Welcome everybody

Hi Everyone in Internet land. This is Phil. We've been wanting to put something on here for a while, but just haven't had the time. Work has been really busy.

Our applications are in and references are being processed. We're really excited. I got a phone call from the director of the Crisis Response ministry that we might be working with in New Orleans, Mark Lewis. He was in the area and wanted to get together. We met up for coffee and had a chance to catch up.

It seems to me that every time I get discouraged (doubting whether we should go, wondering if we would make a difference, etc...) I get a phone call or email, or something that totally encourages me that God is in control and that He is truly leading His people... whether they want to or not!!

I left feeling really excited and encouraged. When I got in the car, Moody radio was on. Having an iPod, I rarely listen to the radio, but for some reason I had it on. Listening and thinking about some stuff we still need to do before we leave, I heard them mention something about Katrina relief in New Orleans. Of course, my ears perked.

After a few commercials, Greg Wheatly from Prime-time America introduced Pastor Michael Sprague from Trinity Church in Covington, LA!! It was really neat hearing Pastor Michael, a man that I've met and talked with and been so encouraged by in the past, talking on the radio!! Not only that, but talking about some of the very things, Mark and I had just talked about. Here's the link: go to 1:31:00. That should be about where Pastor Michael is introduced. mbn.org/ContentStore/ProgAudioArchives/2007-07-19_Prime_Time_America.asx

I have really enjoyed talking with people about the work we will be doing in New Orleans. It's surprising to them that people still need to go down there and help. It's so far removed from the headlines and overshadowed by "more important" news. Most people could tell me more about Paris Hilton's prison term than the work that still needs to be done in New Orleans (I'm ranting... sorry). Anyway... I was really excited to hear someone else say "there's still a need". And it's a big one. Please take a few minutes to look around the efca.org/katrina link on the right. There is some valuable information on their website. Also, if you are interested in supporting us in any way, please let us know.