A Carpenter for Christ
The New Song Campus is nearing completion! Our third and final home of phase one construction, Home C, is 90% finished. The finish electrical, plumbing, and cabinetry work are the only items left!
It is exciting to see that soon the third home will be ready and waiting for houseparents and children! We could not have accomplished this without the generous support of hundreds of ministry friends. We also could not have come so far in the construction process without the hard work and watchful eye of our construction manager, Ron Eddins. Ron’s exceptional carpentry skills are evident throughout the homes, and children and their houseparents will be blessed so much by his work.
Ron has been involved with New Song for seven years. He first heard about New Song’s vision for rebuilding children’s lives while at church during a presentation by founder Bob Schloss. Ron and his wife Julie first began supporting New Song financially, then he volunteered to help at one of our Fall Festivals. After that event, he was hooked!
Ron then began to lend his construction expertise to New Song’s projects until founder Bob Schloss asked him to become more involved as the Construction Manager/Volunteer Supervisor on campus. He gladly accepted this position and has been hard at work since that day five years ago.
Ron started his vocation with a different calling. He gave his life to Christ at a revival upon his return from a tour of duty in the Navy. Ron decided to become a minister. While attending seminary he met his wife of 38 years, Julie. Together they bought a farm. He left school and began farming in Brown County. A few years later, he formed his own construction company. He eventually went to work for a local commercial construction group. When this company downsized, he decided to retire. Relaxing and enjoying retirement life didn’t last long. Shortly after this decision, he was introduced to New Song.
Working at New Song is enjoyable to Ron because, “I can see God’s faithfulness in everything that happens there. From provisions of materials to groups that volunteer to financial gifts, God orchestrates it all.” He also loves working with the volunteers. “They are a blessing to me and to the campus. The volunteers are cooperative, helpful, and they have a servant attitude. Overall, it’s just very encouraging to have folks to work with and adds to the great atmosphere on campus!”
Ron’s life verse is Isaiah 40:28-31.
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.….but those that hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (vs 29,31)
Ron builds spiritual strength by hoping in the Lord for everything life brings. He is hopeful for the future of New Song. He is looking forward to houseparents getting established so that the kids can begin moving in to the homes. He is also looking toward the future of the campus when more homes can be built for more children. We are thankful for Ron’s leadership in getting the current homes established. He has been and continues to be an integral part of New Song and its mission to help needy children.