Gentle Hands Annual Christmas Appeal
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We would like to invite you to be a part of Gentle Hands Annual Christmas appeal. For a gift of $50, each child at Gentle Hands will receive a new toy, something to wear and a new pair of shoes. We are looking for 120 generous donors to support this appeal. We can also organize gift certificates if you would like to use this as a present for someone this Christmas.

Through your generosity we are able share the gift of hope and love this Christmas. This gift is a tangible way to show our children they are loved and valuable in Gods sight. If you would like to be involved in our Christmas Appeal, please email us at  nathan.wheeley@gentlehands.org.
Medical Update
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Mr A was diagnosed with a congenital heart disease known as Ventricular Septal Defect. Without vital surgery, the hole in his heart would continue to grow. After several complications, Mr A was finally able to undergo his surgery. We are so relieved that the complex procedure was a success and we are extremely grateful for the doctors and health professionals who bless our children with their expertise.
 
Six-month-old Theo came to us two months premature after his mother’s failed attempt to terminate him in the womb. He was consequently left with health complications, more than any child should have to endure. After his 2D echo, we found out that there was no hole in his heart and we couldn’t thank God enough for this great news! However, in his recent hospitalization, doctors said that due to progressive pneumonia and a congenital heart problem he will have to rely on oxygen 24/7 and will need further procedures to manage severe pulmonary hypertension.

We believe in a God of miracles and are so thankful for the prayers that have been given for these two medical cases. 
 
“And the child grew and became strong; He was filled with wisdom and the Grace of God was on him” Luke 2:40.
We pray this scripture over these two boys on their road to recovery and physical healing. 
Adoption Update
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For almost five years, these brothers (aged 18 & 13) have been patiently waiting for a family to call their own. 
Five years of healing, growing, learning and fervently praying.

This September, our boys went with their new parents, home to their forever family in the United States.
 
There are few words to describe how faithful the Lord is to our children, or how truly beautiful it was to see the embrace when their worlds finally collided. This story is a testament to the grace and provision of God. We celebrate how the Lord makes a way, when there seems to be no way. To the families who continually open their hearts to adoption, we thank you.
 
Congratulations to this beautiful family! 
November Volunteer Update
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This September we were thrilled to welcome a mission team from Victoria Point Baptist from Brisbane, Australia. The 16-member group served in various capacities during their stay. From caring for our babies, to knocking down walls, installing plumbing infrastructures and teaching in our education program, we were so blessed by their skills and heart to serve our children. Gentle Hands is grateful for this partnership and are looking forward to the future teams.

From team member Phil Harris:
 
This was a mission trip I felt drawn to, I am not sure why so it must have been God pushing me. I consciously stopped trying to pre-empt the experience before leaving. Several images impacted my soul and remain etched in my memory, because of their beauty and how they challenge our Australian mindset and expectations. 
 
I realised over the duration of the trip every child in the orphanage had a sense of belonging and purpose, and contributed to the functioning of the premises in their own way .The image of these children singing and praising God at the top of their voices, with hands in the air, to the words of bible songs and hymns, with such gratitude and joy. This brought me to tears; both overwhelmed me and challenged my own level of worship and praise.
 
I would recommend anyone who has the inclination in their heart to participate in a mission, to find one that draws them and follow that lead, do not consider the financial cost too much, because you cannot afford to miss out on the spiritual dividends. This trip will remain vividly in my memory and has deepened my belief of what can be achieved when we are obedient to Gods call.