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How can you keep abreast of the exciting ministry of Pacific Garden Mission? The PGM News takes you through the "doors that never close" to the very heart of the Mission. You'll enjoy the lively articles and colorful photos in this attractive monthly publication. Get a sneak peak of the latest edition here, then request your free subscription.
PGM’s Bible Program
Helps prepare men to
become productive citizens |
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PGM is a busy place. A lot more than just men shuffling in for food and a bed. During the day more than 100 resident men go from room to room for Bible study and general classes that will help them achieve success in the world outside the Mission. The Men’s Bible Program has been running for many years now, but it wasn’t until March 1998 that a new vision for adding to the existing Program was born.
After the retirement of Superintendent David Saulnier, Dr. Dave McCarrell took over leadership of PGM and came to us with much experience, having served 18 years on the Board of Trustees following in his father’s footsteps. Nine of those years he served as Chairman of the Board.
With 35 years of experience in the public school system, President McCarrell began adding curriculum to the existing program. With his leadership and guidance, the most innovative addition was created, Career Development which emphasizes life skills. Today, 11 years later, the program is one of the most advanced Christian rehab programs among rescue missions in the nation, producing individuals ready, willing, and able to re-enter society as profitable, productive citizens.
Basic Bible is taught. Classes include Old and New Testament Survey, Gospel of John, Romans, Psalms, Proverbs, etc. and also soul winning. Classes are taught by our own pastors, Phil Kwiatkowski (Vice President of Ministries), Ervin McNeill (Chaplain), Sampson Green, Ed Schoenberger, Kermit Hagerman, and Jeff Bower.
PGM offers three Gospel services a day, one of which must be attended by each man in the Program. The Mission is kept running by our Program men and women. Each student has a job in the operations of this facility. Work areas are Maintenance, Administration, Women’s Division, Men’s Division, Greenhouses, Food Service, and Central Clothing.
We offer a lending library with a full-time librarian. Supportive reading skills are taught. Computer lab and typing courses are available, taught by college professors. There is a fully equipped gym and a beautiful courtyard where some classes are taught when weather permits.
The individuals who have enrolled in the Bible Program spend eight months of the one-year program training and working diligently. After eight months they enter Career Development for the final four months of the year’s Program. Dan Olson, career development director, adds, “This part of the program places emphasis on resume writing, interview preparation, job search strategies, as well as professional growth possibilities.”
“Additionally, all individuals must open a bank account and become aware of their credit status. Other classes teach various lessons and life applications. Some subject matter includes: work-ethic, confidence building, anger management, teamwork, honesty/character, loyalty, faithfulness, making sound decisions.”
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