At Encounter Ministries, our mission is simple yet profound: "To Bring Empowerment To Those Who Desire An Improved Life Through Biblical Principles." We strive to make a real difference in our community by equipping individuals with practical tools, spiritual guidance, and unwavering support to overcome challenges and achieve their Godgiven potential.
Founded just a year ago, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of God’s love and grace. Through our programs, partnerships, and community outreach, we aim to build a legacy of hope, healing, and empowerment that changes lives and strengthens the church.
We envision a world where individuals are empowered to live their fullest potential through the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
Our vision includes:
We believe that as we walk in God’s direction, He will continue to grow His kingdom through Encounter Ministries.
From Pastor Thomas Blandford
Encounter Ministries was born out of a deep desire to be more effective in the church and take some weight off the shoulders of pastors. About a year ago, I asked myself, “How can we do more to support the church and reach those who are hurting?”
To be honest, I’ve always had a heart for people, especially after dealing with my own personal demons. I struggled with dark thoughts and even attempts of suicide. But through God's intervention and the mentorship of Pastor Ernie Frye from Connect Community Church, I began to see that this was just the beginning of something greater. Pastor Ernie’s guidance helped me understand that now the real work begins: going back into the streets, the jails, and wherever I could find the lost, broken, and disenfranchised. I felt God was telling me to, "Feed My Sheep."
About the same time, I was tutoring people out of my onebedroom apartment with the help of a friend who now volunteers for Encounter Ministries fulltime. The demand grew so large that, even in the winter, we had to open the balcony to accommodate the many people coming for help. Some wanted to learn English, others needed Bible study, assistance in obtaining driver’s licenses, or finding jobs. We were busy from sunup to sundown, all from my small apartment.
One day after a church service, Pastor Deryck Frye of Connect Community Church heard about what we were doing. He invited me to breakfast and said, “I want you to run Team Excel under Connect.” Back then, it was called Team Excel. I went home, prayed, and talked to others. After a week or two, I went back to Pastor Deryck and said, “Okay, let’s do it.”
With guidance and support from people with expertise in areas I didn’t know, we officially launched Encounter Ministries in the lower auditorium of Connect Community Church in Framingham, MA. Pastor Ernie used to say, “I may not know a lot about everything, but the one thing I am good at is to get someone else who is better than me to do it for me.” (I still smile when I think about that!)
Within the first year, we added a second campus in Milford through a partnership with The Salvation Army. It’s been an exciting ride, and it’s not over. The need is so great, but to watch my team members interact with clients and see their transformations makes it all worthwhile.
I found inspiration in a scripture that struck me deeply, and it has become the foundation of our mission. It's from Luke 4:18 (NIV):
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free."
And another verse that keeps us moving forward is Matthew 9:3538, which reminds us that the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. We are committed to being those laborers, going out into the world to meet people where they are and give them the hope and help they need.
Encounter Ministries is just getting started, and we can’t wait to see what God does next.
Our Accomplishments In just one year, Encounter Ministries has had a profound impact:
One client rose so high that he is now the director of our Milford Campus, sits on the board of directors, owns two businesses, and works full time for a bank.
Every single one of our team members donates not only their time but also financially on a regular basis. Additionally, every member of our board gives donations at least once a year.
We are blessed to partner with the following organizations:
Together, we are making a difference, reaching those in need, and changing lives.
We are excited about the future as we continue to grow and serve even more communities.
“Dear Pastor!
I called you last night as soon as I found out and left you a voicemail.
I passed my last Comprehensive law exam. Which was a two day 6 hours a day exam
I’m excited to share that I am graduating law school.
I will officially graduate in December 2024! Although walking June 2025.
This journey has been challenging, and tested ALL I have ever experienced in life
Thank you for your support and prayers and encouragement along the way. I couldn’t have done this without you cheering me on!
It was especially special and a blessing to me that you called me and prayed with me.
Next stop BAR exam” - Mariah (Holliston, MA)
“It has been my experience that people will judge you and do things for you because they want something from you. You, my friend, have shown me and my son nothing but genuine kindness and friendship and that is very unique to us. You didn’t know me from Adam and you did not judge me and did not want anything from me. It’s because of this kindness that I was able to keep a positive attitude and helped me regain my faith. I can never fully repay you for the effect you had on my life but I can say that I genuinely want to be able to do the same for you. You are an amazing person. I thank you.” - Lisa (Boston, MA)