Hey friends…. I really felt that due to some confusion over the last few months, I needed to write and put a few things on record regarding Mark’s and my involvement in Mercy Ministries.

As of July 2007, Mark and I ceased all involvement with Mercy Ministries.  As hard as it was, we knew it was the right choice for us and for our family.   Since that time, due to a culmination of decisions completely outside of our control, Mercy Ministries has now unfortunately ceased to exist in Australia.  And that is probably what brings us the most personal sadness of all.

We are SO very thankful to all of the girls who did come through the program and we celebrate those who are flourishing in life. We pray for and encourage any girls still overcoming personal challenges to work hard and continue to seek help. We will be ever grateful to a staff who did over and above the call of duty every single day to ensure the girls’ well being.  The staff that started with us at Mercy have become lifelong friends and for that we are truly grateful.

More than two years have passed since we stood down from all involvement in Mercy Ministries.  During that time we have worked hard to transition well, even in the midst of a less than ideal situation.  But again, we see the faithfulness of God extended toward us, just as His faithfulness is toward you.

We have learned SO, SO much during this period.  I have certainly learned again to SING through a storm.  In life, I believe that one of the great ‘growing up’ lessons is about praising our way through any circumstance.  Yes it would be amazing if life was just sweet days every day, but life is all about our growth and development, our faith journey, the cementing and fine-tuning of our core beliefs, and learning to trust God through it all.

I personally do not regret a moment of our Mercy journey.  Mark and I gave our best in time and resources to pioneer a place in Australia for girls needing a helping hand to overcome their personal challenges. This is still much needed in our nation. We will continue on every day with helping people, praising our God through it all.

Mark and I both feel, however, that it is important to publicly note that we have not been involved with Mercy Ministries in Australia or internationally at all since July 2007, and since then we should not have been represented as ambassadors for Mercy Ministries or in any of their marketing or public relations documents.

Love you,
Darlene Zschech.