Joplin, MO . . .

We partnered with the CBF of MO to work with the network of ministries established by Missourian and CBF on site field volunteer Bob Barker for the ongoing rebuilding in Joplin. The trip March 18-21 (Sunday-Wednesday) was open to individuals and families (age 10 minimum). We focused on home repair and were available to local churches and ministries supporting the rebuilding.

• Date: March 18-21 (Sunday-Wednesday)

 SEE PHOTO GALLERY AND TRIP REFLECTION BELOW

My Reflections on the Joplin Mission Trip

by Bill Schumacher

As you arrive at the route the tornado took, you see destruction everywhere.  There are entire blocks where everything is gone. However, at a site where a church was reduced to rubble, a huge cross still stands!  We heard some stories of survival.  The homeowner we worked with survived by pulling a couch over himself quickly.  His neighbor survived by getting into a closet which ended up being the only thing left of his house.  Our homeowner is putting a basement in his new home with a safe room.  He’s thinking of his neighbors’ safety and building it large enough for them as well.  There is a sad point in that many people cannot rebuild.  This is either because of financial concerns or because their lot is too small to meet the new Joplin building code. Housing is in short supply, and Joplin is in much need of more help.

If you focus on the destruction, you could feel depressed.  Then you start to see the positive round about.  Abundant Life Christian Center provided us a place to sleep and three meals a day.  In the last year, they have provided this service to 6,000 people—all volunteer help.  Even the little service dog that lay on a chair by the dining room brought a smile.  There was a sign above him that said, “Please pet me.”  We saw volunteers from many states.  Our roommates were from Iowa and Minnesota.  We enjoyed our conversations with them before breakfast and after supper.  There was a common bond because we were all there to help.