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Paper Life

We love each other because he loved us first.  (1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

I haven’t used this platform to promote specific ministries or businesses, but today, it’s time for me to share a foundation I am incredibly grateful for and passionate about!


This ministry is called Life Beads. I encountered this interesting jewelry years ago at a reading conference. Fast forward to a premiere jewelry party where I met an amazing woman named Mallory. A few years later, Mallory became a Life Beads rel and now works as a jewelry designer for the organization.

Why Life Beads? Well, I love jewelry, and I love the unique look of this jewelry. I also believe strongly in the cause this group stands for. Women in Uganda are given an opportunity to provide for their families through this amazing organization.

All beads are made of wrapped paper, painted, and then shellacked to preserve the color and life of the jewelry. Smaller beads and metals are repurposed using found materials in the village where the women work. Some pieces are painted seeds, and some are found metals throughout the region that has seen tragedy.

But these women smile. They are learning and honing a craft to support themselves and their families. Additionally, they begin to understand that they are loved and cared for by God.

I love the jewelry. So much so that I was considered a HOPE shopper and given a Christmas treat box! Did I purchase the jewelry for the extras? Absolutely not! But I love that my small part in buying jewelry that I love has the power to spread the gospel.

So why this post? Why now? A better question is “Why not”? We spend on presents and items that we can’t take with us when we leave this earth. But we can do our part to give LIFE abundantly while we wait eagerly for the final call to eternal life. These little paper beads bring life and hope to women coming away from tragedy. Need a last minute gift? Check out Life Beads  and support a tremendous group bringing hope to women worldwide.

Some local retailers, including King’s Discount Drugstore, carry some of the pieces. Not interested in jewelry? Life beads also creates Christmas non-jewelry pieces such as ornaments and key rings. 

Happy shopping and Merry Christmas!

© Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries.  All rights reserved.

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