What is that smell? Now that we’re experiencing the summer heat, we are reminded of the scents of the season. Whether it be the stench of rotten fish, the sweet aroma of fresh flowers, or a smoky barbecue, the smells around us get our attention. In 2 Corinthians 2:14, Paul charges Christians to spread “the fragrance of the knowledge of (Jesus Christ) everywhere.

At The 180 Center, we have been busy sharing the aroma of our witness through outreaches to our community. One of the disciples in The 180 Center Discipleship Program recently shared what attracted him to Christ.

“I watched people doing and saying things that I knew they felt differently about. Immovable—doing the right thing when they didn’t want to, have to, nor was it to their advantage in a worldly sense. And they were happy about it. I would ask why and they said ‘Jesus.’ I wanted to be that secure and confident that I wasn’t yanked around by people, circumstances, or feelings. I wanted freedom. I’ve come to find that it can’t be done under my own power, so none can boast. Not confidence in myself, but in Jesus.”

The apostle Paul continues in 2 Corinthians 2:15-16 to say that “we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one a fragrance from death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life.” As we participated in outreaches these past few months, we prayed that the aroma of our witness would reach the New Haven Community.

The 180 Center reached out to our city in May with Community Care Day. Churches and individuals from our area joined us and helped us serve the practical needs of the homeless. We gave out free clothing, food, hygiene kits, and also offered free haircuts and a health check-up. Plus, our prayer station was blessed to be praying for people during the full two hours of the outreach! We are grateful for all who worked hard to make the outreach a success.

What a privilege it was for The 180 Center to work with Bridges of Hope, an organization that brings churches together every summer to serve our city! In June, believers gathered on the New Haven Green to worship, pray together, and receive our service assignments. The 180 Center men were assigned a school to help with landscaping and other outdoor projects. One of our men testified with tears that the school was right next to a park he used to sleep in at night when he was homeless! He was blessed to share the knowledge that Jesus died to bring him to God forever, and the aroma of his witness brought great joy to all.

We gathered as a church family and ministry in May for some fun and fellowship. We invited the teachers at The 180 Center to join us. We have fifteen people serving as Bible teachers and discipling the men in The 180 Center Discipleship Training Program. Our backyard picnic provided time for the teachers to get to know one another. Plus, the disciples and teachers had tons of fun playing volleyball. If you are ever interested in learning more about volunteering at The 180 Center contact us at 203-909-9194.

Do you believe the aroma of life can be exuded through our giving? We sure do! We witnessed His power as we received an abundance of generous donations that enabled us to complete the installation of our rear HVAC systems and the outside connection of the fire sprinkler system to the hydrant. One donation actually provided the whole amount needed to cover the connection of the hydrant! The 180 Center is so grateful. This is all leading us closer to being able to open a 16 bed overnight shelter. These people will have the opportunity to hear the Gospel and receive the gift of eternal life! Thank you for your generosity and prayers.

What fragrance is being diffused through your life? With whom can you share your testimony this summer? Your testimony produces a powerful fragrance which God delights in…truth always smells good to God. He is so pleased to see His Son glorified in the testimonies of those He came to save. We pray that you will be bold and courageous this summer and share the hope found in Jesus Christ.

Needs For Phase 2:

• Rear HVAC systems (DONE!)
• Indoor Fire sprinkler system and outside connection (DONE!)
• Installation of two commercial steel exit doors (IN PROGRESS)
• Drop ceilings (IN PROGRESS)
• Electrical and plumbing (fixtures only)
• Installation of drainage box in parking lot
• Bathroom/Showers tiling

Four Ways You Help The 180 Center:

SHARE about The 180 Center on social media! We are on Facebook and Twitter. Share our ❤ for those in need! Share about our 18 month program for men!

PRAY that God provides the labor and finances to complete the new building in His timing. Your prayers are powerful!

SERVE as a skilled laborer with the renovations. Contact us through email.

GIVE A donation towards our new building. Give online or by mail. Online giving is through this website (click ‘donate’ in the upper right hand corner).