Prayer

The Marsh Foundation

Faith and Spiritual Support

At The Marsh Foundation, we care deeply about nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. While we are not a religious organization, we recognize the powerful role faith can play in healing, purpose, and lifelong transformation. 

We offer every young person the freedom to attend a church of their choice and to practice their own religion. For those who come to us without a faith tradition but express a desire to learn about God, we are honored to guide them gently, helping them explore prayer, scripture, and a relationship with the Lord in a safe, supportive environment. 

Prayer is always welcome at The Marsh. Whether it’s before a therapy session, during a tough moment, or just a quiet pause in the day, we believe in the comfort, strength, and peace found in connecting with God. 

This approach to spiritual care reflects the original spirit and values of our founders. Over 150 years ago, Hilinda (Vance) Marsh, a woman of deep faith and compassion, wrote a personal declaration she titled Twelve Resolutions. Her words, penned in 1864, remain a guiding light for the work we do today.

The Twelve Resolutions of Hilinda Marsh  

“I, Hilinda Marsh, this day, December 8, 1864, declare and resolve to lead a better life and here wish to write the new resolutions I have this day formed.” 

To try and control my temper and tongue. 

To try and not speak ill of anyone, friend or enemy. 

To try and be forbearing and patient with my husband in all things and to try and give him no cause to treat me ill. 

Be kind and true to my mother in all things. 

To strictly adhere to the truth. 

To try and not spend too much time in idleness. 

To be kind to everybody rich or poor and never to turn a beggar from my door hungry. 

To be punctual in performing my duties, if possible. 

To try and not quarrel with anyone. 

To try and deal honestly with everyone and not take one cent (in dealing) that does not belong to me. 

To be true to every person and above all to my God. 

To try and remember to pray to my heavenly Father every night and thank Him for His blessings and tender mercies and pray to Him earnestly for faith and strength to believe and to deliver from temptation and evil and to finally save me in heaven. 

Hilinda’s words show her humility, faith, and daily commitment to doing what is right—principles that continue to shape the heart of The Marsh Foundation.

Verses to Guide and Inspire

Jeremiah 29:11 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  

Psalm 34:18 

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 

Proverbs 22:6 

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” 

Matthew 11:28 

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” 

1 Corinthians 16:14  

“Let all that you do be done in love.” 

At The Marsh Foundation, our commitment is to help young people not only heal—but discover a path of integrity, faith, and hope. 

Through spiritual support, compassionate care, and the enduring legacy of the Marsh family, we walk beside each child as they grow into the person they were created to be.