CELEBRATING GOD’S BLESSINGS

WORDS OF HOPE
“I learned that
becoming a
Christian is not
about being
perfect; it’s about
God accepting
us for who we are.”
Josh Shepard
MCH, Class of 2011
“I was blessed
that my family
found MCH. Not
only did the Home
give me hope for
a new life, it also
gave me a passion
to use my life to
serve others.”
Heather Reed
MCH, Class of 2005
Texas A&M University, 2009
Religious Education
The Religious Education
(R.E.) Department leads the
MCH community in Christian
worship. This includes carrying
out worship services
and events that convey the
good news of Jesus Christ.
The department is led by a
chaplain, religious education
director and music director.
WORSHIP: Youth from the
Waco campus and Boys
Ranch attend worship services
in Harrell Memorial
Chapel. During low-census
periods, home units are invited
to visit local churches.
DISCIPLESHIP: The R.E.
department offers Wednesday
evening activities, which are
optional for youth. Weekly
Bible studies are offered at
the Boys Ranch and in some
home units, in addition to
group devotionals.
LEADERSHIP: Youth take leadership
roles in worship. They
serve as Acolytes and ushers,
read scripture, lead prayers,
participate in the worship
band, present special music,
and assist with audio and
multimedia services.
SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES:
Youth enjoy opportunities to
serve others through mission
trips across Texas, and youth
always look forward to our
annual summer camp at Glen
Lake Camp.
MUSIC LESSONS: Our music
director gives or coordinates
music lessons in voice or on a
variety of instruments. Youth
take lessons in guitar, piano,
bass, drums, violin, trumpet
and trombone.
WAXAHACHIE CAMPUS:
Youth in Waxahachie attend
worship services and participate
in youth group activities
at First United Methodist
Church. MCH youth attend
day trips, retreats and mission
trips with FUMC youth.
The church’s youth minister
regularly visits our youth.
Identifying spiritual needs: Each new resident is led through a Spirituality Assessment to help our staff
determine the specific spiritual needs of our youth. In addition to teaching opportunities and group discussions
about the Christian faith and spiritual development, our staff often provides one-time or short-term
counseling on religious matters. The R.E. staff also lead short-term studies in preparation for baptism, write
and distribute weekly devotional booklets, and teach a sex education program from a biblical perspective.
73%
The percentage of youth in
our residential program who
complete their program of care
as planned at admission.
(Target: 75%)
16
The average number of
months youth remain in care
in our residential program.
58%
REASONS YOUTH SEEK PLACEMENT
18%
5%
5%
4%
10%
Family-child conflict
Caregiver unable to
provide care
School issues
Social issues
CPS placement
Other
6