This Month at PAYH: Monthly Newsletter, November 2024

Giving Thanks

By Kevin Williams

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

What does it mean to give thanks in everything? As we pause at this time of year to celebrate and give thanks for God’s gracious bounty and blessings, we should be reminded to give thanks for all things. Even those things that threaten, and frighten us, can serve to remind us of the greatness of our God. The events surrounding the recent storm, and subsequent cleanup, and recovery efforts remind us of God’s sovereignty and care for all of his creation. As you and I, along with friends and family, pause to give thanks this year, let us remember that the love and care of our Heavenly Father transcends the heavens and all that we see, and comprehend, then be moved to love and care for each other, and widen our circle of care to those who need to experience the greatness of our Lord. Give thanks with a grateful heart!!

Strength For The Day

Each week, PAYH shares a devotional; “Strength For The Day,” by Chaplain (Col) Stephen W. Leonard, USA, Ret. In addition to being a retired US Army Chaplain, he is also the husband of our Co-Founder, Glenda Anderson Leonard. His writing is both moving and inspiring and will most certainly lift your spirit and encourage you in your walk with Jesus. To receive his weekly writing, you can subscribe online at payh.org. You can also read past writings by clicking here.

Strengthening Community Through Service

We are so proud of the guys here at The Paul Anderson Youth Home, who continue to demonstrate their heart for service by helping unload supplies at the disaster relief distribution center in Vidalia Toombs Central School, and assisting the Cajun Navy. Their dedication to supporting our community, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, has been truly inspiring.

These young men have shown up time and again to help distribute essential supplies to those in need, offering hope and relief to storm victims. We are grateful for their hard work and commitment to making a difference.

Let’s all take a moment to appreciate these incredible young leaders and the Salvation Army team for their ongoing efforts. Together, we are stronger than the Storm!

We Are Stronger Than The Storm

We are incredibly grateful to the many organizations who have come alongside us in the cleanup efforts at The Paul Anderson Youth Home. Their support has been invaluable in making headway in what is still very much a work in progress. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of these disaster relief volunteers, we have been able to make a meaningful dent in the cleanup, but there is still much to be done. We appreciate each and every hand that has pitched in and look forward to continuing the work together, step by step, to fully restore and rebuild our grounds. Thank you for standing with us!

Founder’s Day

We are so proud to celebrate Founders’ Day, honoring the legacy of Paul and Glenda Anderson. While Hurricane Helene may have disrupted our plans to gather at The Knoll like usual, our commitment to supporting troubled youth remains unwavering. On this special day, we reflect on the ministry’s journey and pray for the restoration of our campus and the well-being of the young men in our care.

Let’s join together in prayer for the youth and staff of PAYH, and for all those affected by the hurricane.

Isaiah 40:31, “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not faint.”

Goodbye, Mr. Oggie

It is with heavy hearts that we offer our deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. Al “Oggie” Medlock, the beloved woodworking instructor at the Paul Anderson Youth Home. Mr. Oggie’s passion for pouring into the young men through teaching his craft was evident to all who knew him. Even in his final days in hospice, he spoke of his desire to return to the Youth Home to see the boys. His love and dedication to shaping lives will be remembered forever.

Please join us in praying for his wife, Karen, and the rest of his family during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to the Paul Anderson Youth Home or his church, Tarrytown Baptist Church.

Rest in peace, Mr. Oggie—you will be greatly missed.