Young Women Stepping Heavenward

Letters From:
Unfolded Hearts

Dear Summer and Melody,

I greet you for the first time in Jesus’ name! I realize you do not know who I am, so let me introduce myself. My name is Abigail Paul, and I’m nearly 17.

Recently my good friend and long-time penpal, Mary Ueland, send me a copy of your magazine. I have read through it many times now, and each time the Lord has blessed me greatly. It is really amazing that the issue I received (Vol. 1, No. 4, Jan-Mar ’97) dealt specifically with one of my biggest struggles in life right now- submission to both my heavenly Father and my physical Father. The very last article in the magazine (“A Will to Love”) brought tears to my eyes- it could have been written by me. Every word described me so perfectly until... alas!... until I reached the part where the author forgave her father. I want peace and a loving relationship with him so much, but my foolish pride is yet too strong for me. Oh, sisters, please pray for me that I might reach out in humbleness and ask forgiveness!

I really admire your courage in printing the article on “Christian” rock- I feel very strongly on this subject but have not yet got up the nerve to print an article on the subject in my newsletter. It is such a controversial issue, and I know it would offend some of my subscribers. I was very surprised to see an article by Jana Baldridge in “YWSH”. Not that it is surprising in itself =), but I have just begun to write Jana. We met her father at an organic farming convention in WI. He subscribed to my newsletter for Jana. When I sent her first issue, I asked if she would like to be penpals, and she agreed. Just a few weeks later, I received “YWSH”. So now you know why it was so amazing to me! (“It’s a small world after all”, as they say!)

But, to get down to business, I am enclosing some stamps and a little cash to help cover printing, etc. I know full well how expensive printing a newsletter can be! I am also sending along some things you may wish to consider printing- I hope they are helpful. Also, as you know by now, I am sending you a sample of my newsletter. I am very thankful the Lord has allowed me to print it these two years. Please feel free to use articles from it, if you so choose. I currently have 50 subscribers to “Hidden Wisdom”- thank the Lord! I really enjoy putting it together!

But now I have a few questions for you- I hope you do not think I am being snoopy! =)

1. How many subscribers do you have? What computer program do you use?

2. Would you be interested in trading ads for “YWSH” and “HW”?

3. Do you charge anything for ads (like for my catalog or penpals-wanted)?

4. What is your policy for reprinting articles? (May I print any of yours?)

I am out of room now so I must close. May God bless you for this wonderful ministry you have! I look forward to hearing from you soon! A sister in Christ,
Abigail Paul - Laurel, IA

Dear Abigail Dear Abigail,
Some of the questions you have asked have been asked by various other subscribers as well, so we thought we'd go ahead and answer them here in the magazine. (And don't worry, we don't think your questions are snoopy, by any means! =) )
1. We can't give the exact number of subscribers because it constantly fluctuates. However, I would say that the number is currently between 250 and 300. As for what desktop publishing program we use, Adobe Pagemaker is the one.
2 & 3. Sure, we would be happy to trade ads! And, no, we don't charge anything for printing them.=)
4. This has probably been one of the most often asked questions since we printed our last issue, so we have decided that we are finally going to have to make some sort of statement about it... Here it goes: YES! Anyone is welcome to reprint and copy articles unless they are specifically copyrighted by the author. (We have contacted Dr. S. M. Davis, about his article "God's Plan For Finding a Mate", and he has given all of you permission to copy that, but please keep the copyright symbol on it.)
Also, we request that if you copy or reprint any of the articles, that you also include this statement: "This article was taken from "Young Women Stepping Heavenward" magazine. To receive a 3 issue subscription to 'YWSH' magazine, send 9 stamps to: P.O. Box 1992 / Van Alstyne, TX 75495".
I hope this answers everyone's questions. Love in Him,
Summer and Melody

Dear Summer and Melody,

Greetings in the name of our Redeemer!

I just wanted to let you know how much I love your magazine! You’ve encouraged me so much. It’s so nice to have others that believe as we do. I especially liked the articles on courtship and betrothal, which is what we are going to do.

My daughter is 10. I also have a 3 year old boy and 8 year old boy. My daughter also enjoys the articles in your magazine.

You are so right about the CCM. I agree with you and your article was great! Let us not jeopardize heaven for worldly pleasures here on earth!

I hope everything is well with your mom. I haven’t heard from her in awhile. In His Service,
Sandra Ehmen - Oshkosh, WI

Dear Girls,

We’ve been looking for strictly scripture tapes to learn the Word. Could you please send the Psalm tape and booklet? And if you know of any tapes (with or w/o music) of scripture, we’d sure appreciate the info.

A friend of our daughter passed on a couple issues of YWSH. I’m not sure exactly what to think of it yet, but after reading almost all of 2 packed issues, I would ask you to consider every word you “say” to make sure it reflects Jesus (something He would say) and be careful of idle words. I guess those two go hand in hand. Be careful of stirring up emotion for entertainment. I have more to say, but perhaps you could prayerfully consider what I’ve said. I do not want to tear down.

May we be watching and waiting for Him, loving Him w/our whole hearts, living only to please Him. With His love,
A Friend

Dear Sister,
I want to thank you for the note you wrote to us in regards to “YWSH” (magazine) about speaking idle words...I went back and scrutinized all that I had written in the last two issues, and I also looked up the word “idle” in the dictionary. It means: “having no use or value; worthless; useless”.
Truly, I have no inner desire to speak idle words or to speak words for the purpose of entertaining. I see now that that is what I did in “Days At Our Home” when I imagined that conversation between the cameras. I guess I just got inspired by the humor of the entire situation, and I wrongly let my imagination carry me away. I am sorry and must certainly ask your forgiveness! I also plan to print this apology for all of our subscribers to read in the next issue of “YWSH”... Truly, to be a stumbling block to others is the very last thing I wish to do. Please forgive me.
I don’t know exactly what all else you might have been referring to when you mentioned us speaking idle words, but if there is anything, I would surely like to know.
I do not want people to think that one of my main goals in writing is to entertain. (God , please no! =( ) I feel so foolish, if that is really what has been coming across to others in my writing.
I feel that there is nothing wrong in relating personal experiences in a personal, yet interesting manner, as long as the purpose (or objective) in writing it is God-honoring and the writing ends up fulfilling that purpose.
Would you mind helping me in discerning whether or not my purposes in writing are God-honoring? I list them as follows:
1. I want to be able to relate my personal every day-to-day life to others in an interesting manner and then be able to reflect back upon all that has occurred and be able to gather a spiritual lesson from what has happened (what God has taught me through it, etc...)
2. I want to be able to relate ordinary events as they occur in our lives in an effort to establish a relationship between ourselves and our subscribers by showing them that we are ordinary human beings (not just magazine editors) and that we have our own share of trials, disappointments, disasters, mistakes, failings, etc., just like everyone else. (In other words, to be lifted high upon the pedestal of near perfection is the last thing we desire from our subscribers.)
3. I wish to promote through my writings the joys of large family life. It’s fun! =) (It really is!)... and can also be rather amusing at times. =) Living in a large family is not dull or boring by any means! I enjoy presenting the interesting sides of our lives and hope that it might encourage others, also, to look upon the bright side of things.
I guess those are my main objectives, the first one being my most important one by far.
Please forgive me for getting carried away in the last issue about that camera. It was rather traumatic for me, but I shouldn’t have allowed myself to get carried away. Is there anything else I have said that you feel might be “idle”?
This whole situation reminds me of II Corinthians 10:3-5 where it says: “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
Let us pray that the Lord will help us all to do this. - It is very difficult, for we all still walk in the flesh... Ah, but His weapons are mighty, and with Him all things are possible! PTL!
Another verse comes to my mind: “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” -Eph.4:29 What strikes me most about this verse is that not only does it say not to let corrupt communication proceed from our mouths, but it emphasizes the fact that what we do say should be edifying so that it will minister grace to the hearers. What we say should actually be beneficial to others! What a high standard Christ holds up for us here on earth! How many times have I thought idle thoughts or spoken idle words? This is a real lesson for me.
I know we have repeated numerous times in different issues of “YWSH” that we, as editors, have not yet attained perfection. How true I know it is! Every time we put together another issue, I feel like I am being held accountable for all I say and do -yea, even all that I think and feel! - It can be very humiliating at times...but I know it is good for me to be held accountable by others. That is what having brothers and sisters in the Lord is all about! And I thank God for every one of them - In my heart I really do!
And I thank the Lord that He led you to write what you did, for I know that it has truly been good for me.
Again, I ask your forgiveness, and yes I certainly must say amen! to the closing of your letter! We should be loving Him with our whole hearts and living only to please Him. Please pray that by God’s grace, He will enable me to do this! I love and thank you, dear sister, for the admonition. Summer Joy Chapin

PS. It is my desire to go back over the last issue and at least cross out my idle words and write a note referring readers to my apology in the next issue of “YWSH”, although I don’t think I’ll have the time to totally re-format the article due to all the cutting, pasting , and printing that would have to be done. Do you think that will be sufficient?

Dear Summer and Melody,

Hello! =) Here are some articles for “Young Women Stepping Heavenward” for you to use...including some especially for the next upcoming issue #5 — please, please at least print my “I love my mother” article in the next issue as I want to surprise my mom with it. It’s sort of like a “gift” for her. Thank you! =) I pray that everything will be a blessing.

I still haven’t read all of the Jan./Mar. issue yet, but from what I’ve read, it’s just wonderful! I’ve been scanning over the article on music today and it looks like a very well written article! I’m glad that you and “YWSH” are taking a stand against “Christian” contemporary/rock music...The Lord dealt with my family and I on this last year, and I am thankful that we don’t have that stuff in our house! Oh, here’s one bit of information that we found out, when we were researching “Christian” rock and contemporary music, that just shocked us! I can’t remember all the details, but I think this is the main story. A man who was in prison was a cult leader, and one day he got a letter from two girls who just “admired him” and wanted to “follow him and join into the cult”. Do you know what he recommended them to do, in starting to be in this cult?! He wrote them and said, “Especially get some Christian rock music” — for their training into this cult! =| Oh dear, now that really shows just how bad that music is...He didn’t even mention secular rock at all! =| Anyway, I thought you would find this interesting! =)

Enjoy the submissions! =) Blessings and love,
Amy Zander - Bardwell, KY

Dear Summer and Melody,

Hello in the wonderful name of Jesus! How are you, dear sisters in the Lord? I feel I must write and thank you so much for this dear magazine and introduce you to my family: Timothy and Ruth Elizabeth are my parents. (I am so thankful that God blessed me with Godly parents.) I am the oldest child: Sarah Louise (16), Elizabeth Ruth (13 1/2), MaryAnna Alice (9), Luke Henry Clifford who would be (7) and is in Heaven with Jesus (He lived for 1 week: May 9-May 16,1990), Lydia Jane (5 1/2), Joshua Nelson (3 1/2), and Caleb Henry Miller (21 mos.) Mom also had 2 miscarriages whom we’ve named Matthew (1985) and Jessee (1989).

When I was 10, 11, and 12, I was on a swim team, and then when I was 12 1/2 we lost our house in Hayward due to my Dad’s business going bankrupt in 1990. So in October 1993 we moved to my Grandparent’s house (my Dad’s parents: Henry and Marian) in Modesto. In November of that same year my Mom’s Dad: Clifford Miller (80) went to be with the Lord and in December my Dad’s sister, Sue (49) died of cancer.

We lived with my Grandparents until May 1995 (19 mos.) when the Lord led us to a nice little town 15 min. away called Ripon. As I look back now I thank the Lord that he moved us in 1993 because the swim team was such an ungodly influence on my life. I was making friends with the wrong girls plus the whole modesty issue. For probably a whole year I was angry and sad that we had to move away, but now I am so glad that we did!

We lived in Ripon until March 1996 which was when we found out that (our) house was making us terribly sick (a long story) so we moved back to Hayward so my Dad wouldn’t have to commute so far to San Jose for work . (I forgot to mention that my Dad was unemployed for 18 months when we lived at our Grandparents). Jesus was our ever-faithful Shepherd providing for all our needs!

Well it didn’t take much time to realize that we got a horrible landlord in Hayward (I don’t want to even get into it), so we started to look for another house to rent. (It’s extremely difficult to find a rental that has landlords who will take 6 kids!) The landlord situation was getting worse, (She threatened to kill my dad.) so police and attorney told just get out now (They later told us she was on heavy drugs), and “Praise the Lord” some good friends invited us to stay with them! (They have 5 children.) We “lived” with them from June 1 - July 27 (last summer) which was when we moved to Santa Rosa, but after a month there my Dad was getting “burned out” from having to drive to the office in San Jose more than he thought he would have to, so after a lot of prayer about what to do, we moved September 7 to this house. (All of us children share a room [2 bunkbeds, 1 trundle bed and 1 crib] =).) We call it the “Dormitory”. (My Dad went to the U.S. Naval Academy.) We only have 1 bathroom, but we try to remind ourselves it could be worse!

Through these difficult years for us I have grown closer to the Lord and am trying to read my Bible more and more. The Lord also blessed me with “Hope Chest” (I have been getting it since April 1993) and “The King’s Daughter” which I have been getting since April 1994, and it was through these dear magazines that the Lord convicted me about modest dressing. (“Praise the Lord” I have been wearing only dresses, jumpers and skirts now for 3 years!)

“Young Women Stepping Heavenward” has been such an encouragement to me.

December 16, 1996 my Omi Elisabetha (my Mom’s Mom) died in Germany, and the Lord made a way for my Mom and I to go to the funeral. It really was a miracle as we had only 1 day to get a passport for me, my Mom’s passport renewed, and pack! We left Dec. 18. My Mom came back Dec. 27 and I stayed with one of my Omi’s sisters (Tante Marga) until February 20th. I had always “dreamed” about going for many years, as my Omi (“Grandma” in German) was born there and came to America when 25, she spent her last 6 mos. in the little village where she grew up. I had just recently given all of my plans, hopes and desires of ever going to Germany to God, and he truly blessed me. His ways are the best!

The last few months I had been struggling with discontentment... “We have to move?” I would say. =( My reasons? : “This house is just too small. (3 bedrooms (1 with no window), 1 bathroom, livingroom, kitchen, laundry room (also where we eat) and a “room” out back where we have our desks, etc... (It really is plenty big. =) ) Another reason I would say: “California is just too terrible!” (It probably is “terrible” everywhere =) ). Well, then I received the Jan.-March ’97 issue of “YWSH” and the Lord really got my attention as if to say “What have I taught you through all your moves and trials? “ The Lord is truly in control of all our lives and who am I to say, “I want out!”. I am learning by the grace of God to be patient and content where we are right now. My dad in the last few weeks has gotten a few job offers in the Oregon/Washington area (1 in Texas too! =) ), and we are praying for the Lord’s will in all of this. And I am praying we will be a witness for Jesus wherever we live.

My Dad’s whole family doesn’t at all agree with homeschooling, large families, modest dressing, etc... We also try to eat fairly healthy, which they don’t agree with either. We just pray that we are a good witness for Jesus and that we respond in Love.

Right now we have been praying about our car situation... My Dad’s small Hyundai that he uses for work is having major problems and can’t be driven (We don’t have the funds to fix it right now), and our “trusty” old van is not running well, plus we don’t all fit. =) We know that the Lord will provide all our needs - in His time!

A few years ago a lady gave us a book she found and guess what it was called? : “Stepping Heavenward”! It is a 1901 copy and now it is one of the popular books in Christian circles. Did you know that it was first published in 1869!

I have been homeschooled since 1st grade and am so glad my parents decided to home educate me and my siblings ten years ago, no matter what the world said!

You are doing such a wonderful job with your magazine. I especially enjoy “Days At Our Home”, and “Letters From Unfolded Hearts” plus all the Godly articles... Well I guess that’s the whole thing! Right? When I read “My Dearest Timothy” it brought tears to my eyes remembering my own brother Luke who I saw only once, and we think about often - but they are in a much better place by far, resting in Jesus’ arms! =)

If it is God’s will, my desire is to eventually court and marry a Godly man and be a helpmeet to him and a Godly mother to as many children God blesses us with! Well I guess this is getting quite long, especially since I am not known for writing “long letters”. =)

I asked Jesus into my heart when I was 4 1/2 and am so glad I have been a Christian for 12 years, and I know that Jesus will be by my side wherever he will lead my in my life. I pray that we all will “Press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” -Phil.3:14

May God bless all of you dear sisters, and may we all meet face to face on that day in Glory! What a day that will be meeting Jesus our Saviour! Only Because of Him,
Sarah Rose - San Leandro, CA

Dear Summer and Melody,

Thank you so much for the Jan/Mar issue of “YWSH”. As I mentioned in my last letter, I am 15 years old. I also am the oldest child in our family. It is wonderful to read the articles in your magazine that older women wrote. In a way, they are big sisters I can look up to. Friends in Christ,
Christine Andrea White - Stykersville, NY

Dear Summer and Melody,

May the Lord bless you girls for your ministry! I was so excited to find “YWSH” in our mail pile yesterday, and I was ministered to! There are so many things to encourage me. Things I can identify with and things to learn. God be praised- and you dear sisters be thanked! =)

I’m so happy you’ve found a place to live, but I hope you can keep it. There’s nothing like living away from the worldly distraction of a city. I have grown up half my life living as some might say “primitive”, but regardless we are grateful and appreciative that God has put us in this place. It’s quiet; safe for the children; quiet for school; and there is plenty of room to walk and play without worries of care, etc. I certainly will pray for you, your situation, and your landlord. We understand how you feel about moving and being unsecure as to what’s next! =) That’s where trust comes in! How hard it is to trust totally in God! But, if we really love Him, and desire His will, we can trust Him. He knows what’s best for us!

It sounds like you sure had a wonderful time with the Pinzurs! Our family is very close to a Romanian family. We always rejoice when we visit them, or they visit us. That of course is very seldom since they live 10 hours away! The Negrilas have 11 children ages 22 yrs. to 9 months. They believe in headcovering, modest dress, and other morals that we have as standards.

Thank you for publishing “The Parable of the Gifts of the Loving Father”! It encouraged me to trust God in, not necessarily having children, but in everything He chooses to give us! =)

Your Mother’s letter to Timothy brought tears to my eyes! It was so sweet to see what’s in a Mother’s heart. I can remember a mother telling me after her daughter’s death that it was harder to lose one of your own children than it was to lose any other member of your family!

Summer, may God bless you for such a loving poem for your Mom and in memory of your brother! Thanks for sharing “Beautiful Snow.” It made me look at my own heart. Am I “fair as the beautiful snow” or trampled as filth in the street”?

The article on CCM was very good. I’m so glad my parents have kept me from it! A friend to whom I sent a copy of another similar article shared with me her personal experience story. I cried with joy when I read in her letter that she gave up her worldly music! I think I’ll send her this one, too. May I have your permission to copy it?

Well, I better end. May the Lord bless you and keep you and make his face shine on you and be gracious to you! In Jesus’ service,
Sophia Santini - Ramona, CA

Dear Summer and Melody,

I cannot express my feelings toward you for sending out this wonderful magazine. You don’t know what an encouragement it is to me and all the rest of us. I know it’s a lot of work, preparation, and time, but I just wanted to let you know that it is worth every bit of it.

On the topic of forgiveness, I’ve experienced many times when I’ve been around girls whom I thought were great friends and they have either said mean things or really left me out. It really hurts and it is definitely hard to forgive them. But one thing that I’ve learned through all of it is that when I think of Christ laying down His life for us and loving me even though many times I know that I’ve hurt Him or left Him out of my life, He still loves and forgives me. The Lord is such a wonderful example to look to even in hardships or when people have done things to hurt. One thing is good to remember, when you’re getting ready to return with a smart or cutting remark to that person, stop and think “What would Jesus do in this case?” I’m sure your remark would be much different than what you were going to say.

The Lord has really taught me a lot since I started a Bible study called The Way of Agape. It is all about God’s unconditional love for us and how we can love those who are unloving. Also in learning that as we love Him, He will give us the love and the ability to love others as ourselves. We know that we all love ourselves and want to be treated nicely so when that person is hurting you with things, treat them how you would like to be treated. I know that is something hard to do, and it is definitely a struggle with me. Another thing that the study has taught me is if you want others to see the love of God in you, you must first deny yourself (put your self aside), and then Christ’s love can shine through you to that person. Luke 2:27-28 says “love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. Do we pray for those who we talk bad about and those who spitefully use us in any way? I know we should do that much more than we do. Well, I could go on and on about this subject. There’s so much to learn through God and His word. We just need to read it more and more to find it out.

I also wanted to comment on the wonderful story about “My Darling Timothy”. I cried through it as I read it because the very day I read it, was the day we went to bury my little brother James Stephen that we lost the day before. Mom was going on her third month when she lost him. But, the Lord gave us abundant peace that without Him, we couldn’t have made it through anything. I don’t see how people do it without the Lord when hard times come along.

Well, I better go. Thanks again for all the hard work, and we are praying for you in your house situation. May God bless you and your family. Looking for that blessed hope in Jesus,
Sarah Wilkerson - Seymour, TN

Dear Summer and Melody,

Thank you SO much for the last issue of “YWSH” (We pronounce that “ya-wish”)! Thank you for all the work you put into each issue. I know how much work it must be to do it- just multiply how much work an issue of mine takes 5 times or so!

I happened to be doing the dishes when the mail came. I ran to the mailbox to get the mail. (For about 2 months, whenever the mail came, “YWSH” was the foremost thought in my mind! =) I almost wondered if you’d quit!).... and lo, and behold, it HAD come! There was some other mail for me, too, (at least I think there was =) ) but everything else was forgotten as I began to read it. Oh no! I still had my dishes. So I went back to them and they were finished in record time. I then grabbed the magazine and flew upstairs to our room and flopped across the bed. About 2 hours later I came out and gave it to Jemima. (No, she doesn’t like it that much!)

.... And ever since, I have read it over and over! Someday, when I get rich, I’ll order about 20 copies of each issue and pass out some, and keep some for my future daughters!! =)

Well, I better go! God bless you! I love you both! Your Sister in Christ,
Mary Ueland - Mansfield, MO

P.S. Before I started getting “YWSH” I never dreamed that there were so many of you “kindred spirits”, who are seeking to serve the Lord and are willing to be “weird” to obey Him, etc. I hope and pray that “YWSH” will be continued for a long time, if it is His will!

Dear Sisters in Christ,

I’ve just received my last issue from this subscription, and absolutely must renew it! When I get it, I usually read it and cannot stop ‘til I’ve read it through and through. I really appreciate the hard work that I know has been put into these magazines. I have a taste of what it is like since I work on the newspaper committee at school. We call it “Mustard Seed”. You learn how to take everything in stride, lost documents, failing computers, failing printers, etc...

I really appreciated Sherry’s testimony of Timothy’s death. I can indirectly identify with it since I have a brother, Darryl, who is in heaven now. He was stillborn, and since he would be six years older than I, I’ve never actually seen him. The older I get, the more I miss him. I really miss him when I see girls that have older brother(s) who love each other like crazy and are awesome friends. Little brothers are awesome, that I know, but there is something about an older brother, that is really neat! I’m looking forward to seeing him in heaven. When you have a loved one in heaven, it makes you “press towards the mark for the prize”, with new vigor! PTL!

I’m really looking forward to the next topic, especially “Mothers”. I truly believe that my mother is one of the greatest blessings that God has given me. I thank God for her and what she has taught me through word, but most of all through deed. When I think that God almost took her life, I’m thankful for her all the more. Prior to my birth, my mom had symptoms of Hodgkin’s Disease, but since this was sorta new to some doctors, back then, they didn’t diagnose it and/or treat it, ‘til I was two. This type of cancer returned worse than ever, when my sister was born, and all this, topped with pneumonia, almost took her life. I know that God spared her for me, my sisters, and my little brother. PTL! Lovingly,
A Sister

Dear Summer and Melody,

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Thank-you for all the work you do on “YWSH”. I enjoy each issue you send! In the Jan-Mar. issue I read and enjoyed: “Days at Our Home” and “My Dearest Timothy”. “The Goodness of God” by Anna Howard was also good (good job, Anna!) as well as “There is NO God?” (I am glad that young man stood up for his faith in God and also shared it with others!), and I also enjoyed the photos.

Next I want to read “Contemporary Christian Music- Is It Wrong?” and others.

I am enclosing 9 stamps to re-subscribe to “YWSH”. I don’t want to miss the May-June issue.

There are seven in my family (including me) Dad-Rex (43 years old), Mom- Sharon (43 years old also), Amy (21 years old), me- Amanda (age 18), Alison (16 years), Andrea (12 years old) and Matthew (9 years old.)

We are a Christian; homeschooling family who believes in modesty, headcoverings (for ladies, all the time), courtship, etc.

We have homechurch (just our family) but long for a fellowship of like-minded believers!

One question: Is your family similar with Charity Church (in PA) and it’s sister churches? They are born again Amish, Catholics, Mennonites and people who were in the world. They love God and want to serve him. They also believe in modesty, headcoverings and courtship, etc.

Keep up the good work! May God bless you!

Thanks again for YWSH. A Sister,
Amanda Ogle - Rutherfordton, NC

P.S. I will be praying for the situation with your landlord. God knows best!

Dear Amanda,
We are quite familiar with the "Charity Churches" and share similar beliefs on practical issues.
Thanks for praying for us, Amanda (and everyone else who has prayed!) We really appreciate it. In Him,
Summer and Melody

Dear Summer and Melody,

Hello friends, in Christ Name.

Please print this prayer request in YWSH. Heather Eley said it would all right, and that their family really needs a lot of prayers. Oh, they do, but the Lord is helping them so much already.

“Please pray for Heather Eley and her family. On April 13 her mother unexpectedly dropped down and died on the kitchen floor. It was a great shock to the family, but they have peace knowing she is in a much better place in heaven and they would not want to be selfish and wish her back. Heather (16) is the oldest of 9 children: Elijah 14, Joshua 12, Benjamin 10, Jessica 8, Jacob 6, Samuel 4, Josiah 3 and Rebekah 1.

Several days after Mrs. Eley’s death the police and social workers came and took all the children into their custody. For 5 days they were with them until- thanks be to God!- a kind judge awarded them back to their dad. The social workers keep bothering them though, and hope in any way to get them back under their care. They have said they can’t homeschool and have made them go to a private school.

Please pray that the social workers would leave them alone and that the way would open up for the Eley family to be able to move out of the area where there are so many bad feelings against them. They have had to suffer for the sake for Christ in the wearing of headcoverings and plain clothing and other Biblical convictions.

Please pray for Mr. Eley, that the Lord would give him strength to take all this and encourage him and give him wisdom. Please pray also that someone like a nanny or a young couple would be available to take care of the little ones during the day when the rest of the family has to be away. Pray for Heather because she misses her mother and works hard taking care of the younger children and things around the house.

All this has been very hard on the Eley family, but their testimony is one of faith and strength in God. It’s so encouraging to hear their cheerfulness in the midst of all these trials. Heather says the Lord is becoming more real to her, and she feels she’s really growing as a Christian.

Send Heather a card, and tell her you’re praying for her! She will greatly appreciate it. Her address is: Heather Eley
3602 W. CR 200N
Winchester, IN 47394

Thank you friends! “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16 “

Thank you, Summer and Melody. Love,
Amy Bowling - Hillsboro, KS

Dear Summer and Melody,

Greetings from a fellow sister in Christ. Let me introduce myself. (Actually, you know me as a “Cybersister”) My name is Marie Klein. My amazing family (as you can see, they are very dear to me) consists of:

Dad- Danny- 44 years- owner of a gate operator distributing company. If he ever had spare time, he likes to accompany his kids in whatever activity they are doing. He also enjoys “yummies”, always asking for me to make him something... His favorite is carrot cake!

Mom- Bonnie- 40- a great homemaker who knows everything. I never knew how much I enjoyed still having a mom until she was extremely ill and in bed for months and we didn’t know if she would fully recover. (PTL- she has =) ) She enjoys a rare good book!

Aaron is 18, a genius on the computer. (Get this- he learned to read on computer manuals.) He helps everyone with computer problems. He helped Microsoft, tested and improved Windows ’95... He met a Senator over the Internet and was invited to attend the Republican National Convention where he met all the people- (Bob Dole, Jack Kemp, etc.)

Andrew- 10. was our miracle and a gift from God! My parents were fairly new Christians when God convicted them to give the children matter to Him, and we got Andrew! Andrew is big (solid but not fat =) ) He is over 5 feet and 100 lbs! He loves building things and reading.

Sarah- 8, is so special too. At 7, I prayed and prayed for a sissy- God heard! Friends say we look alike, but my parents don’t really think so. At 13, it bothered me cause she copied me in everything until God showed me what an honor it is. =) Sarah loves to talk and keeps us entertained. Sarah is a miracle, too— She had a hard start in life... Mom calls her our “Joy baby” because two days after she was born-, my dad lost his job and she was all that kept us joyful.

Timothy (6) is our “baby”. I remember Timothy best as an infant. (I was 9.) He was an adorable baby, but let me tell you! He had to be dressed in blue always. He had silky curls, and if he was dressed in yellow, he was thought to be a girl! Timothy is my buddy and acts just like me! =) We all dote on him!

Hannah would be five this September, but was a miscarriage. But we don’t stop here! It was decided in Dec. ’96 that our family needed to grow! Soon another little 4 1/2 year old girl will join our home! Ruth Isadora (Dora) should be here by Christmas ’97. Her adoption has been so exciting!

As you see- I really love my family. I couldn’t get along without them!

I really like YWSH (We too call it “why-wish” =) ) I’m enclosing a gift to help with printing cost. Thank-you for doing this! I love the pictures! Don’t give up- We’ll be patient if you are late! =)

Keep up the great work! You Sister in Christ,
Marie Klein - Weimar, CA

P.S. My e-mail address is SisOfFive@masterssec.com. I welcome any correspondence also through this. And if anyone has questions regarding adopting (or also- would like to write), my address is: Marie Klein / P.O. Box 958 / Weimar, CA 95736-0958

Dear Summer and Melody,

Thank you so much for the 3 free magazines you sent to us! It’s a blessing to know how you are reaching out to other people in that way. I’m so sorry for not writing sooner. As you can imagine, missionary life can be pretty busy sometimes! =)

We haven’t seen each other for a long time, but I feel like I know all about your family from the magazines. The section on “A Day at Our Home” is really interesting.

My family is doing fine. We’ve all grown a lot since you saw us! I’m 16 years old now and in 11th grade. My eldest brother is going to college in Georgia, so he’s not over here with us anymore.=| We miss him a lot, but we keep close contact through the phone and fax machine.

You can probably remember that we minister here in Singapore with my grandparents. They are getting older, and their health is steadily declining. Please pray for them.

I’m adjusted to living here in Singapore, and I have many friends at church. Also, most of the Chinese families are now doing homeschool like us, so I can really relate to them.

In addition to Sunday worship meetings and prayer meeting on Thursday night, I am in a Youth Believers’ Class on Friday nights (twice a month). It’s a class to disciple saved teenagers.

Reading about your family’s search for a place to rent reminded me of our recent move. We had been living in a semi-detached house, but we started looking for another place when the rent increased. (Here in Singapore, real estate is very, very expensive- most everything is.) We moved into a government flat (apartment) that the Lord provided at a good price and close to our church. It is a little smaller than our other house, but it has enough bedrooms for us all. I like it really.

We went back to the States on furlough in Aug. of 1995. We came back to Singapore in May of 1996 and will be here until we go back again in the Lord’s time.

I need to close so I can get this check in the mail. I would like an overseas subscription (3 issues) and a Psalms tape. Next time I’ll share with you how the Lord has been working in my life. Brooke and I got these bookmarks for both of you when we were in Malaysia for a church conference. We really appreciate the magazines. Many of the articles were an encouragement to me. Love,
Julie Compton - Singapore

Dear Summer and Melody,

Since Julie doesn’t have the time to write a long letter, I thought to write and fill you in on things here. It has really been a long time since we’ve written, so I think both of you deserve to hear a little news.

Let’s see, maybe I’ll start by telling you about my family. My older brother (Larry) is in college now. He is in his 2nd year at Georgia Southern. He is studying engineering and plans to transfer to Georgia Tech next year if the Lord wills. My other brothers and sisters are still homeschooling, and that takes up most of their time. My mom and dad are busy, too. Daddy has much to do in the ministry, and my mom works hard at home, in addition to helping my dad.

As for me, I’ve now graduated from homeschool. I’ve been out since October of last year. Right now I don’t have any plans about going to school. I decided it would be good for me to stay at home for at least a year. So far, I’ve just been helping my mom at home. I’ve learned a lot about homemaking, and I’ve also been learning to cook as well. This time at home has really been good for me because the Lord has been teaching me a lot of spiritual lessons during this time. One of the lessons I’ve learned and am still learning is to be a servant. Sometimes this is really not easy to do, but God has been very faithful to teach me and help me. I’ve also come to appreciate me mom and her sacrifice all these years for us much more. I’ve learned, too, that I have a Heavenly Father that I can talk to everyday, anytime I need to. I’ve learned that I can bring all my needs, problems, and difficulties to Him no matter how big or small. Indeed, the Lord has been teaching me a lot during this time.

Also, since I’ve graduated, I’ve started teaching Sunday School. I help to teach the 9-12 year olds and it has really been a blessing. I really enjoy teaching the children. It has also been a very good learning experience for me. I’ve learned to rely on the Lord to help me know how to meet the needs of the children. I also helped out with our recent VBS (in Nov.) I helped teach the 4 and 5 year olds. It was really such a blessing.

Well, I better go for now because Julie is ready to seal the letter up. Thanks a lot for the free subscription! We have really enjoyed the magazine a lot. Love,
Brooke Compton- Singapore

Dearest Summer and Melody,

I can’t say what a blessing your magazine is! Keep up the good work.

I’ve been wanting to write for a long time and I’m finally getting to it, Praise God.

Here is my stamps for the next 3 issues. I can’t wait till they come. =)

The “Parables of the Loving Father”, was great. I let my husband read it, and he liked it so much we framed it! We believe that is so right - We have 3 children in 3 1/2 years and people ask if we are going to have more, and when I tell them we are going to have as many as God gives us- they about flip! Anyway, I was wondering if I could submit it to An Encouraging Word so those people could be blessed. I would put your magazine down to advertise and things- Please let me know soon.=)

It’s so nice to get your magazine. I feel like you are “kindred spirits”. Thank you for your ministry; it’s a real blessing. There’s not many around here that believe like we do, so it’s a real blessing. Lots of love,
in Christ,
Mrs. Greg Penn - Ava, MO

Dear Summer and Melody,

First let me tell you how I just love YWSH. I received all the back issues a couple of days ago. They are so good. When I read “Days At Our Home” in the second issue, it reminded me of something that happened here a couple months ago. Well, I’ll back track a little farther.

Last year, my dad bought a beautiful horse. She was the prettiest horse I had ever seen. Unfortunately, she passed her womb after giving birth. The colt was fine, but the mare was in bad shape. We called the vet out and after looking at her he said there was not hope. We were all so sad when she died. However, we were glad to have the colt.

A few weeks later, another horse had a colt. She, too, had a hard delivery. This time, the mare was fine, but the colt died when it was three days old. We were all sad. It seemed like there were just too many deaths on the farm.

This spring, when it came time for our milk goats to kid, (this is what your article reminded me of) we were nervous, but knew it was in God’s hands. Heidi, our Nubian, gave birth to a healthy little buck. Mom and Dad told us not to get attached to him, because we were going to sell him. Mom said that we could name him, though. We named him Isaac, because Isaac means laughter, and he was the first animal (except for cows which we aren’t really attached to) born here without bringing death, in quite awhile.

A few days after Isaac was born, Daffy (our LaMancha) gave birth to three does. We were all so happy. Now, each of us three children (Jacob, 12 1/2, Rachel, 11, and me, almost 14) had our own baby goat. One morning, a couple days after the does were born, I had gone out to check on the babies. I looked at the baby girls; they were frisky and playful as usual. When I looked at Isaac, I knew something was wrong. He would not stand up to nurse his mama. I picked him up as gently as I could and took him into the house. I told Mom I thought his rib was broken. So, she felt him. Every time Mom touched Isaac’s leg, he started to cry. We then realized his hip was broken.

We made a bed for Isaac in the living room, so we could keep an eye on him. We thought for sure that he would die. We kept praying and hoping that God would let him live, or take him right away so he would not feel the pain.

Well, our nights were not very peaceful anymore. Isaac would cry for attention. Mom spent her nights on the couch trying to keep him quiet. Some nights she would be so exhausted that she would sleep right through his noises, so one of us children would get up to quiet him.

Isaac drank from the bottle very well. We began to think that he might live after all. We would flip him over periodically, so he wouldn’t get stiff. We also exercised his legs. I can tell you, our house didn’t smell so well! But, we all came to love Isaac very much.

One day, I got up from my bed to check on Isaac. He was gone! I wondered what could have happened to him. I kept looking through the house. I finally found him sleeping in the dining room. I couldn’t believe it! He was able to walk! Praise the Lord!

We still had to keep Isaac in the house because it was cold outside. We had to barricade where he was sleeping. As he got stronger and stronger, it became difficult to keep him penned up.

Isaac got to the point where he could walk pretty well. The weather warmed up, and we were able to put him outside. You talk about peace and quiet! We all finally got a good night’s sleep, for the first time in three weeks.

Isaac is still living. We walks and runs with a limp, but he is able to stand his ground with the other goats. I don’t know if he will ever be able to climb like the others, but that’s just as well (from our point of view!) Isaac also has the ability to do something I have never seen a goat do before. We had let the goats out of their pen to run and play. Mom and Rachel were cleaning the pool. Isaac wandered over and fell in. He turned and swam to the side, and Mom lifted him out. It was a sight to see.

Well, I probably have put ya’ll to sleep by now. So, I will end this. You all are in my prayers.

God bless you. Your Friend in Christ,
Sarah Wardrip - Danville, KY

Dear Sarah,
Put us to sleep? HARDLY! It was almost like having goats all over again.=)
I think it's so wonderful how God answered your prayer for your baby goat! There are so many lessons we can learn through raising animals! Because of His love,
Melody

Dear Melody and Summer,

Hi! I was so excited to get YWSH!... I did end up receiving the first copy you sent out, and will be sure to give it to another sister in Christ. (My sister Sarah assures me that she qualifies. =) )

All the letters were great! especially since I know so many of the girls who wrote in. When we read about your visit with the Pinzurs, Mommy just gasped at the idea of that many people in that small a space for that long a time.=) I’m sure you had a wonderful time, though! “The Parable of the Gifts of the Loving Father” was thought-provoking. I mean, I know that children are a blessing from the Lord, but I’d never thought of it the way Mrs. Pinzur presented it. We all gasped over “There is NO God?” - I love stories like that! =)- and thank you for printing up “Heritage of Hope” so nicely!

Today I cooked 6 meals (i.e. a small-scale version of 30-meal-cooking). But it didn’t feel very much like small-scale!!! =) I had bowels and spoons and vegetable scraps and leaking ziploc bags of tomato sauce all over the cupboards- ahhh! =) It’s rather satisfying, though, to see all those meals in the freezer...

I look forward to hearing what other girls have to share on the subject of mothers and motherhood. Although I want very much to be a mother someday (if it’s God’s will), I’m afraid that some of my attitudes and thought-patterns are still influenced by the world’s ideas rather than what God thinks, particularly in regards to the role of a Godly woman...

Thank-you =), girls. Love,
Becky Schmaltz- Sackachewan, Canada

My Dear Sisters in Christ,

Greetings in Jesus’ name, who died on the cross to save us, that we might live and walk in victory, triumphing over the devil!! I was thinking about writing to my various pen-pals who just wrote, but the Lord laid it upon my heart to write to you. Maybe you need a little note of encouragement? The Lord knows, and He has put it upon my heart to write for some reason. By the way, did Esther (Pinzur) give you a BIG hug from me?!? I asked her to for me! =) [Yes, she did, Skye.. Thank you! And here's a "hug" for you J- Summer and Melody]

Forgive me for taking so long to write to you. It’s been kind of busy.

Cousins and relatives are arriving in July from afar- Yemen and Mexico as well as from different states. Something that I have had to consecrate is feeling like I get the most time with my dear Aunt Becky. (She’s the one I lived with for a year in Mexico). I have missed her so much over the last almost- two years. She’ll be here for two months, and I have had to consecrate my time with her. Not always am I going to be able to talk privately and be alone with her. I’ve committed it into the loving hands of my Heavenly Father and know that He will work all things out.

Oh, I must not forget to thank you for all the wonderful work you did on the last issue! The letters from other readers is almost always my favorite part! Especially this time since I knew or recognized a lot of the writers- Becky Schmaltz (She is such a dear!!- I love her so much!), Claire Meyer, Amy Zander!!, Hayley Weikert, and ME!! =) I am always so encouraged by Crystal’s articles or letters! “Days at Our Home” was so neat; I had just started writing to Esther when I got this issue- It was neat to learn a lot about her! Cramped quarters-it was amazing how you did it!!! =) Jana’s article was good. (Hi Jana!) I have learned that the best thing that [we] can do is surrender people and loved ones into the hands of our loving Father! Thanks, Jana! Oh, I loved the article by Mrs. Pinzur- It was very well written and gave us a lot of “food for thought”. “There is NO God?” was so moving- if that is the word for it! What a mighty God we serve! Flipping through the pages... Thanks to all who wrote about prayer. You know often times, I feel unspiritual (as one of my pen-pals puts it), and I have to pray and ask for help to desire to draw close to the Lord in prayer!! Lord, help us to always have a hunger to be close to You! “Dearest Timothy” was sad. (sniff-sniff) It would definitely be hard to see the Lord take one of my sisters or brothers! But we must surrender that before God- the Lord giveth and He taketh “Blessed be the name of the Lord”! Naomi’s article was excellent! Thanks dear Naomi!!! I want to count ALL as loss for our dear Saviour! Going on... Forgive me Becky, I have not read your article yet-yikes-and will try to next time I hop in the bath! =) I am sure it is very good and well written. I skipped the article on CCM because we don’t believe in listening to it, and what’s the use to read about how bad it is? “A Will to Love” was very touching. I have had a long road learning to love many people- with God’s abundant help and I know how hard it is. Thank you dear- ‘sister in Christ’ for sharing that- it was a blessing to me! Well, I ran out of pages to tell you how much I appreciated them!!

Please keep up the great work and know that my prayers for wisdom and help in your magazine are with you! What a wonderful ministry the Lord has given you- “be not weary in well doing”! Please read I Cor. 15:58.

One of my dear pen-pals- Emily Endicott- is coming down this weekend to Portland from Washington. And when she wrote and told me, I was jumping for joy and hoping that there would be some way to see her- We were already going to be in Portland on Saturday, but we had already made plans and this time it would not work out. I was so disappointed and tried about it, but then the Lord gently nudged me and told me that His planning is best, and He will work out a time if [HE] sees it will be for our good. All I could say was, yes, Lord I commit this to you. Praise the Lord, He helped me to say amen to His will!! Dear sisters, how easy it is to want to go ahead of God and not wait patiently for His right timing. Help us, Lord, to commit everything into your hands and wait patiently on you!

Oh my, I can’t believe it, but we might be going to Texas (Lord willing) in November to visit the Barcus family!!! You know, after this trial with our friends going to see my pen-pals, I see how I wasn’t completely surrendered in this area, and He allowed that to happen to help me to yield my dear friends in His hands! Praise the Lord for how He works ALL things out for good!! Anyway, back to what I was saying, we might go in November!! This is surrendered into the almighty hands of God and yet, I feel such an assurance that we are going to go. I am trying not to let myself get tooooo excited, but I almost can’t help is! [Yipeeeeeee] But only if the LORD wills, will we go! Well, I am getting to a place in my mind where I can’t think of anything else to say or encourage you about. (sniff-sniff) I wish I could keep on writing, but my list of ‘to answer’ letters is moderately high, and I must start to tackle that. =)

May God richly bless you, my dear Sisters, as you do His good will “Be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart”- Ps. 31:24 Hi grace IS sufficient for you- Praise the Lord!!!

I am eagerly waiting for the next issue of YWSH. Keep up the good work and the Lord bless you for it! For His Glory,
Skye Louise Erickson - Turner, OR

Dear Summer and Melody,

Greetings in the name of our Lord! I am Jennifer Schlaudt, a pen friend of Jana Marie Baldridge’s. My family [ Daddy - John; Mama - Sherry; John (9); Jeffrey (7); Joshua (4); Joel (2); and Joanna (4 mos.) ] resides in Lufkin, Texas where Daddy is a physician. We are all homeschooled by Moma, who is a keeper at home with no other job.

I am 13 (and the oldest of the children) and in seventh grade, and have chosen not to participate in any youth groups or such. Instead, I join my family in a family Sunday School Class, which I prefer over youth. So, there’s a little bit of background on my family! As I said before, Jana Marie Baldridge is a dear pen-friend of mine, and it was she who first told me about your magazine- “Young Women Stepping Heavenward.” (I think that’s a wonderful name, by the way. It reminds me of Elizabeth Prentis’ book, “Stepping Heavenward.”)

Jana encouraged my to write for a sample issue. So, I am writing to request one. She said that it cost 3 stamps, so that is what I have included. Having never heard of payment in stamps before, I wasn’t sure if Jana meant it or not. If not (i.e. she wrote my letter at 1:30 a.m. =) ), then just let me know, and I will send what is needed. Thank you so much for your ministry! I am looking forward to receiving and reading it! Serving Christ,
Jennifer Lane Schlaudt - Lufkin, TX

Dear Chapins,

I just wanted to drop you a note to say we are enjoying your Psalms tape. My husband has been listening to it on his way to work daily and finds it helps him to combat the worldly environment. I also saw a copy of your YWSH magazine at a friends house recently, and we would like to receive that also. Stamps enclosed. God bless you,
The Vernons

Dear Summer and Melody,

Howdy! I just got my first issue of “YWSH” last week, and wanted to let you know how blessed I was by it! I loved it all- from cover to cover- and now I want to get all of the back issues! =) A hearty thank you to Jana Baldridge and Mary Ueland for telling me about your magazine is in order. Thank you very much, girls!

“Letters From Unfolded Hearts” was a real blessing to me. It was like getting over a dozen letters at one time!=)

I loved reading about your visit from the Pinzurs in “Days at Our Home.” It reminded me of a recent trip to Colorado: A few families from our church in Missouri and a church in Idaho were visiting some folks there in Colorado. I guess you can relate to 28 people (10 children under ten) in a trailer all day! =) Of course, there was the yard for the children to play in , but it was still pretty crowded! Like you, we enjoyed ourselves in spite of the close quarters. =) Anyway, it sounds like you had a wonderful visit.

Even my 13 year old brother, Israel, enjoyed “There is No God?” That was a really neat story, especially since it was true.

Your mother’s letter, “My Dearest Timothy”, really made me stop and think a minute. I know it was probably painful for her to write, but I am glad that she did. “God Answers” was a good poem, too.

“Heritage of Hope” was a nice story. Good job, Becky! “Contemporary Christian Music- Is it Wrong?” was an excellent article, one that is much needed in today’s society. My parents used to be involved with “Christian” rock bands, seeing how the musicians were behind the scenes, and the fruit they saw was rotten. They came out of the rock scene, and have never regretted it. They feel that “Christian” rock music stunted their Christian growth. We could really understand what that article was saying.

Keep up the good work with “YWSH”. God bless you and yours! Sincerely,
Keisha Hightower - Buffalo, Missouri

Would you care to write us a letter, too? We would love to hear from you at any time, and who knows? Maybe we will even print your letter in Young Women Stepping Heavenward! Just click here! :-)

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