As we prepare for Haiti...
The six of us team members are busily packing and endeavoring to include tools, arts and crafts, sports equipment, clothing, along with our personal clothing into the allotted two suitcases each. It looks as if the airlines will be making some money in our zealousness and the generosity of our family, friends, and churches. The variety of goods will be shared with UMCOR tool bin as well as with the Haitian community. Our assignment is to work at the Methodist school where some of the buildings collapsed during the earthquake. We will not know until we arrive whether we will be clearing rubble and/or putting up walls, laying a cement foundation, whatever. We remain flexible and are willing to offer assistance in any way we can.
Our team includes our wonderful leader, STEVE, who in my mind, most closely meets the criteria as a “saint” on earth. His passion for outreach and mission whether it be within the local community, within the state systems, or abroad has enticed over 100 others to give of their time and talents. Asbury UMC, where Steve’s wife is co-pastor, provided funds for the sports equipment, etc. Myrna is a Methodist minister who has solicited an abundance of arts and crafts from her San Leandro UMC that will be enjoyed by the Haitian children. Zac has been instrumental in seeking funds from his local congregation to purchase tools. Kent is designated as the Sherpa to carry some of the extra goods and has provided additional suitcases. Doug and Mary Ellen celebrate in the donation from our Lynnewood UMC of two sawzalls and a plethora of blades, etc. for UMCOR needs.
All of us will meet in Miami for an overnight stay prior to the flight early Wednesday morning. Keep us in your prayers and know that we represent all of you and will walk humbly with God as we transition into a new culture and share our many blessings with an impoverished and crumbled group of beautiful Haitians.
Be well and watch for some snip-its and/or pictures of our experiences!
Mary Ellen
