3/26/2007

Sorry for the delay! I will not take the time to explain, but just let me say that this email is being obtained illegally in a van in the dark of night. We'll share that story later.

The bus trip was terrific! We arrived 1 1/2 hours ahead of schedule, got settled into all of our various rooms around the church, greeted all those who arrived ahead of us and laid our weary heads down for a good night of rest.

Sunday morning was filled with worship at Westside Emmanuel Baptist Church, which allowed everyone in the group the opportunity to see the unity of faith across cultural boundaries. Figuring we would not look this well rested or clean for the rest of the week, we took a group picture in our Sunday best. Enjoying the sun with beanbags, football or lazy conversation, Sunday was quite restful. The church, following some testimonies about Katrina, served us what can only be described as the best jambalaya, cole slaw and bread pudding meal ever. We promise to share this meal with you when we return.

Monday morning came with a lot of questions. Thankfully Henry and Wilma de Wolde of the ministry here did not allow us an opportunity to ask them. Their preparation beforehand and calling in 10 group leaders from Phoenix for us was amazing. Each group consists of adults and students with no more than six people in a group. There are 13 job sites spread all over the city of Bogalusa. Unfortunately we cannot share the smell of this town with you-- a paper mill on which this city was founded at the center of the town. Now, at the end of the day it has been great to listen to the stories, the progress, the relationships formed within the work groups already and with the homeowners who have asked us to assist them at this time. Don't worry parents, as of day one of work, all fingers, toes and ears are accounted for. A few sunburns, but they cannot say we didn't warn them.

We thank you for your prayers. We have some interesting answers to prayer that we will share with you upon our return. Please continue to pray as we continue on in service and learning throughout this week.