Youth Work Week June 29-July 2 2009 __________________________ The family of the church of Christ in Rolling Fork extends a hearty welcome to the group of teens and adults, from several churches of Christ in north Mississippi, who will make their way south on a mission journey. Those traveling to the Delta include workers from the West Main church of Christ in Tupelo, the Zion's Rest church of Christ in Marietta, Ms, the Christian Chapel church of Christ near Amory and the Sherman church of Christ. We really appreciate the leaders and members of those churches for allowing and supporting this effort.
For many this will be their first time to venture into this area of our state. Located halfway between Vicksburg and Leland on Highway 61 the area is rich in history as is the flat alluvial land rivaling the Nile basin of Egypt. Birthplace of the blues, the teddy bear and many blues artists, its' economy was once robust fueled by agriculture. However, now there is 20% unemployment with no industry while farming struggles to compete on the world market. For many the only income is Social Security and Government transfer payments. This area is the 2nd poorest Congressional District in the nation. If this year is anything like last year, when our visitors leave Rolling Fork headed home, lives here will have been touched by these generous christians! They come here for one reason...to do the will of God by serving others. Their mission is to do repair work on several homes of individuals that would not be able to do the work themselves, have these jobs hired out, or have family members to help them.
Many mission trips are planned abroad by congregations when there is poverty and souls all around us. We sometimes look out of our own communties and think poverty exists away from us....when it is right here in our own hometown. We look forward to the week with and pray God will bless them as they continue to do His will.
Update...Thursday, as the caravan left Rolling Fork heading northeast, we all had tears of joy in the accomplishment, the friendships, the love and the encouragement in which we all had participated and received from our visitors. Many thanks to those who chose to travel here to Rolling Fork to assist us. Many thanks to the Elderships and family members who allowed them to come to Rolling Fork. Living conditions were improved, the gospel was shared and hearts were touched. There were 4 houses that were updated. An example of the work done on one house was that a new roof was installed, the entire house painted, bathroom floor installed, commode affixed to the floor, property cleaned, and a ramp built. This enabled the owner "Mr. Willie" to be able to get out of his house for the first time in 7 months. He proceeded to travel to the other end of his street and back in his motorized wheel chair with 53 young people surrounding him! All of our young people were well behaved, excellent role models, fun to be with, hard workers and fantastic representatives for Jesus Christ. It was a great week!! The family of the church of Christ in Rolling Fork sends our love to each of you. Please plan visits to our area and keep us in your prayers as we work together to make a difference in the lives of others...one house at a time and one soul at a time. Have a great day! | I Shall Not Be Moved!!
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