Hello Church Family!
What a great first day we had at our ASP work sites! The “Everything But The…” team surprised the ASP staff by completing roof work that should have taken three days, and the “Red, White, and Blueberries” team planned out a ramp, dug 25” holes for structural beams, cleared debris, and excavated an old cellar! We grew in relationship with our host families, and shared the love of Christ in our every word and gesture.The day started out with “Mail Call” and the first batch of the cards you wrote for us were handed out. What a blessing they were! There were cards from church members, previous participants, and even pre-schoolers from the Children on the Green! It was a great way to start the day. It made Jimmy Lombardo remember his first day at MUMC. Here’s what he shared:
“I am so touched by all the letters. I have been coming to this church for 23 years. My first Sunday was back in January of 1998 and I received the same expression of love when I asked if there was a bible study. Pastor Carletta Aston invited me to the one at 7pm in the Wesley Room. I attended, and she and all the others stood up and said -welcome Jimmy! I said right then – this is my church.”
In addition to the physical work we did today, we met as a group in the evening and discuss the importance of offering a Christian witness to the hurting world. A witness of God’s love expressed through kindness, understanding, assistance, and action. The families we are working with are kind and welcoming. But it is also hard for them to accept help. One of my favorite parts of the day was when our host, an elderly woman of 83, came out to sit with us at lunch and we had a more relaxed opportunity to hear about her life.
I’ve attached a LOT of pictures below. I hope you enjoy them.
For Tuesday, would you pray that the heat doesn’t overwhelm us, and that we stay hydrated, healthy, and safe. And would you also pray that this experience changes live – ours, and all we meet. To God be the Glory!
Blessings,
Pastor Luana