Day two - WOW! What an incredible eye opening experience it has been. I can't wait to share my photos with you of the tremendous devastation I have witnessed today and of the hope that people have.
First, prayer requests.
Last night we met Darlene. It was a divine appointment. We were at the airport to pick up another chaplain and she was sitting on a bench. Her story was one of incredible disappointment and loss. When we pulled up to the curb she recognized our vehicle I'd tag. She said that she was blessed by the efforts of Samaritan's Purse (SP). We prayed for her and shared the hope of Christ with her. She was very receptive. She will be traveling to North Carolina to pick up her adult daughter who is dealing with illness.
Pray for Che Che and Ione who we met today. They are needing the Lord. Ione will have her power cut off tonight because she isn't able to pay her bill. These ladies were very blessed to have our support and prayer. SP was involved in placing a new roof on Ione's home last month and they also were involved in the demolition of Che Che's home and cleanup. These women are widows and need the Lord. Che Che's son is in need of medical help and social security assistance.
A couple of us toured the Kiln and Bay area - hardest hit areas. Many of the homes - entire neighborhoods - were completely leveled. There is debris everywhere. I have many pictures to share with you of this area. There is one office building - a small home-like structure that was lying on it's side wedged between an electrical pole and a fallen tree. An amazing image.
Many stories can be shared. One story is told by a chaplain about a house that was completely under water. Everything was destroyed. SP was involved in the demolition work. The saddest part of that experience was having to demolish a grand piano. The home owner is a widow who cried as the team removed the piano. All her personal items were destroyed.
I am going to remain in Biloxi for the week. SP has finished all their work in Gulfport. There is plenty of need here.
Pray for the team leader, Marilyn who has served the Gulf Coast area since the fall. She is overwhelmed! Pray also for the 200 workers here from across the country working on the Methodist Camp here and several homes in the community. Pray also for the other chaplain, who is from Seattle. This is her second trip here. Her chaplain work in Seattle serves local police and fire personnel.
This evening is very relaxing. It is refreshing to hear what work others are doing.
I look forward to checking in with you again tomorrow.
