Thursday - It's Been A Good Week

It's been a full, fruitful and fascinating week so far.  Here's some random thoughts on the passing scene:

• Each day we modify and learn about doing the reading tutoring in this setting.  We're very encouraged by the progress thus far.
• No major injuries!
• Everyone co-operating and serving well.
• EVERYONE has fallen in love with NOLA Sno-Balls.  Apparently two sno-balls each evening are the prescription to prevent Pastor Bill from snoring.
• We've enjoyed getting to know the group from First EPC, Aurora IL
• We've had a group clearing vacant lots each day.  VERY hot but very fruitful.  It makes the neighborhood safer and cleaner and build great contact with people.  Wil Dargan can't be stopped, both on the work and on connecting with people.
• We've got a team painting a house: it's a green that you would never seen on a house in FXBG.  It was a dashing addition to Marshall Dallas' hair!
• We've really enjoyed getting to know the AmerCorps volunteers who lead each of the ministry areas.
• No major rain since Sunday.
• Joyce Seward developed heel spurs that have slowed her down quite a bit.  We were able to get medical attention and all is well.
• TCC does devotions for the groups together each morning.  We've been able to learn more about their ministry and urban ministry generally.
• Thursday afternoon we divide up into small groups for a PrayerWalk through Hollygrove.  Dwayne - the pastor at The Grove Community Church - will lead us in that.  Several hours walking, praying and meeting people.
• Friday Morning the two groups will do a community outreach event - games, picnic and Dwayne preaching.
• Very thankful to be working with TCC - a group that is deeply invested and present int he neighborhood.  People change dramatically when they find out we are there in their neighborhood with TCC.  They know "Mr Kevin," "Tyrone the muscle-man," "Mz Eveleyn" and "Shontell"

Thankful for your prayers as we continue day by day.  The week is going very quickly.

Lots of pictures are being taken - but things have been too busy to get them collected and posted.  More as we are able.

Grace Abounding,
Bill