It all started...

Praise the LORD!!!

   It all started, or I should say "in the free world," back in June of 1999. What started you may ask? The formation of "Vine of CHRIST Ministries," in the free world. For it had originally begun while I was incarcerated and though I'd been out of prison for some months, it took a while to get things started. Most of these first months after my incarceration were spent in a halfway house, so my ministry works were greatly restricted to their rules.

   Shortly afterwards though I began collecting the needed information and contacts. I'd already found a church home, so I soon enlisted their help also and it was on quickly after release from the halfway house. I rented a two bedroom house with a full basement and the basement was ideal for collection and storage needs. Soon I was gathering far more than it was possible for me, with the current limited connections, to pass along. I began donating  in mass, items that I was being given, to other local ministries. Some times passing on over 500 items of clothing and food products for their dispersal to people in great need. Most of these went to non denominational groups, because they didn't have the "affiliated" requirements that the denominational ministries did.

   Even though it's been almost twelve years of working by myself, I'll continue another twelve alone if that's the LORD's will. I've personally had my hands involved in almost every area of operation that the ministry will have. Yet still, due to my lack of business "smarts", I've not been able to get the ministry recognized as a 501.3 c non profit. I've gotten most of the needed paperwork required, but just don't have the kowledge to bring it all together. Does this bother me? In a small way, yes! But GOD didn't call me as HE has, because of my business smarts. HE's called me because I listen and no matter "crazy" an idea sounds, I go with it, wholeheartedly, giving it my all and fearing nothing!!!

   Sure, I'm on the verge of homelessness, but it's not the first time:) I'm working on a disabled computer, that's not the first time either! It boils down to the fact that I trust GOD with my future, completely, no doubts and no regrets. What tomorrow holds, only HE knows for sure and I trust that it will be for HIS glory and not mine. For I am but flesh and bone, shaped in HIS likeness, graced to bring HIM glory with every breath that I take!!!

May GOD bless you and guide you,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries