When I had a full time career, in my free time I enjoyed visiting the seniors from my church who were no longer able to get out.

In March of 2001, I had a life changing experience. It happened when I heard for the first time 1 Chronicles 4:10, specifically where Jabez prayed to the Lord to enlarge his territory. After praying that passage I knew the Lord had something he wanted me to do. That simple event lead me to finally follow the passions the Lord, had placed upon my heart.

That day marked the beginning of Outreach for Christ to the Nursing Home Ministries. I founded the ministry with the realization that not only does the nursing home resident rarely get visitors, the vast majority of care center residents do not have a personal relationship with Christ.

Knowing they are in their twilight years I am passionate about reaching these beloved souls before it's too late.

During the first year of our ministry I regularly visited six care centers. Eventually I realized that the harvest was plentiful but I was limited in how many residents I could visit in any given day. With so many of our elderly in care centers today, I began contacting local churches to put teams of volunteers together.

I am sure one of the reasons I find myself drawn to the residents of nursing homes is because I have MS (Multiple Sclerosis). It provides me a unique insight into their everyday challenges as my own physical abilities deteriorate. This has served to deepen my passion.

My wife Susan and two daughters are also involved in the ministry utilizing their unique gifts. The girls regularly visit the care centers and enjoy talking and singing to the residents. Susan does some of the administrative work including processing of the news letters and is also my sounding board. She brings significant insight to my decision making. She is never shy about sharing another approach that I may not have considered. That type of teamwork is a blessing to the ministry and to me personally.

In closing I would request that you pray for our ministry. For the leading of the Lord in all that we do. “Father thy will be done”.

Chaplain Doug Lee