About me: In the summer of 2000, Dr. Laird started performing weddings for young, unchurched couples on his days off. It proved a most fruitful doorway into the world of the unchurched, formerly churched, and even some then-currently churched who professed to be Christians but who, for whatever reasons, were not getting married in a church yet wanted an ordained minister (and, in 90% of the cases, some kind of religious service). They sought him out through his web site so all contacts were (and still are) initiated by these unchurched couples. In the majority of cases these couples were alienated and/or disenfranchised from organized Christian fellowship.
Between the web site and in-person interviews in the couple's own homes, safe and trusting relationships were established very quickly. An openness to talk about issues impacting their wedding and, even more, their relationship established the bridge to frankly address church and faith issues. To his surprise and delight, he discovered a great receptivity to very deep personal and spiritual conversations. But his eyes were also opened to story after story of painful rejection, shame, judgment and alienation. The vision -- and imperative -- was thus born for establishing a new kind of credible Christian ministry to touch these priceless souls with the love of Jesus Christ.
Credibility with the bride and groom also gained Dr. Laird credibility with their friends, family, and extended family -- hundreds of people who knew and were impacted by the couples' painful stories. The wedding ministry, then, also served as a fruitful PORTAL to establish -- or reestablish -- Christian credibility to broad segments of the unchurched population in a happy, personal, and non-threatening way.
The founders of Sanctuary Christian Ministries all shared a godly discontent with the mediocre standards of excellence and the even more mediocre impact of our present Christian institutions on our society. They also shared a deep compassion for those alienated, disenfranchised, and church wounded. In particular they shared the strongest conviction and commitment to reach at ANY cost -- the children and youth of the unchurched with the love of Jesus Christ.
CLICK HERE to view Sanctuary Christian Ministries website.
You can help us continue with this important ministry. When you donate to Sanctuary Christian Ministries you are helping this important ministry reach its goal of having a Sanctuary presense in every community in North America.
Sanctuary Christian Ministries is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization.
there is PEACE... "The peace of God, which transcends all understanding,will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:7
There is HOPE... "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Romans 15:13
There is a PLAN... "'For I know the plans I have for you,'declares the Lord,'plan to prosper you and not to harm you,plans to give you hope and a future.'"
Jeremiah 29:11
There is JESUS... "'...Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'"
Matthew 28:20
Praying His peace surrounds you... His hope fills you... His plan is revealed to you- As Jesus walks with you through this time.
Hey Robert and family,
You guys are doing a wonderful job at this ministy. Keep up the good work. I know the Lord is pleased and is smiling down on you. Have a magical day and week to come.
