“Gilead” is a Hebrew word meaning “rugged” or “rocky place.” Geographically, the land of Gilead encompasses a mountainous area east of the Jordan river from the sea of Galilee south to the Dead Sea.

In Bible times, travelling through the Gilead highlands was difficult and often dangerous. At higher elevations there were few places on the exposed, stony slopes to find shelter from quick-forming storms. In contrast, Gilead was known also for the medicinal balms, fragrant oils, and expensive spices derived from the local flora. As the Ancients sought out the balms produced in Gilead to heal their physical maladies, we turn to the figurative “Balm of Gilead”--Jesus Christ--to heal our spiritual wounds.

The path through life can be rocky, with no pause or respite from the cold wind of trying circumstance. A Haven in Gilead Ministries is primarily concerned with helping those individuals whom the Lord is allowing to travel the rocky path. The name A Haven in Gilead Ministries suggests a shelter in the time of storm, a place to find healing, and rest.

Continents apart, Rick Barton and Mary Monks accepted Christ as their Saviour in their early teens. Like so many young Believers of their generation they struggled with the seductive pull of the ‘60s and 70s “Be free, man” mentality. On occasion they lost the tug-of-war. Shamed and remorseful, both Rick and Mary carried in their hearts the wounds of a sullied faith. As a result, they brought undeclared baggage into their spousal relationship. In 29 years of marriage Rick and Mary have been led of the Holy Spirit to square off with each other about their hidden hurts. Admitting and confessing to past wrongs, making it right with God, man, and each other, and working hard to secure their relationship against negative influences has moulded their spiritual lives for the better.

Accordingly, the Bartons can relate personally to those who are facing trials and testing in life in general, and their relationships in particular. At this point in their lives Rick and Mary feel led of God to share their continuing story with anyone who will listen, Believers and non-Believers alike. In short, A Haven in Gilead Ministries is a ministry because the Bartons have dedicated themselves to the service of others for Christ's sake.

Rick and Mary admit they don’t have all the answers. Regardless, they are ready and willing to listen, to care, and to help soul-damaged people in whatever way they can. That means opening their home to those in need of solace, shelter, or simply a safe, quiet place to reflect and repair. Also, it means opening their ears by way of listening to those who are discouraged in their walk with the Lord, who’ve been broken by the trial of Christian service, or betrayed by a lost spiritual trust. It means opening their hearts to share their own story when and where the sharing may bring healing. If you or someone you know would benefit from spending some time with the Bartons, click here to let them know.