Weekly Report for Anahuac

Two teams of volunteers arrived on Sunday February 15, one team from Heschel, Saskatchewan, and the other from the Belleville, Pennsylvania area. Two teams living 2000 miles apart, traveling an approximate total of 7000 miles to serve with MDS, and offer hope to the people who live in Anahuac, Texas. New friends and new neighbors brought together over thousands of miles through need, vision, and obedience.

The weather was a little chilly on Monday morning, and took most by surprise who were seeking the big warm Texas sun. Needless to say, it was a great morning for marketing MDS hooded sweatshirts. Light rain and dark clouds in the morning hours did not discourage the teams from making their way to the jobs, and safely starting their work: removing blue tarps and damaged shingles, a task that has become a daily routine. Homeowners continue to be overwhelmed with the amount of work accomplished, and a receive a better understanding of those responding to “love thy neighbor.” Conversations are encouraged between homeowners and volunteers. Many times an education and wisdom is received outside of textbooks, and newspapers through these conversations.

Sunday February 22, a team of volunteers arrived from Columbia Bible College located in Abbotsford, B C, Canada. Most of the students were first-time MDS volunteers. This became a new experience in tools, and roofing (MDS 101). The students worked hard and greatly enjoyed the meals provided by the MDS cooks. The weather cooperated all week and the big Texas sun was well received. Hats and sunscreen became an important part of the gear taken to the job sites. 

Saturday February 21, the MDS Anahuac staff visited the Houston Space Center to see and hear how astronauts are trained and view NASA Mission Control Room. It was interesting to compare the “Hollywood” version, an exaggerated dramatic portrayal of space exploration, and the real backdrop. Several buildings at the Houston Space Center  had suffered damage from Hurricane Ike, and are in need of repair. Wouldn’t that make for an interesting MDS job card?

February 28, Nick Nicholls (Project Director), Rudy Letkemann (construction foreman), and Gordon and Maria Martens (cooks) returned to their homes after serving MDS, and The Kingdom faithfully. Thank you for sharing your skills, and demonstrating a true commitment. Replacing them will be MDS staff with the same purpose, and passion.

“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.” Colossians 1:10

Nick, Rudy, Gordon, Maria, Amy, Tina, and Mike