What an amazing Adopt-A-Family Outreach! Currently 59 churches and/or individual families in IDW and IDE have opened their hearts and adopted 59 families in Lacombe, LA.
Initially, we had more Iowans requesting families than we had families to be adopted. I contacted Rochell, the coordinator in Lacombe and asked if they had additional families who we could adopt. Soooo, now the scale has tipped and as of today, I have 26 families who are not assigned to a church or family in Iowa.
Please send out the word! Please let people know that the first 26 to respond will have the opportunity to be part of a great outreach of love to Christians in LA.
Also, if those who have already been assigned a family are able to adopt an additional family, please let me know.
Ellie Menz
ellie.menz@idwlcms.org
515-386-8420
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Thursday, November 24, 2005
LIFE of ED & KAREN in Lousiana!
Hi! Many thanks to all who have 'answered the call' and offered to adopt a family in Lacombe! More details on that later.
Today,enjoy the diary of Ed and Karen from Iowa who have earned the name of "Trojans" for all the work they have been doing. Be sure to check out Monday, 21st--'How many turkeys have you prepared this week?' :) Ellie Menz
Day 1:
Thought you might be interested in what is happening on the Hurricane Katrina relief:
11/14 Monday – we had breakfast at the church and then our team split in half – one half went to New Orleans and our team went to a local house. We have 11 volunteers. It took the New Orleans team almost two hours to get there because the bridges are all under repair and down to one lane each direction. Our project was a 3,000 sq foot house that had water up to the bottom of the kitchen cabinets. We hauled out all the furniture and load after load of food, kitchenwear, books, craft items and misc. out to the street and when the house was empty we started tearing out drywall. Mold covered the walls and was growing on everything. We were cautioned about the possibility of snakes but did not see one. The stench was awful.
Refrigerators and freezers had rotten food inside which had to be buried.
The owners had several cats and the sodden litter (with droppings) had to be hauled out. I don’t think I have ever been this dirty.
Karen
Day 2:
11/15 Tuesday – the entire team went back to the local house and continued tearing out drywall, cabinets and trim. This afternoon we drove to an area in New Orleans and started to gut the house. This house had carpet and it had to be cut up and hauled out. When the refrigerator was moved, it trailed a lot of water and the stench was worse than imaginable. We had to throw bottles of liquor on the floor to try and quell the smell. We got smart this time and opened the windows and threw the stuff out to the wheelbarrows. Everything swells when submerged in water and things become packed into the closets, cabinets, etc. The houses are painted with symbols to indicate who inspected the house, the date it was inspected and if any bodies were found. We found cars upturned or wedged against the houses and boats in the middle of the highway. The cars were submerged so they have the words ‘tow me’ painted on the cars.
Karen
Day 3 - 5:
11/16 Wednesday – Ed and I started the day by going to Rochelle’s mother-in-law to hang a door. Ed had to remove the old brick mold. We didn’t have long enough screws so we will go back this weekend. The door is in place and the lock is working but trim needs to be added and the frame caulked. This afternoon we joined the rest of the team in Chalmette and completed the removal of the drywall. The pile in the front of the house extended the entire width of the property and was about 7 feet high. What took us about 10 hours to haul out only took the city about 1 hour to haul away. Going home it took us 1-½ hours to get back and the traffic just creeps along. And then of course you get the jerks that drive along the shoulder and then want to cut in at the last minute. Tonight we had supper at the church and bible study afterwards.
11/17 Thursday – the entire crew went back to Chalmette but to a different house. This house got about 4 feet of water. These people do not have basements so the house is full of their possessions. Every closet and every drawer is packed full. The Minnesota group is leaving today so we had a short day – got there about 10 am and left about 2:30 pm but we still got all the furnishings out plus most of the woodwork, drywall and floor tile.
The lower kitchen cabinets and their pans, etc retain the water and really stink after 10 weeks. Imagine pulling food products packaged in cardboard out of the cupboards. Everything is a soggy mess and all the canned goods
are rusty. Tonight we went to Wal-Mart and saw people tent camping in the
parking lot. Also, there were 6 trailers parked next to the building and plugged into electric. It is supposed to freeze tonight but the days are nice. It was cool and windy today but when you are working hard, we were actually sweating.
11/18 Friday – today we joined a new crew from Bethany Lutheran Church. 10 volunteers went on a job and our group of 7 went to another home. This lady was a basket case. This crew had already been to her house yesterday and the lady won’t let them throw things away. She is sure she can ‘restore’
them. So everything has to be hauled from room to room in order to tear off the drywall. She lost her husband one year ago, one daughter committed suicide, one son is in jail, another daughter lost her house in Hurricane Katrina, one son is afraid of the mold and will not help her and the last child is estranged. She needed constant reassuring and talked the entire time. And – the house is still not done after two days. Her home is attached to Lake Pontchartrain via water inlets.
Monday 21st– we don’t have any other volunteers this week so Ed and I are assigned to a Methodist Church for Thanksgiving Day meal preparation. We
started at 9 am and worked until 7 pm. Six churches are working together
and plan on feeding a free meal to more than 5,000 people. This morning I
worked on thawing out turkeys and removing the neck and giblets. This afternoon I worked on de-boning the turkeys. Ed spent most of the day helping with the cookers and hauling the turkeys from/to the kitchen. Then he worked on de-boning the turkeys. We had several workers in the morning but few workers in the afternoon. It was almost 7 pm and we still had 25 turkeys to de-bone – and the guy in charge was going to leave. Ended up we put the roasted turkeys in the fridge for tomorrow. They had two smokers; one held 18 turkeys, the other held 15 turkeys, 4 large turkeys in the ovens and 4 turkeys were being deep fried at one time.
11/22 Tuesday – we started our day at 7 am and ended it at 6 pm. Ed was the
chief cook as the other guy’s wife had to go to the hospital. He smoked 66
turkeys in the cookers, 4 in the ovens and 8 were deep-fried. I got put in charge of the kitchen help. The Mormon Church next door has a brand new 3-story freezer-warehouse equipped with an industrial generator and fork lifts. They have been storing the turkeys until we need them. A loaned ice cream truck is parked at the church and is used for storage of the meats and pies, etc. The churches have purchased 350 turkeys (some of which are being cooked in various homes) and the balance we are doing at the church.
Today,enjoy the diary of Ed and Karen from Iowa who have earned the name of "Trojans" for all the work they have been doing. Be sure to check out Monday, 21st--'How many turkeys have you prepared this week?' :) Ellie Menz
Day 1:
Thought you might be interested in what is happening on the Hurricane Katrina relief:
11/14 Monday – we had breakfast at the church and then our team split in half – one half went to New Orleans and our team went to a local house. We have 11 volunteers. It took the New Orleans team almost two hours to get there because the bridges are all under repair and down to one lane each direction. Our project was a 3,000 sq foot house that had water up to the bottom of the kitchen cabinets. We hauled out all the furniture and load after load of food, kitchenwear, books, craft items and misc. out to the street and when the house was empty we started tearing out drywall. Mold covered the walls and was growing on everything. We were cautioned about the possibility of snakes but did not see one. The stench was awful.
Refrigerators and freezers had rotten food inside which had to be buried.
The owners had several cats and the sodden litter (with droppings) had to be hauled out. I don’t think I have ever been this dirty.
Karen
Day 2:
11/15 Tuesday – the entire team went back to the local house and continued tearing out drywall, cabinets and trim. This afternoon we drove to an area in New Orleans and started to gut the house. This house had carpet and it had to be cut up and hauled out. When the refrigerator was moved, it trailed a lot of water and the stench was worse than imaginable. We had to throw bottles of liquor on the floor to try and quell the smell. We got smart this time and opened the windows and threw the stuff out to the wheelbarrows. Everything swells when submerged in water and things become packed into the closets, cabinets, etc. The houses are painted with symbols to indicate who inspected the house, the date it was inspected and if any bodies were found. We found cars upturned or wedged against the houses and boats in the middle of the highway. The cars were submerged so they have the words ‘tow me’ painted on the cars.
Karen
Day 3 - 5:
11/16 Wednesday – Ed and I started the day by going to Rochelle’s mother-in-law to hang a door. Ed had to remove the old brick mold. We didn’t have long enough screws so we will go back this weekend. The door is in place and the lock is working but trim needs to be added and the frame caulked. This afternoon we joined the rest of the team in Chalmette and completed the removal of the drywall. The pile in the front of the house extended the entire width of the property and was about 7 feet high. What took us about 10 hours to haul out only took the city about 1 hour to haul away. Going home it took us 1-½ hours to get back and the traffic just creeps along. And then of course you get the jerks that drive along the shoulder and then want to cut in at the last minute. Tonight we had supper at the church and bible study afterwards.
11/17 Thursday – the entire crew went back to Chalmette but to a different house. This house got about 4 feet of water. These people do not have basements so the house is full of their possessions. Every closet and every drawer is packed full. The Minnesota group is leaving today so we had a short day – got there about 10 am and left about 2:30 pm but we still got all the furnishings out plus most of the woodwork, drywall and floor tile.
The lower kitchen cabinets and their pans, etc retain the water and really stink after 10 weeks. Imagine pulling food products packaged in cardboard out of the cupboards. Everything is a soggy mess and all the canned goods
are rusty. Tonight we went to Wal-Mart and saw people tent camping in the
parking lot. Also, there were 6 trailers parked next to the building and plugged into electric. It is supposed to freeze tonight but the days are nice. It was cool and windy today but when you are working hard, we were actually sweating.
11/18 Friday – today we joined a new crew from Bethany Lutheran Church. 10 volunteers went on a job and our group of 7 went to another home. This lady was a basket case. This crew had already been to her house yesterday and the lady won’t let them throw things away. She is sure she can ‘restore’
them. So everything has to be hauled from room to room in order to tear off the drywall. She lost her husband one year ago, one daughter committed suicide, one son is in jail, another daughter lost her house in Hurricane Katrina, one son is afraid of the mold and will not help her and the last child is estranged. She needed constant reassuring and talked the entire time. And – the house is still not done after two days. Her home is attached to Lake Pontchartrain via water inlets.
Monday 21st– we don’t have any other volunteers this week so Ed and I are assigned to a Methodist Church for Thanksgiving Day meal preparation. We
started at 9 am and worked until 7 pm. Six churches are working together
and plan on feeding a free meal to more than 5,000 people. This morning I
worked on thawing out turkeys and removing the neck and giblets. This afternoon I worked on de-boning the turkeys. Ed spent most of the day helping with the cookers and hauling the turkeys from/to the kitchen. Then he worked on de-boning the turkeys. We had several workers in the morning but few workers in the afternoon. It was almost 7 pm and we still had 25 turkeys to de-bone – and the guy in charge was going to leave. Ended up we put the roasted turkeys in the fridge for tomorrow. They had two smokers; one held 18 turkeys, the other held 15 turkeys, 4 large turkeys in the ovens and 4 turkeys were being deep fried at one time.
11/22 Tuesday – we started our day at 7 am and ended it at 6 pm. Ed was the
chief cook as the other guy’s wife had to go to the hospital. He smoked 66
turkeys in the cookers, 4 in the ovens and 8 were deep-fried. I got put in charge of the kitchen help. The Mormon Church next door has a brand new 3-story freezer-warehouse equipped with an industrial generator and fork lifts. They have been storing the turkeys until we need them. A loaned ice cream truck is parked at the church and is used for storage of the meats and pies, etc. The churches have purchased 350 turkeys (some of which are being cooked in various homes) and the balance we are doing at the church.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
ADOPT A FAMILY for CHRISTMAS
Greetings,
Many have asked how they can help in the Katrina relief for our three adopted churches. Here is a great 'hands on' project.
I ask that you share this information with your church organizations and members. If your church in interested in adopting a family for Christmas, let me know and you will be assigned a family to adopt.
Here's the plan:
Make Christmas special for families and friends of Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe, LA. Each family will register with Wal-Mart for the items they need for their family members. It is computerized like a bridal/wedding registry.
When you receive from me the family name that you are adopting, go online or to a Wal Mart store and ask for the computer 'gift registry' and you will find the needs of your adopted family. You then decide which of the items your church wishes to purchase online or through your local store.
Shipping information will be included when your church receives your adopted families' name. Gifts will be shipped to Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe.
The family will pick up their gifts at the church. You may also write personal notes and cards to your family and send to the church. For privacy issues (and since many do not have a house address now) the church address is being used for each family.
Simple! Easy! Want to participate? Contact me at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org or 515-386-8420 and I will assign a family to you. First come, first serve.
Questions? Please contact me.
God's Blessings as you bless the lives of fellow Christians in Lacombe at Christmas time,
Ellie Menz
Many have asked how they can help in the Katrina relief for our three adopted churches. Here is a great 'hands on' project.
I ask that you share this information with your church organizations and members. If your church in interested in adopting a family for Christmas, let me know and you will be assigned a family to adopt.
Here's the plan:
Make Christmas special for families and friends of Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe, LA. Each family will register with Wal-Mart for the items they need for their family members. It is computerized like a bridal/wedding registry.
When you receive from me the family name that you are adopting, go online or to a Wal Mart store and ask for the computer 'gift registry' and you will find the needs of your adopted family. You then decide which of the items your church wishes to purchase online or through your local store.
Shipping information will be included when your church receives your adopted families' name. Gifts will be shipped to Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe.
The family will pick up their gifts at the church. You may also write personal notes and cards to your family and send to the church. For privacy issues (and since many do not have a house address now) the church address is being used for each family.
Simple! Easy! Want to participate? Contact me at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org or 515-386-8420 and I will assign a family to you. First come, first serve.
Questions? Please contact me.
God's Blessings as you bless the lives of fellow Christians in Lacombe at Christmas time,
Ellie Menz
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
School Supplies Needed for Faith, Harahan
SCHOOL SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR FAITH LUTHERAN SCHOOL—HARAHAN, LA.
Faith Lutheran School in Harahan is the Lutheran school that Iowa District West and East have adopted to help them to recover after Katrina. Faith recently reopened their school in a different building and the following items are needed. These are things that were lost in the hurricane.
Since this list will go to many people, it is important that communication is good on the items purchased and the items still needed. If you wish to purchase individual items from this list, email Ellie Menz at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org so we don’t ‘double up’ on the items. Secondly, you may wish to have a fund raiser, etc. and send the money so the items can be purchased for the school. Make checks payable to Iowa District West-Faith School or Iowa District East-Faith School and send to Ellie Menz, 807 W. South, Jefferson, IA 50129. Also, check out the following blog spot for current updates: www.iowayoutreach.blogspot.com
1. School Supplies
15 bulletin boards (3’10” x 46” each)
Bulletin board materials
30 student mats (for PK –Kind.)
20 sets of fat crayons
Assorted colors of play doh
30 wooden puzzles (for PK-Kind.)
20 cardboard puzzles (for PK – Kind.)
2 wooden block sets (one large and one small blocks)
5 floor puzzles
4 painting easels
1 chalkboard (15’ 7” x 46”)
10 boxes of copy paper
2. Personal items
300 children’s books (PK-Kind.)
Kleenex and paper towels
1 full length mirror on stand
Song books for teacher use (piggyback songs for PK-Kind.)
1 portable electronic piano keyboard
25 story and song tapes (PK-Kind.)
15 CD’s with songs (PK-Kind.)
Big books for 2nd grade
3. Desks, chairs, computers
1 small TV/VCR
4 computers with disc drives, keyboards, mouses and printers
20 student tables (48” x 24”)
28 children’s chairs (PK-Kind.)
4 teacher desk chairs
3 CD players
24 slot cubbie
20 slot cubbie
4 teacher desks
10 metal shelves
2 wooden toy chests
Wooden shelving and cinder blocks for shelves
2 chest of drawers (3-4 drawers each)
1 48” x 30” bookcase
1 71” x 30” bookcase 1 file cabinet with two drawers
2 file cabinets with 4 drawers
4. Other items
16 window shades (3’ 11” wide, 7’ 9” long)
2 little tike workbench and kitchen
2 children’s tables and chairs for playing house
15 puppets
7 playground balls
7 area rugs (10’ x 10’ each)
Cash gifts
1 globe
Rhythm instruments (3 sets)
ABC flashcards 3 sets)
Thank you for your consideration and all the excellent supplies you provide and work you do!
In Christ,
Pastor David J. Lofthus
Mrs. Diane Oestriecher-2nd grade teacher.
Faith Lutheran School
300 Colonial Club Drive
Harahan, Louisiana 70123
504-737-9554
Faith Lutheran School in Harahan is the Lutheran school that Iowa District West and East have adopted to help them to recover after Katrina. Faith recently reopened their school in a different building and the following items are needed. These are things that were lost in the hurricane.
Since this list will go to many people, it is important that communication is good on the items purchased and the items still needed. If you wish to purchase individual items from this list, email Ellie Menz at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org so we don’t ‘double up’ on the items. Secondly, you may wish to have a fund raiser, etc. and send the money so the items can be purchased for the school. Make checks payable to Iowa District West-Faith School or Iowa District East-Faith School and send to Ellie Menz, 807 W. South, Jefferson, IA 50129. Also, check out the following blog spot for current updates: www.iowayoutreach.blogspot.com
1. School Supplies
15 bulletin boards (3’10” x 46” each)
Bulletin board materials
30 student mats (for PK –Kind.)
20 sets of fat crayons
Assorted colors of play doh
30 wooden puzzles (for PK-Kind.)
20 cardboard puzzles (for PK – Kind.)
2 wooden block sets (one large and one small blocks)
5 floor puzzles
4 painting easels
1 chalkboard (15’ 7” x 46”)
10 boxes of copy paper
2. Personal items
300 children’s books (PK-Kind.)
Kleenex and paper towels
1 full length mirror on stand
Song books for teacher use (piggyback songs for PK-Kind.)
1 portable electronic piano keyboard
25 story and song tapes (PK-Kind.)
15 CD’s with songs (PK-Kind.)
Big books for 2nd grade
3. Desks, chairs, computers
1 small TV/VCR
4 computers with disc drives, keyboards, mouses and printers
20 student tables (48” x 24”)
28 children’s chairs (PK-Kind.)
4 teacher desk chairs
3 CD players
24 slot cubbie
20 slot cubbie
4 teacher desks
10 metal shelves
2 wooden toy chests
Wooden shelving and cinder blocks for shelves
2 chest of drawers (3-4 drawers each)
1 48” x 30” bookcase
1 71” x 30” bookcase 1 file cabinet with two drawers
2 file cabinets with 4 drawers
4. Other items
16 window shades (3’ 11” wide, 7’ 9” long)
2 little tike workbench and kitchen
2 children’s tables and chairs for playing house
15 puppets
7 playground balls
7 area rugs (10’ x 10’ each)
Cash gifts
1 globe
Rhythm instruments (3 sets)
ABC flashcards 3 sets)
Thank you for your consideration and all the excellent supplies you provide and work you do!
In Christ,
Pastor David J. Lofthus
Mrs. Diane Oestriecher-2nd grade teacher.
Faith Lutheran School
300 Colonial Club Drive
Harahan, Louisiana 70123
504-737-9554
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Lacombe--What's it really like?
Hello!
We are doing great working down here in Lacombe. I have been to New Orleans twice to see the other congregations we are assigned and to pick up some supplies.
I saw Bethel Lutheran in the 9th Ward and it was shocking. Everything in the sanctuary is ruined--mold on the pews, altar, etc., slimy gross sludge on the floor. All the windows were broken out and doors were swelled shut. The smell was awful. Two abandoned cars were partially buried in front. On the second floor there was a trail of muddy footprints down the hall. I followed them into a room and found sleeping bags laid out with pillows--sombody was living there! I believe the church will be demolished.
I also visited Faith Lutheran in Harahan and found them to be getting along well. We spent a few hours with the pastor and heard some amazing stories of rescues in the flood waters. The area around Faith was not too bad. They need help rebuilding a classroom building. The roof was damaged and so rain came in and caused some destruction.
The people here are taking very good care of us. They cook supper every night for us and we are definitely not losing weight!
The weather has been good as well. Today we helped a local police officer who has been busy helping everyone else and had not had time to work on his own house. We hauled all his beautiful furniture to the street along with two refrigerators and a freezer, a washer and a dryer, and pretty much everything he owned--a total loss. Again the smell is unforgettable but a particularly poignant moment occurred when we stood with him looking at his pool table. It was heaped with moldy photo albums and warped record albums. The table sagged in the middle and was clearly ruined. We stood there solemnly not saying a word. As men we could appreciate the symbol of a man's pool table--even more so when we heard that he had built it himself. Now he raised a heavy ax and came down hard--CRACK!! The table sagged even further. Another swing and it was on the floor. Quietly we loaded the pieces in wheelbarrows and carted them out the door, down the ramp, across the gravel drive and added them to the stinking mound of his earthly treasures. Unbelievable. Take care, Tim
We are doing great working down here in Lacombe. I have been to New Orleans twice to see the other congregations we are assigned and to pick up some supplies.
I saw Bethel Lutheran in the 9th Ward and it was shocking. Everything in the sanctuary is ruined--mold on the pews, altar, etc., slimy gross sludge on the floor. All the windows were broken out and doors were swelled shut. The smell was awful. Two abandoned cars were partially buried in front. On the second floor there was a trail of muddy footprints down the hall. I followed them into a room and found sleeping bags laid out with pillows--sombody was living there! I believe the church will be demolished.
I also visited Faith Lutheran in Harahan and found them to be getting along well. We spent a few hours with the pastor and heard some amazing stories of rescues in the flood waters. The area around Faith was not too bad. They need help rebuilding a classroom building. The roof was damaged and so rain came in and caused some destruction.
The people here are taking very good care of us. They cook supper every night for us and we are definitely not losing weight!
The weather has been good as well. Today we helped a local police officer who has been busy helping everyone else and had not had time to work on his own house. We hauled all his beautiful furniture to the street along with two refrigerators and a freezer, a washer and a dryer, and pretty much everything he owned--a total loss. Again the smell is unforgettable but a particularly poignant moment occurred when we stood with him looking at his pool table. It was heaped with moldy photo albums and warped record albums. The table sagged in the middle and was clearly ruined. We stood there solemnly not saying a word. As men we could appreciate the symbol of a man's pool table--even more so when we heard that he had built it himself. Now he raised a heavy ax and came down hard--CRACK!! The table sagged even further. Another swing and it was on the floor. Quietly we loaded the pieces in wheelbarrows and carted them out the door, down the ramp, across the gravel drive and added them to the stinking mound of his earthly treasures. Unbelievable. Take care, Tim
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
SEND MORE WORKERS!
SEND MORE WORKERS!
SEND MORE WORKERS! is the call from Pastor Tim Phillips, Gloria Dei, Urbandale. Pastor Phillips is heading a team of 12 who are calling themselves the “Dirty Dozen”. Rochell, relief organizer at Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe says they are her ‘Angels’. Rochell is very happy for the help and encouragement because she has received requests for help from 51 families.
The ‘Dirty Dozen’ team members are Alan and Rachel Crandell, Sarah Hensel, Jeff and Zach Olson, Ron Oolman, Pastor Phillips, Mark Pierson, and Marv Rohn from Des Moines area; Richard and Judy Wardenburg, from Wilton; and Donna Bogner from Cedar Rapids.
Please PRAY for the team. The team headed out early October 8, and arrived in Lacombe, LA on
Sunday, October 9th. Pastor Phillips said that the devastation is unbelievable and that photos and words can not describe the situation. They are helping members of Village clean out their houses and clear away trees and limbs. He told me of a pile of bricks which used to be a house. Pastor said that there was not a piece of wood nearby because the house was hit by 185 mph wind and a 20’ water surge.
The team is staying at Village Lutheran in the motor home provided by Pastor Bruce Jackson, Lawton and on sleeping bags and cots in the fellowship hall of the church. Food is being provided for all workers.
Five of the ‘Dirty Dozen’ will be returning to Iowa October 15 and a group of four will be leaving Iowa on Saturday to ‘take their places’. The four are Ron Aschbrenner, John Bush, Bruce Williams, from Concordia, Cedar Rapids and Valerie Wilson from Trinity, Cedar Rapids. They have been busy collecting bed sheets, respirator masks, bleach and sprayers.
Fema is bringing in small trailers as temporary housing and one of the needs is for bed sheets for the families in the trailers. Many sheets will be delivered on Saturday.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Bob Baker and his wife, from Trinity, Davenport arrived in Lacombe on Tuesday and will be assessing the needs and taking photos at our three adopted churches--Lacombe, Harahan and New Orleans. They will share the photos and give us a better understanding of the situation.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Pastor Gus George, St. Paul, Council Bluffs is planning to head a group of workers to Lacombe. He plans to leave Iowa October 29 and arrive on the 30th. Plans are to leave November 5th and return to Iowa on the 6th. To join this group, call me (Ellie Menz) at 515-386-8420 or Pastor George at 712-322-4729.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Who would like to head up a team of college age adults during college Spring Break time?
Please let me know if you know the dates of spring break at Iowa, ISU, UNI, CUNE, Simpson, BV, etc. Pastor Mark Heilman, Memorial, Ames is tentatively planning a Servant Event trip for the second full week in March.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Tim Kightlinger, Gloria Dei, Urbandale, is planning a trip for college age/young adults (age 18-25 range) January 3-10, 2006.
Thinking about going to help? Thinking about putting a team together? You do NOT need to provide food or lodging for yourself. The ‘base’ is set up. We NEED TEAMS OF WORKERS FOR NOVEMBER and DECEMBER. Please call me and I will give you additional details.
CAN’T go now, but want to help? Call 515-386-8420 or e-mail me at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org for ways you can help.
Want to receive the latest updates? Send me your e-mail address.
Please pray for the ‘Dirty Dozen’, for more workers and for the people who experienced the Katrina storm.
God’s Blessings, Ellie
SEND MORE WORKERS! is the call from Pastor Tim Phillips, Gloria Dei, Urbandale. Pastor Phillips is heading a team of 12 who are calling themselves the “Dirty Dozen”. Rochell, relief organizer at Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe says they are her ‘Angels’. Rochell is very happy for the help and encouragement because she has received requests for help from 51 families.
The ‘Dirty Dozen’ team members are Alan and Rachel Crandell, Sarah Hensel, Jeff and Zach Olson, Ron Oolman, Pastor Phillips, Mark Pierson, and Marv Rohn from Des Moines area; Richard and Judy Wardenburg, from Wilton; and Donna Bogner from Cedar Rapids.
Please PRAY for the team. The team headed out early October 8, and arrived in Lacombe, LA on
Sunday, October 9th. Pastor Phillips said that the devastation is unbelievable and that photos and words can not describe the situation. They are helping members of Village clean out their houses and clear away trees and limbs. He told me of a pile of bricks which used to be a house. Pastor said that there was not a piece of wood nearby because the house was hit by 185 mph wind and a 20’ water surge.
The team is staying at Village Lutheran in the motor home provided by Pastor Bruce Jackson, Lawton and on sleeping bags and cots in the fellowship hall of the church. Food is being provided for all workers.
Five of the ‘Dirty Dozen’ will be returning to Iowa October 15 and a group of four will be leaving Iowa on Saturday to ‘take their places’. The four are Ron Aschbrenner, John Bush, Bruce Williams, from Concordia, Cedar Rapids and Valerie Wilson from Trinity, Cedar Rapids. They have been busy collecting bed sheets, respirator masks, bleach and sprayers.
Fema is bringing in small trailers as temporary housing and one of the needs is for bed sheets for the families in the trailers. Many sheets will be delivered on Saturday.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Bob Baker and his wife, from Trinity, Davenport arrived in Lacombe on Tuesday and will be assessing the needs and taking photos at our three adopted churches--Lacombe, Harahan and New Orleans. They will share the photos and give us a better understanding of the situation.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Pastor Gus George, St. Paul, Council Bluffs is planning to head a group of workers to Lacombe. He plans to leave Iowa October 29 and arrive on the 30th. Plans are to leave November 5th and return to Iowa on the 6th. To join this group, call me (Ellie Menz) at 515-386-8420 or Pastor George at 712-322-4729.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Who would like to head up a team of college age adults during college Spring Break time?
Please let me know if you know the dates of spring break at Iowa, ISU, UNI, CUNE, Simpson, BV, etc. Pastor Mark Heilman, Memorial, Ames is tentatively planning a Servant Event trip for the second full week in March.
SEND MORE WORKERS!
Tim Kightlinger, Gloria Dei, Urbandale, is planning a trip for college age/young adults (age 18-25 range) January 3-10, 2006.
Thinking about going to help? Thinking about putting a team together? You do NOT need to provide food or lodging for yourself. The ‘base’ is set up. We NEED TEAMS OF WORKERS FOR NOVEMBER and DECEMBER. Please call me and I will give you additional details.
CAN’T go now, but want to help? Call 515-386-8420 or e-mail me at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org for ways you can help.
Want to receive the latest updates? Send me your e-mail address.
Please pray for the ‘Dirty Dozen’, for more workers and for the people who experienced the Katrina storm.
God’s Blessings, Ellie
Wednesday, October 5, 2005
God’s People Working Together
And all God’s People Worked Together…..
God’s people in Iowa are responding and the phone is ringing! Pastor Tim Phillips, Gloria Dei, Urbandale and a team of happy workers are heading to Lacombe, LA on Saturday. THANK YOU PASTOR PHILLIPS, for the numerous hours that you have spent organizing this servant trip!!!!!
Pastor and Mrs. Bruce Jackson from Lawton, IA generously are donating their RV for use as the headquarters for the Lacombe relief effort. Their RV will be parked at Village Lutheran in Lacombe for months. This is an amazing gift!!! They also filled the tank and donated 100 gallons of gas to get the RV down the road 600 miles. THANK YOU JACKSON FAMILY!!!!
The preparations are continuing at a fast pace Pastor David Loeschen, Our Savior, Denison, contacted Les Rath and Bob Carit from Our Savior and they are heading to Lawton, this morning, Wednesday, to pick up the RV and will drive it to Urbandale so it will be ready for the Saturday trip. THANK YOU, LES and BOB !!
It will take a lot of fuel to get the team to Lacombe with their caravan of vehicles, trailer and donated supplies. The Board of Directors of IDW, approved $2,000 for the fuel yesterday. THANK YOU, BOARD OF DIRECTORS!!
Also, THANKS to all who donated dog food, diapers, batteries, food, equipment, and numerous supplies!!! I understand that Pastor Woolery, Homestead, is meeting Pastor Phillips at Newton on Thursday to bring supplies that have been collected in Iowa District East.
Pray for the team!! Pray for safe travels and for a joyful time of helping God’s people in Lacombe.
God’s Blessings to each of you as you serve HIM today, Ellie Menz
God’s people in Iowa are responding and the phone is ringing! Pastor Tim Phillips, Gloria Dei, Urbandale and a team of happy workers are heading to Lacombe, LA on Saturday. THANK YOU PASTOR PHILLIPS, for the numerous hours that you have spent organizing this servant trip!!!!!
Pastor and Mrs. Bruce Jackson from Lawton, IA generously are donating their RV for use as the headquarters for the Lacombe relief effort. Their RV will be parked at Village Lutheran in Lacombe for months. This is an amazing gift!!! They also filled the tank and donated 100 gallons of gas to get the RV down the road 600 miles. THANK YOU JACKSON FAMILY!!!!
The preparations are continuing at a fast pace Pastor David Loeschen, Our Savior, Denison, contacted Les Rath and Bob Carit from Our Savior and they are heading to Lawton, this morning, Wednesday, to pick up the RV and will drive it to Urbandale so it will be ready for the Saturday trip. THANK YOU, LES and BOB !!
It will take a lot of fuel to get the team to Lacombe with their caravan of vehicles, trailer and donated supplies. The Board of Directors of IDW, approved $2,000 for the fuel yesterday. THANK YOU, BOARD OF DIRECTORS!!
Also, THANKS to all who donated dog food, diapers, batteries, food, equipment, and numerous supplies!!! I understand that Pastor Woolery, Homestead, is meeting Pastor Phillips at Newton on Thursday to bring supplies that have been collected in Iowa District East.
Pray for the team!! Pray for safe travels and for a joyful time of helping God’s people in Lacombe.
God’s Blessings to each of you as you serve HIM today, Ellie Menz
Monday, October 3, 2005
RV DRIVER NEEDED ASAP
Hi,
The excitement is building as 11 people are making final plans to go to Lacombe, La. on Saturday, October 8! We have our looong lists and all is good. Well, almost....We need two skid loaders. (we have a truck and trailer for the skid loaders, but none located yet) Help!!
WE NEED YOUR PRAYERS and/or your driving ability. Needed ASAP is a person to drive an RV from Lawton, IA (near Sioux City) to Urbandale before Saturday.
The RV needs to be at Gloria Dei in Urbandale on Thursday or Friday so it can be packed and ready to head down to Lacombe on Saturday. If you can't drive, please pray for a driver. We need to get this vehicle to Urbandale so that it can be used as lodging in Lacombe for the next 3 or 4 months. It will provide lodging and serve as a headquarters for the teams as they go to Lacombe to help with the Katrina relief. Call me at 515-386-8420 or cell 515-370-1159.
Lastly, if you or your church has collected items for the relief, call me at 515-386-8420 so we can get the items collected and on their way with the Saturday trip. (Items can also go on the next trip)
Great news and a BIG "thank you God" for the progress on the request for a car for the family who relocated in Evansville, IN from Lacombe. The request went out for a used car. Joe's Auto from Jefferson, donated a 1993 Buick Century and even donated $100 for gas. THANK YOU, JOE <><
Then the call went out for a driver who wanted a road trip to Peoria, IL. Shirley Bowman, Webster City and George Mack, Jolly answered the request. They are driving to Jefferson tomorrow to pick up the car and Thursday, they are driving to Peoria to meet another couple who will be driving the Buick to Evansville, IN to its new owners. THANK YOU, SHIRLEY and GEORGE<><
Praise God for their willing and serving hearts. God's Blessings as you serve Him today, Ellie Menz
The excitement is building as 11 people are making final plans to go to Lacombe, La. on Saturday, October 8! We have our looong lists and all is good. Well, almost....We need two skid loaders. (we have a truck and trailer for the skid loaders, but none located yet) Help!!
WE NEED YOUR PRAYERS and/or your driving ability. Needed ASAP is a person to drive an RV from Lawton, IA (near Sioux City) to Urbandale before Saturday.
The RV needs to be at Gloria Dei in Urbandale on Thursday or Friday so it can be packed and ready to head down to Lacombe on Saturday. If you can't drive, please pray for a driver. We need to get this vehicle to Urbandale so that it can be used as lodging in Lacombe for the next 3 or 4 months. It will provide lodging and serve as a headquarters for the teams as they go to Lacombe to help with the Katrina relief. Call me at 515-386-8420 or cell 515-370-1159.
Lastly, if you or your church has collected items for the relief, call me at 515-386-8420 so we can get the items collected and on their way with the Saturday trip. (Items can also go on the next trip)
Great news and a BIG "thank you God" for the progress on the request for a car for the family who relocated in Evansville, IN from Lacombe. The request went out for a used car. Joe's Auto from Jefferson, donated a 1993 Buick Century and even donated $100 for gas. THANK YOU, JOE <><
Then the call went out for a driver who wanted a road trip to Peoria, IL. Shirley Bowman, Webster City and George Mack, Jolly answered the request. They are driving to Jefferson tomorrow to pick up the car and Thursday, they are driving to Peoria to meet another couple who will be driving the Buick to Evansville, IN to its new owners. THANK YOU, SHIRLEY and GEORGE<><
Praise God for their willing and serving hearts. God's Blessings as you serve Him today, Ellie Menz
Saturday, October 1, 2005
Wanted Used Car / Prayers Answered !
Listed below is the request for a used car...Now, for the answer to the prayer...
Hi,
Remember the request for a car for Joe and Kim who have relocated to Evansville, IN after the Katrina hurricane? Yesterday was a great day for them. Joe Wanninger from Jefferson (Joe's Autos) donated a 1993 Buick Century. THANK YOU, JOE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!
I had the joy of calling to say that a car has been donated. Friday, yesterday, was Kim's birthday. It was a great birthday gift to her :)
Now, we need someone who is interested in a road trip. We need two people--one to drive the Buick and one to drive their personal car.
Sara, a deaconess from Evansville, has offered to meet at a half way point. It is approximately 650 miles from Jefferson, IA to Evansville, IN. Half way is approximately Peoria, Illinois which is 327 miles (according to mapquest) from Jefferson.
Ok, you drivers, call me at 515-386-8420 and volunteer to drive. Another way some of you can help is to donate money for the gas of the two vehicles. If interested call me.
God is good, Ellie
Previous car request:
Hi,
I received a request today for a used car or money to purchase one.
Do you have or know of someone who has a good used car that they would like to donate to a family who were left homeless because of Hurricane Katrina?
Joe and Kim, along with three children ages 7,8 and 10 are relocating because of the hurricane. They lost everything! They were members of Village Lutheran in Lacombe, LA. Joe's Grandfather is the Pastor at Village Lutheran.
The family has relocated in Evansville, IN and a wonderful Lutheran church has adopted them and has found them 6 month free rent housing and has helped them in many ways. One way is that they have rented a car for the family for two weeks.
Joe started a new job in construction on Monday and Kim is starting college so she can be a court reporter and is planning to get a part time job. The children are enrolled in school.
Their next greatest need is a used car. The one in which they drove 'to safety' is past repair and needs to be replaced.
Please pray for someone to donate a car or the money to purchase a car.
Thank you, Ellie Menz
Contact: ellie.menz@idwlcms.org
Hi,
Remember the request for a car for Joe and Kim who have relocated to Evansville, IN after the Katrina hurricane? Yesterday was a great day for them. Joe Wanninger from Jefferson (Joe's Autos) donated a 1993 Buick Century. THANK YOU, JOE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!
I had the joy of calling to say that a car has been donated. Friday, yesterday, was Kim's birthday. It was a great birthday gift to her :)
Now, we need someone who is interested in a road trip. We need two people--one to drive the Buick and one to drive their personal car.
Sara, a deaconess from Evansville, has offered to meet at a half way point. It is approximately 650 miles from Jefferson, IA to Evansville, IN. Half way is approximately Peoria, Illinois which is 327 miles (according to mapquest) from Jefferson.
Ok, you drivers, call me at 515-386-8420 and volunteer to drive. Another way some of you can help is to donate money for the gas of the two vehicles. If interested call me.
God is good, Ellie
Previous car request:
Hi,
I received a request today for a used car or money to purchase one.
Do you have or know of someone who has a good used car that they would like to donate to a family who were left homeless because of Hurricane Katrina?
Joe and Kim, along with three children ages 7,8 and 10 are relocating because of the hurricane. They lost everything! They were members of Village Lutheran in Lacombe, LA. Joe's Grandfather is the Pastor at Village Lutheran.
The family has relocated in Evansville, IN and a wonderful Lutheran church has adopted them and has found them 6 month free rent housing and has helped them in many ways. One way is that they have rented a car for the family for two weeks.
Joe started a new job in construction on Monday and Kim is starting college so she can be a court reporter and is planning to get a part time job. The children are enrolled in school.
Their next greatest need is a used car. The one in which they drove 'to safety' is past repair and needs to be replaced.
Please pray for someone to donate a car or the money to purchase a car.
Thank you, Ellie Menz
Contact: ellie.menz@idwlcms.org
Friday, September 23, 2005
Carol experiences Katrina!
Hi,
**Following is a verbal montage of my post-Katrina experiences as a volunteer.
Before I even left, a young Vietnamese man asked if he could send money with me - he didn't know where to send it. I told him that if he wanted to trust me I would take it. He handed me a folded up bill and a card with his name & address. When I looked at the bill later, I realized he had given me $100.
**As we landed in Baton Rouge, there was a round of applause for those of us traveling to volunteer.
**Memories from the shelters: A doctor, and nurses prayed over, talked, and held a suicidal mom whose 2nd son had been killed in the street before Katrina hit. As she tried to take his picture to the mortuary, a wall of water hit. She made it to safety with nothing, not even his picture. By the power of Jesus, she was convinced she had a purpose and would go on. She smiled.
**A 77 year old black woman who had lost everything told me, "If we trust Jesus, we never need to worry about anything."
**One day we gave a list of needed medications. I was with a medical team, and by the end of the day almost all of those medications were delivered from private donors.
**Over and over again, from complete strangers, "God bless you for coming."
And finally, in a dark home, deep in the woods of Louisiana, where we had to be led by the Mayor in order to find her, we met Olivia. She was wheelchair bound, no electricity, living alone, with major medical problems. It was HOT. And as we ministered to her, in that house lit by 2 flashlights, she began to recite the 23rd Psalm. We all joined in, and then we prayed with her, hugged and kissed her, and left, and we were all changed and strengthened.
We went and prayed as we went to go where Jesus would have gone. He answered our prayers.
"Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come. His grace has brought me safe so far, His grace will see me home." And His grace did see us home safely. God bless.
Carol Fechner, (Wife of Pastor Dave Fechner who previously served at Glidden and Sioux City)
**Following is a verbal montage of my post-Katrina experiences as a volunteer.
Before I even left, a young Vietnamese man asked if he could send money with me - he didn't know where to send it. I told him that if he wanted to trust me I would take it. He handed me a folded up bill and a card with his name & address. When I looked at the bill later, I realized he had given me $100.
**As we landed in Baton Rouge, there was a round of applause for those of us traveling to volunteer.
**Memories from the shelters: A doctor, and nurses prayed over, talked, and held a suicidal mom whose 2nd son had been killed in the street before Katrina hit. As she tried to take his picture to the mortuary, a wall of water hit. She made it to safety with nothing, not even his picture. By the power of Jesus, she was convinced she had a purpose and would go on. She smiled.
**A 77 year old black woman who had lost everything told me, "If we trust Jesus, we never need to worry about anything."
**One day we gave a list of needed medications. I was with a medical team, and by the end of the day almost all of those medications were delivered from private donors.
**Over and over again, from complete strangers, "God bless you for coming."
And finally, in a dark home, deep in the woods of Louisiana, where we had to be led by the Mayor in order to find her, we met Olivia. She was wheelchair bound, no electricity, living alone, with major medical problems. It was HOT. And as we ministered to her, in that house lit by 2 flashlights, she began to recite the 23rd Psalm. We all joined in, and then we prayed with her, hugged and kissed her, and left, and we were all changed and strengthened.
We went and prayed as we went to go where Jesus would have gone. He answered our prayers.
"Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come. His grace has brought me safe so far, His grace will see me home." And His grace did see us home safely. God bless.
Carol Fechner, (Wife of Pastor Dave Fechner who previously served at Glidden and Sioux City)
Servant Event to Lacombe, LA -October 8-23, 2005
Katrina Relief Trip
October 8th-23rd
This trip will be led by Pastor Tim Phillips from Gloria Dei, Urbandale.
(Other trips are also being planned)
Purpose: To remove debris and clean up the homes of the members of The Village Lutheran Church, Lacombe, Louisiana.
Trip Itinerary: Two days of travel from Des Moines to Lacombe arriving on Sunday evening the 9th of October. Set up base camp and begin work. Each day we will go to the different homes and use chainsaws to remove downed trees. We will help them clean up their yards and give them comfort and encouragement. In the mornings we will begin with prayer and in the evenings we will have group devotions. We will need to be self -contained—providing our own food and housing. We are arranging for people to donate the use of RV’s and trailers. We will return home leaving on Saturday the 22nd and arriving in Des Moines the evening of the 23rd.
The Work: The work will be hard but we Iowans are used to that! The rewards of serving the people of Lacombe in Jesus’ name will be wonderful. Think of what a blessing it will be to them when we arrive to help.
Shots: You will need to get a Hepatitis shot and make sure your Tetanus shot is current. Check with your medical professional for details.
Funding: You will need to cover your own expenses, which will include food, drink and a portion of the transportation expenses. The trip is about 1,100 miles. You will also need to pay for your overnight expenses both on the trip down and on the way back.
Questions:
Do I have to go for the whole two weeks? No. If you have your own transportation you can caravan with us going down and come back whenever you wish.
What do I need to take? A complete list of what to bring will be provided when you indicate your interest to go. In general bring work clothes and items you would need when camping. We will be staying in camping trailers with electricity.
How do I sign up? Contact ellie.menz@idwlcms.org
OR Gloria Dei, 515- 276-1700, or tphillips@Gloriadeionline.com
Special need: We need a person to plan and prepare meals for the team. This could be a couple that works together to keep us well fed.
Questions? Please ask.
Thank you !!
October 8th-23rd
This trip will be led by Pastor Tim Phillips from Gloria Dei, Urbandale.
(Other trips are also being planned)
Purpose: To remove debris and clean up the homes of the members of The Village Lutheran Church, Lacombe, Louisiana.
Trip Itinerary: Two days of travel from Des Moines to Lacombe arriving on Sunday evening the 9th of October. Set up base camp and begin work. Each day we will go to the different homes and use chainsaws to remove downed trees. We will help them clean up their yards and give them comfort and encouragement. In the mornings we will begin with prayer and in the evenings we will have group devotions. We will need to be self -contained—providing our own food and housing. We are arranging for people to donate the use of RV’s and trailers. We will return home leaving on Saturday the 22nd and arriving in Des Moines the evening of the 23rd.
The Work: The work will be hard but we Iowans are used to that! The rewards of serving the people of Lacombe in Jesus’ name will be wonderful. Think of what a blessing it will be to them when we arrive to help.
Shots: You will need to get a Hepatitis shot and make sure your Tetanus shot is current. Check with your medical professional for details.
Funding: You will need to cover your own expenses, which will include food, drink and a portion of the transportation expenses. The trip is about 1,100 miles. You will also need to pay for your overnight expenses both on the trip down and on the way back.
Questions:
Do I have to go for the whole two weeks? No. If you have your own transportation you can caravan with us going down and come back whenever you wish.
What do I need to take? A complete list of what to bring will be provided when you indicate your interest to go. In general bring work clothes and items you would need when camping. We will be staying in camping trailers with electricity.
How do I sign up? Contact ellie.menz@idwlcms.org
OR Gloria Dei, 515- 276-1700, or tphillips@Gloriadeionline.com
Special need: We need a person to plan and prepare meals for the team. This could be a couple that works together to keep us well fed.
Questions? Please ask.
Thank you !!
Collection Points for IDW
HI,
In an earlier message, I listed Trinity, Jefferson and Our Savior, Denison as collection points for items to go to Lacombe, LA. I asked for a Des Moines area point and Faith, Adel has generously offered. Thank you, Pastor Gerken.
PLEASE contact me at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org before taking items to the collection points so we know what has been donated and what is needed.
Continue to pray for the members of our adopted churches, Faith, Bethel and Village.
Ellie Menz
In an earlier message, I listed Trinity, Jefferson and Our Savior, Denison as collection points for items to go to Lacombe, LA. I asked for a Des Moines area point and Faith, Adel has generously offered. Thank you, Pastor Gerken.
PLEASE contact me at ellie.menz@idwlcms.org before taking items to the collection points so we know what has been donated and what is needed.
Continue to pray for the members of our adopted churches, Faith, Bethel and Village.
Ellie Menz
Update on Faith Lutheran, Harahan, LA
Received this update 9-23-05 from Pastor Rothchild--
Ellie,
I just got off the phone with Pastor Lofthus of Faith Lutheran Church and School. Their enrollment at the beginning of the school year was 105. They project an enrollment of 45 when the school hopefully reopens on October 10th. As to financial assistance they could use $350,000 to help them through the current school year. That is a worst case scenario. We have not yet received any directs as of this morning. I don’t know what the situation would be in IDW. I also shared with Pastor Lofthus the concern from DP Kurtis Schultz about trying to be equitable. I don’t know if we could pledge a portion of the monies which we might get from LCMS Human Care. What are your thoughts? We do not have those kinds of funds on hand here in IDE. He would like some sort of answer next week.
Peace only in Christ Jesus,
Rev. Dean F. Rothchild
Ellie,
I just got off the phone with Pastor Lofthus of Faith Lutheran Church and School. Their enrollment at the beginning of the school year was 105. They project an enrollment of 45 when the school hopefully reopens on October 10th. As to financial assistance they could use $350,000 to help them through the current school year. That is a worst case scenario. We have not yet received any directs as of this morning. I don’t know what the situation would be in IDW. I also shared with Pastor Lofthus the concern from DP Kurtis Schultz about trying to be equitable. I don’t know if we could pledge a portion of the monies which we might get from LCMS Human Care. What are your thoughts? We do not have those kinds of funds on hand here in IDE. He would like some sort of answer next week.
Peace only in Christ Jesus,
Rev. Dean F. Rothchild
Update on Bethel Lutheran
Following is an update from Pastor Rothchild on Bethel, one of our three adopted churches.
Note to Iowa District West members: Checks can be made to Iowa District West-Disaster Relief. IDW--1317 Tower Drive Fort Dodge, IA, 50501
President and Mrs. Arp had dinner on Monday evening with Vicar Jerome Terry and his wife Dora. Vicar Terry was serving Bethel Lutheran. His home and the church building look to be a total loss at this point. Their immediate needs for their members would be in the area of financial assistance. Any help in that regards with door offerings would be appreciated. Funds can be designated to Iowa District East-Disaster Relief and sent to the District Office.
Note to Iowa District West members: Checks can be made to Iowa District West-Disaster Relief. IDW--1317 Tower Drive Fort Dodge, IA, 50501
President and Mrs. Arp had dinner on Monday evening with Vicar Jerome Terry and his wife Dora. Vicar Terry was serving Bethel Lutheran. His home and the church building look to be a total loss at this point. Their immediate needs for their members would be in the area of financial assistance. Any help in that regards with door offerings would be appreciated. Funds can be designated to Iowa District East-Disaster Relief and sent to the District Office.
Thrivent pledges $5 Million to Katrina Relief
We ask that you be in touch with your local Thrivent representative concerning gifts and Thrivent's matching process. Below is a message from the Thrivent website. A link to the website is at the bottom of this message.
Through the Individual Member Response, gifts members make to one of the four eligible organizations will be supplemented $1 for every $2 given, up to $300 per member (e.g., if a member gives $600 to a relief organization, Thrivent Financial will provide that organization with an additional $300.) A Thrivent Financial Hurricane Katrina Response Form must accompany the member's gift.
All funds raised and contributed through the Individual Member Response will be directed to four eligible recipients: Lutheran Disaster Response ELCA Domestic Disaster Response LCMS World Relief/Human Care WELS Committee on Relief.
These organizations will distribute the funds to those in need using their established processes. Thrivent Financial has pledged a total of $5 million for these efforts, to supplement up to $10 million donated and raised by our members. http://thrivent.com/fraternal/katrina.html click on Ministry Areas and then click on LCMS World Relief and Human Care. I also encourage you to consider a special "door offering" this weekend or in the weeks to come. We need to give our people the opportunity to respond to the relief effort. The images of the destruction and misery are fresh in their minds. They want to do something "right now," but the needs in this relief effort will be felt for a long time. So, we also need to consider a longer term response.
Through the Individual Member Response, gifts members make to one of the four eligible organizations will be supplemented $1 for every $2 given, up to $300 per member (e.g., if a member gives $600 to a relief organization, Thrivent Financial will provide that organization with an additional $300.) A Thrivent Financial Hurricane Katrina Response Form must accompany the member's gift.
All funds raised and contributed through the Individual Member Response will be directed to four eligible recipients: Lutheran Disaster Response ELCA Domestic Disaster Response LCMS World Relief/Human Care WELS Committee on Relief.
These organizations will distribute the funds to those in need using their established processes. Thrivent Financial has pledged a total of $5 million for these efforts, to supplement up to $10 million donated and raised by our members. http://thrivent.com/fraternal/katrina.html click on Ministry Areas and then click on LCMS World Relief and Human Care. I also encourage you to consider a special "door offering" this weekend or in the weeks to come. We need to give our people the opportunity to respond to the relief effort. The images of the destruction and misery are fresh in their minds. They want to do something "right now," but the needs in this relief effort will be felt for a long time. So, we also need to consider a longer term response.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
"Iowa 5" Share Katrina Relief Experiences
"Here am I! Send me! Send me!"
Following is a summary of the amazing adventures the "Iowa 5" as they volunteered in Louisiana. The Iowa 5 team consisted of Karen Christiansen of Denison, Amanda Latham of Clarinda, Cinthy Branan of Villisca, Lori Lyons of Schaller and Lori's brother Mike Young of Faribault, Minnesota
Lori writes:
On Thursday, September 8 a vanload of willing workers headed south from Iowa to Louisiana. Prior to our leaving, we had all felt "Here am I. Send me!" Little did the members of our team know or understand how we were going to touch the lives of others, and more so, how our lives would be affected by this experience.
On our trip down to Louisiana, the convoys of military, police, electric company trucks and modular homes headed to Louisiana in hopes of helping those in need, moved us. We were reminded that we all were of one like-minded; all with a mission!
On Saturday, September 10 this team from Iowa was named the "Iowa 5 team". We were told we had a special mission and that we were headed toward Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi where homes had been damaged by the eye of the storm. This particular site was severely damaged by the storm surge, which sent 20 - 25 feet high water. As we drove into the area, we had seen trucks, cars and boats strewn about and even stuck in trees as the water had risen so high. We entered the community and instantly felt like we were not even in the United States. Power lines, trees and homes tossed about like puzzle pieces strewn on a table. We noticed how homes had a big X on them from the military noting that the home had been cleared and no people remained. Often we would see a cell phone number, the words "we're ok" and the name of their insurance company along side of the X. Clothed in our work clothes, steel toed boots and high rubber boots, work gloves, goggles and air masks; we entered a home to help the home -owner salvage the frame. We began with moving out belongings and then we gutted the entire house. We removed all the sheetrock and insulation as it had begun to grow mold. We had all been exposed to hard, physical labor however, this task set in front of us was physically demanding. Along side of us worked the Southern District President Pastor Schultz and his wife Becky who despite the fact that their home had been damaged, were there working and supporting someone else in need. James, the homeowner, encouraged us by his energy, his hope for his future. It was quickly noted by all of us that life isn't about "ME" ...it's about serving our God and His people.
Sunday and Monday we had the opportunity to serve at a shelter in Plaquemine, Louisiana. This shelter that was set up in a Civic Center housed 400 plus men, women and children affected by the hurricane. On Sunday we sorted and organized the donations of clothes and set up an "after school program/library" area for the children to use. The atmosphere seemed calm and orderly with a constant noise through out the center. On Monday, we were asked to fill out paper work for the refugees so that they could begin to receive funds. This gave us an opportunity to visit one-on-one with the people. As a lady in the shelter was being assisted in filling out her paperwork, you could not help but notice her smile that reached ear to ear. We mentioned that her joy was contagious. She said, "God spared me, He must have a plan and a purpose for my life." She obviously knew where her joy came from! Her joy was not found in the "stuff" that floated away as the waters rose. Her joy and her strength came from her creator!
On Tuesday, the "Iowa 5" was equipped with chainsaws and ropes and headed to Slidell where we would be facing a heavy wind damaged area. Electricity was still not available, however, we saw signs stating that the water was ok. We began work at an elderly couple's home. The back yard was a disaster. The temperature and humidity were extremely high and it was an exhausting task. It was simply amazing that just when we didn't feel we could move one more inch, God provided us the strength and the mind necessary to complete this huge task. As in the words in Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." And for that we are so very thankful!
As we were nearing completion, an elderly gentleman came and asked if we could possibly help him by carrying out mattresses that were wet. We figured we'd be at his house for just a little while. Once we walked into his home, we could smell the mold and mildew and knew that this smell was not healthy for this man to be around. We had decided to remove all the wet carpet, clothes and furniture to keep the toxins to a minimum. We looked outside in his backyard and recognized the need to help clear the mess. We just couldn't leave without clearing his yard. Again, God provided us with the strength and the muscles to go on. As we were saying goodbye, the elderly man asked if we could say a prayer. Three young men that were going to be working on the neighboring house were invited to join us in the prayer. When they asked what we were going to do, we informed them that we were going to pray. One of the men asked "pray to who?" We pray that the Holy Spirit would work in their hearts and that they to would also learn to know where their refuge and strength is in time of need! As the elder prayed, our hearts were uplifted once again with the hope and the faith of these people.
Wednesday, September 14 took us to Destrehan to work on the home of Atonement Lutheran School's principal. Officials were just beginning to allow people to enter this area. We were stopped by police and asked for papers to prove our destination. We were able to help by temporarily repairing the roof by shingling effected areas, cut and hauled tree limbs and fixed a fence. Upon completion of our assignment in Destrehan, we drove back into Baton Rouge and noticed a beautiful rainbow stretched across the sky. Yes, God's promises remain faithful and true!
God took the Iowa 5 team 3,100 miles to renew our spirits, refresh our hearts and opened our minds to a greater understanding of what our purpose in our lives should be...and that is to serve one another as Christ Himself served.
The Iowa 5 team want to remind you that this experience was not done to have the glory be given to these 5, however, all glory, honor and praise be to God!
Following is a summary of the amazing adventures the "Iowa 5" as they volunteered in Louisiana. The Iowa 5 team consisted of Karen Christiansen of Denison, Amanda Latham of Clarinda, Cinthy Branan of Villisca, Lori Lyons of Schaller and Lori's brother Mike Young of Faribault, Minnesota
Lori writes:
On Thursday, September 8 a vanload of willing workers headed south from Iowa to Louisiana. Prior to our leaving, we had all felt "Here am I. Send me!" Little did the members of our team know or understand how we were going to touch the lives of others, and more so, how our lives would be affected by this experience.
On our trip down to Louisiana, the convoys of military, police, electric company trucks and modular homes headed to Louisiana in hopes of helping those in need, moved us. We were reminded that we all were of one like-minded; all with a mission!
On Saturday, September 10 this team from Iowa was named the "Iowa 5 team". We were told we had a special mission and that we were headed toward Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi where homes had been damaged by the eye of the storm. This particular site was severely damaged by the storm surge, which sent 20 - 25 feet high water. As we drove into the area, we had seen trucks, cars and boats strewn about and even stuck in trees as the water had risen so high. We entered the community and instantly felt like we were not even in the United States. Power lines, trees and homes tossed about like puzzle pieces strewn on a table. We noticed how homes had a big X on them from the military noting that the home had been cleared and no people remained. Often we would see a cell phone number, the words "we're ok" and the name of their insurance company along side of the X. Clothed in our work clothes, steel toed boots and high rubber boots, work gloves, goggles and air masks; we entered a home to help the home -owner salvage the frame. We began with moving out belongings and then we gutted the entire house. We removed all the sheetrock and insulation as it had begun to grow mold. We had all been exposed to hard, physical labor however, this task set in front of us was physically demanding. Along side of us worked the Southern District President Pastor Schultz and his wife Becky who despite the fact that their home had been damaged, were there working and supporting someone else in need. James, the homeowner, encouraged us by his energy, his hope for his future. It was quickly noted by all of us that life isn't about "ME" ...it's about serving our God and His people.
Sunday and Monday we had the opportunity to serve at a shelter in Plaquemine, Louisiana. This shelter that was set up in a Civic Center housed 400 plus men, women and children affected by the hurricane. On Sunday we sorted and organized the donations of clothes and set up an "after school program/library" area for the children to use. The atmosphere seemed calm and orderly with a constant noise through out the center. On Monday, we were asked to fill out paper work for the refugees so that they could begin to receive funds. This gave us an opportunity to visit one-on-one with the people. As a lady in the shelter was being assisted in filling out her paperwork, you could not help but notice her smile that reached ear to ear. We mentioned that her joy was contagious. She said, "God spared me, He must have a plan and a purpose for my life." She obviously knew where her joy came from! Her joy was not found in the "stuff" that floated away as the waters rose. Her joy and her strength came from her creator!
On Tuesday, the "Iowa 5" was equipped with chainsaws and ropes and headed to Slidell where we would be facing a heavy wind damaged area. Electricity was still not available, however, we saw signs stating that the water was ok. We began work at an elderly couple's home. The back yard was a disaster. The temperature and humidity were extremely high and it was an exhausting task. It was simply amazing that just when we didn't feel we could move one more inch, God provided us the strength and the mind necessary to complete this huge task. As in the words in Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." And for that we are so very thankful!
As we were nearing completion, an elderly gentleman came and asked if we could possibly help him by carrying out mattresses that were wet. We figured we'd be at his house for just a little while. Once we walked into his home, we could smell the mold and mildew and knew that this smell was not healthy for this man to be around. We had decided to remove all the wet carpet, clothes and furniture to keep the toxins to a minimum. We looked outside in his backyard and recognized the need to help clear the mess. We just couldn't leave without clearing his yard. Again, God provided us with the strength and the muscles to go on. As we were saying goodbye, the elderly man asked if we could say a prayer. Three young men that were going to be working on the neighboring house were invited to join us in the prayer. When they asked what we were going to do, we informed them that we were going to pray. One of the men asked "pray to who?" We pray that the Holy Spirit would work in their hearts and that they to would also learn to know where their refuge and strength is in time of need! As the elder prayed, our hearts were uplifted once again with the hope and the faith of these people.
Wednesday, September 14 took us to Destrehan to work on the home of Atonement Lutheran School's principal. Officials were just beginning to allow people to enter this area. We were stopped by police and asked for papers to prove our destination. We were able to help by temporarily repairing the roof by shingling effected areas, cut and hauled tree limbs and fixed a fence. Upon completion of our assignment in Destrehan, we drove back into Baton Rouge and noticed a beautiful rainbow stretched across the sky. Yes, God's promises remain faithful and true!
God took the Iowa 5 team 3,100 miles to renew our spirits, refresh our hearts and opened our minds to a greater understanding of what our purpose in our lives should be...and that is to serve one another as Christ Himself served.
The Iowa 5 team want to remind you that this experience was not done to have the glory be given to these 5, however, all glory, honor and praise be to God!
Helping our three 'adopted' churches
Katrina Update September 21, 2005
Iowa District East and West are combining efforts to adopt three Lutheran churches in Louisiana. The three churches have been contacted. Faith Lutheran in Harahan and Bethel Lutheran in New Orleans are not able to accept our physical help at this time. Rochelle Kurncur from Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe, LA shared the needs established after their church service on Sunday.
Their faces lit up when she told them that churches in Iowa will be sending help and supplies. She explained that many are very tired and really will appreciate any help.
There were 30 families who shared needs. Some members are living in shelters, some with relatives and some are still disbursed. Many more needs will be shared with us at a later time. One family returned to their home and found only a slab where their house used to be. Another reported that she is living in a tent in her front yard with her 5 year old. Many members need help to clean out furniture, mud, insulation, sheetrock, etc. from their home and 21 families need help to remove trees from their houses and yards.
She said that they have enough clothes at this point.
What does Village Lutheran need now?
1. Immediate help! If you wish to go to Louisiana to help with the clean up, contact ellie.menz@idwlcms.org We plan to coordinate groups to go from Iowa. Volunteers need to be self contained'. Motor homes, RV's or 5th wheelers are needed to park at the church parking lot as a headquarters for volunteers from Iowa. The volunteers will sleep and eat there. The church has electricity for the hook up. One option is for RV's to remain in Lacombe for a period of time as volunteers come and go from Iowa to Lacombe. Another option is for individuals to come and go in their own RV.
2. Volunteers need to be self supporting. Your congregation may wish to help with gas expenses, etc.
3. Volunteers need to have hepatitis and tetanus shots. Check out www.cdc.gov for details on the shots needed or contact your medical professionals. (Tetanus shot is effective for 10 years).
4. Volunteers need to take rubber gloves, masks, sturdy shoes, rubber boots, bug spray, hand sanitizer and a list of cleaning supplies (you will be given that list when you indicate an interest in going)
5. Volunteers will need to take water and food for themselves. Rochelle said that a few restaurants are starting up again and you can buy groceries there but felt it best to bring some food and water with you.
6. Following are things we need to collect to send with the volunteers. These items will need to be donated and will stay in Lacombe, except for the generators and the skid loaders. They will be returned to Iowa.
2 Generators for church member use there.
Crow bars
Axes
Flat shovels
Wheelbarrows (can't buy them there)
Hammers
Two skid loaders and operators (Operators can return to IowaJ)
Log chains
Chain saws, oil for saw, empty gas container, extra chains, files for sharpening,
Utility two-wheeled carts
Hand saw, branch clippers
Gas grills so families have a way to cook and prepare food
Trailers to haul skid loaders and equipment
7. Gift cards are requested. They will be given to the church members. They would appreciate Sears, Penney's, Target, Dollar General or Wal Mart cards. No K-Mart in the area.
8. Following are specific items the members requested:
Ready to eat food since many have no way to prepare food.
Hygiene pack--toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, wash cloth, combs, brushes, shampoo, hair spray, etc.
Small first aid kits
Feminine hygiene products
Pony Tail Clips
AA and C batteries
Diapers and diaper wipes for newborn and for size 4 or 5
Pull ups
Large garbage bags
Cat food and litter
Dog food
Heart worm medicine and flea spray
Contact ellie.menz@idwlcms.org to let me know the amount and what you wish to donate. Don't take the items to collection points until you have contacted me so we can keep an accurate account of the items received and needed. Collection points in IDW will be Trinity, Jefferson and Our Savior, Denison. Looking for another collection point in the Des Moines area.
If you wish to donate money, please make checks payable to IDE/Disaster Relief OR to IDW/Disaster Relief and give to your local church or send to your District Office.
This will be an ongoing, changing project. Check out www.iowayoutreach.blogspot.com www.idwlcms.org or www.lcmside.org for continual updates.
Please continue to pray for the members of Bethel, Faith and Village.
God's Blessings, Pastor Dean Rothchild, Pastor Victor Young, Pastor Erland Asmus, Pastor Jonathan Offt, Pastor Tim Phillips and Ellie Menz
PS: IDW Pastors: If you are able to get this information to some of your members via e-mail and they respond before the Pastor's Conference, you may wish to bring the smaller items with you and I will collect them at the Conference. For the large items, we will work out details for delivery based on where the items and the volunteers are located.
Iowa District East and West are combining efforts to adopt three Lutheran churches in Louisiana. The three churches have been contacted. Faith Lutheran in Harahan and Bethel Lutheran in New Orleans are not able to accept our physical help at this time. Rochelle Kurncur from Village Lutheran Church in Lacombe, LA shared the needs established after their church service on Sunday.
Their faces lit up when she told them that churches in Iowa will be sending help and supplies. She explained that many are very tired and really will appreciate any help.
There were 30 families who shared needs. Some members are living in shelters, some with relatives and some are still disbursed. Many more needs will be shared with us at a later time. One family returned to their home and found only a slab where their house used to be. Another reported that she is living in a tent in her front yard with her 5 year old. Many members need help to clean out furniture, mud, insulation, sheetrock, etc. from their home and 21 families need help to remove trees from their houses and yards.
She said that they have enough clothes at this point.
What does Village Lutheran need now?
1. Immediate help! If you wish to go to Louisiana to help with the clean up, contact ellie.menz@idwlcms.org We plan to coordinate groups to go from Iowa. Volunteers need to be self contained'. Motor homes, RV's or 5th wheelers are needed to park at the church parking lot as a headquarters for volunteers from Iowa. The volunteers will sleep and eat there. The church has electricity for the hook up. One option is for RV's to remain in Lacombe for a period of time as volunteers come and go from Iowa to Lacombe. Another option is for individuals to come and go in their own RV.
2. Volunteers need to be self supporting. Your congregation may wish to help with gas expenses, etc.
3. Volunteers need to have hepatitis and tetanus shots. Check out www.cdc.gov for details on the shots needed or contact your medical professionals. (Tetanus shot is effective for 10 years).
4. Volunteers need to take rubber gloves, masks, sturdy shoes, rubber boots, bug spray, hand sanitizer and a list of cleaning supplies (you will be given that list when you indicate an interest in going)
5. Volunteers will need to take water and food for themselves. Rochelle said that a few restaurants are starting up again and you can buy groceries there but felt it best to bring some food and water with you.
6. Following are things we need to collect to send with the volunteers. These items will need to be donated and will stay in Lacombe, except for the generators and the skid loaders. They will be returned to Iowa.
2 Generators for church member use there.
Crow bars
Axes
Flat shovels
Wheelbarrows (can't buy them there)
Hammers
Two skid loaders and operators (Operators can return to IowaJ)
Log chains
Chain saws, oil for saw, empty gas container, extra chains, files for sharpening,
Utility two-wheeled carts
Hand saw, branch clippers
Gas grills so families have a way to cook and prepare food
Trailers to haul skid loaders and equipment
7. Gift cards are requested. They will be given to the church members. They would appreciate Sears, Penney's, Target, Dollar General or Wal Mart cards. No K-Mart in the area.
8. Following are specific items the members requested:
Ready to eat food since many have no way to prepare food.
Hygiene pack--toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, wash cloth, combs, brushes, shampoo, hair spray, etc.
Small first aid kits
Feminine hygiene products
Pony Tail Clips
AA and C batteries
Diapers and diaper wipes for newborn and for size 4 or 5
Pull ups
Large garbage bags
Cat food and litter
Dog food
Heart worm medicine and flea spray
Contact ellie.menz@idwlcms.org to let me know the amount and what you wish to donate. Don't take the items to collection points until you have contacted me so we can keep an accurate account of the items received and needed. Collection points in IDW will be Trinity, Jefferson and Our Savior, Denison. Looking for another collection point in the Des Moines area.
If you wish to donate money, please make checks payable to IDE/Disaster Relief OR to IDW/Disaster Relief and give to your local church or send to your District Office.
This will be an ongoing, changing project. Check out www.iowayoutreach.blogspot.com www.idwlcms.org or www.lcmside.org for continual updates.
Please continue to pray for the members of Bethel, Faith and Village.
God's Blessings, Pastor Dean Rothchild, Pastor Victor Young, Pastor Erland Asmus, Pastor Jonathan Offt, Pastor Tim Phillips and Ellie Menz
PS: IDW Pastors: If you are able to get this information to some of your members via e-mail and they respond before the Pastor's Conference, you may wish to bring the smaller items with you and I will collect them at the Conference. For the large items, we will work out details for delivery based on where the items and the volunteers are located.
Friday, September 2, 2005
Wal-Mart Cards
Called Pastor Mast in Humble, Tx. He has a Lutheran mission church in the Houston area. I had a long discussion with him on the situatuion from his perspective. He is going into the community and helping the people who have come into the area. He suggested WalMart cards and cash to buy food and to give to the people there. He said we could send Wal Mart cards that he can give to them and the people can buy things that are needed to survive right now. His phone is 281-744-2414.
If you are led to send any donations to the church for this effort, just put "Hurricane Relief" on the memo line. 100% of the $ collected will go directly to hurricane victims. There is a letter from Pastor Mast on the IDW website: http://www.idwlcms.org/ Click on Congregation to Congregation.
Family of JOY c/o Pastor Mike Mast 7811 Silver Lure Humble, TX 77346
Adopt a Student
Many Lutheran schools around the country have offered to take in New Orleans Lutheran school students (elementary and high school). Some have offered housing in their homes. Almost all have indicated they would not charge any tuition/take what parents can afford to pay. Some families have already enrolled their children in Lutheran schools. "The look on the faces of the parents when they were told that they would not be charged any tuition was one of tears, amazement, and thanks." If you have not already done so, identify families who have moved from New Orleans to your area who have had their children in Lutheran schools and offer to provide a tuition free Lutheran school education while they sort through the mess in New Orleans. If you can adopt a student please contact Ron at his new office so that he can share that information and connects those in need with those who can provide assistance.
Adopt a Teacher
Can you use another teacher during the interim? One suggestion is to provide free room and board for one of these teachers, pay them $1,000 every two weeks and utilize them on your staff for the next few months while they sort out what can be done to get the school up and running again. Most of these teachers at the high school are single and could be of service to a school with their gifts. With no tuition money flowing into the high school, it will be very difficult to maintain any kind of payroll for a prolonged period of time. If you are interested in adopting a teacher contact Ron for a list and resume of potential candidates. The Dave's are working with Ron and others to find adoptive schools for our displaced workers.
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