Inspirations and Triumphs

My name is Mark Stalnaker; I was born and raised in Frederick by a middle class family. As a child I was taught right from wrong, attended church regularly, and never wanted for anything. At the age of fifteen I began to experiment with drugs and alcohol. I barely graduated from Frederick High School in 1985.

Shortly after graduating high school I went to work in the Iron Worker's Union out of Washington, DC. The construction field provided me the environment to continue to drink more and abuse even harder drugs. For more than ten years my addiction ruled my life. I was in and out of jails, rehabs, and other treatment alternatives; nothing worked for me.

In May of 1999 I found myself at the doors of the Frederick Rescue Mission, a man broken and caught in the grips of despair. The staff accepted me into the program at the Mission and somehow I knew my life would never be the same. I began to attend Bible studies and attend chapel service. I remember reading a sign in the chapel with the scripture Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. I realized that the loving, accepting, and forgiving God I knew as a child had not changed. It was me that had changed and needed to change again. As I accepted God's love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ, my life did change.

Part of my participation in the Mission's program required me to work in the thrift store. As my life began to change and I became more responsible and trustworthy, the Mission staff asked that I manage one of the stores. The most rewarding time in the store came when I was able to assist a needy family with free furniture through the Mission's Voucher Program. Also, I was always amazed when I would go in the dining room of the Mission and see it full of Frederick’s needy enjoying a warm nutritious meal. I will never forget the joy I felt of being a part of the Mission when it came to helping others in need.

After completing the program at the Mission I moved into an apartment directly across the street from the Mission. This provided me with a level of accountability and the opportunity to stay connected with the staff and other residents. After working steadily and remaining committed to reconciling my financial affairs, I was able to purchase a condominium in Frederick City in 2003 where I currently live.

It is through the strength of Jesus Christ that I continue to work as an Iron Worker and overcome the temptation. I am actively attending a local church and my relationship with my family is healthier than it has ever been. I count my time spent at the Mission as the turning point on my new found life in Christ.