Monday, February 5, 2018

A Big Reveal and House Dedication

The overwhelming Big Reveal for Tamika and Jay

There are times when CSM's connecting resources with needs can take your breath away. On Wednesday, January 10th, we were all part of the joyful blessing as we celebrated a home dedication with a family in Ensley, Alabama  Jay and Tamika have been friends with CSM for some time and when we learned about their desire to own their own home we were grateful for the opportunity to partner with them so they could take the next steps into home ownership.

Charging the couple with a new path of leadership
Within a couple of months, Jay and Tamika were ready to move in. With the help of a group of students from Niceville and our decorating-expert/house-warming volunteers, the house quickly became a home. One of the lead volunteers, Jane Anne Stone, gathered all of the furniture and decorations to fully furnish the home in just a couple of weeks. She said it was incredible to see the Lord work and provide in ways above and beyond what was expected. Jane Anne started with a rug and some furniture from the CSM warehouse. When she asked her friends on Facebook if they wanted to donate anything for the home, she received offers within minutes. Not only was the donated furniture exactly what was needed, it also matched the rug, and other furniture perfectly.

The way all these details came together as people so willingly surrounded this couple, was a perfect reminder that the Lord cares for even the smallest details of our lives, and that He is able to provide for everything we need. Tracy Hipps challenged everyone there, and before entering their new home, Jane Anne and Tracy prayed over Jay and Tamika for Holy protection, guidance, and wisdom in the endeavor of owning a home for the first time. Over the next two years, we will continue in our relationship with Jay and Tamika to support and mentor them to achieve their family and financial goals.

— Written by Riley Cowell who is interning with CSM from Fall 2017-May 2018 as she pursues her Masters of Social Work from Samford University.

Jane Anne lights the candles in preparation for the Big Reveal

The house was move-in ready for the family

Tracy could hardly contain his excitement to see their reaction

Tamika and Jay were not expecting so many people to be there to celebrate

Tamika hugging her cheerleader - Jamie Leo! 

Tamika's parents were there in support of this new life chapter

Jane Anne praying over Tamika and Jay with Rhonda in agreement

Tracy challenges the couple and the crowd


Everyone lays hands on Tamika and Jay as Tracy dedicates the house to God

A hand-forged cross is hung above the door

Rhonda opens the door for the Big Reveal

Tamika's breath is taken away!

Rhonda accepts Tamika's gratitude

A sweet couple about to embark on a new chapter

Rhonda and Jane Anne in the completely furnished
and decorated master bedroom - a job well done!