight-week-old puppy named Jude. Little did I know way back then that he would play such a major role in my life as well as the culture and lives of the girls who come through our Nashville Mercy program. We’re coming up on Halloween, and for the very first time, Jude’s face has landed on a carved pumpkin!!! One of our staff members, who is obviously loaded with talent, took it upon herself to have a little fun with the girls and carve Jude’s face on a pumpkin. I thought you guys might want to see it…

Some of the girls wanted to get in on the action so they posed with the “Jude-faced” pumpkin…

To give you an idea of the many faces Jude has, let me just say that he finds a way to get in on everything at Mercy. He’s with us when we’re pulling for the Titans to win on Sundays…

He’s with us when we’re just sitting around reading the Word and drinking coffee…

He even helps out when we’re short staffed on driving girls to the doctor and dropping me off at the airport…

And last but not least, he is now co-hosting my new one hour long radio show…

Hope you have thoroughly enjoyed getting an inside look at the life of Jude, and the many roles that he plays in this ministry!!!

Have a great weekend,

Nancy

5K Double Blessing This Saturday!!!

2011-10-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

For all of our Mercy Supporters in Nashville, TN and Monroe, LA, this Saturday we will have two 5Ks going on simultaneously!!! We are definitely at a time when we are receiving more and more calls for help, and it is important that as these cries for help multiply across the nation, so do our efforts to bring in the needed funds to reach the girls who are reaching out to us in desperation.

So many people call us on a daily basis saying, “What can I do to help Mercy?” This is an opportunity for you to provide help in a very practical way, by participating in one of our two 5Ks going on this weekend in Monroe, LA and Nashville, TN. Online registration has already closed, but it is not too late to show up at the event site and register the day of the actual 5K. The information you need to do so is as follows:

Nashville, TN
Location – Tractor Supply Company, Maryland Farms, Brentwood, TN
Registration – 7:00 AM
Race Start Time – 8:00 AM
Registration Fee – $25 (cash or check only); Kids 12 and under are FREE!

Monroe, LA
Location – Forsythe Park in Monroe, LA
Registration – 8:00 AM
Race Start Time – 9:00 AM
Registration Fee – $25 (cash or check only); Kids 12 and under are FREE!

Please keep in mind that this is our first ever 5K in Monroe! We are very excited because this is where the original Mercy home was founded in 1983. This will be our First Annual Run for Mercy 5K there and we are asking all of our longtime friends to come out and participate. We also have opportunities for families to walk together, so bring your children and baby strollers. :) Dogs are welcome too!!! :) :) This will be a fun family time for all concerned, and we are expecting good weather in both locations. For Nashville, we need a large turn-out the day of registration to beat our numbers from last year. We are asking all of our friends to come out, and we encourage you to invite your friends as well. WE NEED YOU!!! I thought you might enjoy seeing some pictures from last year’s Nashville 5K. It was truly a blast, and this year will be even better with a Kid’s Fun Zone, great door prizes including an iPad 2, live music and so much more!

Blog News – Quick Hitters!

2011-10-14T16:07:00.000-07:00

Baby Boy Brayden

I am very excited to announce the arrival of baby boy Brayden, born to one of our Mercy residents the night before last. I thought you would enjoy seeing how handsome he is!!! Please join me in congratulating Laura on this beautiful addition to her family.

Just a brief update with more to follow… Our weekend in Louisville, KY with Larry and Pam Winters and the LTD Team, along with John Maxwell and Jennifer Beckham, was truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I want to give you a full report and update, and plan to do so, but we are waiting on the official pictures from the event so we can share the whole story. So many lives were transformed and divine connections made that it would be impossible for me to report it to you briefly, so I will share that story with you in a few days. Special thanks to our dear friends Larry and Pam Winters for their great leadership and friendship to Mercy!

It’s been a very busy week of travel for me, but God is doing great things. I am excited for all that he has in store for us. Please be praying for our current residents and staff that we will follow God, know Him, and experience Him in His fullness. HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!!!

Old Friends, New Friends…Celebrating Divine Connections!!

2011-10-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

I’m literally sitting at the gate in Atlanta, GA on my way to Monroe, LA. I can’t help but drift back to January 15, 1983 -- the day I left Nashville to move to Monroe to begin what is now known as Mercy Ministries. Little did I know that what I thought was going to be me leaving to establish one home would end up to be an international organization with multiple locations. I’m so grateful for the thousands of young women who have walked through the doors of Mercy and have been set free over the years. If you want to see an example of what I’m talking about check out this recent testimony from the Designed for Life Conference in Springfield, MO. This is just one example of multitudes of lives that are being transformed.

I give all the honor and glory to God. I want to thank all of our monthly partners as I go to Monroe for the purpose of thanking the people for believing in a vision with no other home to point to. They joined forces with me to establish one. We will celebrate that tonight and share what God is currently doing and where we are headed vision-wise in our ministry.

Me and Pam Winters at the St. Louis home

After my special time tonight I will catch a 6:00 AM flight out of Monroe, LA tomorrow morning to Louisville, KY to be with my very dear and special friends, Larry and Pam Winters, who are the leaders of Leadership Team Development (LTD) and Double Diamond members with Amway. Not only do they give massive amounts of Amway products to us, but they also give massive amounts of financial support. They’ve been a key part of every girl whose life has been transformed. Even in the midst of their busy schedule, Pam still finds time to connect with me in the different homes and on a personal level. Two weeks ago she came in a day early to join me at the St. Louis home before the Joyce Meyer Conference and now I get to go be with her again. I’m so excited!! I’ll speak Friday night to 10,000 of their leadership team and then again on Sunday morning to between 8,000-10,000 people for their Sunday Morning service. I’m excited to be there and excited to see what God’s going to do. I feel so blessed to be able to call them my friends. They’re people of excellence and character, and represent the Lord to others so well. They are such examples to me of what it means to be givers. They care so much for people and they spend their lives not only blessing people, but developing people by pouring into their lives and teaching them how to be blessed.

September In Review… Best Month Ever!!!

2011-09-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

I started the month of September with a blog about how excited I was about September, and isn’t it just like God to do exceedingly, abundantly, above and beyond anything I could ask or think, according to Ephesians 3:20?!?! So pumped about it and am still in awe of all that God did and is still doing as a result of the special times we had this month with so many wonderful people.

It started with a very dear and special friend from Australia visiting our Nashville location on September 8th. This proved to be such a divine appointment for many different reasons which is too close and personal to my heart to share. However, let me just say that is was a special time that was divinely orchestrated by God on so many levels!

After that, I had the awesome privilege of being with Pastors Kirk and Suzette Bowman in Asheville, NC at the Rock of Asheville Church, and what a great time we had! God poured out His spirit on the Women’s Conference and also on the Sunday services. I was also joined by a very close friend of mine who pastors with her husband in Kansas City at the Rock Church there, Susan O’Reilly. Both of these women are so very special, and it was so awesome to have quality time with them and see how God is moving in their lives.

After that, it was on to St. Louis for the Joyce Meyer Love Life Women’s Conference, and it was awesome! I was so moved by all God did for so many people at that conference and all the lives that were impacted as a result. It was such a joy to be able to share Mercy at Joyce’s Conference and to have quality time with so many dear friends and supporters of Mercy that are close to my heart. The highlight for me was when graduate, Kim Brownie, spoke in such a powerful way with the fire of God on her life. How does someone go from being sold for sex when they are 12 years old to being such a powerful woman of God? Only through the transforming power of Christ can someone be changed into another person! If you happened to miss Kim’s time on stage with me at Joyce’s conference, please take the time to watch the clip below.

After Joyce’s Conference, we had the privilege of returning to Nashville to be with Natalie Grant and Abolition International to host leaders from around the country for a special seminar about helping victims of human trafficking. We were overjoyed at the turn out, and especially excited about the powerful moments we shared when the group came out to Mercy for the afternoon.

Me with Charlotte Scanlon-Gambill and
Host Debbie Lindell

Immediately after that day it was on to Springfield, MO to be a part of the Designed for Life Women’s Conference with host Debbie Lindell. WHAT A GREAT TIME WE HAD TOGETHER!!! Honestly, this was the absolute best conference I have ever been a part of. God moved so powerfully through all the speakers, which included host Debbie Lindell, Charlotte Gambill, John and Helen Burns, and myself. If you missed this conference, I strongly urge you to order the DVDs and watch them as soon as possible. They are life-changing!!! You can get them by contacting James River Assembly at (417) 581-5433. It was such a special time for me personally because our St. Louis residents and staff were in attendance, as well as approximately 40 Mercy graduates and several key staff from Nashville. The women at the conference were so encouraged and in awe as they heard such awesome testimonies of God’s amazing transforming power. It was three amazing days, followed by me having the privilege of speaking at three Sunday morning services. I want to say a special thank you to Pastors John and Debbie Lindell for their amazing hospitality and their very generous offerings given to Mercy as a result of this conference.

Mercy Graduate, Rachael, praying for current
Mercy residents and other graduates

Mercy graduates share their stories of transformation!

Crystal, Jane, Me, and Nicola

I flew out of Springfield around 6:00 PM on Sunday evening, September 25th to head to Vancouver, Canada to spend a few days with our girls and staff there before heading on to the Sacramento, CA home. I have to tell you that in all my 28+ years of ministry, this time in Vancouver and Sacramento was the most awesome, fun, and rewarding time I have ever experienced inside the walls of Mercy! We were joined by Jane Hamon and her daughter, Crystal, as they so powerfully taught and ministered prophetically to every staff and every girl. I do not even have enough space on this blog to recount all the amazing things that God did during this special week. I want to give a special shout out to John and Helen Burns and Nicola Bartel in Canada and the entire team there – what a great group and team of people that God has given to our first Canadian home! Amazing leadership, amazing hearts, and amazing lives being transformed. The same is true of our Sacramento home. I am in awe of our Program Director, Cheryl Bangs, and her wonderful team in that particular home. So many great things happening there – it was just so very special I can’t even begin to tell you!

Crystal encouraging the residents

Jane ministering to one of the residents

Crystal, Cheryl, Nancy, Mercy Supporter, Dru, and Jane

So, I made my way home to Nashville last night. I got delayed in Dallas until after midnight, but finally made it home and got in bed a little after 3:00 AM. I’m tired today, but very fulfilled and very excited for all God has in store for the month of October. If it is anything like September, I better get a special seat belt. Things are moving at a pace that has accelerated in a supernatural way, and I could not be more excited! So thankful for our wonderful supporters who make all of this possible!

Love to all,

Nancy

Power Packed Weekend Starts Tonight!!!

2011-09-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

I don’t think I could be any more excited than I am about this particular conference… As I am talking to you on this blog, I am actually in the airport waiting on my flight that will get me to Springfield, MO for the Designed For Life Women’s Conference with host Debbie Lindell with James River. This is honestly one of the best women’s conferences I have ever been a part of, and I am excited about this weekend’s speakers because they are all very near and dear to my heart – Charlotte Scanlon-Gambill from the United Kingdom, John and Helen Burns from Vancouver, BC Canada, and James River’s very own pastors, John and Debbie Lindell. If that’s not enough, awesome music artist, Group 1 Crew, is also joining us! It doesn’t get any better than this!!! We are expecting God to do awesome things, and for many lives to be impacted for all eternity.

I am especially excited about the fact that our St. Louis staff and current residents will join us, thanks to the generosity of Debbie Lindell, who is sponsoring the registrations for all of our Mercy girls. In addition, approximately 50 former Mercy residents will join us. I think I kind of feel like a mom must feel at Christmas when her babies come home. :) If you want to get a glimpse of what this weekend is going to be like, check out the website at www.designedforlifeconference.org. If you live in the area, it is not too late to join me and over 3,000 others who have already made plans to be there. Trust me, this is one conference you do not want to miss!!!

In closing, in case you missed out on last weekend’s Joyce Meyer Women’s Conference, I had the privilege of speaking alongside one of our Mercy graduates, Kim. I wanted to give you an opportunity to check out these videos from our time there. It was very special. Thanks to everyone who prayed for us!

Freedom Through Mercy from Joyce Meyer Ministries on Vimeo.

Rock Church Rocks!!!

2011-09-15T08:39:00.000-07:00


Me with Pastors Kirk and Suzette Bowman

Me with Alison (left) and Julia (right)

As I told you a couple of weeks ago, I spent my birthday weekend doing what I love best – seeing God meet the needs of people and transform lives. This past weekend, I spoke at the Becoming Women’s Conference hosted by my new friend, Suzette Bowman, of The Rock Church in Asheville, NC. We had such an awesome time!!

I was also joined by two Mercy graduates, Alison and Julia (pictured right), who shared their testimonies of healing and freedom with the women there. Both Friday and Saturday were full on amazing, and I believe the lives of each and every person in attendance was impacted through the messages shared. I know my life was impacted when I heard great messages from both Pastors Suzette and Kirk. It was such a privilege sharing this conference with them!

If having a blast at the conference wasn’t enough, I then had the privilege of speaking in the three Sunday morning services. Special thanks to Pastors Kirk and Suzette Bowman for an incredible weekend of ministry.

I’m now in St. Louis getting ready for the Joyce Meyer Love Life Women’s Conference that starts tonight! They are expecting between 15,000 – 20,000 women to be in attendance. I am so honored to be speaking this year with Joyce and John and Stasi Eldredge. I am also looking forward to seeing my dear friends CeCe Winans and Israel Houghton who are doing the music. Not only that, but our residents from the St. Louis and Louisiana homes will be attending as well, along with many of our staff and former residents. For more information, go to www.joycemeyer.org. It is sure to be a powerful conference!

Then next weekend, Thursday, September 22nd through Sunday, September 25th, I will be with my very dear friend, Debbie Lindell, as one of her guest speakers for the Designed for Life Women’s Conference at James River Assembly in Ozark, MO. I am so excited to see Pastors John and Debbie and be at one of my favorite churches in America. Not only that, but I’m also looking forward to sharing the speaking duties with my dear friend Charlotte Gambill from the UK, and John and Helen Burns from Vancouver, Canada. Also, Pastors John and Debbie have opened their hearts to our St. Louis residents and staff by providing their registrations to attend the conference. This conference has been life-changing for our St. Louis residents each year they have attended. This year, I have invited as many former residents from Mercy to come join me at this conference that we can possibly gather, and it should prove to be quite the Mercy reunion on top of being such an amazing conference. If you can possibly get to this conference, you do not want to miss it – it is going to be so amazing! It is not too late to register at www.designedforlifeconference.org. To top it all off, once the Designed for Life Conference wraps up on Saturday afternoon, I will have the privilege of staying over and speaking at the three Sunday morning services at the Wilson Creek campus. I AM SO EXCITED!!!

Would love to see you at either Joyce Meyer’s conference this weekend or Debbie Lindell’s conference next weekend…or maybe if you have a lot of time on your hands, I will see you at both!!!

From Resident To Graduate To Mercy Intern…

2011-09-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

2005 Graduate now intern, Giovy

Today we had the awesome privilege of hearing from Giovy, Mercy graduate from 2005, as she shared her story of healing and transformation with the Nashville residents and staff. Giovy grew up in Peru and suffered sexual abuse as a child. This led Giovy to have an eating disorder as she felt food was the only thing she could control. To further escape the pain, Giovy began to self-harm and even attempted suicide on several occasions. I first met Giovy when I was speaking at a crusade in Peru. She had been hospitalized from a recent suicide attempt and severe self-harm when she was checked out of the hospital to come and meet me. Her suicide attempts were very serious and when she couldn’t even succeed at taking her own life, Giovy said, “God, if you’re not going to let me die, then You’re going to have to teach me how to live.” At that time, Giovy decided to apply to Mercy. It was so cool to hear Giovy talk about her time at Mercy and the transformation that took place while she was here. After sharing her testimony, Giovy opened it up for questions from our residents. It was awesome to hear the residents ask Giovy about how she has walked out her freedom since being at Mercy. Giovy explained to the residents that her freedom was valuable and that she was going to walk closely with God, stay in the Word, and keep her mind renewed so that she could hang on to the freedom that she fought so hard to receive.

Here’s what a few of the girls had to say about Giovy’s teaching…

“I liked Giovy’s testimony and how encouraging she was since she has been through the program. Giovy shared with us how she was really determined while at Mercy. Giovy talked about living in the season that you’re in now and to really focus on our time here and get the most we can out of it. God has your future planned out and He will take care of what you need to do and where you need to go. I liked that because I’m always really worried about what I’m going to do in the future, so that was really great for me!” - Blaise

“Giovy’s testimony encouraged me and made me realize if she can do it then we can all get through this program. She also encouraged me that if she can finish strong, so can I.” - Ayona

“All of Giovy’s testimony was really inspiring, but the part that I enjoyed the most was hearing the practical steps of how to live out the tools that we are learning at Mercy, after Mercy. She really explained how to use the things we’re learning here and apply them practically in our lives afterwards.” - Jessica

Now, six years later, Giovy just started a year-long internship at the very home that she graduated from. We are so proud of her because she just finished the ministry leadership training at Hillsong International Leadership College in Sydney, Australia. She is on fire for God and ready to give and serve! We are so proud to have her back and look forward to all the lives that she will impact in the next year and beyond.

Giovy before she came to Mercy

Giovy with me today

Not only that, but Giovy recently joined our team that went to Uganda to serve Watoto…in case you missed it, check out what Giovy had to say about her time there - http://mercygoestouganda.blogspot.com/2011/07/day-7-classroom-dedication.html.

I Am So Pumped About September!!!

2011-09-01T15:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, as you know, today is September 1st and this has got to be the best month EVER! There are so many things happening in September that I am excited about, and I just thought I would tell you all about what’s on my mind! First of all, I get to spend Labor Day weekend at the beach, which is my favorite place in the whole wide world. I am definitely a beach girl! I understand it may rain, but I do not even care. I just love being there. Not only do I get to spend the weekend at the beach, but COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON STARTS, and right on the heels of college football starting is the NFL kicking in right after that! Life just gets better and better all the time…

NOW FOR THE REALLY GOOD STUFF…

Tomorrow, Friday, September 2nd, I will join Joyce Meyer on her show to feature the work of Mercy Ministries. Hope you get a chance to check it out. Be sure and check your local listings to see what time Joyce’s show airs in your area.

On September 8th, a dear friend from Australia is flying in to spend the day with me. She was very involved with Mercy there and I’m very excited and looking forward to seeing her!

Friday, September 9 – Sunday, September 11: I will be celebrating my birthday weekend doing what I love doing best – seeing God meet the needs of people and bring transformation in their lives. I get to spend the weekend in Asheville, NC with my new friend, Suzette Bowman, speaking at her conference and then I will be with her and her husband, Pastor Kirk Bowman, for their Sunday services that weekend (www.rockofasheville.com).

After that, I will be in Nashville for a couple of days doing Mercy business, and also spending time with my dear friend Jordan Rubin who will be in town sharing about his new company, Beyond Organic.

Wednesday, September 14 – Saturday, September 17: I am excited to spend the day on Wednesday at the Mercy home in St. Louis with the girls and staff there followed by three days at the Joyce Meyer Love Life Women’s Conference! I am so honored to be speaking this year with Joyce and John and Stasi Eldredge. I will also get to be with my dear friends CeCe Winans and Israel Houghton who are doing the music. Not only that, but our residents from the St. Louis and Louisiana home will be attending as well, along with many of our staff and former residents.

As soon as that conference is over, I am back to Nashville and will be partnering with my dear friend Natalie Grant to host a special one day conference on sex trafficking and how we can both rescue and bring transformation to the lives of these young women. There will be church leaders in attendance from across the nation and we will be educating them about how they can get involved to make a difference. I am really looking forward to seeing old friends of mine at this event, as well as meeting new friends. It will undoubtedly be a very special day! If you are interested in knowing more about this or perhaps coming, please contact Eve Annunziato at eannunziato@mercyministries.com.

Thursday, September 22 – Sunday, September 25: Just when I think September can’t get any better, I find myself leaving to be with my very dear friend, Debbie Lindell, as one of her guest speakers for the Designed for Life Women’s Conference. Not only do I get to be with my very special friend and at one of my favorite churches in America, but I also get to share the speaking duties with my dear friend Charlotte Gambill from the UK, and John and Helen Burns from Vancouver, Canada. I had the privilege of speaking at this conference two years ago, and I honestly think it is one of the best conferences I have ever been a part of. No doubt this year’s conference will be even better because with God things always get better and better. Pastors John and Debbie are opening their hearts to our St. Louis residents and staff by providing their registrations to attend the conference, and I want to personally thank them for that. This conference has been life-changing for our St. Louis residents the past two years since they have attended. This year, I have invited as many former residents from Mercy to come join me at this conference that we can possibly gather, and we have already received over 100 inquires. It should prove to be quite the Mercy reunion on top of being such an amazing conference. If you can possibly get to this conference, you do not want to miss it – it is going to be so amazing! It is not too late to register at www.designedforlifeconference.org. Once the DFL conference wraps up on Saturday afternoon, I will have the privilege of staying over and speaking at the two Sunday morning services at the Wilson Creek campus. I will then fly out later that day to meet my dear friends Jane and Crystal Hamon and spend the week pouring into the lives of the staff and residents in our Vancouver and Sacramento Mercy homes.

That actually takes me into the month of October. To me, even though it is a lot of travel, it actually sounds like the month straight from heaven! Hope yours will prove to be that as well. Check out these events and say a prayer for God to pour out His spirit in unprecedented ways and bring huge transformation to the lives of those in attendance.

In closing, please pray for our current Mercy residents to get the breakthroughs that they so desperately need, and please pray for God to touch people’s hearts to help with our current financial needs. I see new monthly partners and new churches coming on board with us in a big way! Thank you Jesus for what you are going to do ahead of time!

Mike Barber - NFL Great To Prison Ministry

2011-08-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

After 10 years in the NFL, Mike Barber left football behind to focus all of his attention on bringing Christ to those in prison. Mike started Pro-Claim Ministries 25 years ago and has such a passion to share Christ and “proclaim liberty to the captives” (Isaiah 61). I cannot even begin to describe how powerful Mike’s teaching was to our Nashville staff and residents on Tuesday. It was an amazing time of ministry about attitude and how we either compliment or contaminate the atmosphere around us! I would challenge you to listen to Mike’s message (click here). I believe every single person should hear this message by Mike as I know it will definitely impact your life as it did each and every one of our staff and residents!!!

If you want to read more about our time together, check out the web story that was done about Mike’s visit to Mercy, along with several comments from our current residents.

I consider it a privilege to know and be connected to Mike Barber and his wife, DeAnne. I had the great honor to speak in the prisons in Texas with the Barbers in June, and I was blown away by the excellence in how they are reaching those behind bars. For more information about Mike Barber and Pro-Claim Ministries, check out their website at www.pro-claim.tv. You definitely do not want to miss out on what God is doing through Mike Barber and this amazing ministry!!

Martha Munizzi Rocks The House At Mercy!!!

2011-08-18T15:16:00.000-07:00

It’s not every day that God sends someone who’s been nominated for tons of Grammy’s and Dove Awards, but such was the case yesterday when God brought Martha Munizzi our way. However, that is really not what stood out at all. The thing that stood out the most was how she poured out her personal, heart-wrenching story of what happened to her in her childhood, which strongly resonated with so many of our girls who have been through something similar. I honestly believe it is one of the most powerful times we have ever had at Mercy. Martha has a very strong anointing on her life to bring truth in a very appropriate way, yet so practical and real. Martha has written some really powerful songs in her career such as “Glorious,” “Because Of Who You Are,” “Say The Name,” and “Jesus Is The Best Thing (That’s Ever Happened To Me)” to name a few. Yesterday we had the privilege of hearing heaven’s download through her in her latest CD that was just released in April called “Make It Loud.” I cannot recommend it enough!! If I were you, I would run out and get it immediately or download it from her website at www.marthamunizzi.com.

Not only did we get this up close and personal time with Martha Munizzi, but she also left a piece of herself with us as she gifted each staff and resident with her latest CD (you should have been there and you would have gotten one too). No way can I fully explain what happened in the spirit realm as so many breakthroughs occurred during our special time together. Perhaps you will get some insight as I share with you what a few of our residents had to say…

“There are so many things that blessed me today during Martha’s time here! I came into worship heavy hearted with a lot on my mind and felt so much better afterwards! I had a joy in me that I haven’t felt before. God really spoke to me about being able to trust Him. I also realized how much I need to worship God and get into His presence when I’m not in a good mood or having a bad day.” --Alyona

“Today during worship, I totally once and for all let go and said ‘yes’ to Jesus’ promises for me, because God made it clear that He is a God that stays true to His Word. If He told me I would be free, I am free! My plan of action is to worship God even when it gets hard, and remember that God loves me and promises to love me no matter what and rest in that truth.” -- Julie

“Today I received a revelation and made the choice to believe that God loves me as He says He does and to believe the promises He declares to keep. I am squashing doubt and disbelief in Jesus’ name, and thanking God even when I feel uncomfortable. I choose an attitude of gratitude. I am being strengthened in character by hoping in the Lord. I can hope because I know who holds my future. My plan of action is to speak God’s truth into all the “human impossibilities” and let go of what hinders me. Today was awesome!” -- Crystal

Trusting that no matter what you may be facing in your life, you will receive the breakthroughs that you need. Martha challenged us to praise God in the midst of our pain and circumstances, and to see how praise literally steals the avenger (Psalm 8:2) and paves the way for us to rise above and experience peace that passes all understanding as we are overcoming. I can honestly say that I believe the special time we had together was ordained and brought to us straight from heaven, a God ordained and God appointed time.

I hope these pictures will show you the joy of all that we shared…

Talking with some of the girls!

Me with Martha and our Transitional Care Director, Sophie

Have a great week!

Life On The Road…What A Weekend!!!

2011-08-11T16:06:00.000-07:00

I thought you might enjoy a quick glimpse of our Mercy journey this past weekend. It all started on Friday when we left Nashville and flew into Philadelphia. After an awesome dinner Friday night with special friends, we made our way across the border to Wilmington, Delaware and checked in to our hotel. It was there that Katelyn (my Executive Assistant) and I met up with Mercy graduate, Kim Brownie, one of our guest speakers for our Saturday morning “Mercy In The Community” breakfast. It was the first time we had seen Kim since her recent graduation from college, so were able to give her a big hug and congratulate her in person! After a time of visiting, we called it a night to prepare for the busy weekend ahead.

Amazing pastors, Jerome and
Lisa Lewis, with Kim and I


My greatest joy – connecting with graduates on the road!!

Saturday morning was basically the beginning of a Mercy track meet, as we went from one event to the next. It started with our brunch on Saturday morning hosted by special Mercy friends, Pastors Jerome and Lisa Lewis, from Seeds of Greatness Church. It was my joy to be joined by five special Mercy grads who were there to share the joy at our community event (pictured right).

Kim, me, and Mikayla speaking at the Mercy In The Community Breakfast

I then spoke during the two Sunday morning services at Seeds of Greatness Church. The services, the hospitality, the way they blessed us -- everything was first class and topnotch. Pastors Jerome and Lisa Lewis are definitely very special friends. We are so grateful for their close friendship and generous support. I want to thank them for all they do, have done, and continue to do for Mercy to help us reach hurting young women.

It was a packed house!

Speaking of track meets, the moment I finished the second service on Sunday, I literally walked from behind the pulpit and into an automobile that transported me directly to the airport so that I could catch a flight to Minneapolis to speak at River Valley Church’s “Chick Night” at 6:30 PM. Thankfully, our prayers were answered and all our flights were on time. Upon our arrival, we had a quick change of clothes, and went straight to the church to a packed house of women of all ages. The atmosphere was electric – it was such a special night! What a great job Pastor Becca Ketterling did preparing for this evening and getting the women excited about their upcoming conference in September (www.sparkleconference.org). Special thanks to Pastor Rob and Becca for the amazing people they are and for their awesome support! Another special thing that happened that night was that Mercy graduates showed up once again to support me and to be at the event in the Minneapolis area. (See two of our graduates pictured with me below).

Catching up with recent Mercy grads, Stacy and Terrie after the service!

Becca and I having fun with the girls!!!

Me with Pastors Rob and Becca Ketterling – THEY ARE SO AWESOME!!!
Thank you for helping us reach young girls who are desperate for help!

By the time I finished up late Sunday night I had been up almost 24 hours -- my adrenaline was still flowing from the awesome services over the weekend. I’m so thankful that God allows me to do what I do, meet special people and see their lives impacted by all that Christ has done for all of us. I’m so grateful that I get to share the Good News with people who need to hear it. It was an awesome time of ministry, and I thank God for a fulfilling weekend!

Come To One Of The Best Women’s Conference On The Planet!!!

2011-08-04T16:05:00.000-07:00

Debbie Lindell

I’m preparing to leave town for a few days, but I just wanted to take this time to share with you about a very special conference coming up September 22nd to 24th. This conference is hosted by Pastor Debbie Lindell at James River Assembly in Springfield, MO (Ozark). I had the privilege of speaking at this conference two years ago, and I was completely blown away by not only how much fun we had, but also how much God impacted the lives of everyone in attendance. I am sure this year will be no exception! It is my joy to be speaking at this conference along with Pastors John and Debbie Lindell, Charlotte Gambill from the UK, and Helen Burns from Vancouver, Canada. The music will be Group 1 Crew. You have plenty of time to block these dates off your calendar and make your plans to attend. Our Mercy girls and staff from St. Louis will be in attendance, as well as a huge big group of our former graduates and residents from Mercy. We are very, very excited about this special time which begins on Thursday, September 22nd with the kick off service and ends on Saturday afternoon, September 24th. Here’s a link to their website www.designedforlifeconference.org so you can check it out how cool this is going to be – trust me on this, you do not want to miss it!!!

Love you all and hope to see you there!

Update On Mercy Graduates Trip To Uganda/Watoto!!

2011-07-28T16:20:00.000-07:00

I cannot think of a time that I have ever been more proud to write a report to those of you who follow our @mercyministries news. Even as I write to you today, our team of 18 are in Uganda and have just finished building four classrooms for the Watoto children. Not only did our graduates build these classrooms, but they also raised the money to be able to pay for them. I thought it would bless you for me to highlight a small portion of the pictures and reports they have placed on their daily blog. I pulled out just a few, but at the end of this report I will provide a link for you to be able to go on and see all the pictures and read all the reports posted daily. There will also be an opportunity for you to comment with an encouraging word. I’m sure that our Mercy graduate team in Uganda would love to hear from you and know that you’re cheering them on from a distance.

First of all, I wanted to show you a picture of the entire group of 18. This team is being led by staff leaders, Katelyn Rollins and Nandi Pryce. Not only have these beautiful young women built classrooms, but they have also spent time with the babies and the children in the various Watoto homes during their stay this week.

Our wonderful team:

Our girls loving on the babies:

Our girls pouring out love on the children:

Check out our team hard at work:

One of the host families they had lunch with:

In closing my part of the story, I wanted to share with you in its entirety the graduate blog that was posted today, which is day seven of the trip. The reason I want to call attention to Natalie’s blog today is because of the significance of her writing today’s blog. Natalie is actually celebrating her five year anniversary date of having graduated from Mercy (see Natalie – pictured right)

Day 7 – The Bulrushes and the Craft Market…

Today has been hard to describe. It was wonderful to have a little extra sleep this morning before heading out to The Bulrushes, Baby Watoto, where we were able to stay for several hours. It’s so easy to love those precious babies, to give them my heart, but my heart also aches for them. They are all so tiny and fragile, unaware of their stories, unconcerned with their situations. They lay in groups of 15 or more on the hard concrete floor, but yet they are still just babies, God’s children—born with a purpose and a promise. They are cared for very well by the nannies and the volunteers, and we were blessed to share in that as we fed, changed, and rocked many of the babies. I felt at peace loving on those babies. My mind was still, not racing with what was next or where I needed to be, just calm. I looked around and saw the beauty of creation and the simplicity of the Gospel, and I felt at rest.

After we left the babies home, we went to the Garden City Mall for lunch, which proved yet again to be an adventure. Our host, Melvin, took us into a grocery type store to get some snacks and led us straight to the candy isle…we all went crazy!! Once we left the mall, it was time to go souvenir shopping at the craft market. This is always a fun experience because you have to barter! We all shopped like true women and bought many gifts for our family, friends, and supporters. We ended this evening with an appreciation dinner from Watoto at Mambo Place.

It has been a wonderful day, topped off with the fact that today is a personal victory for me. Today is my five year anniversary of graduation from Mercy Ministries. I feel overwhelmingly blessed to be a part of this ministry and to be on this trip on this day in my life! As I reflected throughout the day, God really placed Isaiah 61 on my heart. Thank you so much for you continued prayers and support. Our team is doing very well and has become very close!

- By Natalie

I can’t even begin to tell you how moved I am seeing the pictures of these young women who once walked through the doors of Mercy Ministries broken, not even knowing if they wanted to live, and now they are so full of joy and giving out to others. When you give to Mercy, it has a ripple effect, and you are causing Mercy to be multiplied throughout the nations of the earth. These girls represent thousands of graduates over the years who are making a difference in the lives of others and helping build the kingdom of God, one life at a time. Hope this touches your heart as much as it has touched mine. If you want to see all the pictures and read each day, here is the link where you can do so (www.mercygoestouganda.blogspot.com) and hopefully post a comment.

Cornerstone Toledo Youth Visit Mercy Ministries Today!!!

2011-07-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time today hosting a group of 25 girls and guys from the youth group at Cornerstone in Toledo, OH pastored by Bishop Michael Pitts and his beautiful wife, Kathi. It was extra special today to host this very special group of youth leaders because of the relationship we have with this church. Not only have they provided financial support for Mercy Ministries, but I have also had the privilege of speaking at their women’s conference and visiting the church over the years. Bishop and Kathi have become very dear friends. We have many mutual relationships, including Wayne Hilliard and his gospel music group “Higher Ground.”

The 25 Toledo visitors were hosted today by Merri Duff, one of our Mercy youth volunteers who is a local college student at Trevecca University here in Nashville. Merri was actually born to a Mercy birthmother in 1991 and placed for adoption through our adoption agency. That is why it was so special to have her host this awesome group of youth leaders from Cornerstone.

All of these lives intersect for the next three days, as they are in town to participate in CeCe Winans “Always Sisters, Forever Brothers” conference beginning tonight and continuing through Saturday night. This conference features nationally known music artists, along with internationally known speakers. The kick-off for the conference begins at 9:00 PM tonight at the Curb Center on Belmont University’s campus. If you are reading this and want to be a part of it, you can show up and register at the door.

Not only are the youth from Toledo a part of this conference, but the girls and staff from Mercy Ministries will be attending as well. It is my joy that CeCe has asked me once again to participate in her conference, not only as a speaker, but also as one of the sponsors for the event. I so believe in CeCe and her heart for the youth of our nation, both young men and young women. It has been our great joy to be a part of this conference every year, and it is always so amazing to see the way God moves in power to bring impact to the lives of those in attendance. Please say a prayer for this very special conference that it will be life altering, and that the ripple effect will be felt throughout the entire nation and beyond.

Team Of Mercy Graduates Travel To Uganda To Serve Watoto!!!

2011-07-14T15:10:00.000-07:00

Our focus at Mercy Ministries for the past 28+ years has been to bring transformation to hurting young women one life at a time. When we first began in 1983, what we were doing seemed small, but the ripple effect that is still going on and on and on to this day has had global impact. I have watched over the years as thousands of young women have graduated the program and have gone on to make a huge difference in the lives of others, not just in this country, but also in other nations around the world.

Speaking of the ripple effect, a team of Mercy graduates will be leaving on Wednesday, July 20th for a two week mission trip to Uganda to serve Watoto Ministries (www.watoto.com). This ministry is impacting the lives of thousands of orphans in Uganda, and now our Mercy graduates will get to go and give of their love and time during this two week period. As a part of our missions giving, we have had the privilege of building two homes for orphans in conjunction with Watoto. Now our graduates, led by two of our staff, will be traveling to Uganda for the purpose of building a set of four classrooms. Not only will our graduates be building those classrooms, but they have actually raised their own support for this trip as well as the funds to build the classrooms while there. This team will be led by Mercy staff members, Katelyn Rollins and Nandi Pryce (pictured right). There will be a total of 18 people going on this trip. I ask that you keep them in your prayers as they go. Pray for safe travels, for flights to be on time, no lost luggage, and for God’s protection and favor. Last but not least, pray for the anointing of God that destroys every yoke of bondage to totally impact the lives of the orphans as our Mercy graduates go and serve. If you want to keep up with our Mercy graduates and staff while they are in Uganda, you can visit their blog at www.mercygoestouganda.blogspot.com.

So excited to share with you how this ripple effect is never ending! Thanks for all you do to bring transformation to the lives of young women who the world has given up on. Your support literally makes a difference between life and death…one life at a time!!!

God Is More Than Enough!!!

2011-07-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

In all of our Mercy homes, we have girls walk through the doors who are seeking freedom such as self-harm, eating disorders, sexual abuse, chemical dependency, and even severe depression. You might be surprised to find out that many of the young women who walk through our doors have all of the above mentioned issues – that’s right, all of these issues in one person.

Such was the case with Michaela when she walked through the doors of Mercy, and yet even with multiple issues, we saw the same amazing God that we call “MORE THAN ENOUGH” transform her and bring her into a place of complete freedom from all of these life-controlling issues. It has been a bit over two years since Michaela graduated from the Mercy program in Nashville (June 2009), and we just got this awesome thank you and update from Michaela’s mother that I want to share with you. Michaela was once struggling with all of these issues and did not think she could make it through, but here she is today a blessed and happy young woman who is enjoying her life and celebrating her recent high school graduation! Not only was she able to graduate from high school, but she was also on the cheerleading squad and enjoy special times with special friends. Now Michaela is preparing for the next chapter in her life and all that may hold. I think it would mean so much more to hear her mother’s words rather than mine, so let me share a portion of what she sent to us…

This is Lori, Michaela's mom, just wanted to send you some recent pictures of Michaela's prom, graduation, and her trophies her team won for cheerleading this year. She has been awesome! We are so thankful as we are coming up on two years of freedom! Our family cannot thank you enough for your dedication to the girls at Mercy. I pray for the girls and staff every day that God will continue to do His good works at Mercy. I pray that the blessings we received will be given to so many girls that are hurting, and that they remember how much God loves them and will restore them, such as we have seen in our daughter! :) I love seeing her laugh again, as well as enjoy cheerleading and school again. I cannot wait to see how God is going to use her compassion and commitment to help others just as she has been helped by Mercy. Thanks again for all your work and kindness.
God Bless You!
Lori

I say this so often, and I will say it again…NO MATTER WHAT THE PROBLEM IS, JESUS IS THE ANSWER!!!

As we celebrate this praise report, please remember that we currently have 130 beds in our US facilities alone that are filled with young ladies who need your prayers to get the breakthroughs they need to experience this same freedom. Our God is more than enough!!!

Freedom Is Not Free... But It Is Priceless

2011-06-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

Hi to all my Blogger Friends!

I just want to thank each and every one of you that follow me on my blog. When you run a ministry like this, the testimonies come in so fast, but so do the requests for help. Because of the time constraints on my schedule continue to increase, and because we are helping more and more people, I have made the decision to blog just once a week from this point on. My intention from this time forward will be to post the weekly blog on Thursday. Just wanted to give all of you a head’s up so you would understand why the sudden change from three times a week. However, I do encourage you to follow me on Twitter @nancyalcorn as well as @mercyministries. You can also keep up with me on Facebook here. We will also continue to update the Mercy Ministries web site regularly with more information – www.mercyministries.com.

I realize that we are preparing to celebrate our freedom as a citizen in the United States of America. I want to take this opportunity to thank all of those in our military who have served in the past or are currently serving. My dad has been in Heaven for over ten years now, but he is one of those people who helped protect our country and our freedom. We need to pray for those that are in harm’s way and to express gratitude for the privilege of living in such a wonderful nation.

There is no way that I can ever think about freedom without also talking about the freedom that is available to all of us through Jesus Christ. Even recently when I went to preach in the prisons in Texas, the theme of the whole weekend was that you can be in prison, but prison does not have to be in you. The inmates were so receptive to that message because they want to live with peace that passes all understanding and enjoy all that Christ died to give them, even inside the prison walls. I was so amazed by the abundance of gratitude they showed by the simple gesture of us giving them one of our books filled with Mercy testimonies. I could not help but be convicted and think about how those of us who live in the “free world” take so much for granted and fail to be grateful for even the smallest things. I hope that you will join me in taking time to thank God for the freedom that we share because of what Christ has done for us.

In closing, thank you for your support because we are all about bringing freedom to people who have been held captive. Your support makes the way for freedom to be experienced – drug addicts, prostitutes, cutters, girls with eating disorders, victims of sex trafficking, the list goes on and on. Jesus Christ came to set the captives free, and your support makes a way for us to do just that. Thanks for all the thousands of lives that you have enabled us to bring this freedom to over the years, and thank you for all that you continue to do for us as we move ahead to continue with those who are still desperate for that freedom.

Praying for God’s protection over you this weekend and that you have a wonderful holiday!

Check Out Mercy’s New Leather Wristbands To Help End Sex Trafficking!

2011-06-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

You can help us end sex trafficking one victim at a time by purchasing this wristband and also sharing it with others. I really love this wristband because it’s leather and has two silver snaps that make it adjustable and unique! We just got these in, and I have been wearing mine every single day. We are very excited about our End Sex Trafficking Initiative, and you can help get the word out by spreading the news -- retweet, TwitPic, share on your Facebook wall, forward to your friends, or even purchase several wristbands as a gift that you can give away.

We decided to initially offer this wristband at a very special price of $8 – one, because we want to make it affordable for everyone to buy for themselves and their friends. Also, the number eight signifies new beginnings, and you can be a part of that new beginning because 100% of the proceeds for this wristband will go to bring transformation to the lives of these young women who have been so traumatized by this injustice.

Just think about it, you can actually help us bring restoration to the lives of these young women. No doubt that people will ask you about these wristbands, and that will make a way for you to be an official advocate for this effort! Just think about it! We can use this as a tool to share with others how even trafficking victims can receive a new beginning and be healed and restored. However, this can only happen through the freedom to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with each girl, one victim at a time. Will you join us and make this possible? Click here to purchase your very own End Sex Trafficking wristband!

Check Out Jeff Fisher’s Fundraiser For Mercy…

2011-06-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

It was great fun Saturday night as both staff and girls attended Jeff Fisher’s Celebrity Softball Game, along with 5,000 other spectators. Such a treat to watch Jeff go above and beyond for our community to raise funds for Mercy Ministries and other worthy organizations. It was so cool to see players from the past, as well as those who are currently on the Titans roster. Eddie George, Kevin Dyson, Chris Sanders, Derrick Mason – these were a few of the fans' favorites from the past. In addition, we had current stars Marc Mariani, Kerry Collins, and Cortland Finnegan, to name a few. Special thanks to Jeff for all the memories over the years, and for his awesome heart to help Mercy both now and in the future.

We love you, Jeff!!! Check out the pictures from this special night…


Nancy in the middle of the girls

Starting lineup is introduced


Jeff with two of our volunteers

A Surprise Visit From Three Of My Very Favorites!

2011-06-17T15:50:00.000-07:00

I was sitting in my office yesterday getting some work done when three of my favorite people in the whole wide world came to visit me. I guess you could say they are my adopted grandchildren…let me explain.

It was my privilege to meet these three very special people when they first came into the world in 1991. The reason I say that is because Mercy Ministries had the blessing of working with all three of their birthmothers – two of which chose adoption and one who chose to parent. In 1992, these three, along with another one of our Mercy adopted babies, joined me for a very special photo shoot. We had just bought the property in Nashville and we didn’t have any buildings on it, but we were believing God for that to happen. They sat on the ground with me on a blanket and took what we referred to often as our “faith picture,” because their lives served as a symbol of the many lives that would be saved in the years to come as Mercy Ministries would build a home and international office building on this very property.

From left to right, Merri, Me, Rachel, and Parker

Yesterday, three of the four came to see me and we actually did a reenactment of the picture that we took years ago. IT WAS SO FUN!!! We laughed together and had so much joy reminiscing about what God has done and continues to do in all of their lives. I have to admit this much – I love it that they love me and choose to stay connected and in touch!!! Thought you would enjoy the original photo made in 1992 and the one we made yesterday. I love these three – check out these pictures! SO PROUD OF MY GRANDBABIES!

100 Holes Of Golf, 27 Miles Up And Down Hills…Compassion In Action!!!

2011-06-15T15:40:00.000-07:00

The Bible clearly tells us to provoke one another to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24). I can’t help but think that is exactly what John Burns did Monday as he completed what even professional golfers say is virtually impossible. By the time the sun came up Monday morning, John Burns was on the golf course beginning the first of what was to be 100 total holes of golf, completing hole number 100 approximately 11 hours later. For those of you who do not fully understand what 100 holes of golf looks like, please understand that this means John covered 27 miles up and down hills as he completed this amazing feat. Why would John do such a thing? Let me explain…

It has been over eight years since I met John and Helen Burns, Pastors of Relate Church in the Vancouver, Canada area. I was blown away by their love and who they are, and totally blessed when we both realized God had brought us together for His purposes to bring Mercy Ministries to Canada.

Now, eight years later, the first Canada home is up and running and filled with young women who came desperate for help. Many of these young women have been used and abused for years at the hands of many men who should have been their protectors. That is why it blessed the girls so much to see a man of God who has become a champion for the healing and restoration of their broken lives.

I really do not think I can improve on the story that Canada posted, so let me share that link with you, and remember that it is not too late for you to go online and sponsor John (www.relatechurch.ca) to make this an over and above sacrifice enabling Mercy Canada to continue taking in young women free of charge.

http://mercyministriescanada.wordpress.com/2011/06/15/driving-home-the-mercy-message/

Perhaps like John, you would like to find a creative way to raise money for Mercy Ministries in the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, or wherever you may live. Pray and ask God what He would have you to do to make a difference in the lives of others. Let’s provoke one another to love and good deeds just like the Bible says!

Amazing Weekend in Texas Prisons with Mike Barber and Team!!!

2011-06-13T15:34:00.000-07:00

Katelyn, DeAnne Barber, Me and Mike Barber

It was my great joy to spend an awesome weekend speaking to female inmates in four different women’s prisons in Texas. I am so in awe of Mike and DeAnne Barber for their years of dedication, 25 to be exact, as they have faithfully done what Jesus told us to do. We are clearly told in Mark 16 to go into the world and preach the gospel to every creature, and part of that world includes prisoners that Christ died for and wants to reach with His message of salvation. I so love Mike and DeAnne’s heart, and have to give a shout out to their son, Brandon, for his leadership in making this weekend possible. I was in awe as I watched hundreds of inmates respond to the gospel message and invite Christ into their hearts. The teaching was first class, the worship was first class, and the team was first class!!! There is no way I can fully report everything that happened, but it was just such a touching time for me and my Executive Assistant, Katelyn Rollins, to be a part of. Please check out their ministry at www.pro-claim.tv. I strongly encourage you to make a financial gift to this amazing ministry because of all they are doing. No doubt one day Mike, DeAnne, Brandon, and the entire team will hear Jesus say, “when I was in prison, you visited me…”

Please pray for and support this much needed and greatly underappreciated ministry. Hope you have a great week!

Blessings,
Nancy

Evidence That God Is Real – Check It Out For Yourself!!

2011-06-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

I just got a really cool email from a young woman who graduated from Mercy in February of 2010. God did such a tremendous work with her while she was here in the program, and He continues to bless her to this day. I want to share with you a portion of her email along with pictures from her recent wedding. This story is so exciting and so encouraging...

“In my wildest dreams, I would have never imagined that just over a year after graduating Mercy I would be marrying such a godly man who loves me despite my tainted past. I used to tell my counselor that no man would ever want to be with me after what has happened to me and the things that I have done, but God's grace and power to transform is so much greater than my past!

Jacob and I have known each other for years, but the bondage I was in kept me from being able to have the God-centered relationship that I always desired. It is only through going to Mercy and experiencing the healing that I so desperately needed that I was able to enter into this pure, Godly, covenant relationship. Jacob has been a physical representation of the unconditional love of Christ that I first discovered during my time at Mercy.

Thank you, Nancy, for the opportunity you enabled me to have to find healing and restoration.”

I wanted to share a portion of Kati’s email along with these amazing wedding pictures. There is something about seeing pictures that provides insight into things that are written. I think these pictures totally display what Kati is trying to express in this email to me. I hope you are just as blessed as I am when you read this and see the visual evidence of what Kati is speaking about.

Have a great weekend, and don’t forget to pray for me as I am speaking in the Texas prisons. Last night during my first of four services, there were 502 inmates that chose to attend, and a large number of them raised their hands to receive Christ. Please believe with us for more lives to be impacted as we continue this great weekend inside the walls of four different women’s prisons in Texas.

I Am Being Sent To Prison This Weekend…

2011-06-08T15:57:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share with everyone that things have come full circle for me. Let me explain what I’m talking about. I started my career in the prison system in Tennessee, and now after 28 years I am headed back there once again. It is my great joy to be asked to spend Thursday, Friday, and Saturday speaking at several Texas prisons for women. There will be approximately 1,500 inmates that I will have the opportunity to share Christ with. I am very excited because this takes me back to my roots, but also because it is a command of God to go into the world and preach the gospel to every creature…and that includes prisoners. Please pray for those who are spiritually bound by the enemy to be set free of their captivity. I am asking for God to fill my mouth with His words and that His power will touch lives and heal broken hearts. Just wanted you to know what I will be starting Thursday evening all the way through Saturday night. For those of you who have a slow weekend, you can actually watch Friday night’s service online at www.pro-claim.tv.

The schedule is as follows:
Thursday, June 9th – 6:30 PM
Friday, June 10th – 6:30 PM
Saturday, June 11th – 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM

Thanks for your prayers – it means a lot. These are people that somewhere along the line got off track in their lives and Jesus died for them too. Please join us in believing for great things to happen!!!

Check Out What CeCe Winans Is Doing…She Is One Cutting Edge Chick!!

2011-06-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

It is such a joy for Mercy Ministries to partner with our dear friend CeCe Winans to help sponsor her upcoming Always Sisters Forever Brothers Conference Thursday, July 21st through Saturday, July 23rd at the Curb Center on the Belmont University Campus.

Anyone who wants to come is welcome, but the primary focus is to reach young men and young women under the age of thirty. If that’s you – you definitely want to register to be a part of this conference.

I have had the pleasure of speaking at this conference alongside the likes of Tony Dungy and many other well respected leaders and musicians from across the nation. This is one of the most amazing, powerful, and relevant conferences I have ever been a part of. This year’s conference will feature, alongside the Winans’ family, widely acclaimed Fred Hammond and Mary Mary. There are also nationally known speakers and authors in the lineup as well. Check out this link (www.alwayssistersforeverbrothers.com) and plan now to gather your friends to come with you to be a part of a weekend you will never forget.

I am so proud of my dear friend, Cece Winans, for making such a conference available to help meet the vast needs of today’s youth and young adults. Hope to see you there!!!

Philip And Holly Wagner At Mercy In Sacramento – Check Out These Pictures!!!

2011-06-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

I am just about to board a plane to head home after three nights in California and wanted to drop you a quick note and share these pictures with you of Pastors Philip and Holly Wagner of Oasis Church in Los Angeles.

Mercy California Program Director, Cheryl Bangs, Pastors Philip and Holly, and Me

What a great time we had on Wednesday with the girls and staff inside the Sacramento home. It all started with us picking Philip and Holly up at the airport, followed by a quick stop at Starbucks (a prerequisite before speaking :) ), and then on to the home where we spent the entire day.

Pastors Philip and Holly, Me, and the Mercy Residents

We had a great time of praise and worship with special guests from the Sunset Christian Center worship team, followed by Holly teaching a tremendous message on the power of staying at your post -- not leaving when things get hard and how that applies to every area of our lives.

After that we took a lunch break and had an awesome time together in the Mercy dining room which seats approximately 75 people. We were also joined by our very own Kathy Farrington, who is the co-pastor of Sunset Christian Center, and her husband, Greg. We just about packed the dining room out and so enjoyed the meal that the girls and staff prepared for us. It was a great time of fellowship with not only our guest speakers, but we were also joined by six very special friends from Reno, Nevada. My dear friend, Jane Albright who is the head women’s basketball coach at the University of Nevada, made it a point to come spend the day with us and bring some new friends.

In the afternoon we heard a powerful message from Philip about relationships. The wisdom he imparted was invaluable as he spoke from the point of view of not just a pastor, but also as a father of a son and daughter who are now young adults.

We had such an amazing day, and I just wanted to share about it with you!

Awesome Graduate Testimony – From Suicidal To Loving Life…

2011-06-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

I never get tired of hearing testimonies from Mercy graduates about how God has totally transformed their lives! Kimmy came to Mercy in 2010 struggling with an eating disorder, self-harm, and dealing with the guilt from past sexual abuse. Kimmy just sent me this amazing update to say that she is loving life and living in freedom! I hope Kimmy’s message is an encouragement to you…

I just wanted to update you all on what God has been doing in my life. I graduated from the Louisiana home on March 15th. I came to Mercy wanting to die. I was sexually abused by a close family friend for 10 years and then raped when I was 14 years old, which led to a sexual addiction and self hate. I developed an eating disorder, began cutting, and started beating myself up because of the guilt I constantly felt inside. I felt dirty all the time and like I was a mistake, that I should have never been born. I had a plan to kill myself on my 18th birthday. I had a time, a place, and what I was going to do. My 18th birthday was on July 7th and I am glad to say I was driving to Mercy that day and arrived there on July 8th, 2010.

I was always labeled the reject of my family. Then when I came to Mercy I was not expecting what happened. God completely intervened in my life. I now know who I am in Christ! I am a new creation, the old is gone!! I learned what to do with those old lies the devil was feeding me and where to tell him to put them! I do not have to be a victim of my past any longer. I know I was not a mistake, I was made in my mother's womb already with a purpose and a destiny! I was always told that God wanted all the things that happened to me to take place. Well that is beyond a lie! He never intended for me to go through any hardship. He did not plan any of it, but He will use it for his glory.

Upon my return home I started interning at my home church with my pastor! I am currently in school, and my goal is to become a youth pastor some day. I also have gotten a job at a salon doing makeup and being a receptionist, which gives me the opportunity to talk to girls about finding freedom with their image. I truly believe God has put me in this work place to be used by Him in the lives of the workers and clients. My boss pulled me aside after my first week of being on staff and thanked me and said "It's like you are a God send!" I was so pleased because I knew that I truly was a God send.

I have successfully been taken off my psychiatric meds now and can truly say that now I am living my life 100% with no drugs and loving it. Doctors always told me I would be miserable without medicine and would fall back into depression as soon as I tried getting off of them. Well, I love my life and know that it is only because of God's love for me that I can honestly say I am looking forward to my future and all the other wonderful things God has in store for me!!

Kimmy, we are so proud of you!!!

She Refused To Be A Statistic Or A Casualty…

2011-05-30T07:22:00.000-07:00

First of all, I want to thank all the brave men and women of the various arms of our military services who lay down their lives to protect us every day. I’m so thankful that we have a day we actually set aside to honor those who serve our country in such a sacrificial way. Wherever you are today, I hope you are having a blessed time. If you think about it, say a prayer of thanksgiving and protection for our troops who are still potentially in harm’s way.

Here at Mercy we are oftentimes on the front lines. I received a really cool email from a young girl who almost became a statistic, because she wanted to die rather than continue to live in pain and bondage. However, she found out about Mercy, walked through our doors, graduated the program, and is now celebrating her college graduation. I just got this email a few days ago and thought you should hear it in her own words…

Hey Nancy,

Sheer joy of crossing the finish line!

Exactly one year ago, I was ready to die. College graduation was far from my mind, as I lived in a hellish pit of despair and cycles of sin. I felt stuck and honestly thought that there was no way out. It was exactly at that point that I got accepted to come to Mercy. Not only did I graduate from Mercy, but this weekend, I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Graduation day for me was not about putting on the Carolina blue cap and gown, singing the Tar Heel fight song for the last time as a student, or taking pictures by the Old Well with my amazing friends (although I LOVE these things!). Instead, it was a sweet reminder of the Lord’s faithfulness. I rested in the sweetness of our mighty God whose love alone can break the power of sin and depression, who sought me out when I was in darkness, and who has given me abundant joy and eternal hope. I never thought life could be this good. I wish I could more accurately express the overflowing gratitude in my heart for how the Lord has used Mercy to really breathe life into me again, but I pray that you’re encouraged and can see a glimpse of my joy in these graduation pictures. Thank you again for all that you and the Mercy staff do!

Love,
Alison, December 2010 Mercy Graduate

Alison (right) with her best friend, Lauren

Alison (center) and her housemates

Alison, I am so glad that you chose to go back and finish your college degree. We celebrate with you and we are so proud of you!!! God has huge blessings in store for you, and I know He will use you in amazing ways! Thanks to all of our monthly partners and financial supporters who helped make this possible!

1988 Mercy Graduate Pays Surprise Visit Today…

2011-05-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

Jessica was 17 years old, facing an unplanned pregnancy when she walked through the doors of our Louisiana Mercy home in 1988. Little did I know that 23 years later she would come back to see me, bringing her husband and family for me to meet. I remember Jessica well and was thrilled to see her!

I fully remember that Jessica made the decision to keep her baby and become a single parent. That little girl is now 23 years old and was raised by her adoptive dad who came into her life as a little girl and is still her dad to this day. Not only that, but Jessica and John have had six other children, for a total of seven! The newest arrivals are a set of twin girls who are four years old and in the picture to the right. The three oldest were not on the trip to Nashville with John and Jessica, but we were thrilled to meet the four youngest. What a great time it was as John and Jessica spoke with and encouraged our current residents that they have a great future in front of them! Thought you would love to meet a Mercy girl who is still going strong for God 23 years and counting!!!

Hope you have a great holiday weekend!

Busy Time…

2011-05-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

Too busy with ministry to talk to you today, but I’ll talk to you later!

Need Some Encouragement Today…Check This Out!!!

2011-05-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

I recently spoke at Crossroads Church in Lafayette, Louisiana where I had the privilege of seeing and connecting with several Mercy graduates who live in the area (see blog from Wednesday, April 13th). 2009 Mercy graduate, Emily, is a part of the Master’s Commission through Crossroads Church and sent me a copy of her testimony to share with others. I hope Emily’s testimony is an encouragement to you…

It says in Micah 4:7 (Message paraphrase) that He will transform the battered into a company of the elite and He will make a strong nation out of the long lost.

I came to Mercy two years ago struggling with an eating disorder and an addiction to alcohol. I was convinced that I was a bad person because so many bad things had happened to me. I attempted to gain some sense of control through an eating disorder because in every area of my life, I had lost control. I became physically addicted to alcohol at a young age and at one point I was rushed to the ER because I stopped breathing from alcohol poisoning. I literally had nothing. Everything that once had significance was taken from me either because of someone else’s mistakes or by my own decision making process.

In my season with Mercy, I had to learn how to open my heart up to God and people. It wasn’t easy because I had been hurt so many times. I had to do a lot of things afraid. And if I were being totally honest, I still do a lot of things afraid. However, the pain in my life was the catalyst that encouraged a heart change toward the possibility of transformation. Once I understood that God could be trusted, I slowly unclenched my fists and became vulnerable to the healing process. I found that as I completely surrendered myself to the Lord, I experienced freedom in my mind and emotions.

It’s hard to believe that it has been almost two years since I‘ve graduated from Mercy. I wish I could say that life after Mercy is perfect. But the reality is that with life comes calamity, disappointment, and pain. In spite of all this, He promises to never forsake you in the midst of affliction. Yes, there is the name of addiction, abandonment, abuse, and heartache. But His name is above every other name and every knee has to submit itself and declare Him as Lord.

The life I live today is truly a testimony of God’s faithfulness. As of June 2011, I will have graduated from 9-months of Master’s Commission which is a discipleship / ministry training school. In my time with Master’s Commission, I have been involved in children’s and youth ministry through providing on-going spiritual leadership, discipleship, practical service, and availability to students as well as their families. I learned the fundamentals of ministry through hands on training and classroom instruction. Recently, I traveled to the nation of Romania, my nationality and original country of birth, for ministry purposes. While in Romania, I had the opportunity to spend time at a girl’s home for young victims of human trafficking. I also provided humanitarian aid through food distribution and ministry to Gypsy villages. In addition to being a student at Crossroad’s Master’s Commission, located in Lafayette, Louisiana, I am also taking online classes to earn a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Counseling. I am expected to complete my degree in the summer of 2012. My graduation from Master’s Commission would not be possible without the grace of God and the people He placed into my life to help me walk out my freedom. Any successes that may ensue as a result of my involvement with Master’s Commission is because of their involvement in my life.

Mercy doesn’t heal people. God heals people. Mercy acts as an extension of God’s love and compassion through providing a safe environment that fosters lifelong transformation. I want to encourage anyone who may be considering Mercy Ministries as an option to just do it. On the other side of your obedience are answered prayers, life, fulfillment, wholeness, hope, and restoration. God is so relational and He isn’t a child abuser. He is personally acquainted with you through observation and participation. I believe God will make every step toward you but one. And that final step belongs to you. When the pain in your life outweighs whatever may be holding you back - fear, pride, shame - I believe you’ll be thirsty enough to make that step. And when you do, He’ll be right there; ready to walk you through the healing process.

Emily and I had a chance to catch up at Crossroads Church in Lafayette!

Thanks so much Emily for taking the time to share your amazing testimony!! You are definitely letting your light shine and we are so proud of you!!!

Another Mercy Girl Graduates College!!!

2011-05-20T10:59:00.000-07:00

I always love when graduation time comes around every year, because I so enjoy receiving updates from our Mercy graduates who are now getting their college degrees. I just received this awesome email from Kristi who came to the Nashville Mercy home in 2007. Kristi is now living life to the fullest, and I wanted to share her amazing update with you…

Hey Nancy,

Four years ago, at the end of April, I graduated from Mercy Ministries, and I am finally graduating from the University of North Carolina at Asheville with my B.A in Spanish. I cannot believe four years have passed since Mercy, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity I received when I was accepted into Mercy. I am eating disorder free and living life to the fullest!!

I just wanted to share with you what's going on in my life. My Mercy ring is so precious to me, and I am always getting compliments on how beautiful it is. I didn't even buy a college graduation ring because nothing compares to the triumph of being a Mercy grad, and walking out life in the freedom of the Lord. My Mercy ring is a beautiful reminder of how blessed I am.

Love you!

- Kristi

We are so proud of you, Kristi!!!

Guest Pastors From Minnesota Connect With Girls!!!

2011-05-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

We had a great time today with Pastors Rob and Becca Ketterling from River Valley Church! First we heard from Becca, and then Pastor Rob shared an amazing message about his own background and family that so connected with the hearts of our girls. It was a very special time, and we have received so much positive feedback from our girls about how this message changed their perspective. We will share more in a web story tomorrow, but just wanted to give you this news hot off the press and show you some amazing pictures from our time together. I have been invited to come and be a part of the weekend services Saturday and Sunday, June 25th and 26th – I am so looking forward to my first visit there!

Great Weekend At Living Word Family Church!!!

2011-05-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

The weekend in Raleigh began on Friday night, as I had the privilege of launching the first session of the 2011 Influence Women’s Conference. I was so excited to spend time with my fellow speaker and dear friend, Terri Savelle Foy. Terri is the author of “Make Your Dreams Bigger Than Your Memories” published by Regal Books – a tremendous and inspiring story. I had the privilege of speaking again on Saturday morning followed by two amazing messages by Terri. I promise you that you want to know all about Terri’s ministry and hear her firsthand. Check out her website and how to get her book and teaching materials at www.terri.com. Some of you may recognize the “Savelle” name and there is a reason for that. Her parents are Jerry and Carolyn Savelle who are well known for their amazing messages and leadership in Christian circles. I strongly encourage you to resource your life with these tremendous tools that Terri has put together to enable people to fulfill all of their destiny and see their highest dreams fulfilled.

Me with Connie (center) and Terri (right)

I then had the privilege of speaking at both of the Sunday morning services at Living Word Family Church. We had a great time, and I so honor Pastors Steve and Connie Caronna for their vision and for their leadership in the Raleigh community and beyond. I also want to thank LWFC for the monthly mission support that they have given to Mercy for years and years. YOU ARE A PART OF EVERY CHANGED LIFE!!!

Me with Pastors Steve and Connie

Thanks for a great weekend! We loved being there!

Special Friends Of Mercy Gather In Charlotte At King’s Kitchen…

2011-05-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

Me with Jim and Karen Noble, Owners of The King's Kitchen

It’s not too often that you go to a restaurant named after the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ. Yesterday, however, I had the opportunity to gather in such a place with my dear friends Jim and Karen Noble, founders and owners of The King’s Kitchen. Jim and Karen are long time personal friends of mine as well as Mercy supporters. They opened up their amazing restaurant and also their hearts to allow us to host a Mercy luncheon there yesterday. We had such a great time!!! First of all, if you live anywhere near Charlotte or are ever in the area, you have got to go check out this restaurant – it is amazing! Not only is the food above and beyond, but this place provides employment and training for people in the Charlotte community who have fallen on hard times. One hundred percent of their profits go to help feed the poor in Charlotte! You might say it is a combination of restaurant, a cool place to gather in the community, and a training ground for ministry. Before I get into the actual event, I want to give you the website so you can check out The King’s Kitchen for yourself www.kingskitchen.org.

Guests at The King's Kitchen, enjoying the event!

Yesterday around noon in Charlotte, NC, this amazing restaurant was packed out with people in support of Mercy Ministries, both old friends and new. Not only that, but there were seven graduates in attendance from the North Carolina area, one dating back to 1998 – 13 years ago! This young woman came because she wanted to tell me thank you for what Mercy did in her life. I had the privilege of casting the vision for what Mercy is currently doing in the state of North Carolina, and plans to do in the future. In addition, we heard awesome stories from two of our North Carolina graduates. Their stories were so powerful. Julia told about how she is now fulfilling her lifelong dream of being a missionary to nations around the world. Alyssa shared about how she was abused as a child and before Mercy, always thought she would end up abusing other children. But after her time of healing and restoration at Mercy, she has now been entrusted with a ministry that actually nurtures and cares for children. She spoke of how amazing it is that God can take what was certain to destroy her life and reverse the curse, so she can now reach out and help those children who are less fortunate.

Graduates, Julia and Alyssa, sharing

After we heard from our graduates, our special guest Jordan Rubin, well known author, speaker and entrepreneur, told of his personal connection to Mercy and how he and his wife, Nicki, adopted a baby through Mercy several years ago named Samuel. Jordan also shared about how he and the birth mother look like they could be brother and sister. You can check out more of what Jordan is up to these days at www.gardenoflife.com.

Jordan with his adopted son, Samuel

Jordan Rubin sharing

Me with Jordan Rubin

We want to especially thank Jordan and Nicki Rubin for their gift of $10,000 to Mercy at this luncheon. We also want to thank Penny Maxwell. She and her husband are the pastors of Freedom House Church in Charlotte, NC, and they presented Mercy with a check for $20,000.

Me with Penny Maxwell and their gift to Mercy for $20,000

All this support that came in yesterday will go to help provide for the young women that are currently in our facilities, many of whom are from the state of North Carolina. If you would like to contribute to help hurting young women from North Carolina or any of our other girls from all 50 states you can do so by clicking here.

Thanks to everyone who made this day so special!

Mercy Graduate Now Pastry Chef…

2011-05-11T15:06:00.000-07:00

It’s almost been three years since Tammy graduated from the St. Louis home in 2008. To hear her story of how she went from barely graduating college in 2004 to just graduating from a Culinary Arts school with a 4.0 is inspiring! Tammy came to Mercy struggling with drugs, alcohol, and an eating disorder, but is now living a life of freedom and sharing her testimony with others! I just received this amazing update from Tammy that I wanted to share with you with Tammy’s permission…

Hey Nancy and Mercy Staff!

I just wanted to write and give an update! In less than two months it will be three years since graduating Mercy in St. Louis! I can’t believe how quickly the time has gone! I guess it seems quick because the first part of my life seemed so long. I just kind of floated by and did my best to “fit in” with the crowd, never wanting to stand out, never wanting to overachieve or even succeed. I barely graduated from college back in 2004 and from that point on my life took a turn for the worst. I tried everything from alcohol to drugs to cutting to anorexia/bulimia, everything but God! For four years I held on by a thread and finally made it to January 2008, the beginning of a new life! I walked through the doors of Mercy and life as I knew it became just a memory. I began to experience God in a new and real way, something that I had never experienced before, something I couldn’t even describe with words. I also began to experience people and relationships in a new way. Soon I couldn’t go through the day without smiling because no matter how bad a situation looked, I knew I had a good, gracious and merciful God on my side! I began to see the life God had for me, a life that was so much more than I could ever dream of or imagine! While at Mercy I got the opportunity to work in the kitchen and remembered how much I loved to bake. I had always loved baking while growing up, but kind of lost my passion for it along with my zest for life. God began to bring that passion back to life as well as breaking my heart for the young women who don’t have a voice. After graduating from Mercy, I prayed and decided to go back to school for Culinary Arts specializing in Baking and Pastry.

Tammy with her degrees and award

I am pleased to tell you that over the weekend I graduated from school with my degree in Baking and Pastry, as well as a degree in Dietetics. I was awarded an Academic Achievement Award for having the highest GPA in my major. God has been with me through this whole process, from receiving a full scholarship to graduating now with a 4.0. I am now a pastry chef in a downtown Pittsburgh high-end member’s club, called the Duquesne Club. This avenue has brought me down a different road, but I’m learning to adjust and use the opportunity that God has given me to share with my co-workers the testimony of my life. Every day I have to work with knives, alcohol and food…three things I have struggled with majorly in my past. But everyday God gives me the strength and the will to overcome my past and to continue walking in freedom. Every day I wake up and choose to live life, I choose to make the best of every day, even when it’s hard and even when I make mistakes. I choose life because God has given me this precious gift of life! These past three years have been incredible. Thank you for your diligence and obedience to God’s calling! I love you and am forever grateful to you and all of the Mercy staff who unconditionally love God's girls!

Tammy

A sample of the delicious and beautiful desserts Tammy makes!

Tammy (far left) with the pastry staff at Duquesne Club

Tammy, we are so proud of you!!! To all of our wonderful contributors, your support of Mercy Ministries is an investment in the lives of the young women we serve and we are so grateful for you. Tammy is another life that was changed through your generous giving. THANKS for what YOU make possible!

Special Guest Speaker Connects Heart to Heart…

2011-05-09T16:23:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day back after being gone for two weeks! It was so great to see the girls and staff, and to also have my very dear friend, Penny Maxwell, here to speak to our Mercy residents. Penny and her husband, Troy, pastor Freedom House Church in Charlotte, NC. We are so thankful that this church supports us on a monthly basis and that they are a part of every life that is transformed.

The girls were completely and totally captivated as Penny shared her amazing story of how she overcame past sexual abuse from a family member to now being able to be a good wife and mother of three, which she never dreamed would ever be possible! I thought it would be great for you to see a picture of her family.

The Maxwell Family

Penny and her husband Troy not only pastor a church, but Penny is in the process of writing a book about her amazing journey of healing and transformation. A special thanks to Penny for keeping it real -- you really touched the hearts of our girls in a very special way!

Mercy Graduate, Rachael, Tells Her Story Of Hope And Transformation...

2011-05-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

It is hard to imagine that just two years ago I was homeless, hopeless and addicted to meth. There were many times that I expected the drug to take my life in an overdose, or to be arrested and put away for my involvement in selling it. These were my only options: death, jail, and institutions. Or at least, that’s what I thought. So, by the time I had the opportunity to meet Nancy in May of 2009, I was so physically, mentally and spiritually exhausted from the long, dark road I had been traveling down that I hardly expected her to be able to help me. How did I get here? After all, I had grown up in a loving Christian home, even had a full ride scholarship to Auburn University for gymnastics. How could this have happened?

During the six years that I was addicted to meth and cocaine, I had been in two different rehab facilities, both temporarily changing behavioral problems but neglecting to find the root issues. The bottom line: God wasn’t in it, so there was no lasting change. But when Nancy shared with me about Mercy and encouraged me to apply, there was finally a light at the end of my tunnel! I walked into the Nashville home on February 2010.

That is how God used Mercy Ministries to save my life. I allowed GOD to come in and restore my spirit, soul and body because He is the ultimate Healer and Counselor. I will never forget how relieved I was that He saved me from death and replaced my pain with tears of joy and gratitude. He gave me a NEW life.That is why it is hard to imagine what it used to be like, because the old is gone! Before I graduated from Mercy last February, Nancy was able to connect me with Pastor Debbie Lindell from James River Assembly in Springfield, MO. Today, I am a student at James River Leadership College (JRLC) studying to get an Associates Degree in Leadership. I never would have thought this would be possible. My experience at JRLC has been abundantly more than I could have ever imagined. I have been given the opportunity to share my testimony on several occasions and I also get hands-on experience working with people who have life-controlling issues. This is my passion: to help hurting, broken people see that there is a light at the end of their tunnel. If God has shown me His grace and mercy, everyone else deserves it as well. One thing I will always remember is that it is NOT about me, it is about HIM!

Mercy Graduate, Rachael, with Nancy’s Executive Assistant, Katelyn

Guest Blogger, Whitney Nall!

2011-05-04T12:31:00.001-07:00

Hey there!

Whitney Nall here! As Community Relations Manager for Mercy here in Nashville, one of my favorite things to share with you is Run for Mercy! This past weekend we had 65 people RUN FOR MERCY in the Country Music Marathon and Half Marathon. So far the team has raised over $32,000 for Mercy through their personal fundraising efforts. It’s so true that “we have not because we ask not” and it’s been amazing to see the funds come in as each of these people has asked their contacts to donate towards Mercy. I thought you’d enjoy seeing some pics from the fun weekend! It all started on Friday night with a Pasta Party here at the Nashville Mercy Home.

We woke up before the sun on Saturday morning, and as the runners took their marks, some volunteers and I set up the Mercy tent over in Charity Village near the finish line. It was fun to have team members stop by the tent throughout the day after they finished the race.

The Nashville Mercy girls were at the finish line cheering on the runners as they came around the last turn of the race. The runners could easily spot them in their bright pink shirts and each team member I spoke to said that seeing them cheering was the highlight of their run! The girls are the reason they were running in the first place.

One of my favorite things about Run for Mercy events is that they are fun for the whole family. Whether it’s coming out to cheer on the runners at the marathon or an early morning run in one of our upcoming 5Ks, Run for Mercy events are something that each person in the family can be a part of. Here is a photo of my family on Saturday!! (Including our dog, “Major!” He is actually a boy but wore his pink Run for Mercy bandanna just for the race)

Hope to see you at one of our upcoming Run for Mercy events soon!! Check out this website to find out when an event is coming to a city near you: www.runformercy.org. To see a video of the Mercy girls at the marathon, click here.

Eve Does Another Video Interview with Amazing Mercy Guest Charlotte Gambill

2011-05-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

Eve here again wearing my roaming resident reporter hat... This time, I had the privilege of interviewing a special guest from across the pond, Charlotte Gambill. Charlotte and her husband, Steve, came to the Nashville home to speak to our staff and residents. When Charlotte is not helping her parents, Pastors Paul and Glenda Scanlon of Abundant Life Church in Bradford, England as the Senior Associate Pastor, she travels around the world speaking God’s truth! And, boy this amazing woman of God doesn’t hold anything back. And, we love her for it! You won’t want to miss her words of wisdom. Take a look:

Just for the record, I love precious Jude, and obviously so do the Gambill children, Hope and Noah (pictured below)!

Thank you, Charlotte for pouring your heart into our residents and our entire staff here at Mercy. You have blessed us in such an immense way, all for His glory! We love and appreciate our UK family!

Charlotte Gambill speaking to the Nashville staff and residents

Steve Gambill speaks to our residents

Mercy In-House Reporter Interviews Holly Wagner and Mercy Grads!

2011-04-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,

Eve here! I always love when I get a chance to stop by Nancy’s blog!

So, most of the time I wear my Executive Director of Communications hat around here and it’s a HUGE blessing, but on some occasions, I get to play roaming resident reporter... One of my favorite things to do by the way! This time, I had the honor of interviewing an incredible group of our Mercy heroes, graduates of the program, about our special guest speaker today at the Nashville home, Holly Wagner! Holly is a mother, teacher, speaker, author, leader of GodChicks, and co-pastor of Oasis Christian Center in Los Angeles, California, but she is also one of Nancy’s favorite people and a long-time supporter of Mercy. Please enjoy hearing some of her words of wisdom – I know it will bless your day – it certainly fired me up!

Thank you, Holly for investing your time and talent and pouring into our girls! Also, a special thanks to all of our amazing graduates who came back to visit today and made sure they didn't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most gifted speakers of our generation.

James River Women’s Rally This Friday – You Need To Be There!!!

2011-04-27T14:29:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone!

Nancy’s Executive Assistant, Katelyn here…I am so excited to get to attend the James River Women’s Rally this Friday night in Springfield, MO hosted by Debbie Lindell, and I hope to see you there! John and Debbie Lindell are the lead pastors of James River Assembly, and Debbie has done an amazing job of growing the women’s ministry there. It is always a joy to get to spend time in Springfield and be a part of what’s going on at James River. This Friday night, the special guest speaker will be Candace Cameron, known for her role as “DJ Tanner” on the ABC series Full House. You definitely do not want to miss out on hearing Candace’s story of growing up as a child star and how she came to know the Lord! For more information about the Women’s Rally, check out http://www.jamesriverwomen.org/events.cfm. Also, for more information about Candace Cameron, check out her website at http://www.candacecameronbure.net.

From left to right: Debbie Lindell, Debbie’s daughter Savannah, Katelyn, and Nancy

I’m also looking forward to getting to see one of our Mercy graduates, Rachael (pictured right), who is now attending the James River Leadership Academy! Rachael graduated from Mercy in Nashville in February of 2010 and is doing awesome!!! Overall, I cannot wait to be in Springfield to see Rachael and be a part of this women’s event! Would love to see you there if you’re in the area!!!

2003 Mercy Graduate Now Mercy Staff!!!

2011-04-25T16:26:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to welcome Tabitha to our corporate staff! Tabitha came to Mercy in 2002 with an unplanned pregnancy. After making the brave decision to place her baby for adoption, Tabitha graduated in 2003 and returned home to walk out the freedom she received in Christ through Mercy Ministries. Fast forward to several years later, and Tabitha is now married with two precious children. I wanted to share with you what Tabitha had to say when I asked her about coming on staff at Mercy to serve the hurting young women who are in the same place that Tabitha once found herself…

"Eight years ago this month I stood proudly, told my story of how God changed my life, and graduated from the Mercy home in Nashville. I went from being a "Mercy girl" to a "Mercy grad." As of a few days ago, I am not only a life that has been changed by Mercy, but am now a part of changing the lives of others. I went from being a "Mercy grad" to part of the Mercy staff. I am so very proud of the place Mercy Ministries holds in my life. I can't help but be excited about this next chapter in my story. I now have the privilege of giving back!" – Tabitha

To all of our supporters, we want you to know that one of the many young women that you have helped support through a difficult time is now working at Mercy and giving back to others. Welcome to the Mercy staff, Tabitha!!! We are so proud of you!

Tabitha pictured with her husband, Joseph, and two kids – Adelai (left)
and Scarlet (right)

Mercy Graduate Goes To Haiti And Gives Back…

2011-04-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

It’s been almost a year since Kelly graduated from our Mercy program in Nashville. Already, Kelly is out there giving back to others what she herself received. It was our joy to be one of the many people that helped sponsor Kelly for a recent missions trip to serve orphan children in Haiti. It is my great joy to share with you an awesome report that Kelly just sent to me. The pictures are amazing and so are Kelly’s words…

Dear Nancy,

I just wanted to take a few minutes to tell you about my mission trip to Haiti. First of all, it was AMAZING! I was on a team with ten other people from my church and God really worked through us and in us while we were in Haiti. Every morning we did physical work alongside Haitians who live in the community we were working in. This included painting a new dorm at an orphanage, working on a farm and helping make a road so that the residents of the community can get to a new garden to get food for their families. In the afternoon, we spent time with kids at orphanages and schools.

The first morning we were at the orphanage painting and I felt so uncomfortable and unable to minister to the kids because I was unable to communicate with them due to language barriers. After I finished painting, I was standing off to the side wishing I had never decided to go to Haiti because I felt so inadequate to minister to anyone. A few minutes later a little girl named Jessica came over, grabbed me by the hand and led me over to the water pump. She then took her time pumping water and cleaning every drop of paint off of my arms, hands and even finger nails! The whole time she was doing it, she was just looking up at me and smiling. She obviously understood that words are not required to show love and taught me that valuable lesson! As soon as she was done washing my hands, a ton of other little kids gathered around and I realized that they just wanted someone to love them, play with them and hold them. That morning was my favorite time of the whole trip and I really feel like those little kids were used by God to remind me of His perfect love. I was reminded by that little 5-year-old girl that God can and will use anyone who is willing and open, despite our perceived limitations! I will never forget my time in Haiti and am so grateful that I was given that chance.

One night, I was sitting outside enjoying the beautiful stars and started thinking about the road that led me to where I am now and was totally overwhelmed. God has truly taken me from the pit of despair and hopelessness and has given me new life! These pictures are from that amazing morning at the Matthew 28 orphanage! Thank you so much for your support for this trip, but even more for all that Mercy has done for me. My life has been changed forever because of all of the love and support that I received during my time at Mercy!

Love,
Kelly

Kelly, we are so very proud of you!!! To all of our wonderful supporters, your support of Mercy Ministries is an investment in the lives of the young women we serve as well as all the people they will eventually reach through their own efforts in ministry. We thank God for you!!!

Local Church Gives $65K To The Work Of Mercy…

2011-04-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

Pastors John and Debbie Lowe of New Life Christian Church in Warsaw, IN invited me several months ago to speak at their Sunday morning service on Sunday, April 17th. What a special day it proved to be as Pastor John presented me with a check for $65,000 to be used to continue enabling us to take in young women from all 50 states free of charge. This gift was especially timely because of the great need which currently exists. I was very moved by the generosity of the individuals and leaders of this great church. This gift comes in addition to the monthly support that New Life Christian Church has given to Mercy for years and years.

We first connected with these awesome pastors 20 years ago when they were chosen by one of our Mercy birth mothers as the adoptive couple for her child. I had the privilege of seeing Brightie come into the world, and now I have the privilege of watching her grow up and even watch the ministry that she is now a part of at such a young age. Not only is Brightie a tremendous youth leader in their church, but she also plays the drums on the worship team and is currently doing an internship working with teenage girls who have life-controlling issues.

Brightie playing the drums!

Brightie is a vibrant young woman who knows who she is and understands her purpose, and Pastors John and Debbie have done an amazing job of raising her in the ways of God. She is passionate to serve and help others.

Me with Brightie!

It was also my joy to be joined by Christian artist Ayiesha Woods. It was such an honor to see her and to meet her husband, Joseph, as she and I did a conference together in the UK a couple of years ago when she was still single.

Me with Pastors John and Debbie Lowe and Ayeisha Woods and her husband, Joseph

I also had the privilege of hosting two of our Mercy graduates. One from 2007 and one who just graduated three weeks ago. They joined me on the platform and shared a bit of their stories with the people in attendance.

With graduates Bethany and Aubrey

There was also a couple there whose daughter will be graduating from Mercy this very week and another couple whose daughter just came in to the program. It was a tremendous day of blessing for all who shared it. A special thanks to Pastors John and Debbie Lowe for their amazing hearts to give to and serve others, and to give back!!!

Original Conference, New Friends, And A Rockin’ Church!!!

2011-04-18T08:04:00.000-07:00

It was my great joy to be a part of the Original Women’s Conference in Rockford, IL this past Thursday through Saturday. I was so impressed with Pastors Jeremy and Jen DeWeerdt of Rockford First Church who are doing such a tremendous work in their city! These young pastors are reaching so many people of all ages, but especially the younger generation.

ME AND PASTORS JEREMY AND JEN

The conference was so much fun, and it was so cool to hear the other speakers as well including conference host, Jen Deweerdt, Lisa Bevere, Erin Campbell, and Lisa Yonke. I had the privilege of speaking at the closing session, and truly felt that I connected heart-to-heart with the women in attendance.

CONFERENCE HOST, JEN, ME, AND SPECIAL SPEAKER, LISA YONKE

After the closing of the conference, I had the privilege of speaking to the students in their leadership and ministry training program. What a great group of young people that are being raised up to do the work of the Kingdom with a pure heart and passion to serve.

IT WAS SO COOL TO HAVE THE CHANCE TO SHARE WITH THESE STUDENTS – THEY’RE AWESOME!!

I highly recommend Rockford First Church if you are ever anywhere near the Rockford area. In fact, it’s even worth the hour drive from Chicago to check this place out. These pastors are definitely servant leaders, and no matter what age you are, you can certainly learn from them – I KNOW I DID!!!

MY EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, KATELYN, AND ME WITH OUR AWESOME HOST AND DRIVER, KYNDAL!!! (THANKS FOR ALL THE STARBUCKS, KYNDAL! :) )

Join Us If You Can...

2011-04-15T16:21:00.000-07:00

So excited to be with Pastors Jeremy and Jen DeWeerdt of Rockford First at their annual Original Women’s Conference in Rockford, IL. The conference was kicked off last night with Lisa Bevere, today’s speakers have been awesome, and tonight we will hear from conference host, Jen DeWeerdt. I have the privilege of speaking tomorrow, and I cannot wait! Rockford First is an amazing church and definitely making a difference in their community. If you are anywhere near Rockford, we’d love to see you! Check out www.rfa.cc for more details!

Tomorrow afternoon, I’ll be heading to Warsaw, IN for a special service on Sunday morning with Pastors John and Debbie Lowe of New Life Christian Church at 10:00 AM CST. For more information, check out www.ihavenewlife.com.

Hope you have a great weekend!

Great Weekend At Crossroads Church In Lafayette, LA!!!

2011-04-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

I had the awesome privilege of speaking at Joie De Vivre in Lafayette for the closing session on Friday evening. Prior to my speaking, awesome and anointed worship leader from Harvest Bible Church in Chicago, Meredith Andrews (pictured right), led us in a powerful time of worship and special music. It was very special to me that Meredith was there because I actually keep the worship CD from Harvest Bible Church in my car and absolutely love her version of “Revelation Song.” Meredith actually sang this on Friday night and it was very special and personal with me for several reasons – one of those special God surprises!!! I want to give a shout out to Daphne Gaspard and her leadership team (pictured below) for putting together a great conference, not to mention the amazing Gumbo that was personally prepared by famous church chef, Dennis! So cool to actually have the Cajuns prepare Cajun food – the authentic stuff!!!

Nancy’s Executive Assistant, Katelyn, Women’s Ministry Director, Daphne, and weekend host, Laurie

After the closing evening of the women’s conference on Friday, I had the privilege of speaking at the first of four weekend church services on Saturday evening, followed by three additional services on Sunday. I was so moved by the heart and passion of Pastors Jeff and Donna Ables to reach their city with the love of Christ. This is a growing church, and I was not surprised to see a 3,000 seat sanctuary in the process of going up with a November completion date. If you live in the Lafayette area, I highly recommend this church. God is moving there in powerful ways, and people are coming to know Christ and getting plugged in to make a difference in their community. I also want to mention that during the course of the weekend, there were five Mercy graduates from over the years that I had the privilege of reconnecting with. It’s so cool that these five girls who had graduated were there as a living testament to the power of God to transform life (check out the pictures – One graduate came to Mercy in 1998 at age 17 with an unplanned pregnancy, chose to keep her daughter, and has since gotten married and had 6 additional children including a 4-year-old set of twin girls). In addition, the church gave a tremendous offering to help us continue taking in these young women free of charge and take them through the transformation process. I have added pictures to this story to give you an inside look at the services as well as the special time with the Mercy grads and church pastors and leadership team. I’m so thrilled for all God is doing at Crossroads!!!

Crossroads Pastors Jeff and Donna Ables with Nancy

Nancy speaking at the Joie De Vivre women’s conference

Nancy speaking at the weekend services

1998 graduate Jessica with her 4 year old twins – happy wife and mother of 7 children. She and her family attend Crossroads.

2000 graduate Tera who is now a monthly partner with Mercy.

June 2006 graduate, Kristen, who is going on a Mercy missions trip this summer to Uganda.

Honor, August 2006 graduate, doing great and also a member of Crossroads church!

Emily, September 2009 Mercy graduate, who is now training for ministry in the Masters Commission leadership program at Crossroads.

Have You Ever Met Anyone Who Has Given Millions To Help Other People?

2011-04-12T15:49:00.000-07:00

Larry and Pam Winters along with their LTD Organization are truly some of the most giving people I have ever met. Their heart to help hurting young women be pulled out of the pit and transformed from death to life has inspired thousands in their fundraising efforts to support Mercy. Collectively as an organization, they have literally sent millions of dollars to enable us to take young women in from all 50 States free of charge over the past 28 years. Yesterday we had the privilege of hosting Pam Winters at our Nashville campus, and earlier in the weekend Pam and her daughter, Tara, and several others spent quality time in our St. Louis home as well. I hope you will check out this story along with all the pictures celebrating this very special time together – CLICK HERE.

Cutters Are Being Set Free!!!

2011-04-11T16:46:00.000-07:00

BREAKING NEWS…

I have so much to share about my amazing weekend at Crossroads Church with Pastors Jeff and Donna Ables and their amazing team. I will be posting a full web story and blog with pictures and more details later about my very special time there. Both the women’s conference and the four weekend services were such a great experience. I loved, loved, loved my time there, and I can’t wait to share more with you later this week! I will also be sharing with you how I was able to reconnect with five Mercy graduates from past years during my time in Lafayette. You will love hearing about all this, so stay tuned…

About a year ago, I offered free books on the subject of cutting. These books include testimonies from young women who have gone through the Mercy homes and have been set free from their desire to self-harm. We actually wrote Cut: Mercy for Self Harm as a way for people who are dealing with this issue to be able to receive freedom by reading the book and be delivered by applying God’s principles, and then Beyond Cut which is a follow up book with more testimonies. I just received a really cool testimony about one young women who experienced exactly what we had in mind and I wanted to share it with you…

Dear Nancy,

I wanted to send you a quick thank you note. Over a year ago, I left a comment on your blog asking about your books (I think I used a different name, I can’t remember). Thank you so much for sending me your Mercy For Self-Harm books, especially since going to a Mercy home wasn’t an option for me. I had unsuccessfully tried 3 different times to quit cutting, but I was never able to quit until I found freedom, hope, and a restored relationship with God through your books. Thanks to you, I’m 13 months free! I never really thought I’d be able to say that.

Love in Christ,

Allie

These books are powerful, and we would love to offer them to anyone who would like to make a request at nancy.alcorn@mercyministries.com. In addition, we also have issue-related books for issues such as sexual abuse, eating disorders and addictions. You may request any of the books that you have need of by emailing me personally. Remember that freedom is available for you, and we will keep your requests confidential.

Mercy Graduate Organizes College Campus Event – Check It Out!!!

2011-04-08T13:18:00.001-07:00

I remember the day that Kim walked through the door totally downtrodden and brokenhearted from the devastation from her past. Used and abused from the time she was a little girl, who knew the amazing plans that God had in store for her future? Not only did Kim graduate from Mercy, but she will be graduating from college in a few weeks on May 14th. I just got this email from her describing her leadership in the organization of a Christian event on her campus which involves both faculty and students. I want you to hear what Kim is up to in her own words...

Hi Nancy,
I wanted to send you an update on what's going on in my life. Let me start off by saying that God is truly moving! The prayer of Jabez is a very powerful prayer, because I feel like my territory is truly expanding. Last month, I had the privilege of putting on my first fashion show with 15 girls from a local high school. Being given that opportunity was truly a blessing because the Lord reminded me how these kids just truly want someone to love on them and just see them. We may have started out rocky (LOL) but at the end they were just amazing!

Last month, the university choir went on a spring tour, which was great, but this month’s event that I have been working on since last year is actually coming together and will take place on April 28th and 29th. The Lord gave me a vision last year that is about unity and just bridging the gap on our campus as well as in the community. I feel like our college campuses, as well as all levels of education, are being attacked. There is something about these college campuses, where students actually live, that has the enemy just running so rampant and leaving our campuses confused, hopeless, homicidal, and suicidal. For the past few evenings, I have just found myself walking and praying over our campus, and as I am writing you, your words come to mind, which are, "God did not instruct the government to do what we were called to do as believers." I paraphrased a little, but He called us. As I walk, you would be amazed at what I see and what I hear. There are just so many masks, and it just breaks your heart, but I am thankful for the promises as well as the plans.

On April 28th I have put together a testimony dinner called "food for the soul" where students, faculty and staff will be sharing their testimonies and I am actually one of the speakers for that night. I normally don’t share my story to large crowds like this on our campus, normally I just share to certain groups, so I ask that you be in prayer. I am praying that people will see that they are not alone and that there are people here. On that Friday, we actually have some Christian poets flying in from Los Angeles, along with a live band and games and things like that to bring everyone together. There will also be a charge going forth for our leaders on campus, faculty and staff, to let them know that these positions they serve in should not be taken lightly, but are a way to help uplift and encourage the students and community – getting back to the basics and out of the mindset of just “me.” There will also be a lighting of candles towards the end where students can decide to turn from their old ways and embrace something better and more tangible; someone who won’t fail you, and that’s Jesus. I think it’s going to be really good! Our presidents and those in position are truly backing me up in ways I wouldn’t even have imagined. I just feel like heaven is opening up resources for this event! So I just wanted to share some of those things with you! Last but not least, I will be graduating from college on May 14th! I just took my senior pictures today and announcements will be out real soon.
I pray all is well with the ministry as well as yourself. I know you are pretty busy, but don’t forget to take time to rest. I am truly grateful for the things that you do, and the opportunities that you give us ladies! It may not always be on stages or podiums, but just simply answering the call when we needed you and Mercy. Because of those doors three years ago, I am now trying to open doors for others by sharing the very thing that the enemy wanted to steal from me and that was my voice and my testimony! Thank you and may God continue to bless you, open doors for you, and continue to provide, for the Lord truly loves Mercy.
God bless......love you and please tell everyone I said hello. - Kim

I think this email says it all...KIM, WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!!!!!

Mercy Grads Now Ministry Gifts…

2011-04-06T13:07:00.000-07:00

I recently received the coolest email from a young woman named Katie who graduated from our St. Louis home three years ago. Katie became friends with another young woman named Maddy while they were in the Mercy program, and today she writes to tell me of a special milestone that the two of them shared together with their now husbands. I think it is much more powerful if I let Katie share it in her own words and show you the pictures from the actual time she is referencing in her email to me.

Hey Nancy,

Today my husband, Lee, and his lifelong friend, Tim Nelson (who is Maddy's husband), got ordained as ministers at our church - Meadowbrook in Ocala, Fl.

As all four of us were being prayed over today – I couldn't help but think, wow, look what the Lord has done! Two Mercy graduates are standing alongside two awesome godly men who are now ministers. Wish you could have seen it! Whenever something great happens in my life, even to the birth of our baby boy Gavin, I can't help but think that none of these beautiful things would have happened to me if it weren't for what God did in me while at Mercy. I'm forever grateful to you and Mercy! This is just the beginning of what God will do through my husband and I and Tim and Maddy.

Love,
Katie

Katie and Lee with their son, Gavin

Ordination of these two couples

Maddy and Tim

Australia Graduate Update…

2011-04-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

Elouise came to Mercy in 2004 battling depression and experiencing the pain of a broken heart because of many unjust things that life had thrown her way. Fast forward to 2011…Elouise is now happily married and recently had a precious baby boy. With Elouise’s permission, I wanted to share her message with you…

Hi Nancy,

Having graduated from Mercy Sunshine Coast, Australia in 2004, life just seems to be getting better and better.

In 2006, I married the most gorgeous Godly man who saw me through my Mercy journey. We have just celebrated 13 years together (high school sweethearts!) and five years of marriage.

But that is not the only thing we have just celebrated......on January 18th, 2011, I gave birth to the most adorable little boy, Amos Samuel. He is an absolute blessing from God, and I believe that he is my reward for all the pain and hard work I had to endure on my journey to freedom.

Thank you again for your passion to see the broken hearted made whole. I am one broken heart that has been mended and right now I am living my God dream - I'm a happy, fulfilled wife and mum! Who would have thought it could have been possible?!

Lots of love and best wishes,

Elouise

What a beautiful family! This report from Elouise made my day, and I hope it will make yours as well! Hope you have a great week!

Special Visit From Special Friend In Australia…

2011-04-01T15:09:00.000-07:00

It’s not often you get a visit from someone who lives a 24 hour car drive away, much less someone who lives a 24 hour plane ride away, but such was the case yesterday as my dear friend Leigh Ramsey made a guest appearance at our Mercy home in Nashville to share with our staff and residents about her amazing work with child trafficking victims in Cambodia. I so love connecting with these amazing women who have such a heart and are actually doing something about the issue instead of just speaking out against the issue.

After all, we are told to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. Sounds like a good plan to me, and Leigh is definitely a doer! So many lives are being impacted because of her obedience, and I wanted you to personally become acquainted with the great work that she is doing. Click onto this story to read more and check out some of the highlights from our time together yesterday!

Hilary, Me, Leigh, and Jill

Two NFL Greats Speak At St. Louis Luncheon…

2011-03-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

Check out these pictures from yesterday’s luncheon with St. Louis Rams Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo and my dear friend and former Tennessee Titans Head Coach, Jeff Fisher, as they joined forces together to promote the work of Mercy Ministries. It was truly a great time!!!

Coach Steve and Coach Jeff enjoying time together before the event!

Coach Jeff and Coach Steve, along with me and Price and Tammy Woodard, Mercy supporters from St. Louis.

Former NBA player and friend of Mercy, Steve Stipanovich

Me and Jeff

Coach Jeff, Coach Steve, Maria and myself

Featured speaker, Coach Steve, had a great message. Obviously the crowd was hanging on every word.

2006 Graduate, Kristen and 2010 Graduate, Priscilla

For more details about what the two Coaches spoke about you can read more details about this event – click here.

Two NFL Coaches Partner With Mercy For Special Event!!!

2011-03-28T16:40:00.000-07:00

My flight just landed in St. Louis, and I thought would share with you a bit about why I am here. Tomorrow at noon at the Hilton Frontenac Hotel, Mercy Ministries will be hosting a very special business luncheon for those who live in the area. Our featured speaker will be our very own St. Louis Rams Head Coach, Steve Spagnuolo (pictured left). As if that is not exciting enough, Coach Spagnuolo will be introduced by my special friend and longtime Mercy supporter, Jeff Fisher (right), former Head Coach of the Tennessee Titans.

It’s not too late for you to register for this event by going online to http://www.mercyministries.org/HowToHelp/Events.aspx.

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!! This is one event that you definitely do NOT WANT TO MISS!!!

Proof of God’s Power – Check it Out!!

2011-03-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

I just heard from a beautiful, young teenage girl who graduated from our Mercy home in Nashville in November of 2009. She is doing so great that I have to use my blog to brag on her today. I want to show you a picture of her beautiful face, and share with you the powerful words that she just sent to me via email. She is truly a champion and I could not be more proud of Hannah!!!

Hey Nancy,

My name is Hannah and I am 17 years old. I graduated Mercy Ministries a year and 4 months ago. I went to Mercy ready to die. I didn't want to live. I had no hope, but now I am so happy. I have Jesus Christ in my life. I just wanted to tell you that God is amazing. He has done so much in my life. I am getting ready to graduate high school, and I never thought that I would graduate. I had no hope for my life, but now I know God has a plan for my future. I am just so blessed. I have received a scholarship that pays for my first two years of college and plan to major in Psychology. I live in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida and God has put a fire in my heart to work at the Mercy Ministries when it is built here. I know God has so much in store for this area. Girls are so desperate for something more around here.

Love you,

Hannah

Thanks to all of our monthly partners and financial supporters for fruit that remains!!! HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Flowers, Flowers, And More Flowers…

2011-03-23T15:23:00.001-07:00

This weekend, our Nashville residents were so surprised when Mercy supporters, Blair and Jeff Moore, stopped by to hand deliver dozens and dozens of flowers! Blair and Jeff met our Nashville residents and staff at the Tennessee Governor’s Parade in February that the Mercy girls attended. Our residents were so blown away by the Moore’s amazing generosity and felt so loved. I thought you’d like to see some of the pictures from this special surprise…as you can tell, our girls LOVE flowers!!! :)

Special thanks to Blair and Jeff Moore for thinking of our girls and taking the time to bless them!

Hope everyone has a great night!

Nashville Residents Attend A Night of Hope With Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen!!!

2011-03-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

This past Friday, our Nashville residents were invited by Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen (pictured right) to be their special guests at “A Night of Hope” in Nashville. Our girls were so encouraged by Pastor Joel’s message of believing that 2011 can be a year of new beginnings, staying focused on your relationship with God, and not being distracted by what others may do or say. It was such an awesome evening, as several people from the Lakewood team shared their testimonies of God’s faithfulness.

One of the most powerful moments for me was when Cindy Ratcliff, Lakewood Church’s Director of Music and Worship, shared her personal story of adopting twins from Mercy’s licensed adoption agency in 2008. The twins were born to a young woman who came to Mercy Ministries for help and made the courageous decision to place her babies for adoption. Cindy and her husband, Marcus, had a son, but were not able to have any more children. After Cindy shared her story of adopting twins from Mercy’s licensed adoption agency, she sang “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” as a video of their family played in the background. It was such an amazing picture of God’s goodness!

Cindy and Marcus with the birthmother and the kids!

The entire night was filled with encouragement, testimonies, and great teaching! I thought I would share with you what some of our residents had to say about the event…

“Pastor Joel was speaking to my heart! The Lord showed me so many things through his teaching. It was awesome!” – Ashley

“Every single word that was spoken was so relevant, I felt like God was speaking directly to me. The Biblical examples and analogies about persevering were incredible. I definitely left feeling so encouraged.” - Amanda

Special thanks to Pastors Joel and Victoria, and the entire Lakewood team for “A Night of Hope!” Pastors Joel and Victoria have been long time supporters of Mercy and I would encourage you to check out Lakewood Church if you are ever in the Houston area. For more information on Joel Osteen Ministries and Lakewood Church go to www.joelosteen.com or www.lakewood.cc.

Look Who Stopped By!!!

2011-03-18T15:55:00.000-07:00

It is so cool the way God puts special people in our lives, and the way He bonds people together for Kingdom purposes as well as for special friendships that will be eternal. It’s been almost a year since my Executive Assistant, Cassidy, left to go on maternity leave and be a stay-at-home mom. I miss her very much, but we also make time to get together and keep in touch. Today Cassidy surprised us by stopping by the office so that London could see me, Jude, Katelyn, and all of her other close Mercy friends. Thought you might like to see a picture of Cassidy with her baby and me with my baby! :)

Have a great weekend!!!

Special Time Of Ministry With Higher Ground…

2011-03-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

It was our great joy to host dear friends, Mercy supporters, and musical group Higher Ground at Mercy here in Nashville yesterday. Higher Ground, featuring Wayne Hilliard, Eddie Combs, and Rodney Jordan (pictured below), made a lasting impact on our Nashville residents. They led us in a time of powerful worship, as well as making prophetic declarations over the lives of both residents and staff. It is so hard to describe just how amazing this time of ministry really was, so I thought I would share with you comments from a few of the girls and what they had to say…

WOW! This was awesome! I could feel God’s presence through the whole house! Their songs are so powerful! - Nikki

So much impacted me from this message. Hearing them speak over some of the girls was amazing. I was also encouraged when they said, “You may have done what they say you did, but you’re not who they say you are.” I have been called so many things, but I’m not that person anymore. I know God will heal my life. – Tori

This was awesome! It blessed me so much when they shared Ephesians 1:4, that even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in His eyes. - Jessica

Special thanks to Wayne, Eddie, and Rodney for taking the time to come and share with us! Higher Ground travels and ministers in churches and conferences across this nation and other nations around the world, and we were so blessed to have them here at Mercy yesterday. If you are interested in learning more about Higher Ground and/or checking out some of their music, visit their website at www.hgmin.com.

Higher Ground pictured left to right: Wayne, Eddie, and Rodney

Higher Ground pictured with Gina, who received a great personal breakthrough yesterday during our time of worship

I was thrilled to have our dear friends with us at Mercy!

Wayne Hilliard, leader of Higher Ground, spoke so accurately
into the lives of our girls…

Full Circle Milestone Only God Could Have Made…

2011-03-14T15:21:00.000-07:00

Approximately 22 years ago, I saw a beautiful baby girl come into the world. It was such a special time, as one of our birthmothers at Mercy asked me to be in the labor and delivery room with her as her support person. I was happy to do so, as I had been closely involved with this teenage girl who prayerfully made the decision to place her baby for adoption. I was quite amazed at her strength and courage, as well as the strong commitment to stick with her decision. This young woman had so much peace that I knew it had to come only from God.

I have had the privilege of watching this baby girl grow up in every stage of her life because her parents are close, personal friends of mine. YESTERDAY, I had the privilege of being a part of yet another milestone in the life of this young woman. Little did I know 22 years ago as I watched her come into the world that years later she would ask me to perform her wedding ceremony.

I feel the need to say that even though I can legally perform wedding ceremonies, I choose not to do so because it is really not my focus and because of having a limited amount of time. However, when Lainey asked me to do her wedding because that’s what God put on her heart, I really felt that God wanted me to make a one-time exception and honor her request. I am so glad I did because it was one of the most beautiful weddings I have ever seen!! I have no doubt that God has brought Lainey and Amadeus together to share a dream of serving God together and making an impact for the Kingdom. I so look forward to continuing to be a part of their lives as they grow together. I know that God has great plans for them as a couple (Jeremiah 29:11)!

Lainey and Amadeus

Mercy Resident, Andrea, Gives Birth Today to Beautiful Isabella!!!

2011-03-11T16:34:00.000-08:00

We are so thrilled to introduce you to the newest member of our Mercy family, baby Isabella born today at 1:28 PM weighing 5 lbs and is 18.25 inches long. As you can see by this picture she is absolutely beautiful, but how could she not be, look at her gorgeous mother!!! I’m happy to report that both mom and baby are doing well! Please join us in praying for Andrea as she seeks God’s wisdom and guidance as she begins her journey of parenting. Just wanted to share our joy with you!

Have a great weekend!

Life Church Pastors Speak at Mercy…

2011-03-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

It is not often that you get to be up close and personal with pastors who have had the privilege of leading over 24,000 people to Christ in the last 5 years, but today we had that privilege! After spending three years in Nairobi, Kenya on the mission field, John and Leslie Siebeling moved to Memphis, TN in 1996 to plant a church that started out with 7 people. 15 years later, that church now has thousands and thousands of people with 4 different campuses and multiple services every weekend.

I have to tell you that part of what meant so much to me was that pastors from a mega church of this size would take the time to drive over from Memphis and spend the entire day with our residents and staff. We had a powerful time this morning with our staff and residents together as Pastor John shared a great message entitled Moving Your Life Forward. At the end of the message, Pastor John prayed for us and also took the time to field questions from several of our residents. In the afternoon, we had a special leadership session with just staff where both Pastors John and Leslie spoke to us about how to promote a positive culture where faith can be released and teamwork can be promoted as we walk together in agreement with one common goal – to see captives set free and go on to fulfill their destiny! Pastor John also shared about 7 different ways that we can lead like Jesus. Examples out of the 4 Gospels were given to back up each point. It was a great time of building up our team and creating a stronger spirit of unity.

I want to personally thank Pastor John and Leslie, and I can tell you that if I lived in Memphis this would definitely be the church of my choice! If you live anywhere near the area or if you are ever visiting Memphis, I encourage you to pay a visit and your life will be forever changed. Check them out at www.thelifechurch.com.

Leslie speaking

Pastor John

Girls up close and personal with our guest speakers.

Nancy with Pastors John and Leslie Siebeling

Great Day at Freedom House Church in Charlotte!!!

2011-03-07T15:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had the privilege of speaking at Freedom House Church in Charlotte, NC with founding Pastors Troy and Penny Maxwell. It was my great joy to speak at all three Sunday morning services – 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM.

We were blessed to have so many of our Charlotte friends in attendance, but perhaps the highlight of my day was being reunited with three of our awesome Mercy graduates who are now all serving God and making a difference in their own individual ways. Thought you might enjoy seeing a picture from our time together!

(from left) March 2004 graduate, Kiyomi, November 2004 graduate, Alyssa, and December 2010 graduate, Ally.

I want to give a personal thanks to Pastors Troy and Penny Maxwell for their heart to help Mercy share the vision and to help establish a home in the Charlotte area! Special thanks to all who went out of their way to be there in support of this special time!

Headed to Freedom House Church in Charlotte for Weekend Services!

2011-03-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

It is my great joy to be invited to speak at Freedom House with founding pastors Troy and Penny Maxwell. Troy and Penny started Freedom House in 2002, and they have already grown this congregation to the point that they have to have three Sunday morning services to accommodate those in attendance. This will be my first time to speak at Freedom House, and I am so excited about being with the Maxwells and their leadership team. It is also exciting to me to be back in the great city of Charlotte, where we have so many friends that are on the Mercy journey with us. If you live in the area, I want to invite you to come to at least one of the services on Sunday, March 6th which are at 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, and 12:00 PM. If you want to know more about Freedom House Church and their pastors, Troy and Penny Maxwell, check out their website at www.freedomhousechurch.org.

The Maxwell Family

If you live anywhere near the Charlotte, North Carolina area, I hope to see you there this weekend!!!

Have a great weekend!

Author And Career Development Expert Lynette Lewis Speaks At Mercy…

2011-03-02T16:49:00.000-08:00

It was our awesome privilege today at Mercy Ministries in Nashville to host Lynette Lewis from New York City, who is an author and nationally known speaker. Lynette is an expert in career development and also specializes in marketing and branding. She was also in Nashville to speak to Dave Ramsey’s staff, and it was our joy to be able to share her time with our dear friends at Financial Peace.

Lynette is renowned the world over as an inspirational and motivational keynote speaker helping people find the true meaning of life and achieve goals beyond their highest hopes and dreams. Lynette is a graduate of Oral Roberts University, and now serves on its Board of Trustees. Lynette and her husband, Ron Lewis, founded Strategic Global Initiatives (SGI) a non-profit organization dedicated to giving a “voice to the vulnerable” around the world.

Today, Lynette chose to share with our residents about how she waited until God brought her the mate she knew was right for her. Lynette went into great detail about how this was a challenge to her faith since she actually did not get married until age 42. She went on to tell this amazing story of how her husband, Ron, was well worth the wait!!!

Lynette and her husband, Ron, are dear friends and supporters of the work we do here at Mercy. We look forward to having Lynette back again soon!!!

Mercy Ministries “Likes” Anderson Hill Consulting

2011-02-28T15:06:00.000-08:00

Want to help raise money for Mercy Ministries just by “liking” someone on Facebook?! Anderson Hill Consulting is a Nashville business that specializes in remodeling homes. Owner Eric Poulin (pictured right), recently came to tour our Nashville home and international headquarters and wanted to raise support for Mercy! Therefore, Eric set a goal to raise $1,000 for Mercy Ministries in the month of February. Anderson Hill Consulting will donate one dollar for every new fan they get on their Facebook page, up to 1,000 fans! TODAY IS THE LAST DAY!!! Click here to go to their Facebook page and click on the “like” button. It’s that easy!!!

Special thanks to Eric Poulin and Anderson Hill Consulting for their support!

Hope everyone has a great night!

Too Good to Miss!

2011-02-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday morning we had one of the most amazing and powerful radio shows, and the feedback from this particular show has been overwhelming. We actually had a young woman who was in the Mercy program about 10 years ago facing an unplanned pregnancy after her freshman year of college. During Kathryne’s stay at Mercy, she prayerfully made the decision to place her son for adoption. She felt that this was best for him, and would also make a way for her to complete her college education. Fast forward almost ten years later, and Kathryne not only completed her college degree, but she is now happily married and expecting a child of her own. In addition, Kathryne has been working as one of our Intake Coordinators for the past three years. In this position, Kathryne is on the phone every day with young girls who are facing difficult issues and are interested in coming to Mercy. Because of so much positive feedback about this particular show, I wanted to put a link to it here so you could listen – www.mercymultiplied.com.

I have also included pictures so you can see what each one of them look like. Not only was Kathryne in the studio, but she was joined by her husband, John, and the adoptive couple, Greg and Tracey. They shared their story of perfect love and the bond they have with the perfect love of God that was passed on through this. There is a trust and a love between them that only God can give. You are going to love this!!!

Here’s Kathryne at her desk working at Mercy

Adoptive couple, Greg and Tracey, with Jackson today

Jackson as a baby

Kathryne and her husband, John, on their wedding day!

Two Years And Still Going Strong…

2011-02-23T14:08:00.000-08:00

I just received a very inspiring letter from 2009 Nashville graduate, Georgianna, and I wanted to share it with you. Georgianna came to Mercy struggling with an eating disorder and self-harm, and is now walking in complete and total freedom. It is always so cool to receive letters like this that truly show how your past does not have to determine your future. I hope that Georgianna’s letter blesses you as much as it blessed me!

Hello!

I just wanted to let all of you at Mercy know that you are constantly in my prayers – God is doing GREAT things and it is a joy to watch Him work through your lives! I am so thankful that He led me to your doors two years ago. He has continued to do a good and perfect work and today I am still walking in freedom and living with hope and purpose! I am currently attending Liberty University with a goal of double majoring in Clinical Psychology and Health Promotions. It’s been a busy, but productive semester so far. I am also serving on Student Leadership as well as playing soccer and I absolutely love it!

The Lord is faithful and I am so thankful that His love is constant and sustaining. He never fails!

“I AM the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. – John 15:5”

Much love to all of you!

Because of His Mercy,

Georgianna

I am so proud of Georgianna and all she has overcome! She is truly a trophy of God’s grace!

Hope everyone has a great night!

Life On The Road…

2011-02-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone –

Hope you had a great weekend! The last time I blogged, I was in Toledo, OH, and the traveling has not stopped. I am currently on my way to spend time with our staff and girls in Louisiana for a few days and then on to St. Louis, MO to do the same. Although I love speaking at churches and conferences all over, my favorite thing is spending time with the current residents in all of our homes. Watching them face and overcome their issues head on is so rewarding – God is so good. They are truly my heroes!!! I will be joined by my special friends, Jane and Crystal Hamon, who will be spending time pouring into the lives of our staff and residents through the teaching of God’s Word and personal ministry to each individual. Please pray for this very special time that I believe will be life-changing for everyone, especially for our current residents in Louisiana and St. Louis.

I’ll talk more with you later. Hope everyone has a great night!

In Toledo With CeCe Winans, Jane Hamon, Lisa Bevere, and Kathi Pitts...

2011-02-18T15:14:00.000-08:00

The Impact Women's Conference hosted by Kathi Pitts has been one of the best ever!!! It has been my great joy to speak at this great conference alongside CeCe Winans, Jane Hamon, Lisa Bevere, and conference host, Kathi Pitts. The opening session of the conference was Wednesday evening with both morning and evening sessions yesterday and today. The closing session of the conference will be tonight featuring author and speaker, Jane Hamon, from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

For me personally, this has been one of the most fun conferences I have ever been a part of because all of the speakers are close, personal friends. We have had a great time!! Lots of tears and lots of laughter with God doing a deep work in the hearts of many.

I thought you might enjoy getting an inside look at some of the special moments we have had these last couple of days...

Nancy pictured with Kathi Pitts, Lisa Bevere, and Jane Hamon

Lisa Bevere

CeCe Winans

Celebrating with Canadian Mercy Grads!!!

2011-02-16T14:41:00.000-08:00

Nancy with the two graduates

I thought you would love seeing the celebration that occurred at the Mercy Canada home yesterday as we honoured the newly transformed lives of our first two Canadian graduates. The Mercy house in Canada was full of people and full of joy – it was so awesome to hear from these two beautiful young ladies about how Christ has changed their lives and given them a new beginning. Both Jorgia and Sonja are very excited about their future, and both young women plan to dedicate their lives to helping other young women overcome the same issues that they themselves have overcome. It was my honour to be there to mark this first ever milestone for our newest home in Vancouver, BC.

First two Canadian graduates are all smiles

I salute John and Helen Burns for having the heart and vision to start a Mercy home in Canada, and I salute Nicola Bartel for being the great leader she is as our Executive Director and overseer of all of our staff. What a great job this staff is doing!!!

John and Helen Burns

Check out these pictures to give you an idea of the wonderful time we had yesterday as we honoured these two young women…

Nancy gives current Canadian resident, Nancy, a hug of encouragement

Valentine’s Day in Vancouver…

2011-02-14T16:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was such a fun day, but also a busy one. I did my Mercy Multiplied radio show yesterday morning, and quickly left the studio to come home and pack a bag to head to Vancouver. I arrived late last night, and it was my great joy to walk into the Mercy home this morning to surprise the girls for Valentine’s Day! I had the privilege of teaching class and encouraging each one of the young ladies in their journey. The home here is so special and so beautiful, and the staff are so awesome!!! Tomorrow we will have an official graduation ceremony as we graduate our first two Canadian residents. It is my joy and privilege to be here to share in this milestone moment. These two girls represent hundreds and even thousands of young women who will walk through these doors in the months and years ahead to receive their freedom. Thought you might enjoy seeing a picture of me with some of the residents in our home here in Canada.

Also, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a Happy Valentine’s Day!

Eight Graduates Means Eight New Residents…

2011-02-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

We had three graduations this week – St. Louis, Nashville, and Monroe, LA. A total of eight girls graduated, which means that eight more girls will be able to come off our waiting list. I am so proud of each of these graduates and wanted to share a little bit about them with you…

Nancy pictured with Nashville graduates Jorey, Rachel, Amanda, and Annie

ANNIE:
Annie (pictured right) came to Mercy struggling with depression and anger problems. Annie’s self-hatred led to issues with self-harm and believing lies about herself and others. Through her time at Mercy, she learned the truth about what God says about her, as well as how to truly forgive herself and others. Annie also learned the power in renewing her mind to God’s Word daily. Annie is so excited to return home with her parents and get involved in a community group in her local church. Annie hopes to work for a non-profit organization one day and help others who are dealing with anger issues.

JOREY:
Jorey (pictured right) came to Mercy in June of 2010 struggling with self-harm and suicidal thoughts. While at Mercy, she has been set free from the fear and anxiety that had crippled her life since she was a young child and has moved into a place of true joy and hope. Jorey looks forward to going back home with her mom and finishing her junior year of high school along with getting involved in her youth group at church.

RACHEL:
Rachel (pictured right) came to Mercy with an eating disorder and struggling with self-harm. Before Mercy, Rachel’s life was filled with fear and pain, both emotional and physical. While at Mercy, God has totally transformed every aspect of Rachel’s life. God has restored her joy and ability to laugh. This has brought about incredible freedom and Rachel is now full of hope. Rachel is so excited to return home and plans to go on a mission trip to Africa with her mother this summer, which has been a dream of hers for some time.

AMANDA:
Amanda (pictured right) came to Mercy last June after hitting rock bottom and struggling with depression, an eating disorder, self-harm, and drug addiction. At Mercy, Amanda has learned her true worth and value in Christ and is walking in the freedom to be herself. Amanda is so thrilled to return home with her parents and get involved in her church by volunteering in the children’s ministry and attending youth group. Amanda also hopes to go to cosmetology school one day!

St. Louis Program Director, Melanie Harbert, pictured with Ashley

ASHLEY:
Ashley came to Mercy struggling with a never-ending cycle of drugs and alcohol and very unhealthy and unsafe relationships to the point where her life had become unmanageable and out of control. While at Mercy, God has restored Ashley’s personality and zest for life along with her dreams, passions and desires. She knows that God truly loves every inch of her and that He will never leave or forsake her. Ashley is excited to move to North Carolina and experience a new start. She also plans to go to Bible college in the future.

Monroe Graduates, Malorie (Left) and Lisa (Right), pictured with Program Director, Sharon (middle)

LISA:
Lisa came to Mercy dealing with anger problems, an eating disorder and depression. While at Mercy, Lisa has learned that she is valuable and that God has given her more peace than she has ever known. After Mercy, Lisa would like to eventually attend a school for the arts in preparation of opening up a dinner theater with a ministry for the homeless.

MALORIE:
Malorie came to Mercy struggling with self-harm. She had exhausted all her efforts and was at rock bottom. While at Mercy, God has shown Malorie true love, grace and mercy. The biggest revelation she received at Mercy was that God planted His purpose and destiny in her way before she was born. Malorie is so excited to finish her degree in Athletic Training while prayerfully waiting on God to open the doors for her to pursue her music career in ministry.

I am so proud of each and every one of you! Can’t wait to see all that is in store for your future. Jeremiah 29:11

Have a great weekend!