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“Praise God from whom all blessings flow!” What blessings we experience, as we see God’s hand at work in so many ways, and His abundance flowing into our ministry, as we reach out to help those in need.
Things began with a request for rice, two weeks ago. Maybe I should go into a little more detail…. We have a white board in our kitchen where we put our shopping and “wish” list, as well as special projects that need to be completed, and other little notes. As we finished off our supply of rice, Mary Edna wrote a note with a special request, “Please Daddy, Send Uncle Ben!” Pastor Dowdy here at Church of the Living God happened to see the note, and immediately recognized that we were in need of rice. This was the beginning of our story on our “flow of abundance!”
Within a few days, over 1,600 pounds of rice showed up from an anonymous source. And, guess what, “Uncle Ben is home!” The very first thing we noticed is that it is indeed “Uncle Ben’s” brand of rice….How is that for specific? We have rice to last till around the end of August. What a blessing! This started the chain of events that continues to follow. As teams personally see how we ask for supplies and watch them show up, they have begun to test their faith by making their requests known on our white board in the kitchen. Seth and a team from CA showed up on the 5th, and when we shared with them how God was providing, Seth jokingly said he wanted cheesecake, and we encouraged him to write it on the board. We had cheesecakes donated in the past, so we thought it certainly would be worth making the request known. Well, sure enough, two days before they were leaving, we had someone show up with several cheesecakes! Now, who says God does not care about the desires of our heart!!!
I share all of this to say how many times we truly “have not” a lot of what we need in life very simply because we are too proud and “ask not.” This very same week, we were scrambling, trying to figure out how we would keep our volunteers busy, as we were lacking funding for building supplies. I have shared with you in previous newsletters about Sonia and her family, who lost everything in Ike. She shared in the experience of the next prayer answered… We have committed to assisting her with her home, and knew there were no funds available for supplies, but encouraged her to stand strong and trust God for all her needs. Knowing we had the team from CA which possessed significant construction skills and a team of college students from Campus Crusade, we began to scramble for supplies, and praise God, we were blessed with some grant monies to apply to supplies for her construction. I talked with GCR2 and was told they would pre-approve her home and we could get supplies immediately! What a site it was! As soon as we knew funds were available to begin reconstruction, our teams began tearing that house apart, literally. The siding came down, windows and doors out, and by the end of the day, you could see straight through her home. Within just a couple of days though, we are so thrilled to see the beginnings of her NEW home!
It brought tears to my eyes when Sonia called me, in complete disbelief. “Vicki, you told me I would be getting a NEW home, but I did not really believe it till the guy just ask me what color I would like my house!” I knew she was crying through the broken words. She said, “I told that guy that I did not care what color of house I had. It is a miracle that I am getting a NEW home!” I do not know where Sonia stood in her faith prior to all of this, or even where she stands today, but I do know that she is seeing firsthand the love of Christ. She is seeing for herself that God loves her so much, and is seeing His miracles in her life. She is experiencing Christ in the flesh through the many volunteers who come to serve and work on her home. She recently told me that she sees each and every volunteer as an angel, sent by God. She says she, “cries tears of joy every time she sees them working on her home and is reminded that so many people care so much to come and volunteer to work on her home.” What a humbling, but incredible experience. For God to call someone from half-way across the country to come to serve someone they have never even met, just to show His love in such practical ways. I am constantly reminded of Matthew 25.
We are in great need of more volunteers, especially skilled construction teams. As we have recently transitioned into the phase of recovery, our main focus is on the reconstruction. With that, we have such a great opportunity to minister to families on a personal level, as we assist them in rebuilding their homes and lives. Let us know how you can be a part of our ministry here in Galveston. If you are able to come and serve with us, or make a donation to help us purchase supplies, please let us know. TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Update 1.4.09
Update 1.4.09
Jesus is the reason for the season, and this holiday season, Jesus has become a best-friend to many who previously did not even know Him! Wow! I am amazed at all that has happened in the past month, and how God is so graciously blessing our ministry here in Galveston, as we continue to reach out to those who are broken, hurting, and still continue to recover from the 3rd worst hurricane in our nation’s history.
C4C hosted a large distribution of Toys for Tots for the local Marine Corps where we distributed toys to over 2,000 children. For so many families, this alone was an answer to their prayers. Many parents confessed that, “They had accepted in their hearts that they would not be able to have gifts for their children this Christmas morning.” But, instead of the disappointment this would have created in both the parents and children, with your help, and the help of the local Marine Corp, we were able to bring hope and share the love of Christ to so many families. They were reminded of the love of Christ, when He gave the world His gift of eternal life….What a gift that is!
Families came at scheduled appointments to the facility where we are partnered here at Church of the Living God, and upon arrival had a place where they could check in their children to play, while the parents went “shopping.” The children enjoyed “Ms. Pearl” the clown, face painting, balloon animals, bubbles, singing, storytelling, and played, not having a clue that Mom and Dad were preparing for their Christmas morning by selecting toys and gifts. We then had a “shopping area” where the parents were able to shop with “points” for toys. They selected items for each child, and were then blessed by gift wrapping by the Lee-Gregory-Thompson Families who donated the gift wrap and served in personally wrapping each gift. Families left with smiles, and I would have loved to have been there on Christmas morning.
Along with the Christmas presents received, so many were prayed with, and we had over 100 salvations the week of Christmas. What a blessing to see so many come to know Christ as their personal friend. It has truly been the greatest gift we could ever give. We rejoice with the angels!
We have had so many wonderful volunteers during the month of December. A very special thanks to Wendy Koy and her family and teams from Houston, Mary Rimple from Wisconsin, Debbie Stinson from here in Galveston for her faithful service, Kristine Masorsky and her family, Josephine Salcedo and her family, Nicole McCann and Jacqueline Games from Franklin, TX, Stephanie Little from here in Galveston, Pauline Larson, Lindsey and the AmeriCorp team, Kyle Wilmers and the Cincinnati, OH team, Amanda and Alex Corbitt and family from Oklahoma, Rebecca and Alan Harris and their girls from Colorado Springs, CO, Gwen, Stewart, and Olivia Lee from Oklahoma, Alethea Ficklin from Long Beach, MS, Bill Sherry from Cleveland, OH, Melinda and Steven Thompson and their family and friends, Erik Perez and Erik Jr., Meryl Gregory and her family and friends, Ginny Hobbs, Bill and Clara Knee and their son, Robin Sturgis and family and friends, Rhonda VanLiew, Cissie Sandoval, Susan, Kathy Roche, Susan Kirksey and the Kirksey and Phillips families, Joan Ostroot and her family, Diana Tian-Yu, Gerry Burgess and family, Cliff Golden and Boy Scout Troop #33 from IL, Jennifer and Bob Ruggio and family, Sheri Robinson, Tina Bloom, Rose and Dennis McCarroll and family and friends, Jacqueline (better known as “Ms. Pearl”), Gary, Deanna Williams, Mary Garcia and family, Ralph and Anna Tims and their girls, Terry and Cynthia Owens, Lonnie, Henry and Effie Amparan, the YWAM teams from Tyler, TX, and all who participated with Toys for Tots and served with us. We could not have done it without you.
As we start this New Year, we are kicking off our rebuilding efforts and the recovery stage of our efforts here in Galveston. Our main focus will change to skilled construction teams that are capable of assisting homeowners with the repairs and rebuilding necessary for many of them to return home. We are in great need of skilled construction volunteer teams who can come and spend a day, week, or month and the funding to assist homeowners with supplies in order to utilize the volunteer labor when they have exhausted all other resources.
I pray that we will all see others as Christ sees them, and that our ministry here on the Coast will continue to be blessed, as we bless those who are recovering and rebuilding their lives and homes from Hurricane Ike. Your support, prayers, and volunteer service allow us to continue to meet the needs of so many who are walking through tough times. With God’s help….Together, we can rebuild the Gulf Coast and make a difference!
Jesus is the reason for the season, and this holiday season, Jesus has become a best-friend to many who previously did not even know Him! Wow! I am amazed at all that has happened in the past month, and how God is so graciously blessing our ministry here in Galveston, as we continue to reach out to those who are broken, hurting, and still continue to recover from the 3rd worst hurricane in our nation’s history.
C4C hosted a large distribution of Toys for Tots for the local Marine Corps where we distributed toys to over 2,000 children. For so many families, this alone was an answer to their prayers. Many parents confessed that, “They had accepted in their hearts that they would not be able to have gifts for their children this Christmas morning.” But, instead of the disappointment this would have created in both the parents and children, with your help, and the help of the local Marine Corp, we were able to bring hope and share the love of Christ to so many families. They were reminded of the love of Christ, when He gave the world His gift of eternal life….What a gift that is!
Families came at scheduled appointments to the facility where we are partnered here at Church of the Living God, and upon arrival had a place where they could check in their children to play, while the parents went “shopping.” The children enjoyed “Ms. Pearl” the clown, face painting, balloon animals, bubbles, singing, storytelling, and played, not having a clue that Mom and Dad were preparing for their Christmas morning by selecting toys and gifts. We then had a “shopping area” where the parents were able to shop with “points” for toys. They selected items for each child, and were then blessed by gift wrapping by the Lee-Gregory-Thompson Families who donated the gift wrap and served in personally wrapping each gift. Families left with smiles, and I would have loved to have been there on Christmas morning.
Along with the Christmas presents received, so many were prayed with, and we had over 100 salvations the week of Christmas. What a blessing to see so many come to know Christ as their personal friend. It has truly been the greatest gift we could ever give. We rejoice with the angels!
We have had so many wonderful volunteers during the month of December. A very special thanks to Wendy Koy and her family and teams from Houston, Mary Rimple from Wisconsin, Debbie Stinson from here in Galveston for her faithful service, Kristine Masorsky and her family, Josephine Salcedo and her family, Nicole McCann and Jacqueline Games from Franklin, TX, Stephanie Little from here in Galveston, Pauline Larson, Lindsey and the AmeriCorp team, Kyle Wilmers and the Cincinnati, OH team, Amanda and Alex Corbitt and family from Oklahoma, Rebecca and Alan Harris and their girls from Colorado Springs, CO, Gwen, Stewart, and Olivia Lee from Oklahoma, Alethea Ficklin from Long Beach, MS, Bill Sherry from Cleveland, OH, Melinda and Steven Thompson and their family and friends, Erik Perez and Erik Jr., Meryl Gregory and her family and friends, Ginny Hobbs, Bill and Clara Knee and their son, Robin Sturgis and family and friends, Rhonda VanLiew, Cissie Sandoval, Susan, Kathy Roche, Susan Kirksey and the Kirksey and Phillips families, Joan Ostroot and her family, Diana Tian-Yu, Gerry Burgess and family, Cliff Golden and Boy Scout Troop #33 from IL, Jennifer and Bob Ruggio and family, Sheri Robinson, Tina Bloom, Rose and Dennis McCarroll and family and friends, Jacqueline (better known as “Ms. Pearl”), Gary, Deanna Williams, Mary Garcia and family, Ralph and Anna Tims and their girls, Terry and Cynthia Owens, Lonnie, Henry and Effie Amparan, the YWAM teams from Tyler, TX, and all who participated with Toys for Tots and served with us. We could not have done it without you.
As we start this New Year, we are kicking off our rebuilding efforts and the recovery stage of our efforts here in Galveston. Our main focus will change to skilled construction teams that are capable of assisting homeowners with the repairs and rebuilding necessary for many of them to return home. We are in great need of skilled construction volunteer teams who can come and spend a day, week, or month and the funding to assist homeowners with supplies in order to utilize the volunteer labor when they have exhausted all other resources.
I pray that we will all see others as Christ sees them, and that our ministry here on the Coast will continue to be blessed, as we bless those who are recovering and rebuilding their lives and homes from Hurricane Ike. Your support, prayers, and volunteer service allow us to continue to meet the needs of so many who are walking through tough times. With God’s help….Together, we can rebuild the Gulf Coast and make a difference!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for His steadfast love endures forever!” (1 Chronicles 16:34). This has been a great week to reflect on the goodness of the Lord and to give Him thanks for his steadfast love. We had a very blessed Thanksgiving celebration, with many volunteers and even though the turn out for meals was slightly disappointing, we know lives were touched and hearts were changed.
Much to our surprise, once a full Thanksgiving dinner was prepared with all the trimmings, very few were coming to eat. Rather than getting discouraged though, we decided to load up meals and take them out to those who may not have a hot meal on this holiday. This is where my story this week begins…
We pray Thanksgiving Day 2008 will be a day John will never forget, as it is the beginning of his rebirth and coming to know Jesus Christ as his lord and savior. As volunteers walked throughout the city handing out Thanksgiving dinners, they hit the beach with turkey and stuffing filled styrofoam containers. When they happened upon John, he broke down and began to sob. Sure, he could use the hot meal being offered, but even greater was his need to have someone to listen so he could pour his heart out, and even far greater than that was having someone point him to the cross and show him his need for a savior.
John shared how he was suicidal and had hit rock bottom in his life. He had given up on himself for one more time, after having fought his family for many years of trying to help him help himself. Now, he had a choice to make, and was ready to do whatever it was going to take to turn his life around.
After a full hour of pouring out his heart, John was ready to accept Christ as his savior and prayed a sinner’s prayer as volunteers stood by witnessing this incredible transformation. His life changed and we pray it will never be the same again.
John has since accepted our assistance in getting him into a men’s recovery program where he will commit to cleaning up his life and accountability. He was so relieved when he arrived at the house in Houston on Saturday where he will make his home for the next six months of his life. We pray this is just the beginning of the transformation God is preparing to do in His life.
Even though we had some disappointment in the number of people we were able to serve on Thanksgiving Day, we know that it is more than worth all our efforts, for even just one. Our hearts rejoice with the salvation of John.
We have been so blessed this week with so many volunteers it will be difficult to mention every one of them. Let me just share briefly with you that we had a team from Colorado University (Boulder, CO); Gwen, Stuart, and Olivia (Oklahoma); Karen and Ken (Tomball, TX); Roberta, Diana, and Aidan (Houston); Shannon and her family (Houston); Melissa and the Cook family (Houston); and Meryl and her family (Houston); Mary and her daughters (Caruthers, TX); Diane and Taylor (Long View, TX); Pam Castello (Tiki Island, TX); Blayne and a team from Grace Community Church (Houston); and a team of volunteers from Times Square Church (New York City). Each and every one of you have been a great encouragement and blessing to all of us and the local people who you have touched.
Gwen and Olivia served with us several times in MS, with Katrina efforts. Many of our staff referred to them as “the lady and team with the horse trailer.” When Gwen would arrive, announcing she had made the trip from OK but could not back the horse trailer into the parking spot, excitement would fill the air, as they seemed like a ray of sunshine with eagerness to serve. And, what a horse trailer it was! Needless to say, it worked great for the young adults Olivia would bring with her, and Gwen had her little private suite.
As a result of those trips, we have been so blessed with quite a few wonderful volunteers on a regular basis. Having roots here in TX, Gwen and Olivia have served as a great resource for volunteers and supplies here in Galveston. Olivia’s sister, Meryl lives in Houston, and Gwen’s sister, Melinda is from here in Galveston. With their help, many have found our ministry as a place to serve their fellow Texans during this time of recovery here in Galveston.
There are no words to express the impact they made on the coast this past week. The team from Times Square Church in New York City was asked by local resident, Sonya, to read the following passage when they found a family Bible that had been salvaged in her home, which they gutted down to the bare studs. “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (Psalm 91:14-16)
The question of the week happens to be, “Really, how BIG are the possums in Texas?” Only Charles and the New York City team from Times Square Church may know the exact answer, but many of us can tell you how bad they can scare a grown man. The Times Square team was amazing in the kitchen, cleaning up debris, and gutting out homes!
Help us get the word out. We need volunteers, and everyone can do something to help! In the city of Galveston, there are around 60,000 year-round residents, and over 2/3 of that population were in an income bracket prior to Ike where they qualified for some form of government assistance, so it was not just the tourist beach where everyone came to vacation and full of second homes as many believe. Then, after Ike, of those 60,000 homes, over 75% were damaged to where the families are not able to live in them, and over 2,000 homes have already been condemned and will have to be completely rebuilt from the ground up. There are significant needs, and even though you are not seeing it on national news, people are living in tents and have nowhere to live. People need our help! Together we can make a difference!
As I said in last week’s newsletter, everyone can do something, and we just ask that you consider what part you can play. This is not for us, but for the people who need our prayers and support.
Please let us know if you will intercede for this city and the ministry we are doing here in Galveston. If you would like to volunteer, whether for a day, weeks, or months, please contact me to be scheduled. And, if you are one who is able to support the efforts by sending financial support, we need your help.
We believe that as we enter this holiday season in the very near future, God has a great opportunity to use His church to touch those who are broken and hurting. We are seeing lives changed. TOGETHER, WITH CHRIST’S HELP, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Thank you for your continuous prayers and support. It is such a privilege and so exciting to be here and a part of the relief and recovery.
Much to our surprise, once a full Thanksgiving dinner was prepared with all the trimmings, very few were coming to eat. Rather than getting discouraged though, we decided to load up meals and take them out to those who may not have a hot meal on this holiday. This is where my story this week begins…
We pray Thanksgiving Day 2008 will be a day John will never forget, as it is the beginning of his rebirth and coming to know Jesus Christ as his lord and savior. As volunteers walked throughout the city handing out Thanksgiving dinners, they hit the beach with turkey and stuffing filled styrofoam containers. When they happened upon John, he broke down and began to sob. Sure, he could use the hot meal being offered, but even greater was his need to have someone to listen so he could pour his heart out, and even far greater than that was having someone point him to the cross and show him his need for a savior.
John shared how he was suicidal and had hit rock bottom in his life. He had given up on himself for one more time, after having fought his family for many years of trying to help him help himself. Now, he had a choice to make, and was ready to do whatever it was going to take to turn his life around.
After a full hour of pouring out his heart, John was ready to accept Christ as his savior and prayed a sinner’s prayer as volunteers stood by witnessing this incredible transformation. His life changed and we pray it will never be the same again.
John has since accepted our assistance in getting him into a men’s recovery program where he will commit to cleaning up his life and accountability. He was so relieved when he arrived at the house in Houston on Saturday where he will make his home for the next six months of his life. We pray this is just the beginning of the transformation God is preparing to do in His life.
Even though we had some disappointment in the number of people we were able to serve on Thanksgiving Day, we know that it is more than worth all our efforts, for even just one. Our hearts rejoice with the salvation of John.
We have been so blessed this week with so many volunteers it will be difficult to mention every one of them. Let me just share briefly with you that we had a team from Colorado University (Boulder, CO); Gwen, Stuart, and Olivia (Oklahoma); Karen and Ken (Tomball, TX); Roberta, Diana, and Aidan (Houston); Shannon and her family (Houston); Melissa and the Cook family (Houston); and Meryl and her family (Houston); Mary and her daughters (Caruthers, TX); Diane and Taylor (Long View, TX); Pam Castello (Tiki Island, TX); Blayne and a team from Grace Community Church (Houston); and a team of volunteers from Times Square Church (New York City). Each and every one of you have been a great encouragement and blessing to all of us and the local people who you have touched.
Gwen and Olivia served with us several times in MS, with Katrina efforts. Many of our staff referred to them as “the lady and team with the horse trailer.” When Gwen would arrive, announcing she had made the trip from OK but could not back the horse trailer into the parking spot, excitement would fill the air, as they seemed like a ray of sunshine with eagerness to serve. And, what a horse trailer it was! Needless to say, it worked great for the young adults Olivia would bring with her, and Gwen had her little private suite.
As a result of those trips, we have been so blessed with quite a few wonderful volunteers on a regular basis. Having roots here in TX, Gwen and Olivia have served as a great resource for volunteers and supplies here in Galveston. Olivia’s sister, Meryl lives in Houston, and Gwen’s sister, Melinda is from here in Galveston. With their help, many have found our ministry as a place to serve their fellow Texans during this time of recovery here in Galveston.
There are no words to express the impact they made on the coast this past week. The team from Times Square Church in New York City was asked by local resident, Sonya, to read the following passage when they found a family Bible that had been salvaged in her home, which they gutted down to the bare studs. “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (Psalm 91:14-16)
The question of the week happens to be, “Really, how BIG are the possums in Texas?” Only Charles and the New York City team from Times Square Church may know the exact answer, but many of us can tell you how bad they can scare a grown man. The Times Square team was amazing in the kitchen, cleaning up debris, and gutting out homes!
Help us get the word out. We need volunteers, and everyone can do something to help! In the city of Galveston, there are around 60,000 year-round residents, and over 2/3 of that population were in an income bracket prior to Ike where they qualified for some form of government assistance, so it was not just the tourist beach where everyone came to vacation and full of second homes as many believe. Then, after Ike, of those 60,000 homes, over 75% were damaged to where the families are not able to live in them, and over 2,000 homes have already been condemned and will have to be completely rebuilt from the ground up. There are significant needs, and even though you are not seeing it on national news, people are living in tents and have nowhere to live. People need our help! Together we can make a difference!
As I said in last week’s newsletter, everyone can do something, and we just ask that you consider what part you can play. This is not for us, but for the people who need our prayers and support.
Please let us know if you will intercede for this city and the ministry we are doing here in Galveston. If you would like to volunteer, whether for a day, weeks, or months, please contact me to be scheduled. And, if you are one who is able to support the efforts by sending financial support, we need your help.
We believe that as we enter this holiday season in the very near future, God has a great opportunity to use His church to touch those who are broken and hurting. We are seeing lives changed. TOGETHER, WITH CHRIST’S HELP, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Thank you for your continuous prayers and support. It is such a privilege and so exciting to be here and a part of the relief and recovery.
We have been so blessed this week, both with volunteers, supplies, and with hearts being touched. It is just wonderful to see all the blessings, and know that the efforts are making an impact.
We continue to feed more and more local residents on a daily basis, as more people are trying to get back to work on their homes and begin the recovery process. It is so sad to hear the heart wrenching stories, yet so encouraging seeing God’s people at work restoring the homes and lives here in Galveston.
One day, out front where people come to get a hot meal, Vance and a local guy, Henry were working at handing out meals and talking and praying with people when a gentleman walked up. Vance offered him a hot meal, and he just looked at him and told him no thanks, that he was not here for a meal. He then asked to talk with the pastor, and the guys explained that the pastor was not here at the time, and Vance asked if there was something he may be able to help him with, and the guy answered that he just needed someone to talk with.
That began a conversation between the three guys, where Vance and Henry had an opportunity to share what the Bible tells about all Job lost, yet he praised God in the midst of everything. At that point, the guy looked over at the two other men and said, “That was just what I came to hear. I cannot tell you how much I needed to hear that.” They prayed with him, and invited him to come back and eat with us on a regular basis, as he is rebuilding his home and life for his family, and sent him on his way with more words of encouragement.
Again, later in the week, a pastor who was volunteering with us, Scott, was talking with two other gentlemen who had come up to eat, and offered to pray with them. He and Terry shared that God loved them, and they committed their hearts to Christ that very day. We are not just feeding bodies, but we are feeding souls who are so hungry for God.
Daily, we see how God will use those who are just willing to take a moment of time, and share themselves with those around us. It is overwhelming sometimes to see so many hopeless, broken, and hurting, but we know God is bigger than all the issues we face, and it is wonderful when we can see them get a glimpse of the hope we have in Him.
We have had some wonderful help this week. With some of the local people, like Henry and his wife, Effie, and a repeat team of moms from Houston with Meryl, Wendy, and Bessanne that are giving a few hours when they can.
We have also had some wonderful short-term teams who have been here to serve with us. Over the weekend, Foundation for Hope, had a few people who came to help us out for a few hours each day, and they were a great blessing. Then, a team of three from Christian Outreach International arrived later in the week to check out our facility to plan for future teams. Mary Alice, Scott, and Trent were so much help, and arrived at just a critical moment when we were so desperate for their assistance, as it was just five of our staff working that day, and we were a bit crazy as there had been a flyer passed out with the few remaining relief services, and we are now the only consistent place for people to get a hot meal. When they saw the need, they stepped in, and were such a great blessing, and came back three days in a row to offer their assistance, rather than doing the site seeing and visiting other locations, as they had previously planned. What a great blessing they have been and we look forward to the many teams they will be able to send our way to help the people of Galveston.
The efforts here continue on, even though so many have not even heard of the great need. So often, we are hearing locals refer to Ike as “The Silent Storm” and as we talk with people from all around the country, we are constantly reminded that the media has failed to do its job of letting citizens know that their fellow citizens need their help. After Katrina, we saw that it slowly faded from the forefront, but Ike never made it to the forefront, in the midst of all that was happening within our country with politics and other issues, that now the need is not even known.
Help us get the word out. We need volunteers, and everyone can do something to help! In the city of Galveston, there are around 60,000 year-round residents, and over 2/3 of that population were in an income bracket prior to Ike where they qualified for some form of government assistance, so it was not just the tourist beach where everyone came to vacation and full of second homes as many believe. Then, after Ike, of those 60,000 homes, over 75% were damaged to where the families are not able to live in them, and over 2,000 homes have already been condemned and will have to be completely rebuilt from the ground up. There are significant needs, and even though you are not seeing it on national news, people are living in tents and have nowhere to live. People need our help! Together we can make a difference!
As I said in last week’s newsletter, everyone can do something, and we just ask that you consider what part you can play. This is not for us, but for the people who need our prayers and support.
Please let us know if you are able to intercede for this city and the ministry we are doing here in Galveston. If you would like to volunteer, whether for a day, weeks, or months, please contact me to be scheduled. And, if you are one who is able to support the efforts by sending financial support, we need your help.
We believe that as we enter this holiday season in the very near future, God has a great opportunity to use His church to touch those who are broken and hurting. We are seeing lives changed. TOGETHER, WITH CHRIST’S HELP, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! We will be serving a Thanksgiving dinner here on Thursday, and look forward to the opportunity to meet more of the local people who are in need of our services and support. Please pray that many come and feel a part of our “extended family” as we celebrate the day of giving thanks together, and that we will have an opportunity to encourage each and every one of them with words and prayers of thanks and encouragement. Have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Thank you for your continuous prayers and support. It is such a privilege and so exciting to be here and a part of the relief and recovery.The following link is for a video that I shared in last week’s newsletter, just in case you did not yet have a chance to view it. Please take a moment to watch it, and say a prayer for all those who are facing a long road of recovery. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6P-JczbE2pc
We continue to feed more and more local residents on a daily basis, as more people are trying to get back to work on their homes and begin the recovery process. It is so sad to hear the heart wrenching stories, yet so encouraging seeing God’s people at work restoring the homes and lives here in Galveston.
One day, out front where people come to get a hot meal, Vance and a local guy, Henry were working at handing out meals and talking and praying with people when a gentleman walked up. Vance offered him a hot meal, and he just looked at him and told him no thanks, that he was not here for a meal. He then asked to talk with the pastor, and the guys explained that the pastor was not here at the time, and Vance asked if there was something he may be able to help him with, and the guy answered that he just needed someone to talk with.
That began a conversation between the three guys, where Vance and Henry had an opportunity to share what the Bible tells about all Job lost, yet he praised God in the midst of everything. At that point, the guy looked over at the two other men and said, “That was just what I came to hear. I cannot tell you how much I needed to hear that.” They prayed with him, and invited him to come back and eat with us on a regular basis, as he is rebuilding his home and life for his family, and sent him on his way with more words of encouragement.
Again, later in the week, a pastor who was volunteering with us, Scott, was talking with two other gentlemen who had come up to eat, and offered to pray with them. He and Terry shared that God loved them, and they committed their hearts to Christ that very day. We are not just feeding bodies, but we are feeding souls who are so hungry for God.
Daily, we see how God will use those who are just willing to take a moment of time, and share themselves with those around us. It is overwhelming sometimes to see so many hopeless, broken, and hurting, but we know God is bigger than all the issues we face, and it is wonderful when we can see them get a glimpse of the hope we have in Him.
We have had some wonderful help this week. With some of the local people, like Henry and his wife, Effie, and a repeat team of moms from Houston with Meryl, Wendy, and Bessanne that are giving a few hours when they can.
We have also had some wonderful short-term teams who have been here to serve with us. Over the weekend, Foundation for Hope, had a few people who came to help us out for a few hours each day, and they were a great blessing. Then, a team of three from Christian Outreach International arrived later in the week to check out our facility to plan for future teams. Mary Alice, Scott, and Trent were so much help, and arrived at just a critical moment when we were so desperate for their assistance, as it was just five of our staff working that day, and we were a bit crazy as there had been a flyer passed out with the few remaining relief services, and we are now the only consistent place for people to get a hot meal. When they saw the need, they stepped in, and were such a great blessing, and came back three days in a row to offer their assistance, rather than doing the site seeing and visiting other locations, as they had previously planned. What a great blessing they have been and we look forward to the many teams they will be able to send our way to help the people of Galveston.
The efforts here continue on, even though so many have not even heard of the great need. So often, we are hearing locals refer to Ike as “The Silent Storm” and as we talk with people from all around the country, we are constantly reminded that the media has failed to do its job of letting citizens know that their fellow citizens need their help. After Katrina, we saw that it slowly faded from the forefront, but Ike never made it to the forefront, in the midst of all that was happening within our country with politics and other issues, that now the need is not even known.
Help us get the word out. We need volunteers, and everyone can do something to help! In the city of Galveston, there are around 60,000 year-round residents, and over 2/3 of that population were in an income bracket prior to Ike where they qualified for some form of government assistance, so it was not just the tourist beach where everyone came to vacation and full of second homes as many believe. Then, after Ike, of those 60,000 homes, over 75% were damaged to where the families are not able to live in them, and over 2,000 homes have already been condemned and will have to be completely rebuilt from the ground up. There are significant needs, and even though you are not seeing it on national news, people are living in tents and have nowhere to live. People need our help! Together we can make a difference!
As I said in last week’s newsletter, everyone can do something, and we just ask that you consider what part you can play. This is not for us, but for the people who need our prayers and support.
Please let us know if you are able to intercede for this city and the ministry we are doing here in Galveston. If you would like to volunteer, whether for a day, weeks, or months, please contact me to be scheduled. And, if you are one who is able to support the efforts by sending financial support, we need your help.
We believe that as we enter this holiday season in the very near future, God has a great opportunity to use His church to touch those who are broken and hurting. We are seeing lives changed. TOGETHER, WITH CHRIST’S HELP, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! We will be serving a Thanksgiving dinner here on Thursday, and look forward to the opportunity to meet more of the local people who are in need of our services and support. Please pray that many come and feel a part of our “extended family” as we celebrate the day of giving thanks together, and that we will have an opportunity to encourage each and every one of them with words and prayers of thanks and encouragement. Have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Thank you for your continuous prayers and support. It is such a privilege and so exciting to be here and a part of the relief and recovery.The following link is for a video that I shared in last week’s newsletter, just in case you did not yet have a chance to view it. Please take a moment to watch it, and say a prayer for all those who are facing a long road of recovery. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6P-JczbE2pc
Monday, November 17, 2008
C4C Brings Hope in the Midst of Recovery
We have a new look in our format, but this is minor compared to the exciting things that have been happening around here over the past week. It is so encouraging to see things being done, and lives being touched.
We have had a great week of serving those who are hungry with meals, cleaning up debris, gutting homes, and skilled construction projects. Our volunteer staff- Mary Edna, Chris, Steve, Lezlie, Vance, Ryan, and myself - have been overseeing the operations here on Galveston, and coordinating short-term volunteers.
This week, we have had the Nipper family, volunteers with FriendShips, serve with us. Elena, Danielle, and Lorna are from Texarkana, TX, and were here for the week. They were such a blessing to our kitchen staff.
Meryle Lee-Gregory, daughter of Gwen Lee who had served with us several times in MS, brought a group of ladies on Thursday from the Houston area. Meryle, Chrissy, Wendy, and Bessanne all have children who attend the same school, and came down to help on the island while their children were in school. They worked in the kitchen, and plan to bring more volunteer teams on a regular basis, to assist in the kitchen. They were so refreshing and a blessing in the kitchen.
We also were blessed by two wonderful guys from Florida, Steve and Sheldon, as well as very entertained. They have done everything this week from opening cans for our ladies in the kitchen to the repairs and rebuilding here at the church. They were great teachers, and even taught Chris some greatly desired drywalling skills. They brought humor to the atmosphere, and will be welcomed back in January when they plan to bring a team to work on houses. We can hardly wait to hear the new jokes they have mastered by then.
In addition, Lakewood Church, Houston, blessed us with a group of 27 youth and their leaders on Saturday. When they arrived in Galveston, they were ready to conquer the world, and it was quite an experience for these young people to demo a couple of houses. One young man was overjoyed at the thought of taking a sledge hammer to the interior doors which were covered in mold, while others were overwhelmed with the sadness of witnessing so much loss.
It is sometimes bitter-sweet, to see so many hurting, yet be so blessed with so many who will give up their own luxuries and conveniences to come and serve their fellow man. Our motto has always been “Many Churches, One God” and what a joy it brings to the many hearts, when God’s people can come together in His name and meet practical needs while touching lives and hearts.
Some of our special blessings this past week…. Dreyers donated 6 pallets of ice cream!.... We celebrated Chris’ “half birthday” since we got some ice cream cakes!!!... The sanctuary of the church has drywall rehung…. Chris has new skills in the drywalling industry…. And we’ve had FUN!
We still need help with our Thanksgiving and Christmas outreaches. Volunteers, turkeys, potatoes, yams, breads, butter, milk, pies, 3-compartment “to-go” containers, hams, baking supplies, and cash donations are needed.
In addition to that, we have committed to assist with the local Toys for Tots distribution. We are collecting new toys, wrapping paper, candy, cookies, hot cocoa, crayons, printer ink, photo paper, etc. for this even. We are also in great need of volunteers who would like to assist us in these efforts, from Thanksgiving to Christmas, of making this year’s Toys for Tots events the greatest it has ever been on Galveston Island. Please let us know if you can partner with us in these efforts.
We have a new look in our format, but this is minor compared to the exciting things that have been happening around here over the past week. It is so encouraging to see things being done, and lives being touched.
We have had a great week of serving those who are hungry with meals, cleaning up debris, gutting homes, and skilled construction projects. Our volunteer staff- Mary Edna, Chris, Steve, Lezlie, Vance, Ryan, and myself - have been overseeing the operations here on Galveston, and coordinating short-term volunteers.
This week, we have had the Nipper family, volunteers with FriendShips, serve with us. Elena, Danielle, and Lorna are from Texarkana, TX, and were here for the week. They were such a blessing to our kitchen staff.
Meryle Lee-Gregory, daughter of Gwen Lee who had served with us several times in MS, brought a group of ladies on Thursday from the Houston area. Meryle, Chrissy, Wendy, and Bessanne all have children who attend the same school, and came down to help on the island while their children were in school. They worked in the kitchen, and plan to bring more volunteer teams on a regular basis, to assist in the kitchen. They were so refreshing and a blessing in the kitchen.
We also were blessed by two wonderful guys from Florida, Steve and Sheldon, as well as very entertained. They have done everything this week from opening cans for our ladies in the kitchen to the repairs and rebuilding here at the church. They were great teachers, and even taught Chris some greatly desired drywalling skills. They brought humor to the atmosphere, and will be welcomed back in January when they plan to bring a team to work on houses. We can hardly wait to hear the new jokes they have mastered by then.
In addition, Lakewood Church, Houston, blessed us with a group of 27 youth and their leaders on Saturday. When they arrived in Galveston, they were ready to conquer the world, and it was quite an experience for these young people to demo a couple of houses. One young man was overjoyed at the thought of taking a sledge hammer to the interior doors which were covered in mold, while others were overwhelmed with the sadness of witnessing so much loss.
It is sometimes bitter-sweet, to see so many hurting, yet be so blessed with so many who will give up their own luxuries and conveniences to come and serve their fellow man. Our motto has always been “Many Churches, One God” and what a joy it brings to the many hearts, when God’s people can come together in His name and meet practical needs while touching lives and hearts.
Some of our special blessings this past week…. Dreyers donated 6 pallets of ice cream!.... We celebrated Chris’ “half birthday” since we got some ice cream cakes!!!... The sanctuary of the church has drywall rehung…. Chris has new skills in the drywalling industry…. And we’ve had FUN!
We still need help with our Thanksgiving and Christmas outreaches. Volunteers, turkeys, potatoes, yams, breads, butter, milk, pies, 3-compartment “to-go” containers, hams, baking supplies, and cash donations are needed.
In addition to that, we have committed to assist with the local Toys for Tots distribution. We are collecting new toys, wrapping paper, candy, cookies, hot cocoa, crayons, printer ink, photo paper, etc. for this even. We are also in great need of volunteers who would like to assist us in these efforts, from Thanksgiving to Christmas, of making this year’s Toys for Tots events the greatest it has ever been on Galveston Island. Please let us know if you can partner with us in these efforts.
Update 10/26/08
It is hard to believe another week has passed, yet so exciting to see what God’s people are doing to share the love of Christ in such practical ways. During the past week, we have been blessed by everyone who has assisted in the efforts here on Galveston.
Several volunteers arrived last Sunday. Mary Edna had served with us in MS, and has returned to serve long-term in our kitchen. She will be overseeing a lot of the meal preparation and food service, allowing me to work more on the administrative side of the ministry. Chris, or “Cleatis” to many, has also returned this week, and will be serving long-term, assisting Mary Edna in the kitchen.
We continue to be blessed by Steve and Lezlie, Kara, and Alan; as well as the local volunteers, Melinda and Debra. What an awesome thing, to see God networking His people from all over the country to serve those who are so broken and hurting in TX right now.
I want to share with you a few statistics this week, rather than a specific story, as I see the urgency of getting some hard facts out. I received an update just yesterday of information put together by FEMA showing that they are predicting Ike to be the 3rd most costly disaster in our nation’s history at $21B, only to follow Katrina and Andrew. Wow! Who would have guessed, with so little media coverage? I can personally tell you, from firsthand knowledge, that the need is very great!
I was one of the many who had no clue that Galveston was a massive city of 60,000 residents prior to Ike, and far more than a vacation destination. Of those 60,000 year round residents, something like 86% of their homes were damaged in the storm. And, 2,000 homes are destroyed, beyond repair. As of yesterday, 7,380 families had registered with FEMA, and many people are currently facing homelessness. We are striving to get the word out of our services, and seeing increases in the number of local residence that are coming for meals.
As we are approaching the holiday season, we especially need your assistance with meeting the needs of so many who have recently lost everything. We will be the main distribution point for Toys for Tots on the island. So many children have lost every toy they owned, and this is a great opportunity to share the love of Christ, while adding a little joy to their lives this holiday season. We are also planning a Thanksgiving Outreach, and need your assistance to make both of these events a great success.
For Thanksgiving Outreach, some of our needs are: Turkeys, potatoes, yams, breads, butter, milk, canned pumpkin and pie shells or pumpkin pies, 3-compartment “to-go” containers, & volunteers. For Christmas Outreach we need the following: Hams, turkeys, potatoes, yams, breads, butter, milk, Baking Supplies, 3-compartment “to-go” containers, volunteers, toys, stuffed animals, wrapping paper, candies, cookies, hot cocoa mix, crayons, printer ink for family photos, photo paper, etc. For both outreach projects, as well as the daily outreach we are doing, we need cash donations.
Hungry people are being fed, tired individuals are receiving assistance with the clean up, hearts are being touched, and lives are being changed. All, for the glory of the Lord!
It is hard to believe another week has passed, yet so exciting to see what God’s people are doing to share the love of Christ in such practical ways. During the past week, we have been blessed by everyone who has assisted in the efforts here on Galveston.
Several volunteers arrived last Sunday. Mary Edna had served with us in MS, and has returned to serve long-term in our kitchen. She will be overseeing a lot of the meal preparation and food service, allowing me to work more on the administrative side of the ministry. Chris, or “Cleatis” to many, has also returned this week, and will be serving long-term, assisting Mary Edna in the kitchen.
We continue to be blessed by Steve and Lezlie, Kara, and Alan; as well as the local volunteers, Melinda and Debra. What an awesome thing, to see God networking His people from all over the country to serve those who are so broken and hurting in TX right now.
I want to share with you a few statistics this week, rather than a specific story, as I see the urgency of getting some hard facts out. I received an update just yesterday of information put together by FEMA showing that they are predicting Ike to be the 3rd most costly disaster in our nation’s history at $21B, only to follow Katrina and Andrew. Wow! Who would have guessed, with so little media coverage? I can personally tell you, from firsthand knowledge, that the need is very great!
I was one of the many who had no clue that Galveston was a massive city of 60,000 residents prior to Ike, and far more than a vacation destination. Of those 60,000 year round residents, something like 86% of their homes were damaged in the storm. And, 2,000 homes are destroyed, beyond repair. As of yesterday, 7,380 families had registered with FEMA, and many people are currently facing homelessness. We are striving to get the word out of our services, and seeing increases in the number of local residence that are coming for meals.
As we are approaching the holiday season, we especially need your assistance with meeting the needs of so many who have recently lost everything. We will be the main distribution point for Toys for Tots on the island. So many children have lost every toy they owned, and this is a great opportunity to share the love of Christ, while adding a little joy to their lives this holiday season. We are also planning a Thanksgiving Outreach, and need your assistance to make both of these events a great success.
For Thanksgiving Outreach, some of our needs are: Turkeys, potatoes, yams, breads, butter, milk, canned pumpkin and pie shells or pumpkin pies, 3-compartment “to-go” containers, & volunteers. For Christmas Outreach we need the following: Hams, turkeys, potatoes, yams, breads, butter, milk, Baking Supplies, 3-compartment “to-go” containers, volunteers, toys, stuffed animals, wrapping paper, candies, cookies, hot cocoa mix, crayons, printer ink for family photos, photo paper, etc. For both outreach projects, as well as the daily outreach we are doing, we need cash donations.
Hungry people are being fed, tired individuals are receiving assistance with the clean up, hearts are being touched, and lives are being changed. All, for the glory of the Lord!
The Approach of The Holiday Season In A Disaster Area
As I drive around the city of Galveston, the familiar sights and sounds of a neighborhood approaching the season are missing. Piles of debris, from ruined belongings, or debris from the insides of houses that have been gutted, decorate the yards. The sounds of children playing are replaced by silence, or in some cases the sounds of demolition of the interior of the houses. At night, the neighborhoods are mostly dark, quiet and uninhabited. There are some houses that the owners have gotten fixed, but they are few.
As I drive around, I think, "If we had more volunteers we could get people back into their houses". The volunteer groups we saw during Katrina efforts, have not come, the church has not responded in mass numbers, so the work we are able to do takes longer. The neighborhoods full of various church groups and volunteers, so commonly seen during Katrina relief efforts, are absent. I thank God for the ones who are here. I Thank God for the churches who are sending workers. I see relief organizations pull out every week, not because there are no needs, but because of the lack of volunteers and funding. If it were not for the faith we have in Christ, and keeping our eyes fixed upon Him, it could get discouraging. We have found we need to keep our focus on every person we see, every person that comes by for a meal and not losing sight of the individual due to the enormity of the task.
At this time Bibles are very much in demand, we can't keep bibles stocked, they are taken as soon as we put them out...people are desperate for the hope and encouragement. As I write this, we are all out of bibles, we still have a few Spanish Bibles, and some New Testaments in English. I pray every day that God will send more so we can send people out with His word.
I look toward the Holidays in anticipation. Thanksgiving we are planning on filling hungry bellies with a hearty Thanksgiving dinner. We are doing Toys For Tots this year, and expect to have many people signed up, we would like to be able to give each family a Bible and some Christian children's DVD's, as well as some much needed housewares(blankets, sheets, small kitchen appliances, etc.) if we are able.
Remember the disaster victims as the holidays approach, there are still many thousands still out of their homes, many needs, keep these in prayer, and if you can do something to help, no matter how small it seems, be assured everything matters.
Vance Weesner-C4C Staff
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