It's difficult to blog and pass on what we do when I keep everyone so busy and up late at night. The past two days have been great! The weather has cooperated, the youth have had great spirits and worked hard, and we've had a lot of fun.
Yesterday (Wednesday) three groups again left Calvary after breakfast to go to SOME, Christ House, and Food & Friends. Their work was similar to what they did on Monday, but different youth went to the different agencies. The SOME group woke up before the sun rose to be there in time to serve breakfast. The other two groups worked "normal" morning hours and planted flowers at Christ House and packed food at Food & Friends.
In the afternoon, we visited the Holocaust Museum. Our two hours there were humbling, sobering, and incredibly reflective. After spending the previous afternoon at the BJC, we learned what religious intolerance can look like when it gets really, really bad. That night, the youth talked for about an hour about their experience and impressions of the afternoon. They understood what they saw, and were horrified at what they understood. It was one of those moments where I was glad we did it, and sad that it was available to do.
Today, we split into two groups and did some grunt work. One group went to SOME and worked in their warehouse sorting food, organizing medical files, and going through electric equipment. The volume of work was overwhelming, but they made a dent in it and left the warehouse in better shape than when they got there.
The other group went to Calvary Women's Shelter. They spent the morning in the basement, cleaning and organizing 15 years of donations. By the end of the morning, there was rhyme and reason to the basement. Catherine, CWS's Volunteer Coordinator said we saved her at least 3 weeks of work! It was a good morning.
This afternoon we spent time with the International Justice Mission and learned about slavery and human trafficking. IJM is an impressive Christian organization, doing great work around the world to end this incredible injustice. The youth were actively listening and participating in the presentation and came away full passion about IJM's work.
The week has been great and one of the parts that has been great has been our food. Dennis Hyatt is our cook. He makes sure we have a good breakfast and a good lunch--everyday. We've had pancakes. I had planned on cold cereal and pop tarts--he quickly changed my plans! Yesterday we even had omelets! The youth have eaten well and it is all due to Dennis.
Tomorrow we get to relax a little as we tour the Capitol and do some other sight-seeing. After our week, it's time to relax a little. Please continue to keep the group in your prayers as we head home on Saturday. We can't wait to get home to tell you our stories!
Peace,
Woody
2 comments:
Hi Guys! Susan and I had fun spending the afternoon with you all at IJM! Thank you for your enthusiastic participation, great questions, and even helping us put away boxes of supplies! :). We are excited about your missions trip and all God is showing you this week. We will pray for you as you return to Charleston to share your new stories, and continue to be the light of Christ to others! With joy, Christa Hayden
Wow - What a great time of growth. Blessings and safe travels home! When I pick up Clay, I'm bringing home Dennis, too! Thanks to him for the special treats, and to all the chaperones who gave the ministry of presence, and to you, Woody - what fantastic planning - with you a newlywed, too. Impressive!
THANKS - Dawn
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