Sixteen college students and two “over 25’s” from UCC UConn spent their Spring Break working through the Disciples Mission Station at First Christian Church, Slidell, LA – the third annual trip for many of these volunteers. The volunteers were split into two teams for their week’s work. The first team spent two days at Mr. Tom’s home in Lacombe, working inside and out to restore his home and property. Sarah Stockmann, a UCC UConn volunteer, shared, “Throughout the day we were constantly hearing about all of Tom’s plans … he is still dreaming big despite the damage that Hurricane Katrina has done. He kept telling us what a blessing it was to be able to meet people like us who are willing to give our time and energy to help others. At one point he said, ‘You guys are doing more than restoring my house, you’re restoring my dreams.’ We could feel his gratitude all day long.” Working with Tom was a highlight for many and they invited Tom to join them for dinner one evening. He took the opportunity to present them with “the Mudbug Award: a sacred piece of Louisiana soil crafted by a crawfish – better than the Corps of Engineers builds levees!” He also gave the UCC UConn volunteers a poster on which he had written, “What makes a place sacred? Perhaps it is perception – or perspiration. Sharing sweat in our mutual endeavors means having blessings. You all have shared your blessings with me, and I am most grateful. Thank you! By your acts you have added to my sacred quest in Lacombe, LA.”
UCCUConn, Mar. 11
UCCUConn, Mar. 11
UCCUConn, Mar. 11
