Tonight we shared our holy moments that we experienced today.
The Blessings group went to give away free watermelon in the community. The disappointing part was that no one took any, but there was a holy moment when one woman who asked where they were from. They told her that they are from NC and she recognized what they are here for from reading it in the paper. She thanked them for what they were doing.
There were many holy moments today at swim/kids camp even with the huge increase of children. That in itself was holy because that means that we are reaching out to more children. However, that also meant for a harder day. There were still plent of holy moments that came out even in the hard times. At the pool, some of our own children (John Sherman and Carlie Wilson) both accomplished a lot! John proved that he was better than he thought by diving at the deep end! Carlie beat every boy in her group too! Levi (a former intern) shared that one of his boys wanted to pray at the end of the lesson and he thanked God for his swim teachers. In kids camp, I had my own holy moment. I had a hard time getting my kids to clean up after themselves after lunch and I was cleaning up the last little bit when a boy from another group that I didn't know came up and asked if he could help me. I was taken off guard because I was used to children not wanting to clean up or listen. I smiled and thanked him but told him I didn't need him because I had picked up everything. But that one little moment was the highlight of my day.
We had a baby shower for a local girl who has been helping out with camp for a couple of years now. It was pretty evident that she probably wouldn't be getting a baby shower, so we had some donated baby clothes, bedding, and toys. Looking at her grandmother's eyes and her eyes was a very holy moment because you could see how blessed they were.
Some prayer requests are some family friends of the Hawkins (the Britts) as they just lost their son to colon cancer and now the wife has just been diagnosed with cancer. Elsie mentioned to pray for the Manns. But a praise is that George and Vivian's son finally sold his house and now they are prepared to move back to Raleigh! Tomorrow is also their anniversary!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Monday, July 19, 2010
Camp Day 1
It was a very eventful first day! There was a nice breeze today, so it was a very welcome relief from the sweltering Helena heat. We met tonight for a debriefing and some people shared their highs and their lows of the day.
Blessings group went to unload some chairs in the community center, and although some of the chairs fell off the truck that was transporting them, they were able to set them out. Some of the kids that were hanging out there were very eager to learn what they were for. It was nice to see their interest in what we were doing.
Preschool and Kids camp both had a low number of kids come, which is not the usual. There is usually a full camp on the first day. Even though it was a little disappointing not to see the normal kids, it was also a blessing to be able to have more one on one interaction with the children, which is what they need. However, we have been spreading the word, so we are expecting more children to show up tomorrow! There might be other programs going on this week, which is also a blessing because that means that the community is pulling together more for the kids; the ACC kids camp used to be the only program for local children. Even though it is a little sad for some of us, it is a very good thing for the community! The kids recognize a lot of us from the previous years, which is always a high point. Seeing their smiling faces as they say our names just warms our hearts.
The construction group got a lot of work done, but unfortunately they had to pack it all up and take it back to the shop because they still need to do some more work in the Eden market. They aren't sure they will be able to finish it by the end of the week, but we are all hopeful and praying for them to accomplish their goal.
Some prayer requests: We have heard from Julie and her brother-in-law is still in the hospital in rehab for his hands/fingers. He still has not moved his legs and they aren't sure when or if he will be able to recover. Leonora's sister just had a baby who has been sick and needs prayers as the baby recovers. Also, the older sibling is special needs and is having a hard time adjusting to this new addition to the family. Please pray for her family also as they try to figure out plans to pick up Lucas once he returns from the Czech Republic.
There have been many highs and lows today, but we just have to remember that this is all a part of God's plan for us here in Helena. Whatever happens is for a reason. Our most important mission is to spread His word to the people here.
Until tomorrow...
Blessings group went to unload some chairs in the community center, and although some of the chairs fell off the truck that was transporting them, they were able to set them out. Some of the kids that were hanging out there were very eager to learn what they were for. It was nice to see their interest in what we were doing.
Preschool and Kids camp both had a low number of kids come, which is not the usual. There is usually a full camp on the first day. Even though it was a little disappointing not to see the normal kids, it was also a blessing to be able to have more one on one interaction with the children, which is what they need. However, we have been spreading the word, so we are expecting more children to show up tomorrow! There might be other programs going on this week, which is also a blessing because that means that the community is pulling together more for the kids; the ACC kids camp used to be the only program for local children. Even though it is a little sad for some of us, it is a very good thing for the community! The kids recognize a lot of us from the previous years, which is always a high point. Seeing their smiling faces as they say our names just warms our hearts.
The construction group got a lot of work done, but unfortunately they had to pack it all up and take it back to the shop because they still need to do some more work in the Eden market. They aren't sure they will be able to finish it by the end of the week, but we are all hopeful and praying for them to accomplish their goal.
Some prayer requests: We have heard from Julie and her brother-in-law is still in the hospital in rehab for his hands/fingers. He still has not moved his legs and they aren't sure when or if he will be able to recover. Leonora's sister just had a baby who has been sick and needs prayers as the baby recovers. Also, the older sibling is special needs and is having a hard time adjusting to this new addition to the family. Please pray for her family also as they try to figure out plans to pick up Lucas once he returns from the Czech Republic.
There have been many highs and lows today, but we just have to remember that this is all a part of God's plan for us here in Helena. Whatever happens is for a reason. Our most important mission is to spread His word to the people here.
Until tomorrow...
Sunday, July 18, 2010
We made it!
Hi! Virginia, here (hi mom and dad!). David Hawkins is passing the blog on to me since I usually write it with Rachel. However, Rachel is not here this year (sad!), so it is solely my responsibility now.
The second group arrived safely and soundly yesterday evening. After a long day of travelling, we got to Helena-West Helena and had a wonderful dinner at Granny Dee's in downtown Helena. The women there made a fabulous buffet for our group. After that we made the infamous Walmart run. We woke up early this morning (some earlier than others for an early morning run) to a delicious breakfast. We split up and went to New Light and New Hope as we do every year. Both services were wonderful and it was a true blessing to see Pastor Williams back at New Hope. Last year at this time he was in the hospital after suffering from a stroke. God has been so good and he is back at the church and he preached! He has been a little down because he's having a hard time walking, so please keep him in your prayers! But he was so thankful to see that "black and white people can sit together and love each other." That is what we came here to do, and the people from the communty are so pleased and thankful that we are here. After the church services we ate at the country club. That was the first time we had ever been there and it was a wonderful meal! A woman that David and Courtney had met last week brought her kids to camp for the first time and she was so happy to see them again today!
We met with our groups that we will be working with throughout this week. Kate mentioned that there she talked to a local woman who lives 5-6 miles away, in a better part of town, from where we serve. She had heard about the camp and she decided to sign up her grandkids. Kate said that she was the first white local woman to sign up her kids on her own (usually they are set up through a program)! This was very exciting news that this has spread further around town!
Leonora shared that more people are here volunteering this year than ever before. Molli and Catherine, repeat interns, have been doing a great job of running the camp and everything else while Ben and Leonora have been in Raleigh. She would also like for everyone to pray for Lucas as he is currently travelling in Prague, Czech Republic with another group.
It has been very hot today, and it looks as if it will be this way all week! Pray that we will all stay hydrated and that we will be able to reach out to the children here.
As a parting note, I just wanted to add that we had the second annual cutting of the kids camp band ceremony. I had this band on for a whole year, but it is time to move on to a new color.
Virginia
The second group arrived safely and soundly yesterday evening. After a long day of travelling, we got to Helena-West Helena and had a wonderful dinner at Granny Dee's in downtown Helena. The women there made a fabulous buffet for our group. After that we made the infamous Walmart run. We woke up early this morning (some earlier than others for an early morning run) to a delicious breakfast. We split up and went to New Light and New Hope as we do every year. Both services were wonderful and it was a true blessing to see Pastor Williams back at New Hope. Last year at this time he was in the hospital after suffering from a stroke. God has been so good and he is back at the church and he preached! He has been a little down because he's having a hard time walking, so please keep him in your prayers! But he was so thankful to see that "black and white people can sit together and love each other." That is what we came here to do, and the people from the communty are so pleased and thankful that we are here. After the church services we ate at the country club. That was the first time we had ever been there and it was a wonderful meal! A woman that David and Courtney had met last week brought her kids to camp for the first time and she was so happy to see them again today!
We met with our groups that we will be working with throughout this week. Kate mentioned that there she talked to a local woman who lives 5-6 miles away, in a better part of town, from where we serve. She had heard about the camp and she decided to sign up her grandkids. Kate said that she was the first white local woman to sign up her kids on her own (usually they are set up through a program)! This was very exciting news that this has spread further around town!
Leonora shared that more people are here volunteering this year than ever before. Molli and Catherine, repeat interns, have been doing a great job of running the camp and everything else while Ben and Leonora have been in Raleigh. She would also like for everyone to pray for Lucas as he is currently travelling in Prague, Czech Republic with another group.
It has been very hot today, and it looks as if it will be this way all week! Pray that we will all stay hydrated and that we will be able to reach out to the children here.
As a parting note, I just wanted to add that we had the second annual cutting of the kids camp band ceremony. I had this band on for a whole year, but it is time to move on to a new color.
Virginia
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
HBBC GOES TO HELENA 2010
Camp Day 3
Camp Day 3
We are now on the home stretch – awards tomorrow night. What a blessed day this has been. The heat could have been worse (98 degrees) and the skies could have again been stormy. With the conditions perfect, the camp was again vibrant and full.
The water went away faster than the crew could replenish. It was go, go, go all day long.
The preschoolers were in the pool for the first time today - what a delight. We saw signs of joy and signs of fear, but mostly an eagerness to learn.
Tonight, we again had dinner at New Light and this time the dinner was provided and served by their members. Great fried chicken, homemade rolls, steamed cabbage, green beans and much more. Kate must be “special” as she was the only one to be served stewed okra.
We followed dinner with church services at New Life conducted by Rev. Vivian Hoskins from The Faith Outreach Church. The Rev. Hoskins conducted in an depth discussion on The Holy Spirit. We were entertained by the highly acclaimed Devine Deliverance Choir. “Our Own” Cat Bahn accompanied Chris and Julie Maloney in a beautiful rendition of, Come Thou Fount of Many Blessings. The congregation joined in the singing.
We have another hot one tomorrow to wrap up camp. Tomorrow evening we will have our awards and our craft sale followed by some much needed down time Friday and Saturday. Kristen has already called with instructions for dinner reservations for Saturday evening. The gang arrives in Memphis at 3:40 CST.
Until Monday, I bid you farewell from Arkansas
Hawk (sub blog writer)
The water went away faster than the crew could replenish. It was go, go, go all day long.
The preschoolers were in the pool for the first time today - what a delight. We saw signs of joy and signs of fear, but mostly an eagerness to learn.
Tonight, we again had dinner at New Light and this time the dinner was provided and served by their members. Great fried chicken, homemade rolls, steamed cabbage, green beans and much more. Kate must be “special” as she was the only one to be served stewed okra.
We followed dinner with church services at New Life conducted by Rev. Vivian Hoskins from The Faith Outreach Church. The Rev. Hoskins conducted in an depth discussion on The Holy Spirit. We were entertained by the highly acclaimed Devine Deliverance Choir. “Our Own” Cat Bahn accompanied Chris and Julie Maloney in a beautiful rendition of, Come Thou Fount of Many Blessings. The congregation joined in the singing.
We have another hot one tomorrow to wrap up camp. Tomorrow evening we will have our awards and our craft sale followed by some much needed down time Friday and Saturday. Kristen has already called with instructions for dinner reservations for Saturday evening. The gang arrives in Memphis at 3:40 CST.
Until Monday, I bid you farewell from Arkansas
Hawk (sub blog writer)
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
HBBC GOES TO HELENA
Camp Day 2
Rain Rain Go Away …..? Does God really want the rain to go away? Is that for us to know or just for him to decide? If the farmer’s are praying for rain, should our prayers for the rain to stop so we can hold mission camp be answered?
This was the question this morning in Helena. At 7 AM the wind, thunder, lightning and rain started. At the sight of any spec of light sky; my cohort, Tracy said his prayers for the rain to stop were being answered. In my own contentious way, I asked him why his prayers were more important than the local farmer’s. This led to an all day discussion that was worthy of thought. There is no way that God can please all the people, all the time. We must adjust to all situations….. …….And today we did at ACC! The kids adjusted, the counselors adjusted, Alex and I picked up a new water stop AND all was well! Courtney said, you know the kids missed swimming but we kept them so busy and distracted, they never mentioned it.
Tonight Delta Fellowship fed all of the volunteers at New Light Baptist. A great time was had by all. Our slave, Kate Hall ate early (4:30) so she and Courtney could be back in the pool to teach adult swimming at 6 PM. These two die hards will then do water aerobics fro 7:00 til 7:45.
Whichever way God smiles tomorrow, HBBC will be prepared to react and work on his behalf.
Wish you were HERE!!
Dave Hawkins (substitute blog writer)
Camp Day 2
Rain Rain Go Away …..? Does God really want the rain to go away? Is that for us to know or just for him to decide? If the farmer’s are praying for rain, should our prayers for the rain to stop so we can hold mission camp be answered?
This was the question this morning in Helena. At 7 AM the wind, thunder, lightning and rain started. At the sight of any spec of light sky; my cohort, Tracy said his prayers for the rain to stop were being answered. In my own contentious way, I asked him why his prayers were more important than the local farmer’s. This led to an all day discussion that was worthy of thought. There is no way that God can please all the people, all the time. We must adjust to all situations….. …….And today we did at ACC! The kids adjusted, the counselors adjusted, Alex and I picked up a new water stop AND all was well! Courtney said, you know the kids missed swimming but we kept them so busy and distracted, they never mentioned it.
Tonight Delta Fellowship fed all of the volunteers at New Light Baptist. A great time was had by all. Our slave, Kate Hall ate early (4:30) so she and Courtney could be back in the pool to teach adult swimming at 6 PM. These two die hards will then do water aerobics fro 7:00 til 7:45.
Whichever way God smiles tomorrow, HBBC will be prepared to react and work on his behalf.
Wish you were HERE!!
Dave Hawkins (substitute blog writer)
Monday, July 12, 2010
HBBC Goes to Arkansas 2010
Camp Day 1
Today was the day that the Lord made and he did a wonderful job. Today in Helena, we had overcast skies and a nice breeze all day. It was still 95 degrees; but for those of you that have been here, you know it could have been worse.
The start of today exceeded our expectations. While Courtney, Alex and I were having lunch on Sunday, we told the waitress about “our” ACC camp. We also invited her to bring her sisters and nieces to camp. She had never heard of the camp and we figured we would never see her again. Early this morning at registration, one of the first persons Courtney made eye contact with was this young lady. I believe they were equally surprised and happy as each burst into a huge smile. This is what it is all about folks. The young lady brought three children.
Alex and I moved water and ice all day and had many PR opportunities in doing so.
Kate had a really busy day kicking off swim camp and was the benefactor of many blessings. She more fully understood the meaning of “community” after today’s experience. Today showed what we can accomplish when working together. We had ten churches pulling together to accomplish God’s will. As Kate said, “This just shows that God wants us working together. It started with the creation of Adam and Eve as husband and wife (a team).
HBBC, you don’t know what you are missing not being here. First Baptist Wilmington brought 60 people. You should see what 40 people can do in a day building a house. Let’s bring a work party next year.
Until tomorrow from the Delta – Dave Hawkins
HBBC Goes to Helena 2010 Day -1
What a way to start a Mission Trip – Viewing God’s splendor first hand on the Mississippi River from a canoe at 5:30 AM!Kate Hall, Dave Hawkins and Courtney Wilson and Alex Avery started Sunday morning with a nine mile float from The St. Francis River to Helena - we had a scrumptious breakfast at the Edwardian B & B, showered and made Church at New Life Baptist by 10:30 AM.
Pastor Ed Wade’s sermon from Matthew Chapter 5 challenged us to remember God’s word as God would want it understood, and not as “we” want to interpret it.
The church extended a sincere welcome to all ten churches here for the ACC Challenge. The HBBC group discussed how nice it would be to bring Pastor Wade to Raleigh for a revival and also some of the Helena Kids to entertain in our homes.
Sunday afternoon was spent preparing for the weeks camp which begins manana. At 5PM Charlie and Winiferd Wells provided dinner for 250 persons on their farm. It was like a great covered dish dinner!
We are now making “Ms” Kate’s posters and wring blogs.God has been good to us! May he continue to watch over all of us for the rest of this week and next.
Dave Hawkins (substitute blog writer until Va. Murray arrives).
Friday, July 9, 2010
Mission Trip to Helena, Arkansas, July 17-23, 2010
We are ready to return to Helena, Arkansas to be the presence of Christ during the week of July 17-23. In partnership with CBF’s Together for Hope, we will join with churches across the country to share the love of Jesus with the people in Helena. Opportunities will include swim camp, construction, the blessings ministry, preschool camp, Stories on Wheels bus, gardening, and library work.
Please visit our blog often to see how the team is doing in Helena.
Please visit our blog often to see how the team is doing in Helena.
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