Encounter Christian Center

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO KATIE POINTER!!!!!!!!

Dee---I agree! Sunday was amazing, something that I never want to forget, and something that I want to continue to do. Kudos to Amanda who worked straight through the day, on her feet!! She deserves a round of applause for her ministry!

My thanks to Amanda and Straightalk for the distinct priviledge of serving at the Women's Shelter in Hughesville this past Sunday.  The vision the Lord gave Straightalk was awesome.  They not only gave the best of gifts [thank each of you Generous Givers for your donations], the best food [thank you Debbie and Carolyn] but they gave the gift of "Presence".  Amanda made it clear to each volunteer that we were not going in for photo opps or God bless you, good bye.  We were going in to spend some time, stay a while, as Pastor Mike says, "Fellowship".  Amanda took the time to cut, style and care for the hair of more than 14 people.  She enjoyed every moment of it too!  Angie assisted Amanda with the grace of a Ninja.[smile]  They work together like a symphony.  Moe, Carolyn and Bethany, stole the hearts of the children, loving on them, laughing with them and talking to them.  The icing on the cake was the personal visit by Pastor Morales, Lourdes, Pastor Donny and Ruth.  The women were amazed that they came with more gifts and that they too took the time to love on them.  The Manager told me that she was so glad that she was the one who worked Sunday.  She said she'd never had anyone come, acknowledge and spend time with them like ECC did. The hugs and thanks abounded but it was us who were most gratful.  Another woman said it was like an all day party.  
Its funny how a new hair do can make you feel like a new person.  I even noticed a nice change in one of the little boys who got a haircut. [smile]  But the biggest change was in me.  These were women with families, just like you and I.  Their lives very similar to many of ours, their address just happend to be diffrent.  I was reminded of what is truly important, PEOPLE!  I thought about some of the things that were heavy on my mind, when I woke up Sunday morning.  They paled next to the wonderful opportunity I had been given.  The opportunity to Worship God through loving and serving people you don't even know.  Then again, thats what ECC is all about.    Oh yes, LaToya and George [The Clauses]...Thanks for braving the rain to get the rest of those gifts to the women.
Yep, Thats what ECC is all about.