Homeless kid was guided by pastoral ministry

Paul was freezing and afraid to go to sleep. Our pastoral ministries gave him the hope he needed to survive.

It all begins with a promise to each homeless kid with no place else to turn. A promise that says very simply: we’re here for you.

At Covenant House, our pastoral ministry is simply a promise – a promise to serve and safeguard suffering children of the streets, a promise to open our hearts and love these children as God loves them – unconditionally.

Most of the kids who come through our doors haven’t known a love that never fails. And so our pastoral ministry lives the words of scripture and shows them love that is patient and kind, that is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs. Our covenant with these kids never quits, never fails, and never stops believing in the future.

This covenant relationship with our kids mirrors the words of Ezekiel 16:8 – “I bound myself by oath, I made a covenant and you became mine.” We say to our kids – I will put my faith in you… my trust in you… I will commit to you. All I ask is that you let me love you and that you try your best to believe in yourself and work to make your life better.

For many of our kids, faith in God plays an important role in helping them find the faith within themselves. And we’re there to guide any person, no matter what their background or beliefs.

Our pastoral ministers are unique caregivers who have a special way of reaching homeless kids. They help them heal from the traumas they’ve endured, and find a source of hope and love. Some of our kids renew their faith in God. Others find it for the first time.

Learn how our Faith Community Volunteers also provide spiritual guidance for our kids.

Paul’s biggest fear wasn’t freezing to death. It was what might happen to him if he fell asleep. "God had been trying to get my attention,” Paul said. "I hadn't eaten for a week and a half... I was starving. Here I could eat. I was so cold I couldn't feel my fingers, but here I was warm." Read how Paul found hope and comfort through Covenant House Pastoral Care.