englewood-baptist-church

Seattle - Day 1

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:11 GMT

Six Englewood PrimeTimers were on the road by 3:30 a.m. on Monday, driving to Nashville to catch a non-stop flight to Seattle, Wash., where we are serving Jonah Easley’s church plant this week.

Jonah, Jordan’s younger brother, is attempting to reach a diverse population that speaks no fewer than 100 major languages. In Bellevue, Wash., where Jonah is located, about 50 percent of the population speaks Chinese. Jonah is fluent in the Chinese language.

We arrived in Seattle by 9:45 a.m., PDT, and soon met with Jonah and his parents, Ernest and Julie Easley, who are visiting this week. We are building a playground, which was purchased by Englewood through your missions giving. Thanks to your generous offerings, Englewood is able to help young churches reach their communities for Christ.

Jonah believes the playground will help him build strong relationships in the community and open doors for reaching souls for Christ. Englewood members on this mission trip are Mike and Mary Ann Montgomery, Jacky and Tommie Campbell and Dan and Lisa Morris. Please be praying for us while we serve this week!

Story City - Day 1

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:09 GMT

Our smiles and handwritten notes were met with some thankful gestures, but with more strange looks who wondered what we expected in return.

After a 4 hour flight across the country, our team hit the ground running. We went first to pray over the city of LA at the Griffith Observatory. There we heard the vastness and lostness of this big city. There is one church for every 23,000 people! As vast as this valley is as we look over from atop the Hollywood Hills, the wide neighborhoods are each unique and have great needs.

Our work began at the Echo Lake Park, which housed people enjoying paddle boats, running through the neighborhoods, parents strolling their kids to the parks, all alongside the multiple homeless and needy. Our smiles and handwritten notes were met with some thankful gestures, but with more strange looks who wondered what we expected in return. A simple gesture is not seen in many places around LaLaLand, especially one done without reciprocation.

Our team was asked to prepare their testimony and have it prepared to give to anyone as the need arose. With three rookies on our team, it took a few conversations to seem normal.

Still to come this week is a visit to local schools, knocking on doors to invite to Story City's Easter services, and handing out Girl Scout cookies for free! These selfless gifts of love are the seed to know what they’ve been missing; Jesus’ love.

BY: STEPHANIE KAIL

What is it about 'mission work' that we are so drawn to? Being in a foreign city still brings an element of excitement, an eagerness and reckless abandonment to go share the gospel of Jesus, even if it is a stateside mission, 2,000 miles west of rural West Tennessee and still within the confines of the continental US. A week devoted to mission work brings into clear focus, the narrow window of time we have at hand to speak Truth to so many lost souls. While the task truly is large and looming, it is so very exciting!! I am eager as can be to work long and hard to share the gospel here in Los Angeles.

This being my first ever 'official' mission trip, I have been forewarned that the experience of the mission often changes the heart and soul of the worker more than expected, so I have been eager to listen to the sound of the One speaking to my heart while I am here. It is also in my birth state of California. It is both foreign and familiar to me now.

This being my first ever 'official' mission trip, I have been forewarned that the experience of the mission often changes the heart and soul of the worker more than expected

Many of the people we met and spoke with today are just like the person I used to be...lost. That is not stating that these people were good or bad, just separated from Christ, like I once was. As I sit here and reflect on our first 'work day,' my heart is feeling the tug I had been forewarned of and anticipated.

However, it is conviction I am experiencing. A certain and familiar pruning from Christ. My heart is stirring with the term 'fraudulently loving others'. I have made eye contact today, I have smiled and with an open heart accepted these individuals where they are in their brokenness, without judgment; just a loving invitation to sit at the table with the One who changes everything. But the term isn't leaving my thoughts...What about the next step? Is a smile in the park enough? Am I really willing to give that kind of time to 'the loving and serving of others?' What about the people in my neighborhood, in my nearby parks, my neighbors? Am I just 'getting by' in sharing the Gospel by inviting someone to a special event at church, doing the very least I can to consider it worthy of a gold star on the Good Deeds of the Christian wall chart? Am I loving deeply enough? If those people who I gave a genuine and warm smile today, were to grace the doors of my church this weekend, would I cover them with joy and welcome them into my church family while they are still lost...while they are still messy? How am I loving the lost? How are we as a church loving the lost?

Our mission here this week is to make eye contact, be relational, and plant seeds. There are a number of assignments planned for us this week, but that is the premise: plant the seeds, engage and invite the lost into a fellowship with believers so the Truth can be shared with them on an ongoing basis.

Story City - Day 2

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:09 GMT

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

I Timothy 6:17

Story City Church is a church plant that Englewood supports as part of the 20/20 Vision.

I did not go on my first mission trip until I was a married adult. I was always told, “Once you go on a mission trip, you will never be the same”, and how true those words are. Serving in mission work, across the street and around the world, is a passion and love that our family has always shared. So, you can see how excited we are to take our daughter, Macy, on her very first mission trip to Los Angeles, California!

Story City Church is a church plant that Englewood supports as part of the 20/20 Vision. They started a little over a year ago in Burbank, which is a suburb of Los Angeles. Meeting in a local theatre, they are reaching lost, broken, and messy people that need Jesus. With a staff of only 3 pastors, it’s physically hard to reach their community for Christ. That’s where we come in! We are here this week to be the hands and feet of Jesus and of Story City Church.

When we think about mission work, we usually think about helping the needy and feeding the hungry, but today, as we walked through these neighborhoods of beautiful homes, I began to wonder what the story was behind each door.

Today we headed out on foot to distribute Easter service door hangers to surrounding neighborhoods. What we have learned about Burbank is that it’s a family-friendly, very affluent city that attracts a lot of the “stars” that have been successful in the Hollywood industry. When we think about mission work, we usually think about helping the needy and feeding the hungry, but today, as we walked through these neighborhoods of beautiful homes, I began to wonder what the story was behind each door. They don’t need our money, they don’t need our food, and they don’t need our help with construction, but what they DO need is to be introduced to our Savior! You know, these people probably think they have it all, but at the end of the day, they don’t have the JOY of the Lord and salvation that only comes through a relationship with Him. Pray with us that the simple invite of a door hanger will draw people to Story City Church!

We also went to 2 Elementary Schools today to invite parents and children to a large family-focused Easter egg hunt that Story City Church is sponsoring at a nearby Middle School.

Many have been receptive to us talking about Christ, but we have also had negative feedback as well. We press on and continue to allow the Lord to use us and mold us into His image! The Lord is stretching us in our boldness!

Story City - Day 3

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:07 GMT

Many people here walk their dogs, ride bikes, and continue in their daily routine of eat, sleep, work, repeat, and our mission team has had the privilege to engage and pray with the people of this broken city. Today, we again started off our day placing door hangers on the extended variety of homes in a typical California suburb, occasionally getting the opportunity to personally invite the residents of this community to Story City Church’s upcoming Easter event. We even prayed for a handful of people! After a few hours of this, we broke for a tasty lunch that satisfied every type of diet (including sugar-free and vegan). At the restaurant, we got the chance to invite our two servers to attend the Easter egg drop and the Sunday Easter service, both hosted by Story City Church.

Seeing the shock and delight in people’s faces after diminishing any trace of skepticism brought me incandescent happiness.

With full bellies and loads of Girl Scout cookies, our mission team headed out for a busy intersection to remind the community of their value. Typically, you try to avoid people with large, cardboard signs that have the word “free” plastered on it. However, when you're crossing the street and you have the choice to get free Girl Scout cookies or leave without a box, you take the cookies! All joking aside, today was the most impactful for me. Giving a box of cookies to someone with the explanation of, “Just because we care about you,” made not only the cookie recipient’s day but mine as well. Seeing the shock and delight in people’s faces after diminishing any trace of skepticism brought me incandescent happiness. It’s absolutely incredible to know that a mere box of cookies can change someone’s perspective about Christians or even get them into church, illuminating the path to a relationship with Christ.

BY: MACY BUTLER

On the third day we got to give away Girl Scout cookies. A lot of teenagers were surprised about how everything we gave them was free: cookies, smiles, and love.

This one guy had a turtle backpack and took two boxes of cookies. He was really funny! He had a lot of energy. He even helped us promote these events. His friends found out about it on Facebook Live!

And when the first person told me they would come, I thought WOW, Jesus can do really cool things through giving away Girl Scout cookies!

Another girl came asking about what we were giving away. After she heard cookies were free, she said, "No thanks--there are plenty of hungry and homeless people that need them." I really thought that was sweet of her.

When I talked to a lot of the people out there, they said they would come to the Easter Egg Hunt and maybe even to church. And when the first person told me they would come, I thought "WOW, Jesus can do really cool things through giving away Girl Scout cookies!"

Story City - Day 4

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:06 GMT

Today our week in LA officially wrapped up. It was an incredible time walking the neighborhoods of an enormous, famous, fast paced, truly unique, lost city. The interactions with its residents were numerous and each memorable in their own right. The work that Story City Church has in front of it is huge and the opportunities to spread the Gospel literally exist on every street corner.

I am very thankful for the team that was able to come. I am very thankful for the prayer and financial support of Englewood that is able to make this trip possible. I am thankful for the work that the Lord has done and will continue to do at through Matt, Tyler, and Craig. The road blocks and challenges they and their families face are large and they need us to lift them up in prayer and appreciate them for their missional service.

The work that Story City Church has in front of it is huge and the opportunities to spread the Gospel literally exist on every street corner.

As I reflect on the week and what I’ll carry back to TN, I’ll remember ALL miles we walked, dozens of very interesting conversations we had, the 1000’s of flyers and post cards we distributed, the 100’s of home security cameras we must have appeared on, but ultimately I’m taking back a thankfulness for what God is doing in our community, in our church, and with our people. I’m taking back a challenge to be as bold, work as hard, to trust that God is as mighty in Medina as He is in LA. I’m motivated to work as hard and preach as boldly to people I see every week as I did to people I’ll never see again. I’m motivated to push even harder to see the lost get found in our community and I can’t wait to be back home as we take the every day message of Jesus to those we share life with.

Salt Lake City - Day 1

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:05 GMT

“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” -Acts 20:24

Our journey to Utah began early, (3am to be exact). It was eventful from the start. We arrived at Nashville International Airport to multiple delays. We waited in line for what seemed like forever but made it through security with time to spare. Our flight was uneventful, as we hope most flights are. We connected with Zach Thompson--who we'll be spending the week with--at the airport, and he guided us into the city. Wow: Salt Lake City is both beautiful and absent. The city is void of Hope. There seem to be “feelings” everywhere, but the city is barren of a Hope that “surpasses all understanding.”

We ate lunch at a local food court across from the temple. As we ate pizza, Greek, and Chinese food for lunch, Zach told us all about the city. After scarfing lunch, we set off to see the Mormon Temple. From a structural standpoint, it is very impressive and ornate. We took a tour, learned about their core beliefs and had the chance to ask questions about their faith. Next we spent some time in the Mormon Museum reading about the history of Mormonism and some of their specific beliefs.

The IMB defines an unreached people group as “less than 2%.” Zach and Courtney Thompson live in an area that has a Christian population of .049%.

As we discussed Mormonism with the tour guides and others, we soon learned that the Mormon faith is a series of complex and almost ambiguous teachings. During the tour, the guides talked about Jesus being just a prophet, how their faith has a living prophet and Apostles, and how their Book of Mormon is equally comparable to the Bible.

As a team, having been on the ground less than 12 hours, it has been a bit overwhelming. We have been hit like a ton of bricks with the Mormon culture and have yet to scratch the surface. Tonight, we are spending time with Zach and Courtney Thompson as they teach us how to engage with this community. The IMB defines an unreached people group as “less than 2%.” Zach and Courtney live in an area that has a Christian population of .049%.

We have work to do. We must be Spirit-filled. We must be teachable. We must be bold. We must be faithful to tell the people we meet about the hope that we have in Jesus: the Son of God and our Risen Savior. We are excited to spend some time with the Thompsons tonight and get rested for another great day tomorrow!

Salt Lake City - Day 2

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:04 GMT

So far, this trip has been so eye-opening into the culture of both Salt Lake City and Provo/Orem, Utah. Before coming to Utah, I had never been in a culture where the majority of people are not Christians. Being surrounded by the Church of Latter Day Saints and those who identify as Mormon has broken my heart in more ways than I anticipated.

I wasn’t prepared for what we saw during the tour of the Mormon Temple on our first day in Salt Lake. However, later that night with the Thompsons, experiencing fellowship, and learning more about their ministry here was refreshing and encouraging after such a discouraging afternoon. We prepared afterwards for the next day, but the next morning our plans changed.

We ended up praying and walking through three separate neighborhoods for three hours. While on our prayer walk I felt a strong sense of peace and encouragement knowing that as we prayed for hearts and ears to be opened to the Truth, God was at work. Even though at that moment we didn’t see the fruits of our prayers, I remembered that God works through prayer. I cannot wait to see what comes to follow as Zach Thompson and Timothy O'Day go back to those neighborhoods to continue God's work.

Sunday evening was a very inspiring and encouraging time as Timothy gave details of the demographics of the area. He also continued to give us advice and training on how they share the Gospel with various people in this area.

Monday morning was a very heartbreaking time as we drove through the county seeing the various Latter Day Saints wards and churches and saw how predominant the religion is here. We then went up to a lookout overseeing the entire county allowing me to realize the size and the lostness here.

That evening we finally got a chance to go door to door to offer prayer and cookies to a local neighborhood. At first, we hit several unopened doors and people who just kept their prayers very generalized. As we continued, several of us were able to engage with people who identify as LDS or Mormon and got the opportunity to learn and talk with them.

Personally, Cody Finch and I were able to engage with a newlywed couple and hear their thoughts and beliefs while always bringing the discussion back to Truth and the Gospel. During this unexpected conversation, the spiritual war was very real and evident. As Cody and the husband carried the conversation, I sat there going back and forth feeling this burden and tension anytime the husband was promoting Mormonism. As we were leaving, the couple was very open to continuing discussion about their faith with Zach and Timothy. While debriefing, it was apparent that the interaction was something only God could have ordained.

As a Christian, it was extremely encouraging and thrilling knowing that even just one seed of truth was planted in this couples' life. I look forward to hearing what all God is doing here as the Thompsons and O'Da's continue to obey and follow God’s will by sharing the Gospel.

Salt Lake City - Day 3

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:03 GMT

It has been a blessing to go on a mission trip to Utah. Throughout the week, the Lord has been teaching two main things. I have been reminded of the importance and power of prayer. Our team spent hour’s prayer walking around neighborhoods, and it was a time that the Lord used to speak into my own heart. As I am praying, I am being reminded that this is not only a prayer for Utah but also a prayer for the people of Jackson. The Mormon people believe that they hold truth and that Christianity is one in the same with Mormonism. We prayed a prayer of awakening to truth in the hearts and minds of the people here in Utah. During this time, I was reminded of my words not being just words, but they are being heard by Almighty God. It was a much-needed reminder within my own heart that we serve a God who wants to communicate with us. I was challenged to continue prayer walking when we get back home, because there is a certain beauty in bathing a community of people in prayer.

“As I am praying, I am being reminded that this is not only a prayer for Utah but also a prayer for the people of Jackson.”

The second main truth that the Lord was speaking into my heart was the importance of knowing the truth of Scripture. I went with one of the church planters named Timothy O’Day, and we went door to door in a neighborhood to love on people and share the Gospel. In this time, God showed me the importance in seeking after truth of scripture. In a particular conversation, Timothy and I were invited inside a home to talk more about Christianity. Timothy began to explain to this man the Gospel, and he shook his head to say he understood what he was saying. We exchanged back and fourth for a long time, and the bulk of the conversation was over interpretation of Scripture. In that moment, I was reminded that God has done a great job explaining the Gospel in his own words through the Bible. Through this experience the Lord challenged me to allow God to have the microphone in Gospel conversations.

“I am thankful that God chooses to use sinners like me to tell other about Him.”

We are ambassadors of the truth, and it is our job to share the truth among the lost. We have been tasked to do this in our homes, towns, and nations. Our team had the undeserving blessing to do such as that. I am thankful that God chooses to use sinners like me to tell other about Him. 2 Corinthian 5:20 states, “we are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.”

Houston - Day 1

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:02 GMT

Blake Fondren helping remove tile flooring.

Our trip to Houston started with safe travels, some good burgers, and wonderful Texas hospitality. Thank you Whataburger and Lauren Finch’s family!!

Day 1 was an amazing experience. Even after a short night of sleep, seeing first hand all of the possessions, furniture, and pieces of peoples homes stacked up on the curb made you forget how tired you really were. It also brought to realization why we were there, to love and serve.

“FOR EVEN THE SON OF MAN CAME NOT TO BE SERVED BUT TO SERVE OTHERS AND TO GIVE HIS LIFE AS A RANSOM FOR MANY." MATTHEW 20:28

Travis Cottrell, Jordan Hall and Mario (pictured left to right) moving Mario's damaged refrigerator out to the street.

We went to the first house we were assigned to and met the homeowner, Mario. He was extremely positive and kept expressing his thanks to us for coming to help. His biggest need has been for us to remove flooring and tile affected by the floodwaters and to get his house ready for the next steps of getting it back to normal. While talking to him and watching his positive attitude, I hope I would have the same outlook on everything as he did after losing many of his possessions. We will continue to help remove flooring at his house again for day 2, so please be praying for Mario, his wife, and three children.

Houston - Day 2

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:37:01 GMT

We were called angels today. Monday morning, we were just 8 strangers that showed up to a random house, never expecting we would be greeted with bigger smiles than our own. Today, we were able to find a jackhammer which, as you can guess, is much more efficient than a hammer and crow bar. The Sandoval family was so thrilled when we walked in with this shiny tool. We were able to easily pull up the tile floor in their house. They were so excited, they even wanted to take turns using it. It's beautiful that a tragic event can turn strangers into family. Even Mario told us he never felt like he had strangers working in his house for two days but brothers and sisters he'd already known for a long time. Our crew was able to share the love of Jesus with them and prayed over this incredible family. After a tearful goodbye, we were encouraged by the strength of Mario and Angelica.

" GOD IS NOT UNJUST; HE WILL NOT FORGET YOUR WORK AND THE LOVE YOU HAVE SHOWN HIM AS YOU HAVE HELPED HIS PEOPLE AND CONTINUE TO HELP THEM." HEBREWS 6:10

While we were working at one house, a small group of us went down the street to another house that was destroyed by the flood. The walls were all completely gone and the only thing left for us to do was spray for any potential mold. We were able to talk with the homeowner and hear his story. His house took in more than 6 feet of water, and this is the final step for him to start the rebuilding process.

The neighborhood we were placed in, Bear Creek, was affected because of the release of the levee after Harvey. There are streets and streets of houses in deep need. It's almost overwhelming as we drive-by, but we are continually encouraged by everyone's positive outlook on such a dark season for this city. We may not be angels, but we pray we can spread the light of Jesus while we are here.

Houston - Day 3

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:58 GMT

The Bible says in Romans 12:4-6a "for as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them..." In this way, we all worked diligently as unto the Lord, each with our own abilities, to further His kingdom. This trip has been fruitful in many ways, and we have worked along side over one hundred others. If we all tried to do the same thing the service to Houston would be very slow, but together as many members with differing gifts we are able to efficiently serve Houston for the furtherance of God's kingdom.

It is Day 3, the Lord continues to shower us with blessings! By the grace of God we were able to completely finish demolition on Mario and Angelica's home. They were ready for reconstruction, and we were ready to bless another family. As we approached the next location, we noticed they were in a cul-de-sac that still had mountains of debris in the street.

Brad and Kathy, our new family for the next couple days, informed us that the trucks moved in and would not return to finish cleaning up the mess in the street. As we approached the house, we also learned this family owned the house behind it as well. The second house was a rental property, while the first was their personal home. We were amazed at the work this couple had already done in their house, but the work is never quite finished. We worked diligently to get the remaining pieces of backer board and nails out of the house. Then we shop vacuumed everything, and moved on to the pile of rubble in the street. With wheel barrows and shovels in hand, we attacked the mountain lying ahead. We took doors to build ramps into the dumpster, and piled the dirt and rubble as high as we could. Before we knew it the day had come to a close, and we had barely made a dent into the pile. Progress could be seen, but the road ahead for tomorrow will be tough.

To close out the day, we prayed with Brad, Kathy, and a couple neighbors. The gratitude from them all was overflowing from their words and actions. Before we left, we promised we would see them again tomorrow. What a blessing it is to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Our hearts are overflowing with the love of Christ, and it compels us to keep going even in our tired state. We pray more will come from all over America, but even more specifically from Englewood! All Christians need to experience service for the Lord, and what a better way than serving our neighbors in Houston. We are excited for the final day of service, and hope to see God continually change lives and bring hope to Houston!

Houston - Day 4

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:57 GMT

I have to preface this by saying that God is so amazing. I'm in such awe of His wisdom and His plan for our lives. God has been totally in control of this trip from the beginning-- expenses, appropriate shoes, etc. But, when I realized I was the only one on the trip not a staff member, I became very doubtful. I'm not nearly holy enough for this. However, I have never been more welcomed and accepted into a group of strangers in my life. Together, we have laughed, cried, sang, prayed, and showed the love of Christ to the people of Houston.

Today, we not only continued the work we started yesterday at Brad and Kathy's house, but we helped two of their neighbors and got information for another team to return to help another neighbor. As a team, we cleaned two yards full of debris and so many memories they had to let go. During our time with the couples, we learned their stories and their struggles. They invited us in and were so appreciative of our help. Over lunch, we were able to explain what the North American Mission Board is and how we got involved. Because of such, one couple wants to give back financially and potentially physically to those in the midst of a disaster. We became a part of the community they have created in their cul de sac. As we left, they all stood together in one drive way to wave us farewell.

Despite Satan's constant reminding of my inferiority in the beginning, I immediately put my mom and Sunday School class on prayer alert. I have been blessed in such a huge way. My heart overflows. Since my father passed away four years ago, I have claimed Exodus 14:14-- "Be still, and the Lord will fight for you." I have been so humbled by God using me on the fighting end for Him and His glory.

Florida - Day 1

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:56 GMT

Over the next few days our team will be sending in their thoughts on some of the experiences serving this simple community of Immokalee FL.

Travel days are never easy... especially trying to avoid hurricane Nate. We took the long southern route and avoided all the rain and winds. Made the trip two hours longer but worth it.

We stayed the night in Gainesville FL In order to rest up, as we knew our work schedule would start after lunch. But, as we woke up, the unexpected flat tire greeted us in the parking lot. Not exactly how we wanted to start our day... but our team sprung to action and had the tire changed in no time flat!! (Pun intended!)

As we arrived in Immokalee, we were greeted by the incredible staff imbedded here. They were prepared and ready... even had lunch waiting as we're running behind. After some brief words of encouragement and a training session, our team was off and running.

We met a Hispanic grandmother named Mrs. Garcia and her 9 year old grandson. A tree in the front yard had fallen on the corner of her house during Hurricane Irma. Our team got to work and with the help of our trained crew chief, Mr. Mike. After a couple hours in the blazing sun, the tree is no longer a threat to the house! Mrs. Garcia was so thankful, she made her famous salsa for us! Needless to say our team devoured the whole bowl of salsa! It put a smile on her face and ours too!! It was an awesome moment.

Before we left, our team had the opportunity to minister to her and her grandson through prayer and the gift of a Bible.

We are hoping for more ministry opportunities tomorrow as we will be walking some of the neighborhood handing out supplies and doing more clean up. Pray for stamina in heat, and safety. We are also praying the Lord will open the door for us to clearly share the Gospel with those in this community!

Florida - Day 2

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:55 GMT

Today was a REALLY great day! The sun wasn’t out all day! We gave out diapers and cleaning supplies to people that needed them. When we walked around the neighborhoods the people were so nice! Then when we were done we went back to the house that we were at yesterday to get the stump out, but Dylan and Mike already got it out. So we went to another house and cleaned up with another group from New York State.

Afterwards, we came back to the church because we needed another project and when we found something to do we went next door to another house and raked and scooped up leaves. There were A LOT of tree limbs!

After that we hung out with Ruth and Teddy, who are our roommates from New York, and they have so many funny and cool stories! The evening meals are great here. (The lemon pound cake was exquisite. Like almost heavenly!) One of our duties while serving here is to clean the shower trailers, and believe me when over 60 people come back from a hard days work, they need to be cleaned!! I loved cleaning the showers! Woot! It was great. I killed a bunch of the gnats.

It’s been a great day meeting new people and working hard.

Florida - Day 3

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:54 GMT

Today we went door-to-door to give people in the neighborhood water and food. Most of them didn't know any English, which stressed me out because I don't speak Spanish very well.

We put together diaper bags for the families we talked to today in the neighborhood. Tomorrow we are going to go back to the houses and make these deliveries.

I think I worked more today than any day we were here. Today, we met a lady whose house was in bad shape and needs her roof to be tarped. We are excited to be able to go back to her house tomorrow and help her.

I call the cook "momma" and we do the "I love you" in sign language every time I go through the line. I love helping people so much, but the sad part is hearing the story's about how some people lost their jobs as a result of the hurricane.

Also, We saw a gater today! Tomorrow is going to be good and you'll just have to wait to hear about it in tomorrow's blog. Well it's time to say good night so I'm going to go to sleep on my air mattress. So Bye Y'all.

Florida - Day 4

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:52 GMT

We have come to the last working day on this amazing journey to assist and love those in need after hurricane Irma. Today was another full day of new mission work and revisiting others to fulfill the orders previously taken. It was yet another day that tugged on your heartstrings.

We broke out chainsaws, big trucks, and large chains to help two neighbors get rid of the yellow jacket infested tree that landed on the cars below. This was a mighty feat! The families that lived in the homes came out to talk with us and even wanted to help!

I even managed to tackle a fear of mine today, heights! We climbed rooftops and placed tarps over the ones that were damaged by the storm. Many of these homes were leaking inside their living rooms and even bedrooms. They welcomed us with warm smiles, hugs, and many thanks! It warmed my heart to see the difference we were making in each persons life.

One special moment that we shared as a group each evening was our "glad, sad, mad" team meeting. We would gather in a circle, discuss the events of the day, and describe moments as individuals that made us glad, mad, and sad. Of course, the glad always outnumbered the others! Tonight was extremely special to us because we got to share this moment with our team builders from Disaster Relief. These are our special friends, Mike and Dylan, which you have heard about from previous blog posts. Coming into this mission I expected to make new friends with the people we helped, but to my surprise, I have made some lifelong friends from all over the country! I now have an even bigger group of Jesus loving friends that I can call my family.

I wish I could express the gratitude I have for being able to join this mission team, but words cannot describe it. I want to thank everyone for the prayers and support! God bless!

St. John - Day 2

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:49 GMT

God is good! We attended Freshwater church this morning... on the beach. One of their members, Emily blessed us by leading us in praise and worship. Steve Spence brought us God's word. We were able to connect with the people whose needs are enormous.

Even on our shopping trip to one of the few open stores we were able to show the love of Jesus to those we came in contact with. The devastation here is great, but our God is greater! We finally completed cleaning a place were we can begin serving food tomorrow.

Pray with us that God will work through the team the remaining time we are here.

St. John - Day 4

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:48 GMT

We started another hot day here at St. John, ready to prepare meals for people who lost so much, even their homes and to serve them.

But we woke up today without electricity! Thanks God we have a generator which helps us to continue with our work to prepare meals for lunch to serve the people.Two brothers from our group (David & Aaron) went yesterday to st. Thomas island to buy a generator in case we would need it. Here it is, the following day without losing motivation we were able to keep working as scheduled. A few hours later we had again electricity running. Praised be the Lord in every situation he always provides a way in His very timing (reminds me on james 1 "trust without doubting").��

Today was spaghetti Bolognese and garlic bread with a bottle of water on the menu, also some candy was given out. Its beautiful to make people smile with just beeing kind and friendly. While serving them, some of us also had conversations with the locals. Katie makes children easyly smile just because of her kind personality how easily she finds her way to them and the rest of the group is just awesome to see how they all function together as one body - some were talking and engaging - great team work. Later in the evening we went out for dinner and saw some kids dressed up for Halloween. Its encouraging to see how people adjust themselves to the given circumstances and try to go on with their "normal" lives. Later some of us were able to take a shower again at a pastors house, not so far from our Fishtrap. Its a privilige to be a part of a diverse group with the same focus in heart, thank you Lord! Prayers needs to be continued for sure!

St. John - Day 5

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:47 GMT

The team is settling in but no day is typical on a mission trip. Each day faces new challenges but has amazing outcomes. The question each day is how can such few people provide for so much need with such little resources. The answer is GOD always provides!!! Today we added a little more water to the beans; serving the beans over the rice as opposed to serving the beans as a side dish. This allowed us to be able to serve many more people. Who would have thought such a simple change could provide so much more.

God has gifted everyone with different strengths that compliment each other. It is amazing to see how such diverse backgrounds mesh together. So next time you here the call – join the team. There is a place for everyone; no special skills are required.

St. John - Day 6

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:46 GMT

Our pallets of supplies were suppose to be delivered today but that did not happen. Hopefully tomorrow.

We have been in the position of buying what we can get and doing the best we can with it. Today we served spaghetti (with meat sauce and also marinara for the vegetarians) and garlic bread for lunch. New Testaments were out for anyone to take home. The people seemed thankful for the meal. I have had a couple of people tell me that it means alot to know others care. I have been told it means a lot to know others care. We intentionally cooked a lot to have leftovers which we took to the Coral Bay Fire Dept for distribution because the people there are in great need.

Yesterday We connected with a group called Disaster Immediate Relief Team (D.i.R.T.). They canvass the area, note what needs to be done and connect people to organizations that can help. They are referring us to help people that have experienced personal damage from the hurricane but are volunteering their time to help others over taking care of their own needs. The plan is to work a couple of hours in the afternoon. They hope to continue this effort with team 2.

We were given two referrals for today. We went to the first house but the owner wasn’t there—her house was completely destroyed (photo attached). She needs help cleaning up debris. We tried to call but cell service was on one minute and gone the next. We finally connected by phone but she asked if she could call tomorrow. We also tried another person we were referred to help but, again, couldn’t connect in time to help today.

We are planning a fellowship dinner tomorrow, inviting the D.I.R.T team as well as a similar team working with them and their volunteers.
Team 2 will be here so they can all meet. Hopefully supplies will arrive so team 2 will be all set.

Seattle - Day 2

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:45 GMT

On Tuesday we arrived at the work site about 8 a.m. While Mike, Jacky and Dan continued building the playground Englewood bought for Jonah Easley’s church plant in Bellevue, Wash., 20 minutes from Seattle, the ladies helped out by carrying playground parts from the storage area to the playground site. They removed the wrapping from the multiple playground parts, which was a big help. Then the ladies - Mary Ann, Tommie and Lisa - worked the rest of the day in the Thrift Store, unloading containers and placing products on the shelves.

We got a lot accomplished Tuesday before returning to the hotel, taking a quick shower and going to a Seattle Mariners baseball game with Jonah, his son Evan and his dad Ernest Easley. Wednesday will be another full day of working on the playground equipment and at the Thrift Store. The weather couldn’t be better, with high temperatures in the 70s. What a blessing!

Seattle - Day 3

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:43 GMT

We awoke to temperatures in the low 60s Wednesday, so a sweatshirt felt good when we began work at 8:15 a.m.

Mike, Jacky, and Dan completed work on the playground Englewood bought for Jonah Easley’s church plant in Bellevue, Wash., just 20 minutes from downtown Seattle. The playground has two slides, a climbing wall and other fun things to do. Jonah checked it out when he took the first ride down the big slide after construction was finished. We still have some touch-up work to do on the playground, but it is 99 percent complete. Not bad for two days work.

Wednesday afternoon we began work on the swing frames Englewood bought for the ministry. We assembled the frames and plan to install the handicap swings on Thursday.

Englewood donated three handicap swings to Jonah’s ministry. One swing is for those confined to a wheelchair. The wheelchair rolls onto a platform and is secured, allowing the platform and wheelchair to swing with a gentle push.

There are also two plastic swings that are built to support a handicapped child. They will be attached to the second swing frame we built Wednesday.

The mission team - Mike and Mary Ann Montgomery, Jacky and Tommie Campbell and Dan and Lisa Morris - went to a seafood restaurant Wednesday night and shared dinner with Jonah, his wife Kathy and their three children, and Ernest and Julie Easley, Jonah’s parents, who are visiting this week.

Jonah and Ernest helped the work crew some on Wednesday, as did the mission ladies, who also worked at the Thrift Store.

We’ll check back with you tomorrow!

Seattle - Day 4

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:41 GMT

20 cubic yards of wood chips are dumped on the edge of the playground, waiting to be shoveled into wheelbarrows and spread inside the playground border.

We hung three swings, built the wheelchair swing, carried eight 16-foot timbers to build the borders for the playground, then shoveled 20 cubic yards of wood chips into wheelbarrows and spread it over the playground surface.

It took 3 hours to spread the wood chips. Meanwhile, the first to tryout the swings were pastor Jonah and a 92-year-old lady from the community center.

It was a hard day but very rewarding, especially when three kids from the community center got to be the first to test the swings and playground equipment. They climbed all over the playground and sent the swings soaring, grinning the whole time. They had a blast, and we had fun watching them.

Several staff and volunteers from the community center came outside to thank us for our work and thank Englewood for purchasing the playground and swings. A few even helped shovel some wood chips at the end of the project. The center, called Jubilee REACH, is a faith-based entity in Bellevue, and pastor Jonah is involved in the work there. He thinks the center will eventually become a worship site for his church.

We completed the playground after 3-1/2 days of work by Englewood’s mission team - Mike and Mary Ann Montgomery, Jacky and Tommie Campbell, and Dan and Lisa Morris.

While we worked, the Navy’s Blue Angles jets screamed overhead several times while they practiced for this weekend’s air show in Seattle.

We plan to return to the playground and make some final adjustments to the equipment on Friday. But we all agreed that the Lord blessed us with cool weather in the 60s on Thursday when we were shoveling wood chips and carrying timbers.

Seattle - Day 5

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:40 GMT

Your Englewood mission team in Bellevue, Wash., 20 minutes from downtown Seattle, completed its “mission” Friday by stabilizing the wheelchair swing Englewood donated to Jonah Easley’s church-plant efforts and double checking all of the bolts in the playground Englewood purchased for the project.

Jonah expressed his thanks for Englewood’s donation of the playground materials and swings and for the mission team that built the playground. It has been a blessed week and we are thankful the good Lord caused everything to fall into place and helped us accomplish our goals for His kingdom.

The folks at the Jubilee REACH community center, where the playground was built, couldn’t be happier with our efforts. Awakening Church, pastored by Jonah, meets on Saturday nights, so we plan to attend the service and say farewell.

It is important for you to realize that your offerings at Englewood help reach lost souls that you will never know about this side of heaven. Your support helps make it possible for pastors like Jonah to plant churches and spread the gospel. Thank you for giving with a cheerful heart!

Well Church - Day 1

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:39 GMT

Our team is excited to be in Henderson with our friends from The Well Church. Thanks to David Holmes for his prayer over us and to Owen Cobb for driving us to the Memphis airport. The Crew from The Well Church met us and over Pizza we enjoyed some sweet fellowship. After a day of travel we were glad to check in and be rested for a busy Thursday.

Well Church - Day 2

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:37 GMT

Today while feeding the staff of Josh Stevens School, a parent visited with us. She told Pastor Steve that the teachers love The Well and look forward to the lunches provided, “Keep it up,” she said. “You are impacting our community.”

While half our team served at school, others worked hard to make the stage area more functional for the electrical instruments and speakers. The stage is, literally, set for worship on Sunday.
We started the day Prayer Walking a community near the school where many new homes are being built. Two ladies prayed for two years for a church to grow here. God heard those prayers and planted The Well Church. We are thankful we can help.

Well Church - Day 3

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:36 GMT

The temperature was nearing 100 as our team divided up to offer mugs to people in new neighborhoods near The Well.

Returning to the church, we shared our experiences. God is doing a mighty work through His people here in Henderson and they appreciate EBC ‘s support.

The church projects are completed and ready for Sunday worship. As the old hymn says, “Bring them in”.

Well Church - Day 4

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:34 GMT

The Well Church partners with Goodness Gracious Ministries to feed the homeless. Our team assembled twenty goody bags to hand out tonight.

After filling the bags, we grilled chicken and fed the staff and faculty at Taylor Elementary.

One of the staff was a young man who was very familiar with Memphis because he was treated at LeBonheur for a brain tumor, and is now thirteen years cancer free.

This afternoon we took the goody bags to the park and gave them to men and women who have no where to live. They come to the park on Mondays knowing they’ll receive snacks, worship, prayers and a meal. God’s people are showing them His love.

Well Church - Day 5

Thu, 25 May 2023 20:36:33 GMT

On our last day we fed teachers at three schools so we started grilling at nine and finished at the schools around one thirty.

At four we began preparing to feed the youth. About fifty middle and high school students showed up to be filled up spiritually and physically. After the meal a group of church members gathered in the sanctuary to pray as the kids formed small groups in adjoining rooms.

Finally the teens came together for a word from John LaBonte. Hard work and commitment brought this group from two students, two years ago, to the amazing service we witnessed tonight.

St. John - Day 1

Thu, 25 May 2023 03:13:08 GMT

Today was the first day of feeding the community. Hamburger steaks, beans, crescent rolls and water. We love serving this community! Served over 100 meals in one hour. People in the community come to the restaurant, sit down and be served. Our team is adamant about serving the meal not just putting it out for them to serve themselves. We've had so many great conversations because we are interacting with them and stopping to talk.

Our efforts here are just starting and already doors are opening. Continue to pray for our team as we establish this our presence here. Pray for divine gospel conversations. There is so much need and not enough hands.