Hello all,

We just completed our first day in New Orleans! Everyone is very tired from a hard days work but there is also an excitement amongst the group. Most of us are not accustomed to the type of work we are doing but the motivation to help is very strong and God has a way of giving us extra strength for the task. So far we have done a lot of deconstruction/demolition as well as painting and some construction. We have even taken care of one of the homeowners' mother who has Alzheimers. Today, we cleaned out a bathroom that still had a plastic storage container that was filled with flood water - two year old flood water! It is hard to believe but true.

There are so many stories that we will share when we return. Please keep us in prayer as we have four more days of work. The work is physical but also extrememly emotional as we have uncovered photo albums and personal belongings. The situation down here is getting better but there is a long, long way to go to recovery. Most of the people we meet urge us to tell everyone "please do not forget us". It is easy to forget because Katrina was more than 2 years ago, but the devastation is still very visible. One thing I have to say is the devastation is great but the people have a great spirit in New Orleans. This is their home and they are proud of it, even in its ugliness. It shows that moth and rust will destroy earthly things but the Spirit of God lives in His people.

May the Lord bless you all this week!

Pastor Marty