tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627262793953208322024-02-06T19:46:10.829-08:00First Church of Christ, Bedford: On a MissionA blog of our West Virginia Mission TripPastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-43754367043344903242019-07-14T05:51:00.001-07:002019-07-14T05:51:48.454-07:00One Last Blog<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">This last blog is from Alison Weaver:</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The last car ride home:</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">We left the hotel at 8:00am.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>We returned Nick to his family in PA (they are off on another adventure) We had a great lunch in Newburg NY at the Alexis Diner and are expected to arrive in Bedford at 5:00pm.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">We spent the car rides listening to blogs, having sing-a-longs, a bubble blowing contest, preparing for tomorrow’s worship and talk, talk talking. With one hour to go, the AA LED* (power and light) team is summarizing our thoughts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Adjectives from the week</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Educational – learned how to use a power drill</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Interesting – a lot of fun and interesting things on the trip</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Eye-opening – saw other people’s life styles<span style="margin: 0px;"> <wbr></wbr> <wbr></wbr> <wbr></wbr> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Cohesive – worked and played well together</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Adventuresome – always willing to try something new both, entertainment and work tasks</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Tasty – good eats (especially at Margaret and Geneva’s)</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Eventful – variety of things to do.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Loving – being gentle with each other and sharing beyond ourselves.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 15.6933px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">*Laura, Evan, Douglas, Allyson & Alison<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span>Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-61356920861579364722019-07-13T04:12:00.001-07:002019-07-13T04:12:09.047-07:00Back in Chambersburg, PA<div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Good Morning, Everyone!</span></div>
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This is a special Saturday morning blog. We did make it back to Chambersburg late last night. Our group divided into two: one going to visit Margaret and Geneva Pugh in Wyco WV. Our mission trip two years ago took us to Mount Grove Baptist Church, which they oversee. </div>
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I'll let the other team report below:</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">report from NASA*:</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The day started with breakfast (leftovers) followed by devotions with communion. It’s always special sharing the sacrament with people you’ve been sharing your week with.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The NASA* team stayed a little later at the ASFC.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>After packing, we spent some time helping clean up the library building so they can use it as an office.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>There was the added bonus of having a few minutes to read with the site director’s daughter.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Greg (foreman from our previous trips) showed up shortly before we left so we were able to give him a mission trip T-shirt and a prayer shall in person.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>We left the folk life center at 11:45 and continued our adventure</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Tim M. had recommended the <i>Beartown State Park</i> to us which is a small detour – well perhaps farther off the beaten track than usual.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>We made a stop at Biscuit World , heavy/heavenly <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>as always. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Then we headed to the park. It is a beautiful with a nice boardwalk and mossy, mystical feeling.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Very peaceful.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">On our way to the park, we passed by a few blueberry picking spots, so on the way back, we stopped for 30 minutes and picked 10lbs between the four of us.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Of course, we had to make a detour to Dairy Queen and then finally at 5:00 we were back on our path. We passed by many beautiful landscapes, a helicopter on a flatbed and a truck full of chickens.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">It’s been a good day. Another day of adventure tomorrow and back to Bedford.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>All in all, a good way to end our trip.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">*Nicholas, Allyson, Susan, Alison</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Report from all the rest:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was a total blessing to visit Margaret and Geneva. They greeted us at the front door, and when we came into Margaret's house, it was obvious that she was cooking a lot of food. She served us fried chicken, green beans, corn potatoes, cornbread, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, with lemon cake and ice cream for dessert. She also baked a second lemon cake specifically for Pastor John, for him to do with as he pleased. If all goes well, I'll bring it to church tomorrow! We had the privilege of passing on the final Mission Festival check to them. They were overcome with gratitude. Margaret sang us a song. Her voice is amazing - she never fails to bring tears to my eyes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We got to see the church and the inside looked great. The one big issue they are having is the roof. They desperately need a new one and got estimates of between $11,000 to $17,000 to repair. They are planning a "Go Fund Me" project to hopefully raise money.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We then moved on, with one stop in Virginia to take a short walk to stretch our legs. It was a walk on top of a mountain range that ran parallel to the highway. The views were stunning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Believe it or not, both teams met up for dinner at a cool college town burger place in Winchester VA for one last group meal. Then it was about an hour to the hotel to crash.</span></div>
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At devotions yesterday morning, we talked about love (having covered faith and hope pretty well). We talked about where we saw love this week. Among the many things, we saw your love everyday, with every casserole, every cookie and breakfast bread, every time we used a Lowe's card to help Estill. I talked about the Greek word that Paul uses for love: agape. This is a love that is giving without reservation. I talked about the love I saw when eleven people decided to actually pay to travel far away and spend a week working their tails off to help a stranger they didn't even know. I saw lots of love this week. I am so proud of this team. Each member had something to contribute. There was absolutely no weak link. </div>
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We can wait to get back today and see you at church tomorrow. </div>
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Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-80443328881918612862019-07-11T19:34:00.002-07:002019-07-11T19:34:23.158-07:00Our Job Is Finished, and yet.....Coming up with morning devotions can be a tricky thing. A month ago, I picked some pretty traditional passages from the Gospel of Luke and had the devotionals all set. Then I got a email from Tim at the Folklife Center, letting me know that we'd be working on a lady's house that needed a massive amount of work. Our job was to get things started so other groups could come in and finish. This made me change the devotions to reflections in the epistles on faith, hope and love. The idea was that it takes a lot of faith and hope to start a project and believe it will be completed by someone else in the future. <br />
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Then Tim emailed last week saying the plan changed: we would be actually finishing a project that was started and worked on by two prior groups. I was concerned that the devotions wouldn't "fit" the experience. On the first day, Tim was full of confidence that we would finish. But as the week went on, it became clear that this was not the case, especially when we found rot underneath the bath tub and had to demolish the tub area and put in new flooring.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bathtub rotting floor is and surrounding walls are finally removed</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris works overtime, sawing some floorboard replacement</td></tr>
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Many in the group really seemed to hope for some sense of accomplishment - to see a completed job that gives us all satisfaction. Yet today, we left the worksite with a lot done, yet more to be done. We would have to rely on faith and hope after all. This reminds me of a quote from one of my favorite Christian thinkers, Reinhold Neibuhr, "<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Nothing that is worth doing can be achieved in our lifetime; therefore we must be saved by hope.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Nothing which is true or beautiful or good makes complete sense in any immediate context of history; therefore we must be saved by faith.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Nothing we do, however virtuous, can be accomplished alone; therefore we must be saved by love.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> "</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">The Bible is full of figures who faithfully worked for something only to be completed by the next generation. Alison Weaver let us know that this was the experience of the Israelites wandering through the desert from Egypt to the promised land. The ones who started never made it. That was left to the next generation.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">We can be really proud and happy for what we did this week. There is not doubt. I rarely have seen a group of people work so hard, putting in hours of careful, loving work. Estill was so grateful.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">On another note - this year, I remembered to bring five prayer shawls down with me. I am so glad I did. We gave one to Estill. We also gave one to Greg, who is showed up today. He is out of the hospital, with a diagnosis of an ulcer and some back issues. We also gave one to some relatives of Estill who live up the hill from him, and are dealing with some serious health issues. Mary and Deb spent a lot of time painting their house, which desperately needed it. Thanks to all the knitters who do this important ministry. Your shawls are making a difference.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estill holding his prayer shawl</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">When we got back to the center, some took the tram ride at Pipestem Park. Then we had another P-I-G basketball game. Douglas won, with Deb coming in a close second.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The winners of the P-I-G competition</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">It's now time to pack our bags and head home. Some of us are going to visit Margaret and Geneva Pugh, whose church we helped out two years ago. She already baked a lemon cake and I have the feeling she'll be cooking up a storm for us, despite my telling her not to go to any trouble. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">There will be others with different plans. We'll let you know how things go in one last blog tomorrow, to be written in Chambersburg PA. We can't wait to come home and tell you all about it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">By the way, I did upload a video to Facebook that shows you what it's like to drive up to the worksite and goes around showing what we did in Estill's new home. Check it out if you're on Facebook.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset tonight</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Good night one last time from West Virginia!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-13928945671135236822019-07-11T19:17:00.001-07:002019-07-11T19:17:04.069-07:00A Blog from Debbie Caban<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
Bill Belichick would love this mission trip team - well organized and working together. All members performing their assigned jobs and also ready to step up when called upon for something extra. A multi-talented collection of eleven - like 11 payers on the football field coordinated to accomplish a series of goals. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have singers, snappers, spacklers, and scavenger hunters. Some are painters, power tool operators, and photographers. Their are chefs, caukers, and conductors. Do you need biscuit makers, bloggers, or barbecue experts? Soloists, scrapers, and scrubbers? They are showing their talents here in Pipestem, West Virginia.</div>
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It has been quite an experience to observe the team work with Estill to help make his family donated trailer a comfortable place to live. A house fire and water damage have left Estill homeless and without his car repair garage. </div>
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Head coaches Pastor John and Job Site Leader Clarence expertly divide the tasks while Coordinator Allyson creates the creative and resourceful daily program.</div>
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Thank you to the extended church team players who supported the mission trip and Estill with well wishes, food, and donations. We and Edstill are extremely grateful. </div>
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Deb Caban</div>
Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-81986816609878237872019-07-10T19:21:00.003-07:002019-07-10T19:23:10.915-07:00Many Steps Forward, a Few Steps Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: calibri;">Today's blog entry is from Allyson Printz and Mary Criscione:</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">We split into three groups this morning upon leaving for the worksite.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">The first headed straight to Estill’s house, the second did a Lowe’s run and the third headed for the Wade Center in Bluefield.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">We have kept in contact with the Wade Center every since 2016 when Terry Gerrish made the initially contact with the center and ended up substitute teaching!<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>It is a Christian after-school program for 75 disadvantaged children grades one through five and during the summer months, they run a seven-week VBS style summer camp. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">The director, Kourtney, greeted us and gave us a quick tour since there were a few in the group who have never been.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">We brought the five boxes of books which Kourtney graciously accepted and said that they send books home with the children to encourage them to read outside of school.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">We also delivered the homemade headbands and a check from the WV Mission Festival.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">Kourtney mentioned how much they appreciate the hats, scarves and mittens that we collect and send each January on our mitten tree.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">Kourtney let us know that they are considering expanding their program since the only other after school program in Bluefield has closed.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">The Wade Center might decide to increase the number of children that they serve.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">This will be a financial challenge. The Outreach board will keep in contact with Kourtney about how we may be able to help.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">We also visited Mary Claire’s house (where we worked last year) and dropped off a prayer shawl.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>We knew that she would be at home since she is visiting her sick brother.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">After some lively discussion on the quickest way to the worksite, we arrived at Estill’s to continue working.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;"><span style="margin: 0px;"></span>Mary and Deb are <i>The Doubles</i> painters (currently working on Estill’s aunt and uncle’s house up the road).<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">The kids worked on the porch, installed a door, painted and helped Estill clean up his yard.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">Allyson crawled around under the trailer learning the fine art of applying spray foam insulation and discovered that the subfloor in the bathroom was in moldy bad shape.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>This led to another project: bathroom demo (!) which Chris and John started after finishing installing drywall.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">Susan continued plastering, Alison sanded said plaster and Allyson tried to learn how to plaster (won’t be working in the union just yet).<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;"><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>All in all, we made lots of steps forward and a few back.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>We are getting to know Estill a little more every day.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>And – we are trying our best to be a blessing!<span style="margin: 0px;"> Here's some photos from the worksite.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">After a hard day's work, Dairy Queen is essential!</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">We think often of you all (especially while eating) and know that you are with us.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">Before our showers, we participated in a group whipped cream arm-launch event.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Happily, it ended messily.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">Wednesday is BBQ night and after that, we were treated to a house concert by Jim Costa who told stories and played various Appalachian tunes on fiddle, banjo and harmonica.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>A treat!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jimmy Costa and Tim Mainland playing a duo</td></tr>
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A few more evening photos:</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">From John</span></div>
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Before going to the worksite, Nicholas and I met Clarence at Lowes to get Estill's new door and window. Once again, the Lowe's cards are continuing to bless Estill.</div>
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When I got to the worksitre, we had some time to talk to Estill and learn the story behind his homelessness. Apparently, he had a pretty nice home at the site, which burned down from the heater igniting a fire. I can't imagine Fire engines getting up this steep, narrow road. Of course, there was not adequate water pressure to put out the fire so two trucks had to get water from below and then feed the main engine. Of course, Estill had no home insurance, so he has been surviving by his considerable wits in his trailer.</div>
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Estill also shared some photos of what the trailer that we are working on looked like before the work crews came. Here's a few photos.</div>
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A final group photo with all of us, including Estill and Clarence, our project manager.</div>
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Time for bed. We have a big day ahead of us. One last day to make an impact. Keep praying for us!</div>
Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-27541099064514416092019-07-09T20:31:00.001-07:002019-07-09T20:31:58.848-07:00A Couple Reflections from the Team<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinL_lYPek5U81KqURB3dN9ST5or-O3eD5Ax_9fRRrDvyTthIzSWHN0DuYXSK8uxvqfJR9zEyhUdJCUTMjd832nMDSP5pth-m1uI8WTa04O1O4xWf_h7Vim4gekN60VMjQo6W3NpoBpBl44/s1600/IMG_3174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1184" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinL_lYPek5U81KqURB3dN9ST5or-O3eD5Ax_9fRRrDvyTthIzSWHN0DuYXSK8uxvqfJR9zEyhUdJCUTMjd832nMDSP5pth-m1uI8WTa04O1O4xWf_h7Vim4gekN60VMjQo6W3NpoBpBl44/s320/IMG_3174.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise at the Folklife Center</td></tr>
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Today was a long but good and productive workday. Here are some reflections from a couple people from the team.<br />
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First, Mary Criscione<br />
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Deb and I finished painting the side of the trailer early in the day. Our next job was to walk up the road and start painting the next house. Estill's extended family has lived in this hollow for several generations. We were a little apprehensive as we walked up the road with many dogs barking and lots of "junk" in the yard - the usual non-working cars, appliances, old tires, etc. After the dogs stopped barking (just spray the hose at them!) we had a great discussion with Steve and Lynn, Estill's aunt and uncle. We weren't sure how much we were going to accomplish today but completed much more than we expected. Mostly thanks to Deb's willingness to do the high ladder painting!<br />
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Something that occurred to me today is that I finally understand why people have yards full of what I perceive to be "junk." I've always assumed that they didn't know any better, were lazy, uneducated etc. But now I finally get it. If you have nothing, then you do not throw anything away. You keep it until you can find a good use for it, or some part of it. Estill lives with no running water but has a cistern for collecting rainwater to use. He does not have electricity but has a generator he made himself out of used car parts. He has a car engine sitting in the yard that he will repair and put in the car that does contain an engine. The falling apart single wide trailer that we are now working on has been sitting for years in Steve and Lynn's yard until a good use was found for it. In some ways they are the original environmentalists - they recycle everything. I finally get it!<br />
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Next, Alison Weaver:<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">This is our general daily outline:</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Devotion time talking about Hope.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Go to Estill’s house and continue work.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">o</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">We set an alarm to make sure we had a water break at least once an hour.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">o</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Interior JACAS team continued work</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />§</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">installing insulation (AA)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">§</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Putting up dry wall (CJ)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">§</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Precision spakeling (S)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">o</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The exterior LEND group continued building a deck and stairs (a huge help for getting into the house)</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 96px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">o</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">MD painters finished painting Estill’s house and started painting Estill’s uncle’s house</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">We went home via Frozen custard shop (YUM), the Dollar General and Jerky Outlet.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Dinner <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>- Thanks for a yummy chicken and broccoli casserole</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Field trip to a local observation tower at the state park “across the street”</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Evening Devotional</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Observation for today:<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I haven’t figured exactly what it is but I am extremely glad to know Estill. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I don’t feel that I know him well. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>He seems quiet, smart and observant.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Our paths will cross very briefly but he has left an impression on me.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here's a few pictures from the day:</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrq62_AVw904QxUqpYL0V9L3ZK65NcepOwxaIsmqTd8_3rNUo89016h85ZqH6EOr-J6G5vX8HbRQNvuOUY6j-eAtTtK3GEeMwqKHGzMUo8yWB8rm1w_-zMHDwDW6Q1JkgzSe6WsmZuybc/s1600/20190709_090454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1579" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrq62_AVw904QxUqpYL0V9L3ZK65NcepOwxaIsmqTd8_3rNUo89016h85ZqH6EOr-J6G5vX8HbRQNvuOUY6j-eAtTtK3GEeMwqKHGzMUo8yWB8rm1w_-zMHDwDW6Q1JkgzSe6WsmZuybc/s320/20190709_090454.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We load, among other things, a toilet to go to the worksite</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4W7_E2NZRgsShZT7HAn5SteeSylaY7jZEecZMahIJoOPGgYm36MQGfNzgC9v2s4c3TREMSIm6msEUycr8aPosuKaYrh7EQDG2KYrX0gucAVYIHUOVbbH6m0TzSGbV9_CKFPj-XLqPzS6S/s1600/IMG_3176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1184" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4W7_E2NZRgsShZT7HAn5SteeSylaY7jZEecZMahIJoOPGgYm36MQGfNzgC9v2s4c3TREMSIm6msEUycr8aPosuKaYrh7EQDG2KYrX0gucAVYIHUOVbbH6m0TzSGbV9_CKFPj-XLqPzS6S/s320/IMG_3176.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loading some cabinets for Estill's new place</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pX3TH_b_WDQ_Irk7A__JXWQYrMQihSEZk66L5KlZONKiT5FeUCzp_fv-g5sS1t7u87eh4cO0_uBtP7gLflETfUuZ9Xmsh735wxvvK4bhjvc3t45ADi_HDbOXEwZ27VpQ1DmVH2H7YutL/s1600/20190709_135614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pX3TH_b_WDQ_Irk7A__JXWQYrMQihSEZk66L5KlZONKiT5FeUCzp_fv-g5sS1t7u87eh4cO0_uBtP7gLflETfUuZ9Xmsh735wxvvK4bhjvc3t45ADi_HDbOXEwZ27VpQ1DmVH2H7YutL/s320/20190709_135614.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary doing her expert paint job</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38PGbRyJlUz0NIYdPE27Xb9Xxgr0CZv17DTMPP7hdLKpmw8FSIlhxUDAbDDIgxcDhJP61iffoxJCgfFkE1npQaJeYzerKGVhAK4Q18lTSj08861h7TsuL11a_G5r_RhofRc48VlxyMx66/s1600/20190709_135427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1579" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38PGbRyJlUz0NIYdPE27Xb9Xxgr0CZv17DTMPP7hdLKpmw8FSIlhxUDAbDDIgxcDhJP61iffoxJCgfFkE1npQaJeYzerKGVhAK4Q18lTSj08861h7TsuL11a_G5r_RhofRc48VlxyMx66/s320/20190709_135427.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deb ready to tackle a new ladder painting project</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9C5SE7Vc1qOlwsYawzJRDlWEdkgfB79RGQgkuzce9EDBWcGBXs5KPHodEqdSwAO1L0pNHp6p6VjfNI_uNymX6rDCmIFK7rM2AL1b2X_TkYGO97zwnWVXzfeUjoC0T-bef7kU15ysFfZg3/s1600/IMG_3187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1182" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9C5SE7Vc1qOlwsYawzJRDlWEdkgfB79RGQgkuzce9EDBWcGBXs5KPHodEqdSwAO1L0pNHp6p6VjfNI_uNymX6rDCmIFK7rM2AL1b2X_TkYGO97zwnWVXzfeUjoC0T-bef7kU15ysFfZg3/s320/IMG_3187.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A&A with their insulation masterpiece</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQvhbY8O2LgYOmTje4DsaRGyfyj2OwVjQcoAM2cSyEU9y3T0H0IVkAtTwO6pk8tbjAo0IO6UUy8tuFEgXt4vVSQfg3b3-jMR12F7-pYTEuw_XAZShmrHjEtpJEAAL0QC7bQtt23EmGKqcf/s1600/IMG_3190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQvhbY8O2LgYOmTje4DsaRGyfyj2OwVjQcoAM2cSyEU9y3T0H0IVkAtTwO6pk8tbjAo0IO6UUy8tuFEgXt4vVSQfg3b3-jMR12F7-pYTEuw_XAZShmrHjEtpJEAAL0QC7bQtt23EmGKqcf/s320/IMG_3190.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C&J putting up sheetrock</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmUWJxzti8PyKTdon7wL0UDZB3AOLryraHIwJqWAzUqsWlQNI7VR8PtnwiBXUq-MV8koWXLK0kKfP5KmX4lhnuFUzKPMLHrMXnCma1_Xndym5xEwVKUxBEKbD9aOAfWFbRyk1NHZFGrpB/s1600/IMG_3194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1184" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmUWJxzti8PyKTdon7wL0UDZB3AOLryraHIwJqWAzUqsWlQNI7VR8PtnwiBXUq-MV8koWXLK0kKfP5KmX4lhnuFUzKPMLHrMXnCma1_Xndym5xEwVKUxBEKbD9aOAfWFbRyk1NHZFGrpB/s320/IMG_3194.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhyphenhyphen72ibnrN_CjMVECF3U7hSDHeAa5gZ0VCDlzHTzaeA1XflNc4FG04aVtLNW8VvUyR_PFjElt18bLcpWWJ_Y8Z3ChkQguK2VdhzfkgZwo0IqicvH_lus-PjF8LS6qBQPR63ZRDbsIaqmi/s1600/IMG_20190709_121046371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhyphenhyphen72ibnrN_CjMVECF3U7hSDHeAa5gZ0VCDlzHTzaeA1XflNc4FG04aVtLNW8VvUyR_PFjElt18bLcpWWJ_Y8Z3ChkQguK2VdhzfkgZwo0IqicvH_lus-PjF8LS6qBQPR63ZRDbsIaqmi/s320/IMG_20190709_121046371.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Susan doing her expert spackling work</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtS_iaI5NXQ_ynWTEk3dWYJim6Z8u40LGkIoT4zDGELGB6OHBAfcmMobZsZU0W7zkP3IxUYj_6ojKqh_dQCfTco_CIEtgtQ99y60n-BtzZ5E4KVrE5hRiTBaDUiYZ117jqjzCAvmyGD_W/s1600/IMG_20190709_121601314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtS_iaI5NXQ_ynWTEk3dWYJim6Z8u40LGkIoT4zDGELGB6OHBAfcmMobZsZU0W7zkP3IxUYj_6ojKqh_dQCfTco_CIEtgtQ99y60n-BtzZ5E4KVrE5hRiTBaDUiYZ117jqjzCAvmyGD_W/s320/IMG_20190709_121601314.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estill with our youth</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5H-A-5WGH4ULRt0pveRDqe_F5OAqPQisPUW9OGmPOErStmW9EcYe0XvzSuQThGZK9VRiS3YkxP1iCMq3kOa6ivzZRu_N_AxY6EOJIjva7XZIdxIi_4rYdZ0M9PlJrC3SPgw6oNnKO1lI/s1600/IMG_3200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5H-A-5WGH4ULRt0pveRDqe_F5OAqPQisPUW9OGmPOErStmW9EcYe0XvzSuQThGZK9VRiS3YkxP1iCMq3kOa6ivzZRu_N_AxY6EOJIjva7XZIdxIi_4rYdZ0M9PlJrC3SPgw6oNnKO1lI/s320/IMG_3200.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before putting on the drywall, we wrote blessings on the insulation covering</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirg-QvDDB3gMOLBR4xg-nI9XmhYcf8GCVbCxbxV5uljClnaZfdiKmVhXIExQ3gb9UVE25_XHMKlEL6yQcOjd2O26LjDTcjujLGJ4QVXVFN9dcbiu2xXg-ormsjUsG-avzHuhnLgydVpti6/s1600/IMG_20190709_151021734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirg-QvDDB3gMOLBR4xg-nI9XmhYcf8GCVbCxbxV5uljClnaZfdiKmVhXIExQ3gb9UVE25_XHMKlEL6yQcOjd2O26LjDTcjujLGJ4QVXVFN9dcbiu2xXg-ormsjUsG-avzHuhnLgydVpti6/s320/IMG_20190709_151021734.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicholas using power tools!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGNbXbQ0AlPAhIZCDmk-w7c_fZhHPpeAptcZq1miWtbBAIIXe9BHX3zTc3m9h_QpC4D5kUR998i7h5QEtL9eIMmhXCKoNPxiIzlV1k-0sMK2eWEAamdkGGgln2RqZhwb_psrJUMf0mpli/s1600/IMG_20190709_164013685_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGNbXbQ0AlPAhIZCDmk-w7c_fZhHPpeAptcZq1miWtbBAIIXe9BHX3zTc3m9h_QpC4D5kUR998i7h5QEtL9eIMmhXCKoNPxiIzlV1k-0sMK2eWEAamdkGGgln2RqZhwb_psrJUMf0mpli/s320/IMG_20190709_164013685_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASB5RgTvFCah0TrVlyu-X-78AqzA5S9-950cllBuEF8vH4gAIExy_pT2YAwOPSRkn7HM1TAQXmXVx1FtEqC94H29iaCsouisQ_DD_Y7U39SSnr0WlHstru22LXGycwIGtn8d2WsoxjC62/s1600/IMG_20190709_163834504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASB5RgTvFCah0TrVlyu-X-78AqzA5S9-950cllBuEF8vH4gAIExy_pT2YAwOPSRkn7HM1TAQXmXVx1FtEqC94H29iaCsouisQ_DD_Y7U39SSnr0WlHstru22LXGycwIGtn8d2WsoxjC62/s320/IMG_20190709_163834504.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A well deserved treat after a hard day's work</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7X_xvCRmCHTT7zVE7lf7mrl1wH2ECqnKKAyDqa6uvaMEGVU0q_PBva_zs8OsZ0bAvrMxYL-VbZUBxK69U1oShiHRRy-RP6sysGPneby1igQZorsTCIZnuE1L4VEZUFAF9oaGvY7eDMGd/s1600/IMG_20190709_202330682_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7X_xvCRmCHTT7zVE7lf7mrl1wH2ECqnKKAyDqa6uvaMEGVU0q_PBva_zs8OsZ0bAvrMxYL-VbZUBxK69U1oShiHRRy-RP6sysGPneby1igQZorsTCIZnuE1L4VEZUFAF9oaGvY7eDMGd/s320/IMG_20190709_202330682_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lookout tower at Pipestem State Park, very close to the Folklife Center</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3f2sXa7qLdRpou6BqZRR8WtGDoqW8_4yH-csz0Y8REbrGs71eMxxecCysb-VPvm-dDJYisqc4zbLY9edHYsiatdu_Mu2hqbGOQf5ieg8SR_GF9gcdSAb6PNjlKIZduQGYWGKOzqc0TJI/s1600/IMG_20190709_202731414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1184" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3f2sXa7qLdRpou6BqZRR8WtGDoqW8_4yH-csz0Y8REbrGs71eMxxecCysb-VPvm-dDJYisqc4zbLY9edHYsiatdu_Mu2hqbGOQf5ieg8SR_GF9gcdSAb6PNjlKIZduQGYWGKOzqc0TJI/s320/IMG_20190709_202731414.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from the top</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">From John:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="margin: 0px;">For those wondering what JACAS, AA etc. means, here's the key</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">JACAS = John, Alison, Chris, Allyson, Susan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">AA= Alison and Allyson</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">CJ = Chris and John</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">S = Susan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">LEND = our four youth - Laura, Evan, Nicholas and Douglas</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">MD = Mary and Deb</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I just wanted to say how much the Lowe's cards have impacted our trip. In line with what Mary talked about, the standard procedure in home improvement involves saving old stuff until there's a use for it. This is definitely a noble thing to do. Yet, this stuff can get wet, old, moldy and will ultimately deteriorate pretty quickly. When we got there, a deck was made with old wood that was hanging around. I mentioned to Clarence, our project manager from the Folklife Center that we were willing to finance the renovations. He mentioned that the deck would do much better with new pressure treated wood. I gave him some Lowe's gift cards to make it happen and now Estill has a solid new deck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today, we offered to get Estill a new window, some new doors and carpet for his new place. Estill definitely agreed, and you could see in his eyes that his place would be more than he hoped for. You could see his spirits lift before us. Tomorrow, Clarence and I will go to Lowe's with the gift cards you donated and make this a reality for Estill. This is definitely what I mean when I say that you are with us. You have given a man who has had some very hard breaks in life a new lease on a better life than he could ever expect. You have given him a greater hope. So, on behalf of Estill, thank you!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have our work cut out for us tomorrow. We want to finish by Thursday and we know we can make it happen. Good night from West Virginia - we are thinking of you: keep praying for us!</span></div>
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<br />Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-48265959029418162662019-07-08T21:51:00.000-07:002019-07-08T21:51:05.743-07:00A Full First DayIt seems like a whole week was put into one day. We started early in the morning with a couple of us having a time of meditation outside. It was an amazing experience with a symphony of birds serenading us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnxIQnS0_qa7svbbw5E2CE2IWDR8GJz0TKAUqERiTRhhq3WC4USNlRiipdCVuG-PyZeTxudFhyaK6EdfxBZU4bOPiHHd2pwXW_lP9e9YzqH5hsvJNjxBqAcmZ_jpjXk8DDDiqKXVqEmbR/s1600/DSCN0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnxIQnS0_qa7svbbw5E2CE2IWDR8GJz0TKAUqERiTRhhq3WC4USNlRiipdCVuG-PyZeTxudFhyaK6EdfxBZU4bOPiHHd2pwXW_lP9e9YzqH5hsvJNjxBqAcmZ_jpjXk8DDDiqKXVqEmbR/s320/DSCN0099.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Center's Chapel with a foggy morning background<br /><br /></td></tr>
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After breakfast, (thanks to the wonderful soul that made the delicious bundt coffee cake), we started with our first round of devotions. We talked a lot about faith. Hebrews says that faith is the "assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things unseen." Faith is an essential part of a mission trip. When you come to an area of deep need, you often feel like your efforts are a drop in the bucket. It takes a lot of faith to know what you do matters. <br />
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Then after a group photo in our new t-shirts, it was off to the work site.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCLtu2M_T6iRniJPdcBtR5ihP4SSx91lc70Lw8UMH4XOmojeaiHTy7SOuRmT42sDuOjQc64PRDHHfl3i-93HmDYzRGzmvMVFB0aX0nk5SzYQngZWY12-3rgh-PqHJoAiVcJxM5HTyJx3R/s1600/DSCN0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCLtu2M_T6iRniJPdcBtR5ihP4SSx91lc70Lw8UMH4XOmojeaiHTy7SOuRmT42sDuOjQc64PRDHHfl3i-93HmDYzRGzmvMVFB0aX0nk5SzYQngZWY12-3rgh-PqHJoAiVcJxM5HTyJx3R/s320/DSCN0100.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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After a 45 minute trip, we arrived in Glenwood, right outside of Bluefield. We met Estel Proffit, a quite yet resourceful man who has found a way to survive in a trailer with no running water and 12 volt electric supply coming from a generator he rigged up from old auto parts. For water, he relies on a 25 gallon tank to collect rainwater.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxXXRV3dYcL4ffMUmP9Se0vLihcvp_IdBbpuoHARuYEt3YRkO7cIovQ3VyZbVrEj1Awpmz0iCitjPraUxRZnW-XBTRhkWvYd5jV_NFLI_ptVWiT69yLaQuMklIgIsJedmqF-M_FeuXflK/s1600/IMG_20190708_134256304_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="649" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxXXRV3dYcL4ffMUmP9Se0vLihcvp_IdBbpuoHARuYEt3YRkO7cIovQ3VyZbVrEj1Awpmz0iCitjPraUxRZnW-XBTRhkWvYd5jV_NFLI_ptVWiT69yLaQuMklIgIsJedmqF-M_FeuXflK/s320/IMG_20190708_134256304_HDR.jpg" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estel Proffit</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLkLSUEZgVlHEkOmnmTlCBxnwhIjlGrt8vLcK5sD65fnE5keh-PwG0sWqSyGy9QbAhHsH2GdqbfX8KXOQCv4o47S2AuPsX8QqVKHkWd1cg-48mK3T4KkDuLEXzFJddVzBa189rBV7SDk8W/s1600/IMG_20190708_125858692_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="1204" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLkLSUEZgVlHEkOmnmTlCBxnwhIjlGrt8vLcK5sD65fnE5keh-PwG0sWqSyGy9QbAhHsH2GdqbfX8KXOQCv4o47S2AuPsX8QqVKHkWd1cg-48mK3T4KkDuLEXzFJddVzBa189rBV7SDk8W/s320/IMG_20190708_125858692_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edsel's current trailer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZyTeC3i10K7XzShMx7h1Lbi-MVyG3VEBQQPeVBSkmJ1-w_XtVnlU7JNOVPTem5BPi8xqNW1vPmm2Jh1RzoZCW8oIvG-APknvbO6T9dxkBOH-LjD-nAbKhqMsmDSFnswKFHfikRMi_m1b2/s1600/IMG_20190708_113319380_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="1204" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZyTeC3i10K7XzShMx7h1Lbi-MVyG3VEBQQPeVBSkmJ1-w_XtVnlU7JNOVPTem5BPi8xqNW1vPmm2Jh1RzoZCW8oIvG-APknvbO6T9dxkBOH-LjD-nAbKhqMsmDSFnswKFHfikRMi_m1b2/s320/IMG_20190708_113319380_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Front porch of Estel's current trailer</td></tr>
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Estel managed to find another trailer that would work better for him, yet it needed a lot of work. The two work crews that came before us did major work of putting in new outside walls and a floor (yes, the trailer's floor totally fell apart - they had to start from scratch). Our job is to finish the project.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0h1qw4sS7CCRB_6id9MQq_GspK2vsCK4493dtZlABFXB9RDxWZH91U0RVuB3lhmkImqDaGMqdTF3xekGUyNkJDRHdICQp6b4E4H9IKZFhDZUDmze65fstBnXsHoeltXfYi9VPWx8mZmmL/s1600/IMG_20190708_113257728_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="1204" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0h1qw4sS7CCRB_6id9MQq_GspK2vsCK4493dtZlABFXB9RDxWZH91U0RVuB3lhmkImqDaGMqdTF3xekGUyNkJDRHdICQp6b4E4H9IKZFhDZUDmze65fstBnXsHoeltXfYi9VPWx8mZmmL/s320/IMG_20190708_113257728_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting sheetrock into the new trailer</td></tr>
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We started by dividing jobs. Some were painting, some were putting up sheetrock walls, some were taring out old walls and removing the old, moldy insulation, some were re-doing the deck.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1X6yWRAVyzlsAT3sslLfe3-fXFacWT5Uk2Jz5F9s5b65FRFDRqEsbbyrxbWM2MKdCO9M3yWGZYdJOs_Vn8Jrum2r6ImKS5qsKr9qx5r0YN8Fn44xjxuYSe8M0gMt8_dYJK998eYB_z7zF/s1600/IMG_20190708_123036995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="677" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1X6yWRAVyzlsAT3sslLfe3-fXFacWT5Uk2Jz5F9s5b65FRFDRqEsbbyrxbWM2MKdCO9M3yWGZYdJOs_Vn8Jrum2r6ImKS5qsKr9qx5r0YN8Fn44xjxuYSe8M0gMt8_dYJK998eYB_z7zF/s320/IMG_20190708_123036995.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Throughout our work day, we got to know Estel better. We look forward to having more conversations with him.<br />
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Late afternoon, we left the worksite in order to get ready to go to Princeton. The plan is to go shopping at the Riff Raff arts and crafts store, then dinner at the "Bucha Brewery." Don't worry - they don't sell anything alcholic - the "bucha" refers to the Kabucha that they make. We enjoyed panini's and various beverages (some of us were brave enough to try the kabucha). <br />
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We couldn't help but be impressed with what is happening in downtown Princeton. New stores, restaurants, a brew pub and a coffee house. Most of this is happening because of the hard work and dedication of Laurie McKinney, her husband Rob (who played at our first Mission Festival) and her sister Melissa, who runs the Stages Music School Once again, we had the privilege of handing out checks from the proceeds of the Mission Festival. They were so deeply grateful.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurie and Rob performing at Open Mike Night</td></tr>
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Then it was on to Riff Raff's concert room called "The Upper Room" for Open Mike Night. The real surprise we had for the evening was a version of Pharrel Williams' "Happy." Alison Weaver was the prime instigator behind this performance. She arranged a version we could sing, got us sold on doing it and led a few rehearsals before going on stage and doing it. We do have a video of this "extraordinary" performance, but unfortunately it's too large to upload onto this blog, so you'll have to wait!<br />
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At the end, we sang another "happy" song - "Happy Birthday" to Nicholas Guetersloh, who turned 15 today. I am so impressed that Nicholas chose to go on a mission trip for his birthday. We did reward him, though - Alison Weaver got a local baker to make two cakes, delivered to open mike night. To say the least, Nicholas was surprised and totally embarrassed to have everyone at Riff Raff singing "Happy Birthday" to him while he was up on stage.<br />
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One last story. While we were in the Riff Raff store, we met a local man named Sean. Sean was a Marine Vet with traumatic brain injury. He obviously needed an ear to listen to as well as a cup of coffee to drink. I took him to the new local coffee house across the street. He talked about his injuries, his struggles but also his faith that has been getting him through these hard times. He went with me to the Bucha Brewery where he talked to a few other members of the team. Mission trip opportunities do come: God puts people in our path and we hope and pray that we will be a blessing and be blessed by them. Then, as the last act of the evening, Sean gets up on stage at Open Mike and starts playing guitar like a madman. Go figure!<br />
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We are going to bed totally tired but totally grateful for God placing us here to encounter all sorts of people: old friends, strangers that are quickly turned into friends. And we have three more days of work to go! <br />
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Mission trips can be life intensified, where your faith comes alive in so many ways, most of them unexpected. It takes a lot of faith, but the rewards are amazing.<br />
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Good night - keep praying for us! We have a full day of work ahead of us tomorrow.<br />
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<br />Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-35578894545299046962019-07-07T19:23:00.000-07:002019-07-07T19:23:14.775-07:00When It Rains, It PoursWe made it to the Folklife Center! Thanks be to God! Thanks for all your travel mercy prayers - they worked. Our trip down was a great time to get to know one another better and enjoy some sights. <div>
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Our trip was punctuated by downpours. The worse was in Pennsylvania yesterday, when torrential rains slowed highway traffic to 20 mph. Today, our trip along I-64 from Virginia to West Virginia had several downpours included. Once I got to the Folklife Center, I started getting food into the fridge and all the sudden a huge downpour drenched me. Someone once told me that if it rains on you while you travel, you are being blessed. Nice thought, but I wish I weren't quite so blessed!<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping cart full of food for the week</td></tr>
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This year, I decided to drive ahead to get groceries and spend some time at the Center. After lunch at Biscuit World (naturally!) I filled a shopping cart to overflowing and made it to the Center by 3 p.m. That gave me the opportunity to set things up, get settled and have time to talk to Tim Mainland, the program director. Many will remember Tim and Maggie when they played for us at the Mission Festival. Tim told me that the Center had a hard winter. After doing some major repairs to get the Center up to fire code, they were faced with major plumbing problems. Leaks were everywhere and the only solution was an overhaul that would basically drain the Center's savings. Thankfully, a grant from the Gates Foundation came through to help things along and keep the Center running. It was a great joy, then, to present Tim a check for $4,200 to the Folklife Center from the proceeds of the Mission Festival. Tim was so grateful. There rarely have been groups that support the Center in this way.</div>
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The rest of the team visited the bunker at the Greenbriar Resort in White Sulphur Springs, WV. This was a secret fallout bunker for Congress to use in case of a nuclear disaster. It was kept secret from 1962 to 1993. The team had a great time learning about the bunker and then taking in some scenery.</div>
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Dinner was absolutely delicious. Thanks to Susan Wingfield for a wonderful lasagna! We also enjoyed many cookies, brownies and other bars for dessert. </div>
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After dinner, Tim let us know about our project for the week. A couple of groups before us have been renovating a trailer for a man who was basically homeless. He did have some land that he inherited and found the trailer, and managed to get it level on the property. But the trailer needed a lot of work: a new floor, new walls and so much more. We are coming to finish the job that the other groups started. We are also looking forward to meeting him - Tim describes him as a clever, resourceful man and quite a character. I have a strong feeling that those Lowe's cards will be put to very good use!</div>
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Tomorrow night, we go to Princeton WV to visit other mission partners: the Riff Raff Center and Stages music school. We'll be eating at a new restaurant that just came into downtown Princeton and we'll be going to open mike night after that. We have a surprise for that evening. We'll let you know about it tomorrow.</div>
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When I think of the torrents of rain yesterday and today, it reminded me of the passage from Ezekiel 34 - <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">I will send down the showers in their season; they shall be showers of blessing." You have definitely showered blessings upon this area. The Folklife Center has been drenched with blessings from First Church. We will pour out more blessings tomorrow upon a man who finally gets a place to live and upon those good souls doing a great job of reviving downtown Princeton. You all have blessed the Mission Team with so many good things to eat this week. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">We are so grateful! Keep praying for us and we'll check in tomorrow to let you know how the first day went.</span></span></div>
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For now, it's time for bed (at least for some of us).</div>
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Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-37829415925673311272019-07-06T19:09:00.003-07:002019-07-06T19:09:42.299-07:00Made It to ChambersburgGood Evening Everyone from Chambersburg, PA!<br />
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The Mission Team headed out this morning at around 7:30 a.m. with eleven members, lots of luggage, five boxes of books for the Wade Center, casseroles, breakfast breads and lots of cookies and brownies. Thank you all!<br />
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As usual, Allyson Printz had a fun itinerary for us today, including a visit to the "Motorcyclepedia Museum" in Newburgh NY. We had lunch there and looked around. A real fun place! <br />
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After another leg of the journey, we came to the "Seven Tubs" trail in Wilkes-Barre PA. We got to stretch our legs and cool our feet in a cool spring waterfall. <br />
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Then came the thunderstorm. It poured! Thankfully, it didn't last too long. We made it to a Cracker Barrel restaurant in Carlisle PA for some good down-home cookin' and fortunately got to the large paint can in Shippensburg PA for yet another year's photo.<br />
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It's been great to have some fun and get to know one another before we get to the Folklife Center, where the real work begins.<br />
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We'll be up early tomorrow and on the road by 8 a.m. Please keep praying for us - especially for travel mercies as we head down.<br />
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Pastor John<br />
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<br />Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-22530299987177253042018-07-09T18:38:00.002-07:002018-07-09T18:38:43.923-07:00Surprise Summertime WV Article<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi Everyone,<br />
I'm back down at the Appalachian South Folklife Center. I'm with my son Jacob this time. He couldn't go during April, so he and I decided to do a combo college touring/mission trip vacation. We arrived here in Pipestem Knob this past Saturday evening.<br />
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We were able to join up with another church for this project, which amazingly, come from our neck of the woods. We are working with the Hingham Congregational Church UCC this week. The Pastor Peter Allen, his lovely wife Tracey and their Minister of Christian Education Sara Holland are here this week with about 15 wonderful teenagers who have already shown themselves worthy of some serious mission work. Peter has been coming here for 14 years!<br />
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Our first day on the job was quite honestly a rough one. I've been down here a lot, so I've been exposed to some pretty difficult living environments, but today was easily the worst I've ever seen. We are helping a multi-generational family living in a cobbled together mobile home that is in bad shape. Jacob and I counted about 4 adults and 5 children of various ages (with another one on the way), all living in the place below:<br />
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Our project for the week is to build an addition on to the back of this home that will serve as a new bedroom for Mom & Dad of the clan. Here's a look at the back and some early work on the floor structure:<br />
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When I first looked at this place, a sense of deep sadness swept over me. It made me wonder if we can ever even put a dent in "poverty". But I've found that by just picking up a hammer and getting started, it puts that sadness into the rear view mirror, and moves hope into the foreground. Every little bit <u>does</u> help. It's all about getting past that first step. <br />
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Peace and love to all of you. I'll send along another round of pictures on Thursday so y'all can see what we've accomplished.<br />
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Joyfully Serve-ing,<br />
Rick & Jacob Burke<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17100968880539937276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-56227009210309975212018-04-20T05:29:00.000-07:002018-04-20T05:29:09.383-07:00<span style="font-size: large;"></span><h2 style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
Rain. Cold. Snow. Cold. Sun. Hot. Cold. Rain.</h2>
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Our projects have been as varied this year as this weather. Last year, we had consistently beautiful weather one large project. This year, we have had a smorgasbord of weather and a buffet of projects. It's sometimes difficult to think that we have accomplished as much. I keep reminding myself that the projects add up and are one part of the total picture. The driving time, devotional time, learning about the area, developing the relationships (with people here and with each other), reflecting, talking, talking, talking and eating together and sleeping in the dorms are all part of the mission. There is a certain luxury in spending unhurried time together. Breathe.</div>
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- Allyson</div>
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I'm happy to say that we Yankees felt right at home in the inconsistent and often frigid weather we experienced during our stay at the Folk Life Center. After our deceivingly pleasant trip down, we were met with freezing rain, that turned to snow, that turned to wind, that turned into a gorgeous sunny day (just long enough for me to get an awkward work-glove tan line), before returning to freezing wind for our final day. This meant that there was a lot of waiting for nicer weather -- "in just a few hours the snow will stop," or "it's supposed to be warmer this afternoon." Despite all the time spent indoors, I still leave with a sense of accomplishment. The "teen team" ripped up a stubborn tile floor, put in a new hardwood floor, stapled some screens, went up to a beautiful lookout point, befriended a very chill snake, painted a porch, cut out the paper lace decoration for Pentecost in one day, roasted marshmallows, and made a ton of fireball pompoms. For me, however, the best takeaway was that I got to know many people who had before been just faces I saw on Sundays. <br />
- Jillian <b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
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It was another cold and blustery day in Mercer County. It had rained overnight, which meant there was no way we could finish off the painting work we started yesterday at Mrs Keenan's home in Bluefield (another mission team will be coming in next week and they will pick up the painting where we left off). There was still a good bit of work to finish off the painting and installing new flooring in the Children's dorm at the folklife center, so a good number of the group opted to focus on completing this project. Allyson P, Mary C, Chris M, Bobby our foreman and I all headed over to Bluefield to work on installing new handrails on the front porch.<br />
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On the way, we stopped at Lowes and picked up a whole bunch of supplies that we needed to complete the project - banisters, ballusters, exterior screws, wood glue. thanks to everyone who donated Lowes cards. It covered all these expenses. Mrs. Keenan was expecting to pay, and we are quite sure she did not have a lot of disposable income. When we told her our congregation was picking up the tab, and she could use her money to do something fun, she nearly started to cry. Again, thanks to all of you.<br />
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While Chris, Bobby and I worked on the porch railings, Allyson and Mary took one for the team by going into the dirt cellar underneath the porch to clean out all kinds of junk that had accumulated over many years. That was a tough job. They also spent a good bit of time raking and cleaning up piles of leaves in the front lawn and street. Here's a couple of pictures of Allyson and Mary going to town!<br />
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The porch railing project was no easy feat either. Luckily, we had Chris to remind us of all our old geometry lessons from days in school long gone by. Cutting and
assembling the railings and ballusters was enough to drive us batty! It took us about 4-5 hours
of non-stop work in the chilly weather to get the job done.<br />
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When the project was finally completed, Mrs. Keenan was simply over the moon happy. Here's a couple of pictures of the finished product. Check the gigantic smile on her face!<br />
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Lots of hugs and thank yous were exchanged as we wrapped up our gear and got ready for the drive back to the folklife center.<br />
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Whenever anyone I know asks me why I do mission work in some backroad of West Virginia instead of going to Europe or down to some Carribbean island, I think about the smile on Mrs. Keenan's face and all the other folks we've worked with on these mission trips. You couldn't pay me a million dollars to trade places for these types of experiences.<br />
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Tomorrow morning we will all get up and start our journey home. We've got a couple of cool side trips on the way home, but for me, today was the highlight.<br />
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We made a struggling woman who we never met before happier than she has probably been in a long time. I have to thank God for allowing me to be part of this profound experience. Thanks also to everyone on our mission team - each and every one of you is an amazing person that filled this trip with laughter, happiness and completely embodied the spirit of "Joyfully Serve". And thanks especially to our entire congregation for allowing us to represent you on this journey.<br />
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Peace and blessings.<br />
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Rick<br />
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ps. John - we missed you terribly, and our prayers are with you and your family</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17100968880539937276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-70404477512592901602018-04-19T14:22:00.000-07:002018-04-19T14:24:07.422-07:00<h2>
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<span style="color: #005500;">Musings...</span></h2>
Pictures of moments that had little to do with a specific mission project, but a lot to do with being part of a mission team...<br />
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Creativity: brownie (from lovely First Church baker), vanilla ice cream, homemade hot fudge sauce, crumbled chocolate chip cookies (from another lovely First Church baker), Kit Kat stick.<br />
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It was finally warmer than 70 degrees, and folks got to enjoy a moment or two in the sun while waiting for everyone else to come for another group picture.</div>
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King-sized Kit Kat for the King of Kings...I'm just sayin'... Jesus would have loved these dark chocolate treats from Hershey, Pennsylvania!</div>
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Chris Costa, a friend of Tim and Maggie, shared his musical talents on the fiddle...and quizzed us with samples of hand-forged 18th century tools.</div>
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This is a lovely, unique pledge of stewardship to our home planet. It's deep.one..even if it is posted on the back of the bathroom door. One never knows where one will find inspiration.</div>
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~Terry</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06745676300005714231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-40703208041764723082018-04-19T04:43:00.000-07:002018-04-19T05:36:35.717-07:00Thursday<br />
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Good Morning Blog Readers - It is a drizzly overcast morning here in Pipestem, WV, but if today is anything like the past week, that will not stop this intrepid bunch of Church folk from Bedford. Young and not so young will continue to gather to prepare a meal, eat together, share a devotional time, split for work completion, return to a full group and bid good night. <br />
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The sharing and team work has been a sight to see. Sharing of chores as Allyson and Evan set up for breakfast this morning while Terry cooks pancakes. The coordination of Chris and Mark discussing painting in the rain. Throughout the week this sharing of responsibility has been in evidence: Copilots Laura and Mary with electronic GPS and a paper map guiding the driver through a rainy mountain road. Alison and Jillian translating what Dairy Queen is Where some of us "might have stopped!!" on the way home from Miss Mary Claire's yesterday. Nicholas and Douglas, among others, traded off long handled muts which they used to separate long glued flooring to the floor, and there were few complaints of sore shoulders the next day. Ah to be young. Rick elected himself to the distastetful job of 'lattice scraper', and the paint that sticks to them will be better for it. Sarah has been a constant worker, filling in as asked and not stopping until the job is done. Karen painted a whole room by herself during a day holding down the fort at the Folklife Center, sharing in the completion of that room.<br />
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Sharing of responsibility, going with the flow, sharing a laugh, offering a hand, smiling in knowing, listening to God through others words, seeing God through other's deeds. These are the things of the Mission trip and if you can join the journey next July trip, you surely will be blessed to experience the grace of helping others and spending time with your Church family. <br />
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With Love from Pipestem, LauraAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06745676300005714231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-13351549129571877942018-04-18T19:35:00.002-07:002018-04-18T19:35:40.946-07:00Sunshine On Our Shoulders, Makes Us Happy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The theme for today was Sunshine. And we sure were happy. Especially after yesterday, when most of us looked like Allyson below, it was so nice to bake in the warm sunshine.<br />
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Here's a nice overview of our work day today from Mary Criscione with lots of pictures below.<br />
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Lots of hard work today. We are tired but had a great day. Went to Miss Mary Claire's home in Bluefield. She is living in her grandmothers home that she inherited. It is difficult and costly for her maintain . She also really appreciated some companionship and friendship. Part of the group scrapped and painted the front porch and steps. Sarah, Alison and I worked on her backyard - raking leaves, trimming bushe, clearing brush etc. It was finally beautiful weather, sunny and hot. It felt great to be productive. At the end of the day everyone worked together to finish the first coat of paint. I am so impressed with the teens in our group - they are persistent and incredibly hard workers. I also enjoyed conversation with Mary Claire and others from the community; Bobby our terrific foreman for the project, dinner with members of the ASFC community - Lori, Tim, Maggie, Tiffany (an Americorp volunteer.) Lots of great conversation and hard work - a good day in all. <br />
Mary Criscione <br />
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After we finished the day's work, we were able to make a couple of stops on the way home. The first one was to an incredible scenic outlook in Bluefield, WV - way up the side of a mountain road to view the beauty of the city below and the Blue Ridge mountains:in the background.<br />
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And of course, we had to make a stop at Dairy Queen on the way home:<br />
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All in all, another great day in West Virginia.<br />
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Peace to all of you back home.<br />
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Rick B.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17100968880539937276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-62523062362013686372018-04-17T16:04:00.002-07:002018-04-17T16:04:39.950-07:00CurveballsAs the saying goes, life does throw you some curveballs, and I just got one. Yesterday evening, while we were at Riff Raff, I got some bad new from my sister. Her husband, Frank, got diagnosed with cancer last fall, and it has been managed with chemotherapy since them. Unfortunately, they found out that it has spread to his liver and he has very little time left. Maybe a week.<br />
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So, with a heavy heart, I am leaving the Mission Trip to be with my family. I am now in Chambersburg, PA overnight and will be with them in Hartford CT tomorrow. The moment I broke the news to the team last night, I got overwhelming support. There was plenty of hugs and love and assurances that they will be fine. It meant so much to me. That means, among other things, next Sunday, the Mission Team will be leading worship, giving you some stories and reflections of how the week went. I can't tell you how good it is to have such a good team, with strong, faithful souls contributing. Each person has so much to give. Even though I feel bad about leaving early, I also feel proud of so many good, accomplished people contributing to make the week a success.<br />
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I do ask you to pray for my brother-in-law in his final days. He is a very generous soul, and has especially supported our mission trip, because he believes that this is what the gospel is all about.<br />
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At my core, I truly believe that when life throws you curveballs, something good can emerge out of it. That is the message of Easter, and we are still in the Easter season. It is our job to be patient and wait for new life, even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Pray for all those walking through that valley.<br />
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Pastor JohnPastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-14817931144974866642018-04-17T07:53:00.001-07:002018-04-17T07:53:20.252-07:00Many Many<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Last evening, after a solid first day of work here at the folk life center, we headed into downtown Princeton to meet with our mission partners at the RiffRaff Arts Collective and Stages Music School It was such a joy to be able to see how things continue to change and improve with each visit. Our work, your work, all coming together to help an entire town and community push forward towards a future that is more tolerant, more inclusive and more hopeful is a joy to behold.<br />
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As part of the evening, our friends Lori McKinney and Robert Blankenship invited me to join them onstage to perform what is one of my favorite songs that they have written. It's called "Many Many". It speaks to the mission of striving for peace and equality, even though there are so many different perspectives, cultural histories, living conditions, working conditions and opinions among us... <br />
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<li>many many voices,</li>
<li>many many songs,</li>
<li>many many journeys,</li>
<li>many many walks,</li>
<li>many many cry out</li>
<li>many many vistas,</li>
<li>many many views,</li>
<li>many many pathways,</li>
<li>many many truths,</li>
<li>many many colors make up a rainbow,</li>
<li>not one more important than the other,</li>
<li>can we sing with one voice?</li>
</ul>
This song lives at the heart of everything the RiffRaff team stands for - all of their community development efforts, all of their concerts, all of the outreach programs they run. I also think it speaks to one of our own mission cornerstones as a church -- Welcome all.<br />
<br />
Thanks to everyone at home for your support. We are holding you all in our hearts everyday. We - the Many Many of First Church of Christ Congregational in Bedford are speaking with one voice. The voice of God and fulfilling his mission here on earth - and this week, in Mercer County, West Virginia. <br />
<br />
Time to get crackin' There's work to be done. Peace.<br />
<br />
Rick B<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17100968880539937276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-42816640894428858582018-04-16T20:14:00.000-07:002018-04-16T20:14:35.065-07:00<b><span style="font-size: large;">Slow Start with a Big Finish... oh, and the WEATHER</span></b><br />
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We woke up excited and raring to go. We ate breakfast, had our morning devotionals, and waited. Mondays at the Folklife Center start later as the foreman needs a little time to get organized. Part of his planning was to accommodate the SNOW.<br />
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Today our assignments kept us working at the Folklife Center. One group put up scaffolding on the side of the dining hall. <br />
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This was a non-trivial task as the ground slopes down steeply at the back and is (was) heavily overgrown with pricker bushes. The second group was assigned to re-flooring the kids' dorm down the hill. There is always a hitch. One of the rooms had freshly installed vinyl tiles which were stuck down like crazy. Kudos to the the teens for persevering to get their floor completely removed. They accomplished a lot more than Supervisor Greg had hoped for. <br />
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Almost all of us have taken extra ibuprofen to be ready for tomorrow after a lot of scraping, squatting, kneeling and other contortions. Terry and Laura took a special adventure for more bread and a long list of stuff that we forgot to pack.<br />
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This evening (still SNOWING), we went to Princeton to shop at the Riff Raff Art Collective (ask to see Terry's table), <br />
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meet the musicians at Stages Music School and attend open mic night at The Room Upstairs. We presented checks (proceeds from the Mission Festival) to Stages and The Riff Raff. <br />
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They thanked us (you) repeatedly for the support. As as special surprise, Rick made his djembe (drum) debut with Lori and Robert! It was exciting to have one of our own sharing the stage with our WV friends.<br />
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Many thanks for the casseroles and the cookies. We are eating and snacking well. Hoping for better (warmer) weather tomorrow.<br />
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- Alison, Allyson and MarkPastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-26151601328281632922018-04-16T04:12:00.000-07:002018-04-16T04:14:07.895-07:00Good morning First Church!<br />
A few of us early morning souls are in the common building that contains our kitchen, eating area, and sitting space. The first pot of coffee has been brewed, and two of us have our first cup of tea for the day. Kathy Konkle's breakfast sandwiches are heating in the oven, the watermelon has been sliced, and cold and hot cereals are put out for our friends. Last night's dinner was delicious...two of our casseroles plus a fresh salad and corn bread...not to mention Chris' double chocolate birthday cake!<br />
Yesterday Rick and I went grocery shopping for the gang - to the Krogers in Hinton, supporting the local economy. At the checkout, a nice young man named Bryan asked me if I had a Krogers' card. You know I didn't and must have looked appropriately pitiful, so he swiped his...saved us $43! I told him he was my favorite, and that he had just saved us ice cream money for the week!<br />
We probably won't go for ice cream today. The weather here is much like home - it's all over the place. Kourtney, the new director at the Wade Center, told us not to plan to visit the center today because she thought it might be a snow day. No snow so far, but it poured rain most of the night - with a few booms of thunder for good measure. It's not supposed to get much above 40 today, but it's predicted to be warmer the rest of the week.<br />
I think our tea has brewed...time for some quiet reading before the crew arrives. ~Terry<br />
<br />Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-78626570737343795592018-04-15T19:42:00.000-07:002018-04-15T19:42:34.519-07:00Made It to West VirginiaAfter two long days of journeying, we are finally at the Folklife Center. It is so good to be here. For many of us, it's a homecoming. The Center definitely has a feel of holy ground. The travel went well and fairly uneventful, except for some pretty heavy downpours that happened at the end of the journey.<br />
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Before we set off on our journey</div>
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Of course, with Allyson on board, plans were made for some fun and interesting stops on the way down. The first day, we stopped at Chocolate World, complete with a crazy tour that explained how chocolate is made (with peppy songs sung by dancing cows and choclate bars). Of course, there was a huge gift shop with all sorts of merchandise and candy.<br />
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Then came the trolley tour of Hershey, with a guide giving us the story of Milton Hershey, the founder. A truly amazing man. The fact that Hershey chocolate is around at all is a miracle, considering two or three initial bankruptcies. He came from a devout Mennonite family, and when he made his fortune, much of it went into making the world a better place, including a world-class hospital, affordable housing for employees and a school for underprvileged children that gives them a world-class education for free. A really inspiring man!<br />
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with the trolley tour guide</div>
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This morning, many of us went to the Gettysburg National Historic Site, which is about 45 minutes away from Chambersburg, where we stay over in Pennsylvania. It was a profoundly moving experience. We would have liked to stay more, but had to keep moving on.<br />
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We finally got to the center at 6:30. A few of us who didn't go to Gettysburg met us, with casseroles in the oven and salad on the table. Many thanks to Terry and Rick for shopping in Hinton to get us some additional groceries. We enjoyed two of the many delicious casseroles we brought down. Thanks so much to all of you who lovingly made these casseroles! One of the great things about the day was that it was Chris' 50th birthday. Happy Birthday, Chris! How else would you want to spend your 50th?<br />
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We met the two new co-directors of the Center, Tim Mainland (he played for us at last year's Mission Festival) and Crystal Atwall, who takes care of day-to-day operations. We were so impressed with improvements to the center. The men's cabin has been totally redone, with a new bathroom with two shower stalls and two toilet stalls. Both Tim and Crystal have done amazing things with the center since taking over. Their time with us was very impressive.<br />
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We had the pleasure of handing the check from the proceeds of the Mission Festival to them. Both admitted that they had to hold back tears. This place is very special to them, and they appreciate our love and support so much. I talked to them about how we see mission here at 1st church. We don't just go down, do some work and come home. It's an ongoing relationship. They are part of us and we are part of them.<br />
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They also let us know what we will be doing this week. One project will be working on a 19th century home owned by an older lady in Bluefield, where the Wade Center is located. She has very little money right now, but needs some real help with this home. There are other projects that need to happen here at the Folklife Center. Terry will also be taking some people to the Wade Center this week.<br />
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After, we had some free time, then to bed. One of the things we're doing is creating a paper lace banner for Pentecost. Kathy Konkle did an amazing design and I traced it onto a large roll of red paper last week. Now we are getting out our exacto knives and cutting it out. We can't wait to show it on Pentecost!<br />
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One of the things I prepare for the trip down is a sheet of questions to stimulate conversation that will be helpful for the week ahead. Two questions were: what makes you fearful and what makes you hopeful. Our car had a great conversation about it. Part of why I asked these questions is that people come on a mission trip with both fears and hopes. Fear of the unknown was one thing we all talked about, and mission trips are filled with unknowns. But trips are also filled with a lot of hope. Hope that what you do will make a difference in someone's life.<br />
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In days where there is a lot of fear of what is going to happen, I remain hopeful that faithful people all around the world are doing the same thing we're doing. Hundreds of thousands of groups go out on mission trips, volunteer for peace corp or do something else out of their sense of love and generosity. This generally goes way under the "radar." We don't hear it on the news. But at a grassroots level, this is taking place all over. Ordinary people like you and me are making this place a better world. When you combine all these small efforts, it really adds up!<br />
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We thank you for all your prayers. We felt them this morning as we travelled down. Keep praying for us and we will pray with you. Remember - you are all down here with us!Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-1593457680580129222018-04-12T14:06:00.000-07:002018-04-12T14:06:10.497-07:00What We're BringingThe 2018 Mission Trip is two days away and we are making our lists and packing our items. I have a couple of lists of things to bring. Personal lists: comfortable clothes that we don't mind getting dirty. A lunch box, water bottle. Sunscreen and rain gear. A camera and enough electrical equipment to power all my devices. <br />
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There are things we are bringing for the group. Lots of coffee. Devotional materials. Bibles, icons and crosses. A tripod and First Aid kits. A couple Igloo coolers. Then there are the medical forms and payments.<br />
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Most importantly, we're bringing down you. That's right, you. No, we're not going to pack you in a suitcase a whisk you away on Saturday morning, but you are coming down. If you went to the Mission Festival, you are coming down. If you worked at the Festival, you are coming down. If you pray for us, you are coming down.<br />
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One way we are bringing you down this year is with tangible things that will make the week a success. Last year, we realized that frozen casseroles were absolutely invaluable to us. After a long day of mission work, we had no energy or time to cook a dinner. Last year, a couple of us brought casseroles down. This year, we asked you to help out, and boy did you come through! We're going to be eating well this week! Beyond casseroles, we have breakfast sandwiches, vegetables and delicious desserts., and more!<br />
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An abundance of food!</div>
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Thanks so much to everybody that contributed. You all are coming down with us!</div>
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<br />We also asked for work gloves, and Joan (who worlks at Job Lot) contributed all these gloves! Thank you - you're going down with us, too!</div>
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Finally, we are going down with just over $1,500 in Lowe's gift cards! Thank you so much! <br />
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Today, I went down to Lowe's with a check from the church. I walked to customer service and said I wanted $1,150 worth of gift cards. As usual, I got a few looks. Is this for real? <br />
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The person at the register asked if we were doing a raffle. I said, "no, we're going on a church mission trip to West Virginia. We'll be using these cards to help someone in need." The cashier said that the 10 minutes he spent processing the cards was the highlight of his week. <br />
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Each one of you that wrote a check or sent in a card - you are going down with us, too! These cards are absolutely critical as we get supplies to support the renovations we are working on. They also help the Folklife Center in getting materials for other outreach projects that they will be working on. <br />
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So 15 people are traveling on Monday, but we're taking all of you with us. Dozens, maybe hundreds of people. Thank you so much!<br />
<br />Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-35071902377457338622017-07-16T08:34:00.001-07:002017-07-16T08:34:14.679-07:00Sometimes it really is about the journey by Alison Weaver<br /><div id="m_-5750927700059983614yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500164934844_11444" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, "Lucida Grande", sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
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I’m writing this with the advantage of having read the posts form most of the others and I whole heartedly agree with what has been typed already. I am very proud of the work we did and of my contribution to it. But realistically, I’m not that strong or that skilled. This trip for me was not about me making an impact on WV but on allowing WV to make in impact on me. And that definitely happened. I met Margaret and Geneva and some of their neighbors, the performers at Riff Raff, Roger and Greg at the Folklife Center plus all the tour guides and counter clerks at our stops. I had many adventures, learning new building skills, eating jerky, having s’mores at the bonfire etc. The huge surprise to me was the space in between – the car rides.<u></u><u></u></div>
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The car rides were not the highlight per se. There were 12 hours in the cars each way to get to the Folklife Center plus a minimum of an hour and a half each way to the work site. It was a lot of time trapped in a vehicle with 4 or 5 or 6 people. Any peevishness on the worksite does not have time to dissipate. None the less, this time was primarily filled with laughter and heartfelt sharing. The time in the car was not about one or two shining moments but a constant and subtle time to learn to love each other in a deeper way. <u></u><u></u></div>
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My coworkers have listed many of the amazing experiences we had. Certainly the car rides were not nearly as glamorous as any of the individual adventures, but that time together has its own special value.</div>
Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-87414775872447773222017-07-15T17:43:00.000-07:002017-07-30T06:11:00.218-07:00Do You Feel God's Presence? by Cheryl Pespisa<br />
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by Cheryl - Saturday, July 15th</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It had been ten years since Bob
and I participated in our last 'formal' mission trip, and after listening to
those who have traveled to West Virginia during the previous two years, it was
clear that we were long overdue for taking a risk and redirecting our focus to
some spiritual development. Maybe it took so long because there wasn't the same
sense of urgency or destruction that Katrina brought to the forefront. Maybe we
were becoming accustomed to the disaster of the week. Maybe it was our own
personal bias about this region that kept us from acting sooner. We decided we
didn't want to let another year pass without venturing to this region that we
so often have driven through or around to get to somewhere else. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In our car on the way down, as the
ride and hours grew longer, we grew more honest with each other in our
discussions, especially the ones who were venturing down for the first time.
“Did anyone in the car feel the Spirit
of God?” Did anyone hear God speaking to them?”“Is it okay to not feel or see
God's presence yet?” People asked us if we felt it when we went to New Orleans,
and I couldn't say for sure how I felt heading down there for the first time,
but I will always remember the impact of seeing what I thought were built-in
swimming pools by the thousands, as far as the eye could see as our plane
approached the Louis Armstrong Airport. It was a few seconds more as the plane
descended that I realized the swimming
pools were actually blue tarps covering roofs that had not yet been repaired or
replaced a year later. As my plane left New Orleans at the end of our trip, I
remember sobbing at the idea of leaving so much devastation behind me, feeling
that even though we accomplished so much in a week's time, at that moment, it seemed minuscule. I
recalled the people that we were so fortunate to meet through visits to homes,
churches, and work. It was at that moment that I felt the Spirit of God in me
and knew that my work here was not done. When we all got home and debriefed,
the others shared the same feelings and experience as our plane passed over
Lake Pontchartrain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Leading
up to this trip, I wondered if I would feel the powerful presence of the Lord's
spirit like that again. I wondered if I could be moved by the people and their
stories like I was ten years ago.
And that brings me back to this past week. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It was difficult to feel the same
sense of urgency taking two days to arrive at our destination, having so much
fun, and laughing so much with companions during the side trips that were so
lovingly planned by our travel leader-Allyson, and the efforts made by Pastor
John to bond the group together through mixing up travel companions each time
we stopped for a stretch break or “Allyson-inspired adventure.”When we finally
arrived to the Appalachian South Folk Center, I still wasn't feeling it. The
land and surroundings were breathtaking. The surrounding communities appeared
intact as we passed through. What was the urgency? What was the problem? What
was I missing? Early the first morning, I walked to the top of the hill to
catch the sunrise. I talked to Pastor Gary, the minister from Good Shepherd in
New Orleans, who is now in heaven making the angels laugh at the same horrible
jokes that endeared him to us and had us coming back to Good Shepherd for many
visits. I asked for his guidance, for a sign that I could have an impact, and
that this trip could have an impact on me and my spirituality. Then the work
began. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bob and I have a knack
for being a bit 'ambitious', if not ridiculously over-confident in how much can
be accomplished if the heart and soul desires it. The first moment we walked
into that church and met Geneva, who came up to each individual member of our
group and introduced herself, “What it your name? Nice to meet you. Geneva
Pugh, “ I knew what would happen next. We were there to paint, but Bob surveyed
the building, and quickly announced we would be refurbishing the two bathrooms
and kitchen in addition to the painting. We began to rip things out before having
a real plan, and before running it by the entire group. I could see a bit of
panic on the face of Greg, the ASFC foreman who was overseeing the project. I
got nervous, but I also know that when the Spirt it does speak </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">to
Bob, a little faith is a good companion to the admiration of his good
intentions. I was worried that Greg wanted to escort us back to the Virginia
border with a resounding, “No thanks!”I also wanted to be sure that everyone
was on board, as this is a group project. I wasn't feeling the Spirit yet.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Pastor John's morning devotionals
set the groups focus for the day. The readings would remind me of the bigger
picture and overall purpose behind our mission, but I have to admit that once the
work started each day, it was challenging for me to keep the message in the
forefront of my mind. I didn't want to leave this place in worse condition than
we found it. I didn't want to leave a longer list of repairs for others to
carry out. At the evening devotionals, people were sharing signs that the
Spirit of God was present. Did I miss it? Why didn't I see that? I was there. I
should have been able to share that! The Spirit was still eluding me.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">As the plans evolved and the week
wore on, Bob would venture out a little bit earlier each day so we could get
supplies on the way.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">He would do the
same at the end of each day. We both worried about the impact of a 3 hour round
trip to and from WyCo each day on our ability to get everything finished by
week's end.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">But there were perks, too.
The best part of each day was arriving to the church and seeing Geneva waiting
for us with the church already opened, she dressed in her painter whites (“I am
wearing white because of the heat,” she shared), and, after finding out on the
first day she liked the coffee at Dairy Queen, Bob would present her with her
morning coffee picked up on the way each morning We would listen to her share
her stories with us while we finished our coffee, and Bob would lay out the
plan for the day so she would know what would be happening, making sure she was
okay with the proposals, and getting her input on options or preferences.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I think I began to feel the Spirit during
these early morning moments before the craziness of the work day began.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">At some point at the end of our
first work day on Monday, as I worried we were moving too fast and taking too
many liberties, I was working behind the counter in the kitchen when the others
left the basement, and only Geneva remained. She looked upward, raised her arms
in the air, and began to dance in a circle. It was a “Praise God” moment, and I
caught it. When I stood, she just looked at me, and said, “I didn't know anyone
was still here.” She paused, smiled, and then began to dance again, “I am so
happy you all are here with us! I can not believe this is happening!” Where I
saw work and worry about getting it all done in time, she saw blessings. I
think I felt the Spirit.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We
did this every day, and each of those days I saw sixteen others working so hard,
each one working beyond or outside of their comfort zone. I felt a little
guilty, not that we took on more than this group could handle, but that they
were taking on more than they should have to handle. We were supposed to just
paint the sanctuary. There was no complaining. Everyone worked so hard each day
and all day. We were exhausted when we arrived back to camp at the end of each
day, but still had to prepare dinner and</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">participate in evening devotions. We had a chore schedule to make sure
everyone participated in the daily tasks, but everyone pitched in outside of
the schedule to help each other out. I think I felt the Spirit again.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">On Tuesday, ninety-two year old
Ms. Margaret Pugh arriving at the church to meet us and check out our work. She
looked at Bob when he was introduced, and stated that he has 'dreamy eyes'.
“Are you his wife? Did you know he has dreamy eyes?”“I know Ms. Margaret; that
is what I fell for, too!” She announced she wanted to give him another hug. I
thought I felt the spirit, but kept a closer eye on Ms. Margaret.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Tuesday night we went to the Riff
Raff; everyone was so physically and mentally exhausted.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We made an exit plan, deciding that maybe one
car would go back early for those too tired to stay. Alas, it was such an
inspirational and amazing night, watching and listening to these</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">young people take the stage to sing and share
their own music with us, some for the very first time. No one wanted to leave.
I think I felt the Spirit again.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">At the end of the long, hot day
of work, Geneva lead the way to a 'waterfall' not too far from the church.
Watching everyone walk through the waterfall and seeing them instantly
transformed from an exhausted shell to a rejuvenated being. The hugging, dancing,
and encouragement as each stepped</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">through
the water. I thought I felt the Spirit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wednesday night, Rick grilled
burgers and dogs for us and we ate outside, followed by a basketball game of
PIG, Most were exhausted and some selected to observe from the sidelines,
initially. After observing for the first round, everyone wanted in. We went in order of age, the ages ranging
from ten years to, well, a lot older than ten. Some were athletic. Most were not.
I remember laughing so hard I had to cross my legs so as not to pee. We played
it out until Evan Majoros won and we were surrounded by darkness. The night
ended with a beautiful bonfire built by Jacob and Phillip, with some help from
Greg. Lori came from the Riff Raff to
share her musical talents with the group. We learned about drumming that night.
Evan and Douglas solved the case of the missing shampoo. The stars were
abundant; my husband was at my side; we were surrounded by God's gifts. I
thought I felt the Spirit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">By
Wednesday night,Thursday morning, Bob was wearing down. He wasn't sleeping
well, and the days were getting hotter. Some repairs weren't always going as
smoothly as he had hoped. I could see it affecting him, and as a result
affecting me. We had one more day to get through. It was difficult as there
was so much left to do. Margaret came
back about midday on Thursday. When I took a water break and emerged from the
basement, I heard singing. I came around to the church entrance and stood at
the bottom of the steps. Connie pointed to the doors opening where I could see
the backs of Pastor John and Margaret sitting in the back pew and sharing a
hymnal, singing together. It was a beautiful moment and a memory I will
certainly carry with me for a long time. I also remember smiling each time I
looked out from downstairs and saw Ms. Margaret seated out back, and each time
speaking with a different member of our group. I think everyone wanted their
time with Ms. Margaret. Her reputation for storytelling and sharing her experiences
as a black woman in this part of the country during the better part of a
century had preceded her, and everyone wanted to listen to what she had to say.
She was definitely someone special. I
most definitely felt the Spirit through Ms. Margaret. The plumbing was also
completed not long after this, and once again, I felt the Spirit (and a lot of
relief). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thursday evening
after my shower, I ran into Greg outside. He came up to me and hugged me, telling
me how he wasn't so sure about us at the start of the first day, but by the end
of the day, he was assigning us stuff to do, and he could lay back a bit, not
worrying about watching us every minute so we wouldn't mess up. He is used to
dealing with teens and was surprised by the number of adults in our group, and
even more surprised at their work ethic and willingness to do just about
anything asked of them. He began to talk about his experience with ASFC over
the past five years. He shared that at the beginning, it was just work, and
didn't think much about the spiritual aspects of it. After working with so many
different people from all over the country, his feelings and connections began
to develop into something more spiritual. He teared up as he said this, and
attributed his growing faith to “people
such yourselves and your group.” He said we could come back any time and he
would be honored to work with our group again. I felt the Spirit growing
within. The sunset seemed especially beautiful that night. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It was challenging doing this trip
as part of such a large group. It's also challenging being on this trip with a
spouse. My first mission experience to NOLA was smaller and we had more
independence in decision making and planning. I was sometimes more worried
about the group than I was about Bob's feelings. I don't think it was a lack of
confidence or not appreciating that he wanted to do this for Geneva and
Margaret, as well as the Church's community, I just didn't feel comfortable
pushing an agenda that wasn't a group decision. I also understood that there
was more to this trip than just repairing things. Unlike our trip to NOLA, we
had a spiritual leader with us this time, and, to me, the building of the
spirit equals the physical callings of
the mission. I forgot how we were both changed spiritually by the people
we met, by their deep their faith in
God, and their gratitude for those he sent to help them through the crisis
caused by Katrina. I was struggling to find balance. At times I found myself
struggling to hold onto the Spirit, even
when I knew it was present right in front of me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It wasn't until we left early
ahead of the group and began our journey home that I finally had time to think
and process the impact of this trip. Initially, as we drove away, I thought I
might have missed my opportunity. I worried that I focused on the wrong thing,
getting lost in the details rather </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">than
focusing on the big picture.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I spent too
much energy on the physical tasks at the cost of spiritual growth.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I was disappointed with myself those initial
hours as we made our way through the winding hairpin mountain roads that lead
us out of West Virginia. As we drove on and it was turning into mid-morning,
Bob would ask me to make calls so he could check in with various people back
home. Each time, I would put the call on speakerphone, and, not paying
attention initially, began to hear Bob's conversations with his friends,
customers, and family. He would go into detail about all the group
accomplished.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">He would talk about the
beautiful countryside, almost sounding as if he was defending it to the person
on the other end of the phone, to correct myths and misconceptions. He talked
about the side trips. He then began to talk about the people He talked about
Geneva and Margaret. He talked about Greg and Roger. He talked about how hard
the kids worked. He loved that Douglas enjoyed the jerky store as much has he
and John. He spoke with such pride and admiration about how amazing it was to
work with such a talented and hardworking group of individuals. He would share
how everyone stepped up and out of their comfort level to do things never tried
before, to care for and encourage each other as nerves got frayed, and bones
and muscles fatigued. He thought it was highly unusual to be able to count on
every individual in a group that large with such a large age range, but every
single person came through in one way or another. Everyone found a niche where
they could be productive or supportive. In between phone calls, he would talk
to me about Roger's story, conversations with Greg, and, of course, Ms.
Margaret and Geneva. We would also have long periods of quiet, when I knew we
both were thinking about the days past, and then blurt out another memory or
share a thought that hadn't yet been shared. We both had so many positive and
special moments involving each and every person in our group and those we met
throughout the week. We recalled all the beautiful scenery, the history we
learned, and talked about how we can do more. We wondered who would finish
painting the church's exterior. When we started talking about when we could
return....... I am definitely feeling the Spirit.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I know I need to work on how I
approach these mission trips. I know I missed some great spiritual opportunities
this week, or more accurately, maybe I trampled over them in my effort to get
the job done. I need to slow down and enjoy the journey rather than focusing so
much on the finish line.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I would like to
acknowledge those moments as they happen, rather than on the trip home. If</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I can master that during a week of mission
work, then may there is hope for me yet to work on my life's journey, as well.
It was such a pleasure and reward to joyfully serve with this amazing group of
people. Thank you for accepting me as I am, a work in progress. Bless each and
everyone one of you who were willing to take this journey of faith and service. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Respectfully, filled with the Spirit of God, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Cheryl Pespisa, "The Foreman"</span><span style="background-color: white; color: transparent; font-family: serif; font-size: 19.5294px; white-space: pre;">we </span><span style="background-color: white; color: transparent; font-family: serif; font-size: 19.5294px; white-space: pre;">y serve with this amazing group of people. </span></div>
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Thank you for accepting me as I am, a work in progress. Ble</div>
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ss each and everyone one of you who were </div>
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willing to take this journey of faith and service. </div>
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Respectfully, filled with the Spirit of God, </div>
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The Foreman </div>
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</div>
Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-86482496709898646352017-07-13T19:56:00.000-07:002017-07-13T19:56:48.473-07:00Mission AccomplishedWe have finished our job at Mount Grove Baptist Church, and Miss Margaret and Geneva are thrilled. Here are a few work pictures from today.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKOCwcpsGv6ix3Bjicm6RvXS-GWCkP5wfcSie8GNQxV95QG6-yFxM5c40PY1x59vUI99qM2VxURphV346QntL9S-n_1lmp7MxrDRaEZDoip-6zKbAnksVKSKu66JvaEfUUlQMjQPbt0c7I/s1600/DSCN0283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKOCwcpsGv6ix3Bjicm6RvXS-GWCkP5wfcSie8GNQxV95QG6-yFxM5c40PY1x59vUI99qM2VxURphV346QntL9S-n_1lmp7MxrDRaEZDoip-6zKbAnksVKSKu66JvaEfUUlQMjQPbt0c7I/s320/DSCN0283.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've asked the members of the mission team to write their own reflections, so here are some thoughts from members of an awesome team.<br />
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Mary<br />
Just got home from our last day on the job. Sat outside with a beautiful view of the mountains and ate leftovers. This has been a week of hard work but also lots of laughs and fun. Our project at Mt. Grove church was a perfect project for us. We were able to make a significant difference and accomplished more than we thought we could. We spent time talking with Geneva and Miss Margaret, who were fascinating and full of life. My goal is to be just like Miss Margaret when I am 93! She told us about life in a segregated coal mining camp and the challenges of integration during the 1950's and 1960's. She feels blessed in her life and she "always had a dollar." She still drives and her license plate says "foxy lady", with an Obama 2008 bumper sticker above it.<br />
The team also had lots of interesting and fun side trips, especially with mother Allyson P. planning the fun. It was a wonderful week - now we need to recuperate!<br />
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Allyson<br />
Have you ever met someone with whom you have an instant rapport? Meeting Geneva and Margaret was like that. Geneva was often with us at the church either sweeping, talking or spreading drylok! Margaret invited Mary, Deb and I into her home when we went to see her garden. She and Geneva told us stories and how times have changed. The stories were often about difficult times in their lives but Margaret kept saying, "I am blessed and I always have a dollar." Isn't that the truth! By the end of Thursday, we were kissing and hugging goodbye. (And they came to see us go in the human car wash!)<br />
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Deb<br />
What a wonderful final day we had at the Mt. Grove Church, listening to Margaret, John, and Allison singing together in the back pew - surrounded by the newly painted walls and the finished sanctuary - their voices ringing down to the basement crew still feverishly working on the new bathroom and kitchen. A wonderful final moment at the pipe/water falls as Margaret and her wonderful daughter Geneva cheered the mission team on as we did a dance congo line through the fountain of fun.<br />
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Peter<br />
My first mission trip -What would it be like?? Upon arriving we were told that we were going to an all black church in Wyco country about 1:20 minutes away to do painting and cleaning. We were also told that they had three active members - Margaret (over 90) and her daughter Geneva. My thinking was that this church would be run down and in need of a lot of help. Boy was I wrong as we drove up the driveway I saw the most beautiful white country church. After meeting both Margaret and Geneva I could see why this church was as it was. It was hard work, hot but very satisfying. You ever have the opportunity to go on a mission trip and go outside your comfort zone - go for it!!!<br />
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Connie<br />
Earlier in the week, John asked to be aware of the "Presence of God" as we went throughout the week. The question became, when did I not see the presence of God so I'll share just a few. The first evening we went to the Riff Raff Arts Collective. Not only did we hear Lori and her husband sing in their home environment(they performed at out Mission Fair) but saw and witnessed their mission at an open mike night. I was wonderfully surprised at the quality of their music and faithfulness that the musicians and singers exhibited. Another moment came when after a longggggg hot day of work at our project site, dinner and then a reflective time in the even as I headed back to my bed, I passed our Pastor John coming in with his laptop to begin is blog. I am sure that he was just as tired as I was and as we exchanged a few words of good night, I again saw God's mission in Pastor John. And on our first outing at the pipe/water fall adventure, Chris decided to just watch our crazy antics so we decided that he needed a wet hug. Evan ran to his dad and gleefully embraced him and you could see God's presence in both Chris and Evan's eyes. <br />
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John<br />
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Toward the end of our time, I walked into the sanctuary and found Margaret sitting alone in the back pew. I sat with her, and, to make conversation, asked her what was her favorite hymn. Of course, she said that there were many. She then asked me to get the hymnal from the pew and then started looking through the hymnal. She saw one she liked and asked if I knew it - and I didn't. She started to sing it with a rich, soulful voice that touched my soul. But then she asked me to join in. She pointed to each word as we sung it, as if to make sure I got what we were singing about. There were tears in my eyes. I don't know what came over me, but just singing next to this remarkable woman touched me in a way I've never experienced before. We sang many more hymns, and were joined by Alison, Chris, Allyson, Evan, Doug, Rick and others. Most hymns Margaret selected were about how your faith guides you through the hard times in life. I knew, from hearing her stories, that she lived these hymns out. It was such a privilege. A connection unlike any other. Afterwards, she gave me the hymnal we sang out of, and inscribed it. I'll treasure this hymnal forever. I'll never forget that hymn sing.<br />
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Tomorrow morning, we will be leaving for the Wade Center, then onto the Beckley Mining Museum, the New River Gorge Visitor Center, then onto Chambersburg, PA, for our first let of our journey home. It's really hard to leave this beautiful place, yet we can't wait to come home and talk about our experience, share stories and sleep in our own beds. Thanks again for your prayers!<br />
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<br />Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662726279395320832.post-14532578651954814192017-07-12T21:28:00.001-07:002017-07-12T21:28:41.372-07:00Light at the End of the TunnelAnother rich, full day is over - another great day. Bob Pespisa and assistants installed 3 new toilets, a hot water heater both bathroom and kitchen sinks, a new kitchen table and more. The outside painters finished their work, and are looking to do a final job which seemed out of reach only yesterday: paining the steeple. The sanctuary painters finished the inside painting, doing second coats of walls, touching up and doing the window trim. <br />
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After that, we went to a place on the roadside that Geneva told us about, where mountain spring water comes through a pipe. We had great fun going under the pipe and cooling off after a hot day.<br />
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I cannot tell you how proud I am of this group. They are all hard workers - everyone takes a tasks and works on it with focus and care. They work beautifully as a team, each helping one another. Older and younger generations work together, the older giving encouragement, wisdom and support to the young. There is a lot of laughing and joy. There is also deep and thoughtful sharing as we gather together in a circle and reflect. <br />
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Living together, working together, eating together, praying together: this all can be a great experience. It also can be a challenge. This team has lived all this out faithfully.<br />
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We had a great cookout for dinner, with Rick Burke being the grillmeister. After we had our fill of burgers, dogs, slaw, potato salad and watermelon, we had a game of "pig" - which is similar to the basketball game "horse." We had great fun, trying to shoot baskets. Congratulations to Evan for winning!<br />
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We then had a campfire under the stars. We made smores and enjoyed the fire. Laurie from the Riff Raff Center (she came up to the mission festival in January) came with her drums and explained them to us. She played some drums and then recited a beautiful poem that she composed about Jesus choosing to be with the "riff raff" (hence the name of the center.<br />
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Tomorrow, we finish our work, and then join Margaret and Geneva in a service of singing hymns and praying in the newly renovated sanctuary. We are looking forward to having the satisfaction of completing the job - a job that greatly exceeded everyone's expectations. <br />
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We are always grateful for your thoughts, prayers and all the love you send down to us. We send it back to you. We cant wait to come back Sunday and tell you in person!<br />
<br />Pastor John Castricumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11861577689757427305noreply@blogger.com0