April, Easter, and You
By Chaplain (Col) Stephen W. Leonard, USA, Ret.
Easter is in April this year, a month in which Spring truly emerges. We are fully immersed in Spring weather and the blooming of flowers and trees; dogwoods, cherry blossoms, pear, azaleas, rhododendrons, daffodils and tulips. We are aware of the changing of our environment and the landscape all around us.
But does Easter and all it means to us have a greater power to impact our lives and outlook as Spring does? The truth that Jesus died on Calvary’s cross that we might be free of our sin, and live a new life. And that hours later, 3 days worth, He broke the bonds of death, not only for Himself, but for you and me. His resurrection meant the death of death; that ugly, painful sting of death is gone from you and me forever; absent from the body means immediate presence with the LORD!
You nor I need to fear our death, rather we indeed can welcome it. We rejoice to be with Jesus, and our loved ones who preceded us, including, for me, a child who went before.
Is this not a greater joy than the joy of Spring delights? To bask in Jesus’ resurrection and what it means for us, the removal of the greatest fear of all. “No condemnation now I dread; Jesus and all in Him, is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, and clothed in righteousness divine, Bold I approach the eternal throne, and claim the crown, through Christ my own.”
Nothing greater than this! This is what we want our young men to know while they are here on our campus, before they leave us, and all because your gifts and prayers support us.
You have been indefatigable in undergirding us. Please know of our gratitude to you each one this April. Then as you experience the emergence of Spring, the renewal of life all around you, think again on this greater work of Christ, which not only makes Spring possible, but He overcomes His agonizing death, removes the stone, walks out of the tomb, and appears to numerous eye-witnesses. Let Spring remind you of this all transforming truth. Jesus rose, He lives, He reigns, and you too shall live!
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.
Congratulations Guys!
Huge congratulations to the Paul Anderson Youth Home Boys! We are beyond proud of our young men for their outstanding performances in the Chick-fil-A Vidalia Road Race!
Michael – 1st Place Overall in the 10K!
Lindon – 1st Place Overall in the 1-Mile!
Jaxon, Nolan & PAYH Staff Member Jared – Top 3 in their Age Groups!
Their dedication, perseverance, and hard work truly paid off, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate these amazing accomplishments. Way to represent Paul Anderson Youth Home with strength and determination!
Family Weekend
A Weekend of Faith, Family & Fellowship at The Paul Anderson Youth Home
This past weekend, we had the incredible opportunity to come together as a family at the Paul Anderson Youth Home—a place built on faith, hope, and transformation.
Every moment was a reminder of God’s grace and the strength of community. We shared laughter, encouragement, and unforgettable memories, watching young men grow into their God-given potential.
Thank you to the staff and leaders who pour their hearts into this mission every day. The impact you’re making is truly life-changing!
To everyone who joined us—family, friends, and supporters—let’s continue to lift these young men up in prayer as they walk their journey of faith and purpose.
Hurricane Helene Damage Update
Hurricane Helene caused some major damage to our campus. As we continue to recover this week, we have six buildings that are getting new roofs! Stay tuned for more updates, and keep us in your prayers.
Save the Date
Mark your calendars for the 32nd Annual Paul Anderson Golf Classic on Monday, May 5th, 2025! Join us for a day of great golf, fellowship, and support for the young men of the Paul Anderson Youth Home.
When: Monday, May 5, 2025
Where: The River Golf Club in North Augusta, SC.
Register Now: payh.org/golf
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event! Whether you’re playing, sponsoring, or simply supporting, your participation makes a difference in the lives of these young men.
Stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to see you on the course!
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