At the Gospel Rescue Mission, we often talk about “rescuing people from poverty in Jesus’ name.” But if you sat down with Shane, he’d tell you that sometimes the most profound rescue isn’t from a lack of funds or a roof—it’s a rescue from isolation.
Shane grew up in a world of shifting father figures and a family dynamic that left him feeling lonely and alone from a very young age. This early blueprint of brokenness followed him into adulthood, leading to a cycle of three marriages and three divorces.
“I was doing exactly what I saw growing up,” Shane reflects. Eventually, he retreated into himself, living single and largely solitary for 24 years. He wasn’t a “hater,” as he puts it, he just preferred to be left alone.
When life’s circumstances brought him to our door six months ago, Shane expected structure. Having spent seven years in prison, he knew how to follow rules. What he didn’t expect was the surprise blessing of genuine relationship.
“It’s not as much the living at the Mission around a bunch of guys,” Shane says. “It’s the folks like Brian, Aaron, Laura and Monica. They have stirred up in me the desire for personal relationships again. You guys have helped bring me back to a place where I’ve regained my faith in humanity.” Shane spends much of his time working at our yard sale, a partnership with the ROC Food Pantry, where he interacts with the community. He credits ROC staff member Shonna for modeling a “sincere caring about people” that has fundamentally changed his outlook. This connection is more than just “being nice”—it’s a reflection of God’s design.
A gifted writer who has been honing his craft for 50 years, Shane uses his experiences as a rich backdrop for his writing. He finds the process cathartic, leaning on the wisdom of the Apostle Paul to put the past behind him while using its lessons to build a better future. Currently, Shane is navigating significant health challenges, including eye and shoulder surgeries. While he waits for clarity on his next steps, and hopes to one day write full-time, he is actively engaging in our Christ-centered program. In chapel, he finds his sword sharpened by the teachings and fellowship.
Shane has a message for you, our supporters: “Their funding and their investment and their prayers… truly is making a difference. They’re not just feeding and showering dudes. The fundamental difference that the donors are making in men’s lives is dramatic.”
It is your support that allows us to provide more than just hot meals and warm beds for our men, women and children. You help us provide a place where people like Shane can find community and rediscover their value- because they are made in the image of God.
Please join us in praying for Shane as he seeks clarity for the next phase of his life and heals from his upcoming surgeries.
