This day, about 70 street people were served lunch.

5 Stones, 5 Loaves, 5 Gifts

So what does “555″ stand for?

Many people ask about this.  ”555″ is not our address in White Clay, but rather a ministry strategy – spiritual warfare approach - the Lord gave us back in 2004 just prior to opening our thrift store.

The first “5″ represents the five smooth stones David used to slay the giant, Goliath. That sort of describes our situation here.  Four beer stores in White Clay sell over 12,000 cans of beer DAILY to a population that is 80% addicted. The ‘giant’ or Goliath here is manifested in the physical by the atmosphere of alcoholism and all the bondages, heartache, pain and suffering associated with it.  Our strategy to defeat this stronghold is through intercessory prayer – and alot of it.  So, please join with many others and pray for the deliverance of the Lakota people from a literal demon – alcohol.

The second “5″ represents the 5 loaves and 2 fishes that Jesus used on multiple occasions to feed the multitudes. In partnership with Hands of Faith Ministries, we literally ‘feed many’ with free meals three times weekly, sometimes more often.  In 2008, over 7000 meals were provided for street people and hungry families at 555 in White Clay.  The strategy here is ‘distributing the goods of the Kingdom’ and many, many other minstries channel much through our location.  Diapers, furniture, clothing, household items and craft supplies constitute most of the ’stuff’ that goes out of here.  Every Wednesday we distribute free bread bags which usually contain 5-6 baked items from sliced bread to bagels to cakes and much more – about 2-3 tons annually!

The third “5″ recalls what Scripture says Jesus told his disciples before leaving the second time. That is, that we would receive spiritual giftings – some would be called to be ‘apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors/shepherds and teachers’.  Our program(s) help individuals recognize this, and also, to develop their God-given natural talents and skills to  help them survive and make it in this world.

It was especially gratifying (and confirming) early on (in 2004, just after opening) when a Lakota man walked in and saw our sign regarding the 555’s.  He stated then that in their belief system the number ‘5′ means “God is here” – that’s cool.  We believe it!