Sunday Night Devotions

We began with a get acquainted game called Toilet Bowl led by the infamous Luke Christy. Following that we watched a video called "The Humans of New York" which reminded us to be patient with people because everyone has a unique story.  We had our own version of this game known as "Humans of Gastonia" where we looked at pictures taken by our own Emily Oden and came up with back stories for the people in the pictures. We then got with our work teams for tomorrow and played am intense game involving candy, toys, rubber bands, plastic wrap, and lots of competitive teenagers. Not only was this exercise fun but it reminded us that we will be unwrapping new things this week but that unexpected things may arise or we may have to wait but that it will all be worth it in the end because we are here to serve a greater purpose.  Next was journaling time where we focused on the scriptures Isaiah 6:8 and 1 Samuel 3:16 which essentially said "Here I am Lord send me." As we journaled we listened to the song "Here I am Lord" and prayed that this week we would look at things with a new view.  To close the evening we prayed "upside down" so that we may see things anew. We were challenged to share the love with everyone we encounter this week.

Sunday pics

Sunday, July 20

Sunday-July 20

After a short night sleep, we made breakfast and dressed for church. We listened to Pastor Justin's message of looking at the Beatitudes upside down. Lunch was enjoyed in the Third Ward. 

One group departed to Bay Street UMC to prepare and serve meal to the homeless. The rest of the group relaxed at the beach and a friendly game of volleyball.

Rite Hite YMCA is our new best friend! Boy, did those showers feel good!

Thanks to the parents who sent spaghetti for our evening meal and to the group of youth going back early to prepare.

This evening we will begin to prepare for work sights tomorrow and what it means to look at things different.

Pics to come soon!

The Send Off

Thanks to everyone for your support as we headed out on a "Mission to Milwaukee" 2014. Please keep us in your prayers.

Still on the Road....(an update from Becky)

Hi! I just heard from a tired but happy group that traffic and weather have delayed the team's arrival in Milwaukee. They are about 3 hours away, but everyone is in good spirits! They appreciate all of our prayers!

Anne Mallonee

Mission Trip 2014

Who is ready to look at things differently?  That's exactly what we'll do this week as we embark on a week-long mission trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin!

Please keep our group in your prayers!

Surely the Presence

As I sat in Stuart Auditorium for the opening worship service of the WNC Annual Conference, I was once again inspired by this sacred space.  I can hear the brush of angels wings, I see glory on each face and I know that surely The Lord is in this holy place.

I related to Dr. Cam West's message that those of us in ministry must be a little crazy and dead serious about our work at the same time.  I beamed with pride of being a United Methodist.

Then came time for the offering and I got out my few one dollar bills.  My rationale - I have given to "Imagine No Malaria" so many times 2) we just did this at our church and 3) I tore my meniscus and had surgery raising money for this campaign and now I have my own medical bills.  And then I looked at the banner on stage and saw our theme "extravagant generosity." Who was I kidding?  How many times have I splurged on myself?  Three dollars won't even buy one malaria net!  How can I talk to our youth about a lifestyle of service if I jump at the chance to skimp on malaria nets?

As Dr. West reminds us, the truth speaks and we make excuses.  I was demonstrating his point to perfection.  I ashamedly returned the dollar bills to my purse and grabbed a $20 bill   to deliver to the offering plate.  I know my dad is smiling down on me because he taught me forty years ago about giving from the top, not the leftover.  Since I came from a United Methodist family, I grew up attending annual conference with my dad, who was a member of the laity.  Leave it to God to have me return to this sacred space for another teachable moment.

Surely the presence of The Lord is in this place, and in each of our actions demonstrating extravagant generosity!