The Alliance

Updates on Hurricane Katrina


We're In It for the Long Haul
[Fri, 8 Sep 2006 10:01:19 -0600]
 
 
"It's the Church that's really made the difference," says Frank Smith, who continues to direct hurricane relief efforts on the Gulf Coast. One year after Hurricane Katrina ripped through Louisiana and Mississippi, leaving millions of people homeless, The Alliance has kept its promise to helpless residents-"We're in it for the long haul." The C&MA's immediate response to the urgent need has evolved into a long-term undertaking to help people rebuild their homes and lives. As a result, five church plants are under way.  
 
A community center for Baton Rouge 
     "Alliance pastor Randy Knighten was working as a church planter in Baton Rouge when nearly 6,000 evacuees from New Orleans became residents of a FEMA trailer village. With the help of CAMA (the relief arm of The Alliance), a building was purchased that will serve as a community center, offering training in computer skills and assistance in obtaining GEDs and completing resumés. "We've seen a lot of people impacted by this outreach already," says Smith. 
     "Using the theme "Loving the people into the Kingdom, then bringing them into the church," Knighten and his volunteers are meeting practical and spiritual needs. "A Bible study is ongoing," says Smith, "and we plan to start worship services at the center soon." 
 
New Life in New Orleans 
     "Pastor Willie Neudahl has been in New Orleans for twenty years. When Katrina hit, he took the lead in relief efforts in the Gretna area. "Nearly 1,000 people have volunteered with Neudahl, and he handled it all," Smith says. 
     "Recently, a building was purchased that will be used as a warehouse and a church, and an Alliance pastor is preparing to move there. Willie and his volunteer teams have cleaned thirty homes that are nearly ready for families to return. "But the job isn't anywhere near being done," says Smith. "At least five years of weekly volunteers are needed."  
 
Building community 
     "Two men, one from Alliance Theological Seminary and the other from Taccoa Falls College, volunteered to spend their summer with Neudahl, who gave them the task of reaching out to people in a nearby apartment complex. The interns worked with children, hosting Vacation Bible School and other events, resulting in twenty-five young people coming to Christ. As their summer drew to a close, the apartment manager approached the men and Neudahl with a request that the Alliance implement a full-time day-care program at his complex. One of the buildings on the grounds already is licensed for fifty children, since there was a child-care program before the hurricane. "This is a real opportunity for impact in the neighborhood," Smith says. "We're praying that God will lead us to the right director [for the program]."  
 
Unexpected opportunity 
     "Alliance relief efforts in Gulfport did not begin until recently when two men separately approached Smith, saying they believed God was calling them to plant a church. Alliance pastor Darren Sanford moved his wife and six children to Gulfport. Meanwhile, John Schwartz, a former church planter for the Assemblies of God, heard about Alliance relief efforts in the area and expressed his desire to join the team. Along with others, Schwartz and Sanford are helping neighbors rebuild as they establish two church plants.  
     "Because relief efforts were concentrated among residents, "No one is helping small businesses," Smith says. "So rather than rebuilding homes, the Gulfport team will help local businesses rebuild, reopen, and provide jobs."  
 
Hope amid devastation 
     "Relief efforts in the Waveland/Bay St. Louis area began four days after Hurricane Katrina stripped the cities of nearly everything. "It's the kind of destruction this nation has almost never seen," says Smith. The Alliance, led by Pastor Don Young from Genesis Church in Foley, Alabama, partnered with The Christian Life Church, also from Foley, in the immediate response effort.  
     "Since then, more than sixty people have accepted the Lord or rededicated their lives to Him, and a church plant, led by Pastor Art Baruffi, from Vineland Alliance Church in New Jersey, is well under way. Nearly 4,000 volunteers have impacted the lives of Waveland/Bay St. Louis residents. As they saw Christ work through them, volunteers brought hope to the devastated sister communites. 
 
Following God's lead on the Gulf Coast 
     "Thousands of Alliance people from across the nation have responded to the Call on the Gulf Coast by giving, going, praying, and sending. "God used a terrible circumstance to open a door for ministry," says Smith. "Today, the people are willing to listen, because it is the Church that has made the difference."  

Waveland Update 08-06
[Wed, 9 Aug 2006 13:27:34 -0600]
Dear Friends and partners: 
 
I just received a glowing report from Art Baruffi, our Director for Relief Ministries in Waveland Mississippi. As you know Gulf Coast Disaster Relief, turned over to the CMA and Christian Life Center, the continuation of ministry in Waveland and Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. We were convinced that the best thing for long term healing for that area so devastated by Katrina, was not an organization 3 hours away directing its recovery, but a local group. Thus the formation of CLC Gulf Coast Inc. I will continue to serve as a Board Member on the Transition Team and will help guide the team as we continue to minister to the many needs on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. 
     This new organization will soon have its own building and will continue to help meet the needs of the local people for many years. Not only will Life Skills be taught to help train people for jobs, etc, but a continuation of building projects through the end of this year and then as needs arise. 
     Pastor Art and Pat Baruffi are heading up the transition team that will continue to rebuild homes as they rebuild lives. I am forwarding Art’s letter to you as well so you can get a picture of what has happened and what God is still doing.  
     Yes, we are still there, almost a year later, the CHURCH is still there, doing what God has asked the CHURCH to do, meet the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of hurting people. It really doesn’t get any better than this, being the very heart of God for needy people. 
     A praise note as I close this update, a Pastor of a very missions-minded church in Nebraska called me a few weeks ago and said, “Pastor Don, our senior pastor and I would like to come down and visit with you and the team in late August. We have sent teams and funds down to Waveland for several months and every time our people come back, they are deeply moved by God. Now that you are starting Christian Life Center that will remain to meet the needs of people so devastated by Katrina, we want to be a part of the “New Beginnings.” We want to see how we can partner with you to build a spiritual foundation that will last through the storms of life. We are ready to help in a substantial way!” 
     When I got off the phone with that pastor, I was again reminded of how God has always worked in the C&MA. He touches people’s hearts, births within them a vision, and then empowers and equips them for service. 
     Partners, you have a chance to be a part of the “New Beginnings” in Waveland, Mississippi. We still need volunteers, we still need finances, and more than ever, we still need prayers. Thanks for holding the ropes with us. Now together, we will hold the ropes with Christian Life Center. 
     I can feel the smile of our Lord. We are still doing what He has asked us to do. 
 
     In His Joy, 
 
     Don Young,  
     Genesis Church 
     Gulf Coast Disaster Relief 

Waveland Update 6-28-06
[Thu, 29 Jun 2006 08:12:48 -0600]
It’s a boy! No, it’s a girl! No it’s both! Well what is it? It is a church plant! Camp Katrina has given birth after nine months of intense labor to a new church. On July 1, Camp Katrina will be turned over to Christian Life Center (CLC), a ministry of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in the Southern District. 
     What a transformation! Pastor Rick of Christian Life Church (non-C&MA) and I decided that it was time to see a church started from our early Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. We have been praying and seeking God for the right pastoral couple to take this ministry to a church-plant level for several months. Every time we thought we had a couple, something would change in the last minute, and we would be a ground zero again.  
     As we continued to pray, it became evident that the C&MA has been a prominent partner in helping us get the needed relief to so many people in Waveland, Mississippi. Over half of the volunteers that come weekly, are from Alliance churches throughout the United States. More than $300,000 has been donated from C&MA sources. The current leadership team of Art and Pat Baruffi, along with Shannon Lenox, are all Alliance people. So it became evident to us that God was leading us to turn over the leadership and coordination of Camp Katrina and this new church plant to the C&MA.  
     The Baruffis have been ministering to about sixty people for the past several months. They still have 400 projects that need to be completed and from those, many more people will come to the Lord. They are expecting twenty kids at the three-day VBS on site. 
     Art and Pat are scheduled to stay through August and are seeking God about living her for another two years in order to help plant this new church. Shannon Lenox has been asked to stay to coordinate the volunteers that will be needed to continue the ministry. Pastor Rick and I will be available as coaches and mentors as needed. We do not want to walk away from this new birth. We will be aggressively seeking funds to keep the ministry going. It will take at least $12,000 per month to operate. So please PRAY with us as we seek God for the financial needs. 
     Since we are changing leadership from Gulf Coast Disaster Relief to the Christian Life Center, we are asking that all volunteers coming to serve be prepared to help with the daily expenses of operations. It is for this reason that, beginning July 1, all volunteers will be asked to bring $25.00 per day, per person to help with the expenses. This will cover their room and board as well as help with operating costs.  
     Many of you know Meg Wilson. She has done a tremendous job coordinating the volunteers. She has been on staff at Christian Life Church. She will be moving to Auburn, Alabama to take another ministry position in media. Meg has turned over the volunteers to Shannon Lenox, and he can be reached at the same address,CampKatrina @gmail.com. We at Gulf Coast Disaster Relief are so grateful to Meg for her sacrifice of love. Pray for her during these days of transition. 
     With the changing of the guard at Camp Katrina, we will focus our efforts on getting ready for the next storm. We are building a large warehouse in Orange Beach that will store our equipment and tents. Thanks to you, we have come along way from a back yard grill and a tarp. Pastor Rick and I have come to the conclusion that we are better equipped to be a first-response team rather than a stay-a-year-long team. We want to come alongside churches and help them to respond to their local needs. So we continue to prepare for the next crisis. We realize that Waveland was different. After the terrible storm, there were no churches able to do the work of the church. So we responded and became the Church in action. Now God is raising up a church, and others that we have helped are now strong enough to continue on. What a blessing! 
 
     What can you do? Glad you asked! Here are a few things: 
 
• Pray for the transition between Gulf Coast Disaster Relief and the Christian Life Center of the C&MA. 
• Pray for the needed volunteers to do the continued relief ministry of rebuilding homes and lives. We need fifty volunteers per week. Pray for Shannon Lenox as he takes over this ministry. 
• Pray that God will provide the needed funds, $12,000 per month to cover operating expenses. 
• Pray for Art and Pat Baruffi as they seek God about continued ministry as lead pastor of this new work. 
• Pray for Pastor Rick and Pastor Don as they prepare for the next storm or crisis. 
• Pray for the 400 families that have applied for help from Camp Katrina. These families represent a tremendous opportunity to serve a broken community and share Christ. 
 
     Until we get a bank account set up under the name of Christian Life Center, please continue to send any gifts to Gulf Coast Disaster Relief c/o Genesis Church, 3100 S. McKenzie St. Foley, Alabama 36535 
     I can never thank you all enough for all that you have done in helping the many thousands in Waveland. What a blessing you have been to them. Eternity will tell the whole story, but we see the many chapters daily. Without you, little would have been accomplished. With you great things God has done! Thank you. 
 
Pastor Don 
Genesis Church, Foley Alabama 
 

From Pastor Don Young
[Tue, 13 Jun 2006 06:56:14 -0600]
Greetings friends and partners in the ministry: 
     I know, I know, it’s been too long since our last update. I have been so encouraged by the amounts of phone calls, emails, and notes, all saying in essence, “Hey Pastor Don, have you forgotten us, we need to know what’s going on in Mississippi? We still want to help, our people are praying, we are still with you.” 
     The main reason I haven’t written an update, is simply because I have been waiting to announce the birth of a new baby, our first church in Waveland. We thought after nine months, we would be able to start a church from the many contacts of people that we have helped. In reality we can, we just are waiting upon God for the right Pastoral Couple to take on the challenge and opportunity. 
     As you know we started this ministry nine months ago with Pastor Rick Long of Christian Life Church in Orange Beach, Alabama. Since then we have interviewed several possible Pastoral Candidates to continue the ministry and relief efforts on the Gulf Coast. We were very close to having a couple come and take over, but at the last moment, they felt directed to remain where they were serving. 
     We have a few more options to look at through the month of June, and then we are faced with a critical decision. Both Pastor Rick and I feel that for the growth and strength of the relief effort a local church must either take over or a new one started. We cannot continue to run things from 3 hours away. The people need to be shepherded and taught along with rebuilding their homes. 
     That doesn’t mean we won’t continue to give advice and spiritual council. Neither does it mean that we wouldn’t raise needed funds and seek volunteers. It just means the leadership and day to day decisions would be made from the Local group as they grown and not from us, Alabamians three hours away. 
     Art and Pat Baruffi, along with their team, have done a great job in gathering the people together for Bible Study and Prayer. I asked Art to write up some nuggets that I will share with you in a moment. Before that, please pray for the following: 
Here are a few nuggets from Art Baruffi’s report. 
     We currently have 400 outstanding work orders from people in the area that need help in rebuilding their homes. 
     Well we could go on, but I just wanted to catch you up on some powerful answers to Prayer. Thanks so much for your continued support. Some of you have asked about Miss Helen, our 85 year old African American blind woman. She lost her leg in surgery due to illness and is basically in need of 24/7 care. We are about to complete the repairs on the rental home owned by her niece. When that is finished, Miss Helen will stay with them until their new home in Pass Christian is completed. We are going to help them build a room that is handicapped assessable so that Miss Helen will be cared for during her remaining days. Continue to pray for the family. 
     Again, blessings on you all. I promise to get a report out to you much quicker next time. We are sensing that God wants to do something extraordinary during this next phase and we are excited. 
 
     In His Joy, 
 
     Pastor Don Young 
     Genesis Church 
     3100 S. McKenzie St. 
     Foley, AL 36535 

Waveland Work Continues
[Thu, 1 Jun 2006 07:16:19 -0600]
God's Kingdom Agenda 
"With hurricane season beginning again, Alliance relief workers in Waveland, Mississippi, are looking for a church to move to," says Don Young, pastor of Genesis (Alliance) Church in Foley, Alabama, who spearheaded the project in partnership with Pastor Rick Long from Christian Life Center in Foley. "It's been nine months since Hurricane Katrina devastated this area," says Young, "and we still have much to do." 
     From meeting urgent needs immediately after the August 2005 hurricane to the clean-up of tons of debris to the current rebuilding stage, Young and his partners in ministry have lived up to their commitment to be there for "the long haul." To date, more than 3,500 volunteers from across the country, mostly from Alliance churches, have given their time, strength, and love to the people of Waveland as well as New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have poured in to make the effort possible.  
     In anticipation of another summer of storms, Young says that it's important to finish the current building projects before going on to the next. Volunteer teams from an average of 1,000 miles away are rebuilding ten homes a day. Gulf Coast residents are praying that they won't get hit with another storm like Katrina but realize that even a miss could bring torrential rains and flooding. "We are weatherizing the homes, working to finish roofs to protect the work that's been done." 
     Many residents, amazed by the unsolicited commitment to help rebuild Waveland and the outpouring of love, have realized their need for Jesus and have accepted Him as their Savior. "We have a core group of about sixty people," says Young. A couple who were missionaries in Kosovo are being considered to pastor the young congregation.  
     In conjunction with the church plant, a community center is planned. "The mayor told us there is a need for a gym that would provide an outlet for youth," Young says. "With a generous donation of $85,000 from the C&MA in Canada, the need will be met." The center will include the gym as well as occupational and educational resources. "This will be a tool for civic outreach." 
     Out of the debris and rubble left in the wake of the storm, the Lord's grace and provision are evident. "[It] all comes from God," says Young. "Contributions have come from many sources, including Compassion and Mercy Associates, the C&MA's relief arm, Alliance churches, World Relief, Willow Creek Church [Chicago], and people we don't know."  
     As the church plant is established and becomes self-sufficient and self-supporting, Young's vision is to see it, in time, assume responsibility to continue the rebuilding efforts. "Our focus is to plant the church so the church can carry on the work that was started here."  
     Young's vision for future ministry has expanded beyond Waveland. "Although we'll be in the background, still raising support and awareness," Young believes God has called him and a committed team of volunteers to go to the next community that is hit by a hurricane. "We have decided that the Lord has called us to be first-responders," says Young. "We are building a warehouse for equipment garnished during the past nine months so that when the next hurricane hits, we'll be ready." Young and his team will spend approximately forty-five days in affected areas, where they can meet immediate needs, identify a church to continue the work, and help to raise support as it does the job. "We learned well as [Alliance] missionaries, so we're applying what we were taught on the home front," he says. "It works when you let God have a Kingdom agenda." 

Waveland Update 3/27/06
[Mon, 27 Mar 2006 14:30:27 -0700]
Greetings fellow prayer warriors! 
     What a month! God has been so faithful and we are enjoying so many blessings. Your prayers are being answered daily and we are seeing some tremendous things happen both on and off the campsite. Many people are asking me, “Pastor Don, how in the world are you able to keep the interest high and the funds coming in order to complete the work God has given you in Mississippi? After all it’s been 7 months and you guys are still there!” That’s a miracle in itself, seven months, and Christian Life Church and Genesis Church are still partnering together, seeing God rebuild Waveland and Bay St. Louis Mississippi, one house at a time. 
     In fact we have a short 3 minute DVD that we just did giving some information about this next phase, Phase Three, Rebuilding ! If you would like a copy to show in your church, just send an email to Meg Wilson, at campkatrina@gmail.com and request the latest DVD on Camp Katrina. This will help in getting more prayer support and finances to rebuild homes. 
     Some Praise Reports: 
Some Prayer Requests: 
     Some of you have asked about the continued financial needs. Here is a list of things that may be helpful as you pray about ways to fund the rebuilding effort. This is what your money can help buy: 
     Again, thanks to you are many friends of Camp Katrina and the wonderful people of Waveland and Bay St. Louis; we are able to remain here on site. We pray for you as well. We know that without you, we wouldn’t be here. God has given us a tremendous partnership with thousands of people all over the USA. What a privilege it is to work with you and know that our efforts are prayed for daily.  
     I am looking forward to Easter and the great opportunity we will have to reach a lot of people in the area with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. May you have a blessed day. 
 
     In His Joy, 
 
     Pastor Don Young 
     Genesis Church 

Waveland Update 3-6-06
[Tue, 7 Mar 2006 11:52:21 -0700]
February has been a month of transitions and blessings. God is so good. We are excited about what is happening and the blessings keep coming. Let me relate a few stories to you. One is an extension of Waveland and the others are products of Camp Katrina. 
     John and Suzanne stopped by my office in Foley, Alabama, a few months ago. They were alumni of the University in Mississippi and heard about Camp Katrina and wanted to give some significant funds to help in the relief efforts. In conversation with them, I found out that they were Christians but not attending a church. So we prayed together. I didn’t see them again for a number of weeks.  
     Again they brought money for Camp Katrina. This time they promised to attend church when they returned form their weekend away. During that weekend, Suzanne accidentally swallowed a pain patch that severely obstructed her breathing. They rushed her to the hospital, where doctors said, “There is little we can do for her. She appears to be brain dead.” What a shock! So young, newly married, a whole lifetime ahead, and now this… 
     I got the call on Sunday afternoon. We traveled three hours to Meridian, Mississippi, to pray with Johnny, and what I saw was devastating. We went in to pray for Suzanne, knowing that the doctors were expecting to take her off of life support in the next few days. The Genesis Church intercessors, along with prayer warriors around the globe, were praying for Suzanne. As we prayed, Suzanne moved her legs, arms, and head. God was putting life back into Suzanne. It was so amazing to watch.  
vThe next day, they took Suzanne off the support system, and she sat up in bed and was able to read the note I left for her on the white board. Praise God! Suzanne and Johnny were in church the next Sunday, and her miraculous recovery from death to life was so powerful. This family was an indirect contact from Camp Katrina. They came to give money for the relief efforts, and God had other things in mind for them. They have since rededicated their lives to God and are part of the Genesis Church family. 
     I knew that story would bless your hearts. God still does miracles! Let me give you some local stories at Camp Katrina that will also bless your hearts. 
     A young lady with a debilitating but not fatal cancer showed up at camp in tears. She just received word from the building inspectors that her block home was not able to be repaired. Our team went out to check and found that, with some careful planning and restructuring, her home can be saved. She had some finances, and we had some from special gifts. Soon her home will be rebuilt. 
     Cherie signed up for help in December. Her request got placed in the files along with many, many others. When we had the teams to do the work, we began to call some of the ones that were in the old files. When Greta talked with her three months later, asking if there was still a need for help, Cherie cried, “Just last night I asked God for help, I found that I owed $3500 in back mortgage interest and was so distraught. How was I going to be able to finish my home? And then you call. God’s timing is perfect.”  
     A gal named Rose attended the first support-group meeting held at Camp Katrina. She was among eight who came and responded. Rose desires to be a part of a ladies Bible study. Pat Baruffi will start that group in a few weeks. We are expecting 15–20 ladies. Praise God for this opportunity. 
     Brandon, a young volunteer from Canada, gave his heart to Jesus while doing repair work at a local Baptist church. What a blessing that was for the entire Camp Katrina volunteer base.  
     Hampton has been getting closer to receiving Christ each week. Several teams have helped him with the rebuilding of his home. He has been able to see Christ in action in the lives of these volunteers. He is a very religious man, but has yet to have a relationship with Jesus. He was miraculously spared during the Katrina storm. He tells about he and his wife taking his very heavy, wheel-chair bound mother-in-law up through a four-foot high attic space to escape the raging waters. The flood waters came within inches of engulfing them. They talk about God’s protection and the protection of the saints. Pray that they soon will move from a religion to a relationship with Jesus Christ. 
     I could go on, but I will save some for next month. Needless to say friends, God is working, and many people are being blessed. Homes are being rebuilt and lives changed. We hope to start on Mrs. Helen’s home this month. Remember she is the 85 year old blind African-American lady. What a blessing.  
     Please pray for our leadership team in place. Art and Pat Baruffi, Shannon Lenox, Steve Creel, and Greta. Pray for Pastor Rick Long and myself as we continue to raise up prayer and financial support for the rebuilding phase of Camp Katrina. Blessings on you all. 
 
Pastor Don Young 

Waveland/Camp Katrina Update
[Wed, 22 Feb 2006 13:57:04 -0700]
CAMP KATRINA UPDATE: Greetings again partners in the ministry. What a blessed week we are having at Camp Katrina. The transition between Pastor Art and Pastor Jimmy went well. We had a grand gala event for Jimmy. A choir from the First Missionary Baptist Church, his parents, and lots of friends were on site to say thanks for a job well done. Pastor Jimmy is now heading to Tennessee to start a church with the Assemblies of God. We pray God’s blessing upon him and this new opportunity to serve. 
     Now the new era with Pastor Art begins. We are thankful that he and Pat are on loan to us for at least six months. They bring a much-needed dimension to our current stage of ministry. As you know we are in Phase Three of our ministry—rebuilding homes. This requires a knowledge of construction as well as ministry. Pastor Art brings to Camp Katrina a wide understanding of construction, and he has assembled a leadership team that also understands and works in construction. 
     Since we are in Phase Three of our ministry, the rebuilding of homes, I need to re-state our objectives and goals: We all know how great the opportunities were for ministry when we were located at the Big K Plaza—60,000 square feet of space under five large tents. 
     Now we are in a 7,000-square-foot building with little space to store equipment and building materials. Yet God is working His wonders in His way. That little Napa Building has turned into a kitchen and café, a 100-bed, five-star dorm for our volunteers, complete with showers and a small warehouse for building supplies. Also, we have a nice computer room for needed contact with the outside world. 
     Who can come? Obviously, the ministry focus has changed, and we are limited to what we can now do. We are no longer a distribution center, so we have little opportunity to hand out items that people need. We are basically a rebuilding center. With that comes three basic opportunities:
     
  1. Kitchen and Camp Katrina Maintenance: Volunteers who come will be asked to spend time in the preparation and serving of food for all of the volunteers at camp. This would also include the washing of pots, pans, etc. An important ministry and service to the camp. Without food, we can’t work! 
  2. Camp Katrina Maintenance: This includes all of the equipment that we use on the jobs, vehicles, trucks, machines of all kinds, tools, the shop, etc. Volunteers who work here need knowledge of basic tools and equipment. They also need knowledge of truck maintenance. 
  3. Home Rebuilding: Those volunteering for this ministry must have a general knowledge of construction, i.e. roofing, sheet rock, painting, electrical, plumbing, framing, etc.
 
     I received an email the other day from a friend saying, “I guess I can’t come back. I don’t have the skilled labor experience you mentioned in the last email update.” 
     My response was, “Yes, you can come back. But you must work in one of the above ministries. If you don’t have knowledge in construction, how about volunteering in the kitchen or maintenance?” 
     Not everyone can put on a roof or lay sheet rock, but some can! Not everyone can maintain equipment, but some can! However, everyone can work in the kitchen, clean tables, keep the dorms and showers clean, and serve food. So there is a spot for you at Camp Katrina. We need many volunteers during these next months. Just send Meg Wilson an email at CampKatrina@gmail.com. She will send you all the information you need. 
     Some of you are asking if the age limit of 18 is still in effect? Yes, it is in certain job assignments. Liability issues still keep us from allowing underage young people from doing certain construction jobs. There are some exceptions but very few. We are making those choices on a case-by-case basis. We expect to have more opportunities for young people as we work with churches during the summer, perhaps through VBS and other ministries. You can check back with us on that. 
     I hope I have been able to clear up any misconceptions about this next phase and what God has us doing at the present time. We need your prayers. We are having a greater opportunity to minister to families than ever before, and we want to take advantage of each of these “God moments.” 
     Let me give you some neat stories as I close this update:
Shannon was taking Gail to pick up some drywall so the crew could finish her house. During the several-hour round trip, Shannon had the opportunity to share Christ. Gail had never heard with clarity such a presentation. She was open to receive Christ. When she got back with the sheet rock, the team had the joy of praying with her and leading her to Christ. What a blessing!
 
     Charlotte needed help with some cabinets. Pastor Art and Pat have been working with her. She never heard or understood a clear presentation of the gospel. She had a belief that God was a God of love and that because of His love, everyone went to heaven. She never heard about judgment or understood about hell. She is open to learn more and is close to accepting Christ. Continue to pray for her. 
     Scott and Rose lost everything. Our teams have helped in the clean-up, electrical, laying sheet rock and much more. Scott and Rose can’t forget the love of Christ that they see every day through our teams. Art and Pat have an inroad to share Christ in a more direct way. Pray that Scott and Rose will soon become Christians. 
     What a blessing we still have. Think of it. We are being called by God to “stay by the stuff,” so that many can hear of the love of Jesus. What a joy, what an awesome opportunity. 
     My friends, you have kept Camp Katrina going for almost six months. Without your support, Camp Katrina would not be able to function. God is using you to pray, give, and go! Sounds almost missionary, doesn’t it? Well it is. It’s on foreign soil to many of you. The South, and especially southern Mississippi, is so different from anything most of you have ever experienced. They speak differently, they eat differently, and they live differently. Yet you continue to come, and that has blown these people completely out of the water. They cannot understand why you would come! They can’t understand why you would stay as long as you do and work as hard as you do. Then they see the love of Jesus and that makes all the difference in the world. 
 
     Pastor Don 

CAMP KATRINA UPDATE #16 January 28, 2006
[Wed, 1 Feb 2006 08:22:54 -0700]
Editor’s note: God continues to provide, bless, and expand His Kingdom through the compassionate outreach of hundreds of Alliance volunteers and benefactors. Pastor Don Young gives another breathtaking account of God’s Divine intervention in the rebuilding of Waveland, Mississippi. 
 
To all of our partners in blessing: 
     It is such a blessing to help these dear people, and all of you are such a huge part of every blessing. It would be impossible to do what we are seeing done without you…so THANKS! 
     Let me give you some updates. First, Pastor Jimmy will be moving to start a church near Nashville, Tenn. in the coming weeks. He has done a tremendous job in directing the overall ministry of Camp Katrina. Many have felt his pastoral heart, and we will miss him terribly. However, God doesn’t close one door without opening another. Pastor Art and Pat Baruffi from Vineland, New Jersey, will be replacing Jimmy as of February 12, 2006. This team brings to Camp Katrina unusual skills: 
     Do I hear someone out there shouting, “PRAISE GOD!” I thought so. Now for some great stories for you to share with your friends and families: 
     Here are a few Prayer request: 
     Again thanks for your love and sacrificial giving. Continue to Pray, come and visit us, and stay awhile…we will leave the lights on for you. 
 
     In His Love, 
 
     Pastor Don Young 
     Genesis Church 

Waveland Update 1-16-05
[Mon, 16 Jan 2006 08:03:38 -0700]
CAMP KATRINA UPDATE #15: As you know Christmas on the coast was a tremendous success. More than 30,000 came and were blessed beyond belief. Thanks to hundreds of very tired volunteers.  
     On Christmas Eve, team members went Christmas caroling! Talk about encouraging, WOW! One of the neat things that came out of that evening was Miss Ellen! She lost her home in the storm and was living in a FEMA mobile unit when our team arrived. When Pastor Jimmy asked how the team could help, the person who answered said, “Oh thank you, we have been praying for you.” “I am leaving to return to my home, and we have been feeding Miss Ellen. She has no family and no one to take care of her. Can you help?” Pastor Jimmy said, “That’s why we are here. We can bring food to Miss Ellen, as well as get her house rebuilt!” 
     Miss Ellen told me later, “Pastor Don that was the best Christmas gift I have ever received. I have seen and felt the love of Jesus like never before.” Now, what makes this story even more powerful, Miss Ellen is an 85-year-old African American blind woman. Whenever we visit her, she always says, “Oh, I see you, I see Jesus in you. Thanks so much for your love.” 
     Let me tell you friends, I can’t leave Miss Ellen’s house without being reminded of why we are still in Waveland. There are a lot of spiritual blind people in the area that lost everything, and they need to see the love of Jesus, not just hear about it. If you come to Camp Katrina, you will visit Miss Ellen. When you do, bring a box of Kleenex! 
 
Phase 2 of Relief Efforts 
We are actively in Phase Two of our relief efforts. We have gone from relief to rebuilding. From distribution to clean-up. From feeding to cutting down trees and laying sheet rock. We are getting dirty and loving every mud-filled day of it!  
     Let me give you another Kleenex moment. We have Kodak moments and Kleenex moments here in Waveland. During a break, a woman came to the NAPA building, our new headquarters, to request help. I was talking with her and was moved by her story. 
     Her name is Charlotte. She and her husband had lived in New Orleans, made their money to retire, and chose Bay St. Louis on the water to live. They built a nice home on the fast moving river, away from the busy Gulf Coast. They were very happy. 
     She was in New Orleans closing a real estate deal when the storm hit. Her husband, stayed back to watch their home. He died in the storm, swept away by the flooding surge that was over 30 feet, destroying all they owned. She found him later. He was gone, and all hope seemed to be gone with him. She didn’t know how to cope. She knew the Lord, but as with many, retirement seemed to push them away from church. They were too busy having fun. Now, reality has set in, and it is only the love and peace of God that has sustained her. 
     We have had the joy of providing all the sheet rock needed to re-do her house. A team came in and did the electrical work. She is living on site in a FEMA unit. Soon however, because of the love of so many, she will be back in her home. Her faith has been restored, and God is ministering to her needs. 
     There are a lot of Charlottes out there as. What if we had gone back to our comforts in Alabama? What if we had just stayed a few weeks, given out a few boxes of food, some blankets, a few Bibles, and a quick, “God bless you, we will pray that God will help you? What if . . . 
     Ah, my friends, I thank God every day that He has allowed us to be a part of what He is doing on the Gulf Coast. I thank God that we can partner with Christian Life Church (local Foley church) and demonstrate to a community that two different churches with two different pastors can work together in unity to stay the course and be “The Church of Jesus, not a church.” 
 
Large Warehouse Needed 
As you know, we had to move from our Big K site and 60,000 sqare feet of work space in five tents to a crowded, 7,000 square foot NAPA Auto Parts store. We are piled high in that building! We feed our staff, sleep, and store what we have in and around and all over that building. The fun part . . . the building is under renovation. It also was hit also by the storm, and we are building as we go. Not an easy task! Please pray for a large warehouse to come available. We need the space for all of the building supplies.  
     We have a new director of volunteers for Camp Katrina. She is Meg Wilson and is on staff at Christian Life Church, with Pastor Rick, and has been the director of media and public relations. She has her degree and expertise in audio/video/media but is taking on this task with renewed energy and resolve. She takes over for Trudi Champion who returned to her ministry at CLC. 
     Let me give you some ways to help Meg do the best job possible.
     
  1. Email her at campkatrina@gmail.com She will send you the needed info. Please send the paperwork back to her as soon as possible for confirmation on dates, etc. This is important, since we are in limited space until we secure a larger warehouse. Please also send me a copy of your emails. This allows me to keep up with the C&MA people responding. 
  2. Also, please remember that we are in Phase 2 not Phase 1. We no longer distribute items to people. We no longer have a store, we no longer hand out clothes, we no longer feed crowds of people, we no longer unload 8-10 trucks a day. That is why we are asking for a different kind of volunteer in the days that are ahead.  
  3. Phase 2 needs volunteers who have experience in building and construction. We are tearing houses down and starting over. We are also re-building homes that have a structure, but need all new insides. Electrical, plumbing, sheetrock, windows, doors, etc. So we are looking for skilled laborers in those areas. We will still need people to come and help clean up the camp site, cook meals and pack sandwich bags, etc. But most of the work will be off-site.  
  4. That being said, I know that I may have hit a sore spot, but please try and understand our perspective. We simply must adhere to the 18 and over age limit for construction. The danger and liabilities are enormous. We are here for the long haul and cannot compromise that opportunity. We have had many youth groups call and want to come during the summer. When we say we don’t know if that will be possible under the current site, they get frustrated with us. Many people think that Waveland is like a missions trip to Latin America or Mexico. Believe me, I have been to 35 countries, and I have never seen devastation like this. Conditions are bad on-site and dangerous at best. So we must take extra precautions. When we do so, we often look like the bad guy. Please understand, we don’t want to keep anyone from having an opportunity to serve these dear and needy people of Waveland. We are sure that down the line opportunities will open up as we work with churches in summer programs, but currently, under our conditions, it makes it difficult to have young people under 18 on job sites. 
  5. We will all follow the decisions made by the director of volunteers and the Camp Katrina leadership team as it pertains to future teams, dates available, number coming, and the requirements for coming. These requirements will change as our ministries change. We will have younger teams coming for different kinds of ministries as we move forward, especially when we work with the other churches. Let’s continue to keep the people in Waveland and the Kingdom agenda that God raises as our focal point.  
  6. Pray also for a pastoral couple that is currently seeking God about joining us in Waveland for an extended time. We need a pastoral couple on site to minister to the hurting needs of both men and women. We have such a couple in mind. They are seeking God this week to direct and provide for them. Join them in their desire to hear from God on this issue.
 
     Again, blessings to you. In closing, let me put us all back in perspective. A dear woman was crying the other day when I gave her some gift cards from a church in New Jersey. These cards represent hundreds of dollars at Wal-Mart and Home Depot. She cried, hugged me and said, “Pastor, how can I thank you?” I said, “You can’t, it’s not me! I don’t own these cards, it’s not my money. All I am is an ambassador of love. I give to you what God, through his people, gave me to give to you. So let’s thank the One who gave it.” We prayed and thanked God. 
     Sometimes in the immensity of this task and under the burden of this great opportunity, we can get lost in the moment. We can think for that we are doing a great thing. When in reality, nothing would get done and nothing would be possible without God. We are His ambassadors. We don’t have an agenda apart from His, and we don’t have the means to do this without His supply. He supplies through you, His choice for Waveland. That makes me feel so special. 
     I’m looking forward to sending the next update already. Hope to see many of you soon in Waveland. 
 
     Pastor Don 
     Genesis Church 

Relief Recipient Thanks Alliance
[Wed, 28 Dec 2005 11:41:41 -0700]
I am writing to thank all of you for the blessings you have brought to us in Waveland/Bay St Louis. In a time when everyone talks only of misfortunes, I want to share the good things I have received during this trying time. My family has survived the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina due to your generosity and love.  
     The Saturday before the hurricane we prepared for evacuation as we had during previous hurricane warnings. I loaded up our family photos, enough clothing for three days, and an ice chest of soft drinks and snacks for the kids. My parents, who lived in New Orleans, made hotel reservations in Winnfield, Louisiana, for us and my siblings’ families.  
     Anticipating about six hours on the road in bumper to bumper traffic, we decided to leave early. My husband, a funeral director, decided to stay behind, feeling he would be needed in Bay St. Louis. After 45 minutes of pleading with him to go with us, my husband finally called his office to say he would be evacuating and would return in a few days.  
 
Lives Changed in a Night 
     We spent Saturday night and Sunday lounging by the pool and enjoying the sunny skies, not giving much though about the impending storm. We were safe, and that was all that mattered. But our world changed in just one night. On the morning of August 29, our worst fears were realized. The eye of the storm passed right over my parents’ home, my newlywed brother’s home, my sister’s home, and my brother-in-law’s home. That meant that my home in Bay St Louis, east of New Orleans, would be in the worst part of the storm. I never once thought that my home would be flooded; after all, it was four miles from the beach.  
 
Silent Destruction 
     When I returned to Bay St. Louis with my husband and supplies, I thought I was ready, but nothing could have prepared me for what I saw. All was silent; not even a bird in sight. Everything was destroyed. Cars were on top of homes; boats on top of churches. Buildings were swamped; homes washed away. There were empty spaces where once there had been life and color. Everything was black and gray. I will never forget that moment.  
     Everything was wet, moldy, and ruined. My daughter’s baby dolls were strewn through the house. Shoes and clothing were everywhere. The stench from the refrigerator was awful. All of my furniture was destroyed. I had to leave. I couldn’t bear looking at it. We had just finished remodeling our home in July. All our hard work was down the drain.  
     Five weeks later we returned, bringing the kids with us. I felt that they had to see the power of a storm like this or they would not fear it in the future. I wanted to make sure they understood why we evacuated and why I wanted them to promise me that they would always keep their family safe from these storms in the future. We began to throw things out that day. The children helped us remove their toys. It broke my heart, but I knew the lesson was important. On the way back to our hotel in Louisiana, our children thanked us for evacuating and told us everything would be alright.  
 
Unexpected Help 
     We received a FEMA trailer on October 31 and were able to move “back home” on November 4. The kids began school on November 7. There were no grocery stores, laundry facilities, hardware stores, or drugstores. That’s when I found the Christian Life Center, better known as the “Big White Tent.” Volunteers provided canned goods, snacks, juice, and water. I was able to get clothing, shoes, and socks. I didn’t realize until then that I had only one pair of jeans.  
     Then the kind and generous relief volunteers were asked to move their tent city. Many prayers were answered when they found a building to move into. This is when Phase II of their mission began—rebuilding and helping with donations of materials and building supplies. Volunteers from across the country flocked here to lend a hand.  
     When a friend of mine told me about this new phase, I immediately went to the center to seek help. I completed some paperwork and left. Within 24 hours I received a call, and 16 hours after that, the beginning of a new roof was on our home! We had no money for a roof or to complete any work in our gutted home. This gift became our Christmas miracle.  
     Your volunteers have shown concern and love for all of us and have promised that only good things will begin to happen. They have given me hope to keep my faith strong and to survive. I have made many new friends and will continue to encourage those who wish to donate tools and building supplies to your mission. What Hurricane Katrina took from us in one day cannot compare to what you have given back to us. Please walk with us until we reach the end of our long road. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. 
 
     Your friend, 
     Ellen Hoffmann 
     Bay St Louis, Mississippi 

Christmas in Waveland
[Mon, 19 Dec 2005 10:16:57 -0700]
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3 
 
Dear Partners in the ministry: 
     It is 3:00 am, Monday, December 19. I have just returned from one of the greatest events in my long life of ministry. I couldn’t wait to share this with you, thus I am writing this update very early in the morning. Sunday evening was a God moment in the lives of thousands of people. We were celebrating Christmas on the coast in a State park in Waveland, Mississippi. We had adopted some 6,000 children and purchased toys for each one of them. We also had 6,000 blankets, lots of pillows, and tons of toys to give to any who came. It was an awesome evening. The crowds far exceeded the expected 14,000 people. Police estimated more than 30,000 people in attendance. What a blessing! Families were lined up for city blocks, and cars were backed up for miles trying to get to the park entrance. 
     We had inflatable rides, “snow mountains” where they could throw snowballs or build a snowman, lots of Christmas music, and even a Santa Claus. Three giant tents filled with food, toys, and much more provided a venue to fellowship and love. 
     One lady said, “We wouldn’t have had Christmas if it weren’t for you folks.” Another young boy was crying for a bike, but all of them had been given away. One of the team members gave the family enough Walmart gift cards for the boy to get a bike. The young boy tearfully said, “Thanks.” An African American lady, overwhelmed with the love that was extended to her family, responded, “This is the greatest Christmas my children will ever know.” 
     An excited Father said, “Thanks so much for staying. You have shown us so much love. What has been shown us tonight can never be duplicated. We would have never survived without you. The church has been the church.” 
     Friends, I wish I could have put you all in my pocket tonight so you could see what is happening. All of this made possible because you gave. Thousands of toys came from you. Hundreds of Walmart cards came from you. Truckloads of goods came from you. That’s right…you have made this all possible. How do I say thank you? I looked into the faces of thousands of children tonight. We were able to see them smile. One mother said, “This is the first time my son has smiled in months, thank you.”  
     So on behalf of 30,000 plus people tonight in Waveland, Mississippi, Thank You! Thanks for your sacrifices. Thanks for your compassion. Thanks for your demonstrated love. Our volunteers tonight, more than 140, came from all over the USA. A mother and daughter came from New Jersey for this event. They said, “We will never be the same, and when we get back to our church, they will never be the same.” We had people from California, Oregon, Wisconsin, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Minnesota, Georgia and Alabama. What an army of warriors for the King! Jesus was glorified tonight!  
     Also, thanks for praying for warehouse to store all of the building supplies. We are close to getting one soon for this next phase. Continue to pray for favor among city officials and safety of the many volunteers that come our way. 
     These next few weeks will be transitional for us. Pray for wisdom on our part. We want to be godly examples to the many families we are helping.  
     Marlen and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Because of your giving, thousands of displaced people from Mississippi will enjoy a great Christmas. We look forward to working with you during these next months. We are already cleaning five houses a day. 
     Again, thanks. My heart is overflowing tonight from what I have just experienced. The best days are yet ahead of us. The relationships established tonight will go a long way as we continue to help rebuild the small, forgotten town of Waveland, Mississippi. 
 
     We love you all, 
 
     Pastor Don Young, 
     Genesis Church 
     3100 S. McKenzie St. 
     Foley, AL 36535 
     (251) 986-5843  

Purse-onal Relief
[Mon, 19 Dec 2005 07:52:08 -0700]
“What would I do without my purse?” thought Gloria Green, member of Fallen Timbers Community (Alliance) Church, Toledo, Ohio, as she reached for her handbag. In that moment, a new ministry was born. “So many women lost everything they own because of Hurricane Katrina,” says Green, “including their purses.”  
     A woman’s purse is an extension of herself. It is the last item she grabs before leaving her home. Precious cargo is carried in it—from money to family photos, from a favorite lipstick to her checkbook and more. Green went to her closet, found three unused purses, and prayed that the Lord would show her what needs could be met through handbags. In each new one, she put a Bible, pen, and notepad, Kleenex, soap, and more personal items. Green included a handwritten note in each purse.  
     Green’s ministry reaches across denominational lines. “This was not just a C&MA effort,” says Green. “Other local churches got involved.” Nonbelievers wanted to contribute as well. “Because it is something so personal, so familiar, it has been easy for them to participate.” As Alliance women networked with other congregations, the ministry picked up momentum, and purses poured in “by the arms full,” says Green.  
     Green and a few volunteers pray over each purse donated, trusting the Lord to fill them with the perfect items for specific women in need of encouragement and hope. To date, nearly 450 purses have been distributed to hurricane victims in the Gulf Coast, including Waveland, Mississippi, where Don Young, pastor of Genesis (Alliance) Church in Foley, Alabama, has spearheaded long-term relief efforts to help 7,000 residents rebuild their lives. 
     Green sent a few cameras along with the shipments and requested that pictures be taken of women as they opened their purses. “It was a blessing to know that a tube of lipstick or some other personal item could mean so much,” says Green. She was told that one woman cried as she looked through her new handbag and said that the demonstration of loving care gave her hope to “continue on in life.”  
     “Just as the purses come to me empty and weathered and are filled with important things such as God’s Word,” Green says, “we come to the feet of Jesus, empty and worn, sometimes to the point of exhaustion. He gently fills us with His love and His Spirit and gifts and talents for a lifetime. Likewise, these purses are much more than the material they are made of. They are windows of opportunity to show God’s love.” 

New Hope for New Orleans as Work Teams Prepare to Enter City
[Thu, 15 Dec 2005 10:21:18 -0700]
Update from Willy Neudahl, Pastor of New Hope Church of the C&MA: 
We praise the Lord for his faithfulness! There is much work to be done ahead of us. We hope to soon have our own facility—a multi-purpose building that will assist in meeting the needs of those to whom we are ministering. 
     As I have said earlier, there will be opportunities for work teams to come and serve in different capacities after the first of the year and through the remainder of the year. Please pray as it is still difficult to find places for these people to stay in the New Orleans area when working. 
     Our first work team will be coming from Newton, Iowa, with about 30 people the week between Christmas and New Years. We do have access to a camp in North Baton Rouge, but this would add another three to four hours of driving time for the team members and take away from the time spent on-site. This is something I am trying to work out now, so that we will be able to house these work teams in the future. Also pray for favor with the city and government agencies, that all the red tape will not interfere with the great possibilities that will open up in the recovery process. We will work alongside these teams to provide the spiritual and follow-up support so that many will come back to their faith in the Lord Jesus and that many also will come to know Jesus Christ as Lord.  
     Please pray for wisdom and consideration as we begin to work with these different teams that are coming from different churches from around the country. Pray that the resources that are necessary for the recovery work and the rebuilding will come through. We still have limited resources here on location, so many of the work crews will bring or provide the materials or resources necessary to complete the work here. It will take time but as we progress forward, we hope that more of the resources to accomplish the relief, rebuilding, and recovery work will be on hand when needed. 
     Many of you have participated in the efforts in one way or another and we praise the Lord for your help. The task has just begun, and we are here for the completion of that task. The gospel of Christ will be manifested through the efforts of his people coming together. We have a great opportunity to make a significant difference in lives of many people and families in the days to come, so let us together go forward. 
     Please pray for our district leaders—Fred King as he works alongside us here and our district relief coordinator, Frank Smith. If you are interested in bringing a work team, it would be best to contact Frank Smith first. His email is  

Need for Contractor Filled
[Thu, 15 Dec 2005 10:02:12 -0700]
The need for a construction contractor at the ministry center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been filled. The district thanks all those who responded to the need. 

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