b'MORE THAN A MEALA Time for Every WorkPursuing ministry dreams in a new yearby Barbara Streeter What has been will be again, opened such wonderful conversations with their guest what has been done will be done again; advocates. The guests also asked me for recipes, as well there is nothing new under the sun.as instructions on how to prepare these dishes once they ECCLESIASTES 1:9 acquired their own home. And I began to dream about After 28 years of managing rescue mission kitchens, Iwhat more formal training could look like.have come to understand what God means in this verse:Last year that dream became a reality. We added a min-History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before,istry called Higher Purpose, which educates and assists but outcomes can change. If we learn from our past andindividuals and families out of shelters through a success even from our mistakes, we can make a difference whenand empowerment class, career fairs, case management, challenges and opportunities come to us in the future.and neighborhood renewal efforts. The Bible tells us that with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26, Mark 10:27). And Ecclesiastes 3:17 says,I was able to help develop a four-week communityThere is a time there for every purpose and for everynutrition class that teaches families how to make thework (NKJV). We may need to wait for His timing. most of food-pantry supplies by creating nutritious and When I started developing a food service department forpractical meals.Rescue Ministries of Mid-Michigan, I discovered that I hadGods timing is always perfect! Because I had to wait to a passion for showing Gods love through food. I learnedsee this dream come to fruition, I had compiled enough quickly that the adage The way to a mans heart ismaterials to establish this class with little effort. For the through his stomach was true. Many guests would comeinaugural class, we raised enough money to also provide down to lunch after a tough case management sessionevery participant with a turkey, all the necessities for a grumbling and very discouraged. But when they saw aThanksgiving dinner, and instructions on how to prepare it, homemade meal waiting for them, they would perk up. during the final session.I cant tell you how many times conversations over aAnother new year has begun. What has God been stirring homemade bread pudding or pineapple upside-downin your heart to accomplish for Him?cake led to a changed attitude in a guest. These dishes Barbara Streeter serves as the culinary director for Rescue Ministries of MidMichigan (R3M) and Remember to log in to the Citygate Networkhas been involved with R3M for nearly 30 years. Member Portal to share your ideas and tipsFor the past several years she has served as a for meeting the needs of those we serve. Inpresenter at both district and annual Citygate the meantime, enjoy thisNetwork conferences. She is passionate about helping other food-service professionals by time-tested Mini Ched- sharing resources, training, and her love of dar Meat Loaf recipe Icooking.have made for 20 years. Its a mission favorite! 47 INSTIGATE|January/February|2026'