Retreat Weekend

Well it is Sunday and I couldn't get to church today. Having a small problem with my back. I think it is just a muscle thing but it is really bugging me. Friday and Saturday was a retreat at Camp AJ for all volunteers. We had people there who have been volunteering for 5 years and then others who have been here only a week. It is interesting to hear all the stories and hear how people have grown through their volunteering time with CAP. For all of us we agree that this has been a calling and a blessing that we are able to come to the Appalachians and serve our God and His people. At the end of the retreat we each were assigned a partner and then went on an Emmaus walk. This gave us time to not only reflect on what we had shared throughout the retreat but to discuss how God has been working in our lives and what we have experienced so far in the Appalachians. It was a wonderful 2 days.

There was a group here this past week from Notre Dame. It was mostly college age people and two older men who came along. They worked on some of the projects that the Wisconsin group was unable to finish. We had dinner with them one night and spent some time hanging out with them. Carlos, one of the older gentlemen, presented an hour of music and scripture. He was adorable! He read some stories and then played some older songs on his dulcimer. It was a very charming presentation and you could clearly see how much he loves his Lord and how important his faith is in his life. It was great to see.

The next night we all went into McKee to the Lord's Gym to be a part of Chad's Hope night of testimony and praise. Chad's Hope is a drug and alcohol recovery program. There were two men who sang songs and lead all of us in some singing. They were amazing! I could not believe the voice that one of them shared. Awesome! Then two gentlemen got up to give their testimonies. I was really glad that we went to show our support to the people who shared and also to the program. Chad's Hope has helped many, many people.

Well, Diane Beckmann is here!!!!!!!! We had the joy of sharing retreat time together and I was so happy to see her here. We just looked at each other in disbelief and said "We are here!" Diane is serving on the east side which is about 2 hours away but we will plan to get together on the weekendss when we can. I have to say, Wisconsin is making a good showing here in Kentucky.

Another part of that is the response I received when I sent out an e-mail for some help. I had a family come in that had been burned out of their home. All they had were the clothes on their backs. I did find some items to give them, but when I went through my donation room I realized how much of the clothes were stained and torn. One e-mail and I have people shipping items or sending checks. I love you all and am so thankful for all the support you have shown to me already. You are all so amazing!

Time to take a break and let the back relax. Hope you are all doing well and enjoying this beautiful Fall.

God Bless
Jane