This Month at PAYH: Monthly Newsletter, January 2025

A Heartfelt Guide To The New Year

By Dr. John Geerdes

What is there about New Years that tends to set it apart from other holidays? Is it the season of the year, the festivities, or the long-awaited time for a vacation? However important these may be, it appears that something greater is happening when one year ends and another is about to begin. Something is likened to the closing of a book, and at the end of the book, it states, “the end.” It is time to put that book aside and start something new.

The mystic of the New Year can be discovered in the release of anything negative or old for the anticipation of something new. When speaking in terms of spiritual matters, the Apostle Paul stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Old things have passed away, and all things have become new.” What is true from a spiritual point of view is also true regarding other aspects of life. In order to grab onto the new, one must let go of the past. These “resolutions,” as we refer to them, can become “revolutions” in our lives. They can become major turning points where we move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and strength. So, this New Year, start it off by saying goodbye to the old and hello to the new. Let the “old things” pass away and let all things “become as new.”

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.

Thank You, Drew Callaghan

We are incredibly grateful to Drew Callaghan, Executive Vice President of RPE, for taking the time to speak to the young men at The Paul Anderson Youth Home. Your words of wisdom, leadership, and encouragement have truly inspired these boys to dream big and pursue their goals with integrity and determination.

Your support and investment in their lives make such a powerful impact. Thank you for sharing your experiences and reminding them that hard work, faith, and perseverance can lead to incredible opportunities.

Together, we are helping to shape strong, confident, and purpose-driven young men. Thank you for being a part of this mission!

Honoring Our Heroes

The boys at Paul Anderson Youth Home have been hard at work preparing the graves, and participating in the Laying of the Wreaths ceremony. With reverence and dedication, they ensured that every resting place of our nation’s heroes reflects the honor and gratitude they deserve.

This meaningful act not only teaches them the importance of service but also connects them to the legacy of sacrifice that allows us to enjoy the freedoms we hold dear. We honor these brave men and women who gave everything for our country. Let us never forget their sacrifice.

It’s a Wrap!

What a joyful day at The Paul Anderson Youth Home! The boys got into the Christmas spirit by wrapping presents with so much care and love. It was heartwarming to see them work together, laughing, chatting, and putting their creative touch on each gift.

Giving back and celebrating the true meaning of the season is what this time of year is all about. Seeing their faces light up as they imagined the smiles these gifts will bring was a reminder of the power of kindness and generosity.

Advent Season

We kicked off the Advent season in the sweetest way possible—a Hot Cocoa Bar with all the fixings!  Marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, and a whole lot of holiday cheer were the perfect way to gather together and prepare our hearts for this special season.

Each day, we dove into a short devotional that helped us focus on the true meaning of Advent: HOPE, JOY, PEACE, and LOVE. These moments of reflection are a wonderful opportunity for our boys to grow spiritually, embrace the season, and celebrate the light of Christ.

Serving Those Who Serve Us

The boys at The Paul Anderson Youth Home rolled up their sleeves and got busy in the kitchen, baking delicious cookies for our local EMS heroes!

With a mix of teamwork, laughter, and a pinch of love, they created treats to show appreciation for the incredible men and women who work tirelessly to keep our community safe.

We’re so proud of these young men for giving back and learning the joy of serving others. A huge thank you to our EMS for all you do—you are truly appreciated!

Thank You, Jason

We are thrilled to recognize Jason Clark, a proud alumnus of the Paul Anderson Youth Home, for his incredible generosity and heart for giving back. Jason, now a successful attorney, is making a powerful impact by pouring back into young men here at The PAYH.

Your commitment to paying it forward, Jason, embodies the values we strive to instill in every young man who walks through our doors.

Thank you for being a living example of how investing in others can change lives and create a ripple effect of hope and transformation.
Join us in thanking Jason for his support and in celebrating the difference he’s making in the lives of our boys!

Save The Date!

Join us for a day of family fun, fitness, and community spirit at the Chick-fil-A Vidalia Road Race! Whether you’re a runner, walker, or just there to cheer, this event is perfect for all ages. Bring the whole family and be a part of this exciting tradition!

Go to RunVidalia.com and take advantage of our $30 early bird special, which runs through January 31st. We can’t wait to see you at the finish line!