The Messenger - September 2011 - (Page 8)

1 2 The Messenger Making Gentle A Bruised World SEPTEMBER 2011 In Perspective, cont’d. From page 7 As we worked the teenagers learned new construction skills including learning how to nail using the entire hammer (holding the hammer on the end and not next to the head) and swinging from the shoulder and not the wrist. During the course of the week some of the teenagers learned how to “cut away the lead in the line” using a circular saw. They learned about safety glasses, breathing mask and when not to wear gloves. At the end of one day the group mixed, poured and broom finished a concrete pad at the end of the steps. The next day we were able to do it all over again finishing a concrete pad and the end of the wheelchair ramp. When we left to go to another home Martha and John thanked us several times for finishing their stairs and wheelchair ramp and gave everyone a big hug. For the teenagers it was a time of seeing how others live and learning some construction skills. Story B: ASP 2011: Building So Much More than Homes by Allison Hausman Appalachia Service Project is a life-changing experience for all of the people involved. Both years that I have attended, I have enjoyed every minute of the trip and can never wait for the next year! The slogan for ASP is “making homes warmer, safer, drier,” but on ASP we build so much more than just homes. The founder of ASP built the organization as a relationship ministry with construction on the side. ASP is a chance for participants, especially youth, to learn and grow. ASP builds all kinds of relationships (with ASP families, with other volunteers, with your work crew, with God and all those around you). It also builds cultural awareness, and a greater appreciation for what we have. ASP teaches its youth volunteers a variety of things from how to work with cement to how to work as a team. Personally, ASP has helped me discover and develop some of my God-given gifts and talents while boosting my confidence and leadership skills. One of the coolest things to see on ASP is how we build strong, lasting relationships and grow closer to our church family. The theme for this year, based on Romans 12:2, was Follow the Word… Transform the World, but I feel as though the lives of the volunteers are transformed as well while we work towards “transforming the world” for those in Appalachia. The difference you can make in one family’s life is remarkable and the impact it has on you and your crew is just as amazing. One of the things that stands out to me as being an awesome part of the trip is how one small act can make a difference. No gift is ever too small. I have learned that a little bit goes a long way and that I can always do something to help others even if it seems small. I have something to give and it will gladly be received by people in need. You never know how you’ll be able to use one of your gifts, whether it be time, money, hard work, support, dedication, motivation, humor, communication skills or encouragement. Use them! They’ll go a long way. Cont. on page 9 8

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Messenger - September 2011

The Messenger - September 2011
Contents
Council’s Corner
Youth Ministry
Children’s Christian Education
Mission, Faith & Action
In Perspective
Reflections of Gratitude

The Messenger - September 2011