Based on the story of Joseph in Genesis 41, Joseph Stewards create legacies of compassion by using what God has given them to help create opportunities for people around the world to overcome poverty and hunger and recover from disaster.
With careful planning and generous spirits, Joseph Stewards set an important example for others to follow, joining together to make a greater impact for Christ around the world. The story of 92-year-old Raymond Schrotenboer, a Joseph Steward who lives in Holland, Michigan, is just one inspiring example
Raymond and his late wife, Jerene, have a long history of partnering in World Renew’s ministry of sharing the love, life, justice, and mercy of Christ with people around the world.
“We supported World Renew since it began,” said Raymond. “In our 50’s we became involved as Disaster Response Services (DRS) volunteers. We served at many sites and enjoyed it so much. These people have been through a lot. You can’t look down on them. You have to thank the Lord for getting into their hearts.”
In June 2017, Jerene passed away into the presence of her Saviour, Jesus Christ. Raymond and Jerene had a shared passion for helping God’s children in need, and he described this service as inspired by their love for the Lord and a desire to “do what needs to be done.” This couple’s decision to include World Renew in their financial plans was part of living out God’s generous call.
“The Lord talks to us about helping, we who are healthy and well,” shared Raymond, when asked about why they chose to use what God had given them in this way. “Our hearts have been with World Renew all these years and our hearts still are, and we want our money that we leave behind to keep working for the Lord.”
World Renew is deeply thankful to Raymond and Jerene for providing an example for others to follow, and joining with World Renew and its local partners around the world to turn stories of hardship into testimonies of hope.
More than 750 Joseph Stewards have shared that World Renew is included in their will or estate plan. Are you interested in joining the growing number of generous supporters who have shared their intention of including World Renew in their will or estate plan? World Renew invites you to prayerfully consider this step, and we would love to connect with you.
For more information, about including World Renew in your will or estate plan or becoming a Joseph Steward, go to worldrenew.net/josephstewards. You can also call Willemiena McCarron at 800-552-7972 in the U.S. or Loise Githinji at 800-730-3490 in Canada to learn more or share your own Joseph Stewards story.
