Mercy Gate Ministries hosted its inaugural Hope in the Hill Country dinner Oct. 12 at Bandera Brewery, bringing together nearly 100 guests to learn about the organization’s work with women who have experienced sexual trauma, exploitation and trafficking, according to a news release from the organization.
Mercy Gate Ministries is a faith-based nonprofit based in Kerr County that serves women affected by sexual trauma, exploitation and trafficking. Its services include residential and nonresidential restoration programs, counseling, advocacy and long-term support, according to the organization.
The ministry operates programs in Kerr and Bandera counties.
The event included a dinner prepared by Karissa Odom of Karissa’s Creations, an opening prayer by Mik Rowe, associate pastor of Bandera Community Church, and testimonies from two women who have participated in Mercy Gate’s restoration program.
According to the release, the women discussed their experiences with trauma and the healing they have pursued through the program. Their testimonies prompted a standing ovation from attendees, the organization said.
“Last night was one of those evenings that reminds us exactly why God called us to this ministry,” said Chae Spencer, co-founder and executive director of Mercy Gate Ministries. “To look across that beautiful amphitheater and see a community gathered together in love and compassion was overwhelming. But to hear these precious women stand courageously and share how Jesus has transformed their lives — there are simply no words. We can provide programs, counseling, and resources, but it is Jesus who heals the wounds. We give Him all the glory. And we are so incredibly grateful to the people of Bandera who have opened their hearts to these women and to this ministry.”
The organization reported that its Bandera County program has grown from serving one local survivor to operating an office, counseling center and classrooms, supported by volunteers and community partners.
Mercy Gate said it currently serves 63 women through nonresidential restoration services, residential programs, jail ministry and victim advocacy.
Erin Rowe, director of the Bandera program, discussed the organization’s reception in the community.
“it is heartening when a nonprofit is strongly embraced by a new community, not only because its services are much needed, but also because its impact is felt throughout the community. Bandera is doing just that,” Rowe stated.
Restoration Program Director Lesley Lehrmann discussed the role of counseling, discipleship, education and supportive relationships in the organization’s approach to helping women recover from trauma, according to the release.
Mercy Gate also outlined plans to expand its services in Bandera County, establish a local advisory board and eventually open a discipleship home.
The organization said donations raised in Bandera County are dedicated to its work in the county, supporting services for local women and families. The release also recognized the Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation and the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation for helping establish the ministry’s permanent presence in Bandera.
Spencer referenced the biblical account of the Samaritan woman at the well as an inspiration for the ministry, which began more than eight years ago, according to the release.
The program concluded with a musical performance by Alex Martinez, who sang “Clean” by Natalie Grant.
Event sponsors included Natalie and Steve Shirley, Chae and John Spencer, Kerr Pro Painting, and Kay Reese with Travel Smart with Kay.
The organization thanked Bandera Brewery, Daniel Tucker and Johnny Oliver for providing the venue and hospitality; Odom for preparing dinner; and Neita Ashley Photography for photographing the event. Mercy Gate also acknowledged its staff, volunteers, board members, local churches, donors and other supporters.
More information is available at www.MercyGateMinistries. com.
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