Jesus was the wisest person who ever lived, and his teachings guide us toward a life of true fullness and [β¦]. Rachel Sochacki is one of the co-leaders for Gateway , the Ward anti-human-trafficking ministry. When you talk to Rachel today about her ministry, her passion for human-trafficking victims is very evident. However, it was not always that way for Rachel. She set an example of caring for the underserved.
I became successful with my work. But I realized that my job was unending and would take everything from me if I allowed it. God began to say to me, Stop running! Is this bringing you joy? Rachel had been attending Ward for about a year when she heard about a project to help those caught in the sex slave industry, and she recognized that God was calling her to be on that team.
It was life changing to be so present. It was intimidating at first, but Rachel received so much joy knowing God was giving her words of hope for so many who felt hopeless. I have an expanded relationship with Ward. Most importantly, stories of these young women and others like them need to be told. Rachel planned to join the Thailand team again last year, but like most events, the trip was cancelled. And in this season, Satan wants us to be afraid and wants to put obstacles in our way.
But we must think about how we can get creative and tap into the fire that God put in our hearts to make a difference. In the fall of , a team gathered to evaluate how to fight against sexual exploitation and trafficking in our own backyard. The team has now partnered locally with All Worthy of Love, who do street outreach weekly in Detroit in Ypsilanti, building relationships, providing meals and care kits. Response to Gateway has been incredible, and the team is excited to see what God will accomplish.
Ward has built ministries that work for all generations. We have so much to learn from those who have gone before us. We have one strong community, and serving is the best way to connect.
