In the late 1990’s, Ron and Irene Weiler served as Houseparents in Laurel Ridge girl’s home. Recently, our Executive Director, Jim Wood, happened to run into their son Josh at Carson-Newman University where Josh serves at the Associate Director, Information Technology Services. Here are some comments Josh shared with us about his time at WVR:
“More than 20 years ago, God called my parents to serve as house parents for the Laurel Ridge girls home at Wears Valley Ranch. Although my time there was relatively short, it had a lasting impact on my life and I often think back on its importance. I recall that initially I was not especially thrilled with the change. I am an only child, so you can imagine the shock I felt at suddenly having to share my attention with seven siblings. As time passed, my new environment and its unique challenges allowed me to more deeply understand virtues such as compassion, charity, love and the value of responsibility and hard work. This profound experience planted deep seeds whose fruits continue to nourish me today.
The quality education I received at St. Andrew’s School fostered my curiosity and creativity and put me ahead of my peers for years upon my return to public school. I continue to appreciate and seek serenity in nature, an appreciation that blossomed in Wears Valley where the full glory of God’s creation is always as close as the front door. My heart for service, cultivated by seeing firsthand the change that love and stability can bring to young lives, drives my work still today at Carson-Newman. Wears Valley Ranch was a critical milestone on God’s path for my life and I am so glad to see that this ministry continues to thrive. I pray for God’s blessing on the Ranch and its staff so they can continue His work for years to come.”
We are praying that the Lord will continue to protect and bless us as we serve the children and each other. Your prayers and your encouragement through financial support is very much needed and enormously appreciated!
