“HE IS RISEN!!”
That’s what Chaplain Rick Jones yells as he runs through the Chapel at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch before the Easter Service begins. There is no mistaking that this is about the Resurrection. This is a celebration of Christ conquering sin and death and opening the door for us all to have a new life in Him.
I like to think about the work of the Ranch as a facilitation of “mini-Easters.” These kids have endured so much darkness and pain in their lives. Through trauma-informed treatment and education, aligned with spiritual life studies, they can become something new. They can practice just being kids. They can build their own new futures, their own new lives.
Of course, it isn’t in the same way that Jesus conquered death. It is quieter, and human, but still so beautiful. Consider this update about Cooper, who we were grateful to help for almost a year. This is written by Carol, one of our Treatment Supervisors, and shared with her co-workers.
“I want everyone to know that today when I got off work, I happened to stop at a store and this kid came running around the corner of an aisle and gave me a big hug. I was so delighted to see Cooper. He looks so good and looks like he has grown six inches since he left the Ranch. He is very happy with his foster family and was excited to tell me they were heading to the winter park today.
Cooper couldn't stop talking about how well it's going with his foster family and how well they treat him. He said to tell everyone 'hello' and let you all know that he misses you and is grateful for everything the Ranch did for him.”
When Cooper completed treatment and this loving family took him home, I believe it was his own “Easter.” He rose from the darkness of his early life and began anew.
“HE IS RISEN!!”
Happy Easter. Please keep the children and families of Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in your hearts and prayers.
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch
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