Reflections from Day 1 of work PART ONE

Thanks to Heather and Jesse for typing these in for me! They got about half of them done tonight while Hannah, Dali, Colby and Sam and I took a WalMart trip. We will work to upload the other half tomorrow. - Scott

Praise the Lord! Our first entry... How do I feel? Well, I feel like bubble gum. I’m chewing some right now, but seriously. First, you start with this hard chunk of stuff. I have a mindset of how things should go. Then you start chewing and, well you get stretched. Then your plans get chomped. Then you find your place; then you get stretched again. Praise the Lord! Hey, I haven’t been spit out or run out of flavor. God is and will still continue to use me. Challenges have come up, assignments have come that I feel right off are way, way out of my zone. What do you do then? You trust in an almighty God. And what has become of me now? God has stolen my heart. I see the pain in NOLA. And I know I must help God’s people; his creation. All to You Lord!! Isaiah 6:8. .. Use me Lord!
-Adam Bridges

During the time we have spent here in New Orleans, God has really reinforced the idea of service in me. The homeowner at my worksite today said how much he appreciated our group for coming to help out people we didn’t even know. This really stuck with me and made me question myself why anyone would do that sort of thing. It’s because we are all created and loved by God and I want to show that love with the people in New Orleans. My faith needs to be more than just going to church and praying once in a while. I need to be like Jesus and help people, even strangers.
-Laura Mason

This isn’t what I pictured it would be but I would not hesitate for one minute to do it again and again… The feeling you get from helping people truly in need is unmatched by any other feeling I’ve ever had. “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2.)
-Jordan Rogers

There are two children we met in Day 1. The little girl I was able to meet is just a little younger than Elizabeth. She is very excited to see a picture of Elizabeth tomorrow. This little girl will grow up hearing about Christ at least from her grandmother. The second little girl may never hear of Christ, except through what she hears this week from us. As I think of my family and those so close to us it is so clear how blessed we are. One of our memory verses says, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” I pray that we begin to notice each of these families we come in contact with. May we meet their needs this week in New Orleans, and then, that I dare to do the same in Maine.
-Rus Willette

It is heartbreaking to see how much still needs to be done, so many abandoned homes that have not been touched. I think about and pray for these families. We talked to men today who were a block away from where the levies broke. They explained to us their trials through the hurricane and afterwards, everything from having to break through their roofs from their attic because it was the only way out to having to live in the unsanitary Super Dome. They were so open to us even though we were kind of apprehensive to them in the beginning. It made me realize that we all often worry and complain about foolish things when we have so much to be thankful for.
-Dan Larrabee


Today, the first day of work, was great. Now, looking back, I can think about the house we were at and our homeowner Maddie. I loved Maddie’s outlook on the devastation and loss: these are God’s things. He gave them, took them away and is now giving it all back. Maddie has helped me gain perspective. I’ve seen the pictures and gone through the streets, but until I was in Maddie’s house I never understood. Listening to her talk about her children, play with her granddaughter, hearing her on the phone with friends all made me realize these people aren’t defined by what has happened to them. They are just the same as us. They have lives and stories and families. Everyone is a real individual.
-Hannah Brown

When I thought about why God wanted me back in New Orleans I wrote about wanting to bring a family back into their home. Arriving on our site I very quickly felt as though I wasn’t doing anything that was going to be helpful: tilling a yard, rebuilding a patio, planting a garden, and putting up a fence. Although through the day I have thought “why am I doing this?” and eventually another team member pointed out that this trip is about rebuilding someone else’s home, and bringing them back into their life.“Where he leads me I will follow.” God has lead me to a place in which I can get a man back into his home, now I must follow Him.
-George Grant


I think something God has impressed on my heart already this week is the fact that even through the devastation of Katrina, He was in control and had a plan. We’ve talked with some Christians, homeowners and church leaders alike, who are confident in their belief that God did not permit Katrina to judge New Orleans, but rather to wake up the American church to His calling on our lives, as well as to provide an incredible ministry opportunity to “soften the hard soil of New Orleans.” I have seen more hope in the eyes of the Christians we’ve met here this year than I think I saw last year. Their commitment to make the most of the opportunity God has given them is truly inspiring to me.
-Heather Erdmann


On Sunday we had a tour of New Orleans after church. As we drove around it was sad to see the work that so needs to be done but is not. There are many homes that have not been worked on at all and others that have much work still to do before being complete. I am glad I am here to help because of what I’ve seen. I am thankful to God that I have this opportunity to help these people.
-Dali Tauwala

After just one day of work, I can see my purpose for working in a pretty junky neighborhood… to share with those who live in poverty. Today our team had a tremendous opportunity to talk with and pray with the neighbors of the building we were working on. I saw them earlier and said to myself, “Wow, I’m not talking to them!!” But clearly God thought otherwise. We talked to the three men for around 30 minutes and learned amazing things. I believe God is trying to teach me not to judge people based on their looks, but to look deeper inside their heart. We should try to help and minister to them but only by God’s grace can they be saved. “By grace you have freed me, I will not suffer anymore.” (Inhale Exhale)
-Michael Gardner

Starting off our trip to New Orleans it felt like I had never left; but now that I’ve been able to spend some time down here I’ve realized it is going to be much different than last year. I feel God has taught me so much already. One of the things I feel God has shown me so far is that not only should I be helping people during this one week we’re down here but when we return home also.
-Kelsey Berglund


I came to New Orleans to serve others and serve God. Today, we did. I realized what not a small, convenient sacrifice can feel like, but a major one. I realized I have a warped perspective of helping others. Giving up a free day of summer to help a stranger doing physical labor in the heat is a true sacrifice. I feel like this is one of the times in my life I will begin to comprehend the ultimate sacrifice Jesus did for us. It was a very rewarding feeling to know that you are doing what Jesus would do.
-Annie Criscione


This year seeing the devastation for the second time, there just wasn’t the same shock value of what we saw. Don’t get me wrong, my heart was still crushed to see it, which later got me thinking. To myself I thought, if this seems so “old hat” to me, I can’t believe how people live through in every day. This year I am realizing that this isn’t a quick struggle they fell into. So far it’s lasted 3 years. I laid awake last night thinking of how people make this their everyday life and that there is nothing that we up North would consider “Normal life.” How do they get through it and how can I help?
-Colby Adams

After driving around and seeing the city over the last 2 days, I have seen a city that has made a lot of progress. I don’t see as many blue tarps on roofs or as many FEMA trailers in front yards. But the work is not done yet nor close. We can still see houses that haven’t been touched since the storm. Today I noticed the sound of nail guns as we drove through different neighborhoods. So I’m encouraged by the work that’s been done, but also glad that we are able to help the people who aren’t back to normal yet.
-Ben Adams

As we toured the city, my face was glued to the car window watching all of the pictures I had seen of New Orleans turn to life. The trailers, the weather-beaten houses, the torn people. But why has God sent me here? Maybe to paint, do yard work, and get a lot done. But maybe it’s to talk to at least one person—to have a lasting impact on his or her life. I met a little 5 year old girl today. Did I plant a seed? Maybe. God has that figured out. I’ve found that I am down here to do what God has planned.
-Ali Strayhorn

There is progress!! I was so worried it’d all look the same. Not only is there physical progress but more importantly spiritual progress. Doug said last night that the government, the insurance companies, and the contractors all let the people down but it was and continues to be the church that truly cares about the people. Before Katrina very few people here were Christians but through the rebuilding process and process of bringing hope Christianity and God have become more than a bunch of talk but something real and true.
-Amanda Berglund

Day One Reflection: I was nervous today as I found out I was leading a team doing more than “unskilled work.” We were hanging sheetrock, ripping up tile, patching drywall, etc, and not being a contractor, I was nervous I wouldn’t know what to do. But God has shown himself over and over to me in this one day that he has given me all I need to lead this team. Additionally I’ve had a burning desire to call Joe and Annie from last year ever since we left them. Tonight I called them. She sounded so very happy to hear my voice even though her home has STILL not yet been torn down. She told me my team is working in her area and basically made me promise to stop by tomorrow. I can’t wait!
-Bob Gardner

12:45 AM and time to head back to the church

Alright bloggers, if I don't leave now (1:25 AM) I will fall asleep here in the McDonald's parking lot. Be sure to scroll down because I added some videos from the train and placed them before posts you may have read already.

Thanks so much for all the encouraging comments. I will read another bunch to the team in 7 hours when we sit down to breakfast.

Pray for us today. We've got our work projects and had to rearrange teams a bit to accomodate unexpected challenges. It's exciting to see the kids bonding so well. I wish you could have heard them share their thoughts after the tour this afternoon. The first-timers were especially struck by the devestation.

Random Stuff

"Bye Jeffrey! ... um, or was it Jimmy?"
New Orleans downpour over the Miss River Bridge
Smashing the dumpster trash down.
Cleaning the church, getting ready.
"ooka ooka hoose!"
Deuce Doohickeys (horse drawn carriages)
Ever had to pee so bad you thought you might die? Now we have.
Groomer taking on the locals in basketball.
Our leaders have gone insane! (Alicia and Robin lost in French Quarter and laughing til they cried)

A couple more

Thank the Lord for McDonald's WiFi!

Here I am experiencing deja vue. I am back at McDonald's again this year while everyone heads to bed after a very busy day. I will upload some pictures and add a comment here and there as needed.



Po' Boys sandwiches. A taste of New Orleans.


While progress is visible we still saw houses that have been untouched since Katrina hit.



On the shore of Lake Ponchatrain (is that spelled right???) The group visited the first levee break site today.

Team touring

I am writing this from the airport where I am meeting Rus. The teams are touring Nola and getting lunch with Jimmy. We will be working on his home this week.

One of those little "coincidences" ... Dan's team is working with a man who recently had surgery. The man does not want others working while he can't.Gee ... Seems like Dan was just in that same spot several months ago! Pray that Dan will be able to connect with this man and share his Hope.

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

Cleetus got us lost!

After a brief detour, we found Shoney's and had a very filling breakfast. We read about Jesus serving by washing feet and are now in the morning worship service

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

Shoneys!

We are at Shoneys for breakfast, going to church and then planning sessions

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

No decent connection

Train was more than an hour late, rental car place took forever and it's now 1215 central time and feels like 115 for me. No decent web connection and two tired to head to McDonalds.

All are here, all are safe and all are sleeping. I'm heading to bed too. Big day tomorrow!

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

Passing Time on the train

Almost there

We're sitting on Lake Ponchitrain waiting for a freight train to pass.

I'm hoping to get some pictures posted late tonight after the kids get settled.

We are due in at 830 central time.

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

Good morning from the south!

We slept, we ate, we played Uno ... Long night but fun.

Pray for the cranky ones who are not morning people. Pray for Amtrak employee Deborah.

Hopefully I can get service long enough for a blog update with pictures soon

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

I am not called?

We are riding the rails through beautiful countryside at the moment. Green trees, mountains, meadows and “red dirt.” You can ask Laura why the dirt is red. She knows. Sam thinks the “dirt fairy” came through and sprinkled it all to make it pretty.

Here is a quote from the book we are reading. It has made us think. “Not called!” did you should say? “Not heard the call,” I think you should say. Put your ear down to the Bible, and hear Him bid you go…” This from William Booth as quoted by BJ in his blog when he was just fifteen years old.

When Christians put their “ear” right down to the Bible to search for God’s heart in His Word they discover God’s heart for the hurting, his compassion for the oppressed and His desire that His followers get active in loving others.

BJ’s story is inspirational. The book, “I Would Die for You” is a quick read. Our hope is that our team members, through reading this book, develop even more of a hunger and thirst for serving others and impacting lives. So often we Christians sit in our padded seats in our brick buildings learning week after week that God really does care for people. Yet, when we interact with people who are enduring trouble, feeling hopeless and dry from thirst, we tend to walk right by without lending a hand or giving a drink. We don’t want to do that anymore.

We’ve had numerous conversations with people already. One man talked tearfully about losing his home to Katrina. But it wasn’t the storm that caused his eyes to well up, it was recounting the fact that a crew of Jesus-like teenagers came to help him in his time of need. He told us that their actions changed his mind about Christ.

On the other hand, one man was lightly teasing us about our matching shirts and asked what we were doing. When we told him that we were bound for NOLA to help rebuild after Katrina, he said matter-of-factly, “You’re too late.” He laughed and went on his way.

With 40,000 families still in FEMA trailers, we know we are not too late. In fact, because fewer and fewer teams are coming to help, the need is becoming more desperate. People think the work is done. The New Orleans Rescue Mission went from 20,000 donors last year to 3,000 this year!

It is interesting that so many people now see the church of Jesus as a place where “hate speech” is taught. That impression will remain until we support our words with actions. It is difficult to dismiss someone who refuses to stop loving and helping you.

A less than favorite train noise

This was the sound we heard every time someone went into one of the train bathrooms. Locking the door was a little tricky but it was possible without slamming it. But, most on the train preferred the slam method.

Endurance and wisdom needed

It's nearly 1030 and the kids are still going strong. Maybe it is adrenaline. We leaders, however, are getting pretty weary.

We are learning a lot about train travel! We learned that packing light is important. We learned that sitting near the bathrooms is not a good idea. We learned that we can have great conversations with people we don't know.

We're praying for a good night's sleep. It is 1045 now and all is quiet. I am thankful for answers to prayer that occurred while writing this entry. Now, if I can just get a cell signal briefly, I can send it to our blog.


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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

Pictures from our morning

Just click on the image to see a larger photo.






Our bus left Portland at 3:20 AM


Heather enjoys a slice of pizza while we wait for our train at South Station in Boston.








Robin pretends to be a stewardess and reads the emergency info to everyone while pointing out the exits.







On our way to New York City.









Heather and Shara leading the "No-neck Buzzard" song on the platform in New Haven. A chance to stretch our legs.








What a good looking group!









Jeremy said he doesn't know any songs to lead except "Happy Birthday to You."










We are all reading the book "I Would Die For You." It is the amazing story of a teenager who made a significant difference in his world.

Some fun on the train

Memorizing Verses

Okay bloggers, we have a challenge for you. We are working on memorizing 40 key Bible passages this summer. We dare you to do it along with us. Today's verses are:

John 1:12 – Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

John 3:3 - In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again."

350 and everyone's asleep. I can't sleep without my CPAP sleep apnea machine. Not to worry though, I have it with me for using on the train.

We make a stop at Logan to drop off a handful of passengers and then it is on to South Station and the start of our train adventure

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

It's 315

Good morning!

It was so good to see parents and others bright and early. We had a special time of prayer, got some delicious cookies from Peter Therrien and boarded our bus - all 33 of us!

Our adventure begins and everyone is very excited. We'll update the blog throughout our trip.

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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

Ben Adams - Trusting

Last year I went to New Orleans and had a tremendous experience. My team worked very hard sheet-rocking a couple houses. I don’t think I have ever sweat that much in my life. The work was very hard and exhausting but it didn’t seem to bother anybody on the team. Some actually wanted to skip our sightseeing day in the city to keep working and get more done. We saw a city in need. In need of repairs, but also in need of hope. Our goal was to share the love of Christ with them.

When the opportunity came for me to go back down to New Orleans again this year, I immediately said YES followed by a BUT… I have a lot of responsibilities at home. Can I leave that all behind to help somebody else? I have a wife and an 8 month old at home, and a job that is the busiest in the summer. How could I leave them behind and how could I afford to take a week off from work? Some people thought maybe this was too much for me at this time.

I think God had a different plan and a different vision for this week of my life.
I told Scott this was going to be a leap of faith that some things would come together to allow me to go. God blew me away with his provisions and basically said “why don’t you just trust me with the details?” I’m confident He wants me to go and has amazing things in store for us. I just couldn’t say no to the people who need so much.

- Ben Adams, adult leader

Some helpful details for train travelers

Amtrak Info
· There are electrical outlets in the cars, but not at every seat
· You may bring your own food and beverages on board. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars. Personal food and beverages are allowed in the upper level of Superliner Sightseer Lounges.
· Schedule change: Bus leaving Portland, June 27 @ 3:15AM, arriving Boston @ 5:25AM. Train leaving Boston @ 6:15AM and arriving in NYC @ 12:20PM. Remainder of schedule is the same.
· There is one ticket for the group.
· The leader of the group is to identify himself to the conductor to receive seating instructions upon boarding.

· Baggage:

1. Identification must be securely attached to each item.

2. Carry-on luggage is now limited to 2 pieces of baggage per passenger, even if checked service is not available. No item of carry-on baggage may exceed the standard plane size carry-on. The following will not count toward the 2 allowable carry-on items: purses, laptop computers, camera bags, books or other reading material, necessary medical equipment. Passengers are requested to stow these under seats when possible, leaving overhead racks for larger items.

3. Where checked baggage is available, passengers may check per person, up through 1 pieces at no charge. Maximum weight per piece is 50LB and maximum size per piece is 36”x36”x36”.

NOLA TEAMS - Here they are!

Here's our plan for NOLA teams. One thing that last year taught us were that our plans sometimes make God laugh. He has a plan and will do whatever He wants with us when we get there.

Team 1 _ Children's Ministry / Food Prep
Robin L (driver - minivan)
Alicia B
Shara L
Ali S
Amanda B
Jake G
Josh L

Team 2 -
Ben A (driver - minivan & pickup truck)
J-Larr
Colby A
Scotty G
Heather E
Rebecca H
Sam L

Team 3
Bill S - (driver - minivan & pickup truck)
Andy B
Jake L
George G
Jordan R
Kristen B
Laura M

Team 4
Dan L (driver- minivan)
Rus W
Sarah K
Michael G
Eric M
Nicole M
Dali T

Team 5
Bob G (driver - minivan)
Adam B
Hannah B
Annie C
Jesse C
Jeremy L
Kelsey B

Scott Linscott (driver - pickup truck)

Rus Willette - A Range of Emotions

I have a number of memories from New Orleans. I remember Erica and Lester. I remember the thousands of people still living in trailers. I remember the fact that almost 3/4 of the work force in New Orleans never returned to that area. It makes me wonder why we bother. We cannot fix much in a week. It creates in me a frustration that we cannot do more. I remember missing my family. I remember clearly how much there still is to do. I remember how tired I was. I remember a man at Lowe's that we spoke to for almost 15 minutes while we waited for the truck to be loaded. His story was about escaping from his home through the roof with his children tied to him. I remember all the people who said thank you. I remember the heat and humidity. I remember the humility (maybe humiliation) that comes from experiencing loss at a distance. I remember the home we walked through still in ruin from the flooding two years after the storm. I remember the sorrow of seeing the fields of grass where homes stood. I remember all these things so clearly. My emotions range from frustration, to humility, to sorrow, to resolve. I want the love of Christ to be seen in me. Please pray I am aware enough, through all the emotions, exhaustion, heat and work, to recognize the opportunities He presents me. I remember being blessed beyond anything I could imagine. I have confidence that God will bless all on this trip in the same ways. Here's to another hard, hot and tired blessing.

- Rus Willette, adult leader

Colby Adams - What It's All About

It's not about rebuilding. It's not about painting and cleaning up. It's not even about giving people in need money to spend to get their lives back together. It's about sharing our faith with others and spreading God's love over all else. Yeah, I want to help rebuild, and yeah, I want to give people money to buy appliances with, but that's not the focus here. That is what I am trying to focus on as I prepare myself for this year's mission trip to New Orleans.

Last year's trip to NOLA was a life-changing experience. The biggest thing I learned from the whole experience is that God can take the seemingly bad, and use it for good. When people say "this trip was life-changing" they don't mean it was life-changing for that week or ten days we were there. It changed how we think and how we respond to things in our lives.

So that was last year; I cant wait for this year!

- Colby Adams, grade 12

Dan Larrabee - These Teens' Attitudes Are Contagious

Proverbs 150:6 “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

I am praising God for the opportunity to be on this Missions Team. Last fall when recovering from heart surgery my spirits were low and the prospects of returning to work were unknown at that time. And then one Saturday something changed for me, I was one of the monthly “service projects”, about 20 students and leaders came to my home and spent the morning raking leaves. And while it was great to have the leaves taken care of, nothing meant more than being ministered to by all those teens, they represented Christ love in such a real way by their actions and encouraging words. I am praising God today for restoring my health and giving me the opportunity to do for others what has been done for me. I ask that you pray for our team, that we would be united together in all we do for Christ and that He would make me a bolder person – stretching me to be more outgoing.

- Dan Larrabee - adult leader

Commissioned and Ready to Go!

Who's ready to test Rule 1?

Woohoo! The adventure begins! I just got a call from Amtrak. Because Boston is doing bridge construction now it has slowed everything down.

We now have a new departure time. Ready? 315 am. Yeah baby! That means we need to arrive by 245 am!

Now go read the first part of James.

Gorham folks. Want to consider carpools or sleep overs with Portland locals?



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Scott Linscott
Sent from my mobile PDA device

Eric Mason - A Matter of Trust

Probably the most important thing you can do from home for us while we're in New Orleans is pray. Money is certainly helpful, yes, but prayer is direct communication with God, who happens to be in charge of everything in the universe. Please pray not only for team safety and well-being, but also that we are challenged by God to work for his plan. Last year we saw God work in amazing ways – I'm sure you've all heard the sheetrock story before – and I'm really looking forward to see what He'll do this year. For me personally, I hope someone can pray that I'll be willing to step out of my comfort zone and strike up conversations with people we meet to tell them what we stand for.

It's really a matter of trusting God and ignoring whatever I'm telling myself to do, which is usually to not do anything at all. I'm excited to see what God has in store for the team and New Orleans itself, but we can't possibly do anything if we don't listen to His word. Like Robin said, pray that we can make ourselves available to Him.

- Eric Mason, grade 12

Jake Groom - Nothing as rewarding

After last year's NOLA trip I knew there was no way it would be my last missions trip. Thus far I have yet to experience anything as rewarding or as challenging as the week we spent last year in New Orleans. For me going back will be the highlight of my summer, although I know it will be exhausting work and draining heat. I also know that the memories of the work we get done and the lives we touch while we are down there will remain with us long after we are back to our mild Maine summer. I hope that we can help restore some normalcy to lives and show love while doing so.
- Jake Groom, 2008 grad

Sarah Krabbe - Learning to Serve

I had the chance to go to New Orleans last year and seizing that opportunity changed my life. I immediately saw the vast devastation, the countless homeless people, the innumerable amount of tiny FEMA trailers, houses still ripped apart around every corner, and the overall sadness of the city. It didn't take long for me to realize that my comfortable life back in Maine isn't all that I should be concerned with and focused on. By the end of the trip I started to truly believe that it's really not all about me.

During last year's trip, I learned a lot about myself but mostly about serving others. God clearly calls us to serve and spending a week doing all types of work in the various conditions that we were in taught me not just how to serve, but how challenging it can be, too.

Now I can say all of those things now, remembering how the trip impacted me, but I don't have the same feeling of change that I had when I returned from the trip last July. One of the reasons why I want to go back is to be able to regain that feeling and apply it to my life in order to make me more like how God wants me to be. I also want to go because I know how badly people are in need still, a few years later, and I don't want them to give up. I want to give them hope. I want to share God's love.

In general, please pray that our team is able to work together, get along, and that most things go smoothly (last year we learned that not everything will). For me, personally, please pray that I won't get distracted by things back home. I have a busy summer coming up and I don't want the complication of trying to fit my plans together (brother's wedding, family trips, work, field hockey) to distract me from the real reason and purpose of why I'm down there.

- Sarah Krabbe, grade 12

Details Shmeetails - FAQ

What time should I be at the bus/Amtrak station?
By 2:45 AM on Friday, June 27.

What should I pack?
One casual outfit for church Sunday morning.
Work Shorts
Work T-shirts
1 pair of work pants
2 Towels
Steel-toed shoes (Walmart has sneaker type)
Toiletries
light blanket and sheets
small pillow
bible
notebook
Personal first aid kit
PJ's
Sunscreen

What should I pack in my backpack for train ride?
Some breakfast - (one on those insulated lunch bags is helpful)
Personal water bottle
Snacks
Toothbrush
Team reading assignment & mem cards
Small travel games. Electronic games, MP3 player
Earplugs for when you wanna sleep.

Can I bring more than a backpack as carry-on for train ride?
- Yes, airplane style/sized carry-on is allowable but we do need to pack light because we have to take all our luggage with us when we leave the train and on the subway on the way back when we reach Boston. You have to carry what you bring. You may want to share carry-on space with other team members or family members. Heavy carry-ons will be a bummer in Penn Station when we get to walk around. Try to get it all in your backpack if possible. Or, bring your backpack and a shoulder bag.

What will we eat?
You will get $60 for the trip down and $60 on the way back. This will be your meal money. We will be eating in the cafe car, dining car and in NY. When we get to NOLA you will turn in any unused funds. You can also bring some spending money but it's your responsibility to keep track of it.

How much money should I bring?
Enough to buy your youth pastor some cool gifts! Noooo, just kidding. You will want to pick up a gift for your prayer partner while we are there. Other than that, there's really not a lot of time to shop. We will try to get to the outdoor market and French Quarter before we leave to head home.

What should I know about train travel?
You can look around http://www.amtrak.com and check out their FAQ and policies.

How will we travel in NOLA?
We have 5 minivans and a full-size pickup truck. We also have GPS units but could use one more if your parents have one we could borrow. Check with them.

What will we do in NOLA?
We will have one children's ministry team of 7 and 4 work teams doing everything from drywall to installing baseboard and door frames to painting. We will also serve a meal in a soup kitchen and get to present some music and share our faith. And, of course, we will be ready to help and do whatever is asked of us no matter where we are.

Did I miss anything? Just ask!
- Scott

Robin Linscott - Easy to Intellectualize Suffering

Last year as we headed home from New Orleans I remember looking out the airplane window at all of the blue tarps covering roofs and the abandoned neighborhoods thinking that after two years there was still so much work to be done how could we be leaving. I had an overwhelming sense that our job was not done and that if I had the opportunity I would return to New Orleans. The pictures and stories we brought back could not adequately describe the situation facing the people of New Orleans.

It’s so easy to intellectualize the suffering of our fellow humans, “there are hurting people everywhere”, but when you come face to face with the reality of such overwhelming loss it touches you deeply.

It makes you realize how inadequate you are. Fortunately God does not ask us to be adequate he just asks us to be available and if we let Him he works through our inadequacies so we can experience His power and love through serving others. Returning to New Orleans was an easy decision for me, I was probably one of the few people glad our original plans to go out of country had fallen through and we would be heading back, all year I’ve felt a yearning to return. Now God had provided the opportunity and I needed to be available. So here I am available and waiting to see what God plans to do with me, with our team, and with our trip. This year brings with it new experiences, new challenges and new interactions pray that God will help me to meet each challenge, experience and interaction with grace, compassion and love. Pray that I will not be overwhelmed by the task ahead of us and that I will remember it’s more important to love the people of New Orleans than it is to complete the task. Finally please pray for our team’s health, safety and physical well being.

- Robin Linscott, adult leader

Dali Tauwala - Thinking of Others

A couple days before Scott told me there was a spot for me on the team I was singing "Right By Your Side," which is the first song l ever wrote. The chorus of the song goes:

And God is with you there to see you through
He is there for you through the bad and through the good
And he will be by your side, All throughout your life
Like he has all the time, to see you to the end

When I originally wrote the song I was in 4th grade and the message helped me remember that God was there for me through the teasing I endured. I never really thought about who the other people were and what they might possibly have faced that needed the songs messages; of God being with them. But as I sang the song, the few days previous to joining the team, I thought of the NOLA team and the fact that they were bringing down the message of hope, the message of God being with the people of New Orleans though their hardship. Realizing this I got really excited just to help raise money for the NOLA team, to support them how I could and to pray for them. Then when Scott told me I could go I was even more excited. I can't wait to go to New Orleans with the NOLA team, to help New Orleans recover from Katrina. I am looking forward to the opportunities the NOLA team and I will have to share with the people the hope and truth, that God is with them.

- Dali Tauwala, grade 11

Ali Strayhorn - Just Part of the Plan

I’ve been hesitating writing this paragraph for a few weeks. I worried over not thinking of an inspiring metaphor or beginning story to tie into my overall thoughts of New Orleans, and I couldn’t gather all or any of the thoughts I wanted to say. But then I realized how creatively I wrote wasn’t the point at all. So I’ll just say what I need to say, straight from the heart.

I’ll admit, I’m nervous to go to New Orleans. I didn’t go on the trip last year and I’ve found myself in the small group of “rookies” who hasn’t had the experience and who is somewhat naive of what lies ahead. I’m one of those people who likes to know what to expect, and in this sense, I know nothing at all. All I can do is let God prepare my heart, and willingly let him use me in his great plan. I am anxiously excited to see God’s plan for our team and for the people in New Orleans to unfold. I pray that I will be strong and courageous, that I will be healthy and energetic, and that I will be willing and able to follow God’s calling. We are called to serve, and that is what I’m going down to do.

- Ali Strayhorn, 2008 Grad

Jeremy Lydick - Kind of Nervous

I’m Jeremy and I want to go New Orleans because the other kids in youth group who went last year said that it was a life-changing experience and I want to help all the people in the city who have not been able to rebuild because of the sheer amount of work there is to be done. I am nervous about meeting people and explaining my faith to them and why I am personally there (kind of like this blog entry). I also want to help some kids be able to play little league again so I am hoping that we will be able to put on a baseball clinic while we are there. I hope that we will be in your prayers.

- Jeremy Lydick, grade 9

Jake Linscott - Rebuilding the Stock

“Stock is everything in cooking, at least in French cooking. Without it, nothing can be done. If one’s stock is good what remains of the work is easy; if, on the other hand, if it is bad or merely mediocre, it is quite hopeless to expect anything approaching satisfactory results. The cook mindful of success, therefore, will naturally direct his attention to the faultless preparation of his stock.” – Auguste Escoffier

That paragraph, as a metaphor, can be applied anywhere. I read it and think of New Orleans stock. When Katrina hit approximately three years ago she completely destroyed the stock of the Big Easy. Now, using this cooking metaphor perspective, I’m returning to continue working in New Orleans. I’m going down to rebuild the stock to make sure it is done right. If no one does anything the base, or "stock," of New Orleans will become bad or at best mediocre. So as a culinary student mindful of excellence in the kitchen, I will direct the same attention to the faultless preparation of the stock of NOLA. I’m going back to rebuild the New Orleans stock so that the culture, music, faith and people can rebound. I plan on making the stock out of the best ingredients there are; faith, love and friendship.

- Jake Linscott, grade 11

Kelsey Berglund - Not Hesitating

Last year when we went to New Orleans I was very nervous and was worried that I wouldn’t be able to take the heat and all the work. However, while we were there God proved me wrong. I became used to the heat and I became determined to do the work because of the people it was helping and because I knew we were doing what God wanted us to do. So to me serving down there became an enjoyable experience. I loved seeing the progress we made and seeing the smiles we put on people’s faces. So this year when I found out another group would be heading down I didn’t hesitate to say I’d be a part of that group.

I am so looking forward to going down again and helping more people. I’m so thankful that we’ve been given this opportunity again. Last year I got sick half way through the week and wasn’t able to do as much work as I had hoped to so I am very excited to go to New Orleans again and do even more work than I was able to last time. I’m also very pleased with the team God has given us and I’m looking forward to seeing all that we can accomplish.

I ask that you pray that everyone stays healthy and that our team is able to connect with one another. Also that we will be able to accomplish as much as possible while we’re in New Orleans and that God presents us with some great opportunities.

- Kelsey Berglund, grade 10

Nicole Mason - Moving Past Fear

I decided to sign up for this trip because last year when my brother and sister came back, they had so many great stories to tell. The team was so moved by it all, and I want to have that experience too.

I want to know what it feels like to truly help someone, and be an example of God's love. When the team came back last summer I could tell that the trip meant something, and this year I want to be able to share that moment with them. I'm hoping to see God in more places than just church. I really feel like this trip will change my life, and make me look at things in a whole new way. I think that by seeing what the people have been through, it will make me become grateful for what I have instead of always asking for new things. I want to be able to just go up to people and start a conversation with them about God, and I think this trip will open my eyes and allow me to do that.

Right after I signed up for this trip, I got scared about talking to strangers and going down to a place I've never been before. But as I started going to the meetings and making it a priority to keep going, it got easier and now I'm not feeling that scared. I'm so excited to be apart of this years team, and to make a difference in people's lives, even mine.

-Nicole Mason, Grade 9

Laura Mason - The Right Decision

When I found out that our youth group would be returning to New Orleans this summer, I knew that I wanted to go again. Last year was such an amazing experience for me. I learned so much while I was there and strengthened my relationships with the team members and with God. By going to New Orleans, I had to trust God with everything because the trip was a huge step out of my comfort zone. I am so glad I did because only good things came from my experience. When our team met the people living there, I gained a new perspective of the disaster. It put the destruction on a personal level. I came back home with a heart for service, and now I can't imagine myself not going. Although I have a hard time seeing myself contributing much to the team because of my lack of strength and skills, I know that I am making the right decision to go. I would much rather put my comfortable life on hold for 12 days to help someone else than spend those two weeks doing most likely nothing (or just nothing worthwhile). I pray that I and the team as a whole will keep our focus on God and look for those opportunities to reach out to people this year. I am so thankful for having the chance to go back with such a great group and to have the incredible support of our friends and church family.

-Laura Mason, grade 11

Rebecca Howell - Answering the Challenge

When I first learned that there was going to be a trip down to New Orleans again this year I thought to myself that it was going to be a lot of fun, and that I should try to sign up for it. Soon after that I forgot all about it and signing up got pushed way down to the bottom of my to-do list. Eventually all the spots got filled up, and I remembered how I had really been interested in doing it. I figured there really wasn't much I could do about it, and if God had a plan for me to go down to New Orleans then he would open a door for me some way.

It was later in the year at Snow Camp that Mrs. Linscott asked me if I would be interested in taking part in the trip, and that if I was I could be put on the list of alternates. I told her that I would definitly be interested in going and she was free to put me down as an alternate. Maybe around a month later at Power House I was greeted by Mrs. Burglund saying "I'm so happy that you decided to come to New Orleans with us! We're very excited!" This was the first I had heard about me going to New Orleans. I asked what she meant, and she said that she saw my name on the list of people. That was when I realized that it was God's plan for me to go to New Orleans, and I knew I couldn't possibly refuse.

I viewed it as my challenge from God to do this. This is the first time I've really felt like this is something God wants me to do to spread His word and love to others. I know that this isn't going to be a laid-back easy trip. I'm going to face many obstacles and inconveniences, but it's something that I can learn and spiritually grow from. I can't wait to go and face this challenge and follow God's will for me!

- Rebecca Howell, grade 10

Josh Linscott - Connecting With People

There are about 3 weeks left until we leave for NOLA. I'm starting to get pretty excited. I guess I'm kind of a rookie on the team this year. Last year the rest of the family went, but I stayed in Maine to work for the summer. By the second day they were gone I knew that had been a bad decision. Going down and helping would have been far more rewarding than any weekly paycheck could have been. When the opportunity came around again this year I had no hesitation in joining the team! I'm looking forward to going down and getting a lot accomplished this summer, but more importantly I'm looking forward to going down and seeing what God has in store. I feel like every missions opportunity is amazing and unique in it's own way. I have no clue what will happen down there this year, but I know it will be worthwhile.

Most important to me in NOLA will be connecting with people. I'm praying (and hope others will pray for me) that I'll get a chance to come in contact with a lot of different people and that when I do I will be able to connect with them. I'm hoping to connect as more than a friendly worker though. I pray that God would give me confidence to bring up things like spirituality and beliefs. I know the trip will be one I will remember forever, but I hope that I could make it one to remember for some else while we're down there. Lastly I'm praying the team doesn't attempt to kill me in my mischievous ways on the 30 hours of train ride.

- Josh Linscott, adult leader

Kristan Bowie - Making a Difference

I went to New Orleans last year with our youth group. It was an absolutely amazing experience. It was one of the most challenging things I have ever done..emotionally and physically. I learned so much while I was there. I'm excited to have another opportunity to make a difference is somneone's life.
Right now I am very excited. I can't wait to see what God has in store for us.

- Kristan Bowie, grade 11

Josh Larrabee - Not for Us

"This is all for you." That says it all. That's why we are going to New Orleans. To serve and honor God.

I heard these words sung by Leeland so many times but never did they have such an impact as when I heard them for the first time after being accepted to the team to go to New Orleans. The words are so simple but mean so much. This isn't for ourselves to try and make us look good. It's not to exalt us above others.
It's for God. To serve him and share his love to the people who are still in dire need of hope three years later.

When I found out I was going to be going back to New Orleans again, I was flooded with excitement and joy. After leaving last year and returning home to my cozy, spoiled life in Maine, I couldn't help but feel empty knowing there was still so much left to do. Now that I have the opportunity to go back, I want to make every effort to help rebuild more than homes. I know that God is going to help us minister to people like he helped us last year and give us the opportunity to minister to those who need it most. My hope for this trip is that as a team, we will become closer and connect in a more spiritual way and that we can give the people of New Orleans hope through God that they so desperately need.

- Josh Larrabee, soph. Univ. of Southern Maine

Bob Gardner - It's NOT all about me!

My thoughts, disjointed as they may be, as I think about my venture back to NOLA next month...

I was watching the season finale of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" a couple of weeks ago. The team was in New Orleans working on a family's home as well as a church that had been destroyed when Katrina hit. The overwhelming theme that jumped out at me was that there is still a lot of work to be done with few workers to do the work. Ed, the designer/carpenter from the U.K., summed it up at the end by asking the viewers to not forget about the people who are still struggling to survive from that storm that hit nearly 3 years ago.

Since going on this trip last year, I have found that some of life's greatest pleasures are found in putting other's ahead of me. Life is not all about what I want and what makes me comfortable and safe. Life is about our relationship with Christ and our relationships with others including my family, friends, and those in need.

The Prime Time group came back from NOLA last year with "service" as our motto. Our focus all year has been on serving others both within the FBC family and in the community. I believe I said that my reason for going to NOLA last year was the people, and I would have to say that hasn't changed at all. Last year it was all about Charlye, Margo, Erika, Lester, Barbara, Annie, and Joe. Who will it be this year?

I am returning to NOLA this year excited to see what God had done in that area as well as seeing what God will do this year through our expanded team. Last year I was able to see first-hand how God works in the lives of those that are going about doing his will. Last year I was able to see God literally answer prayers within minutes of their utterance. This year I have already seen God provide funding above and beyond our goal. He’s got something specific that he needs us to do. How exciting is that?!

I ask that people pray that our team will have eyes that will see what God wants us to see, hearts that will cause us to act on what we see, and the strength to persevere when we're hot, tired, and hungry.

Service in NOLA is all about using our hands and feet to help others so we can be salt and light for Christ in this world. Hands. Feet. Salt. Light. Four things that I desire to be as I seek to serve others in NOLA in the name of Jesus.

- Bob Gardner, adult leader

Amanda Berglund - More than Hammering Nails

Although this will be my second time working in New Orleans I am experiencing many of the same feelings I had when we were preparing to leave last year. There is still a sense of doubt in me even though I've done it before. It's a very daunting task and I wonder how I could ever be of any influence. I know what we do is of great influence and very helpful but with the amount of devastation it seems like we barely scratch the surface.

These feelings of doubt are often suppressed by remembering how wonderful it feels to help the individual families and what our service did for them. It may not have been the entire city of New Orleans but to those people it meant the world to them. It's very exciting to think of the progress that has hopefully been made since we've been gone and exciting to think of the people God has planned to put in our path. So much of the reason we go down there is to not only restore homes but to restore hope and that is the most touching part of the whole experience. I'm really looking forward to making relationships with people down there, hearing their stories and sharing my faith.

Last year New Orleans was so far outside my comfort zone that I could barely board the plane. Now that that's over I have to go even further outside of myself. For me, that will mean initiating the conversation with people and not just leaving it up to others on the team. Instead of hoping the people we meet just start opening up and asking about Christ I want to push myself to ask questions, continue the conversation and let them know how interested I really am.

Please pray that God would supply me with a strong sense of self confidence through which I will be able to push myself outside my "comfort zone" and go deeper than the surface with the people we come across. This trip is about so much more than hammering nails, it's an opportunity for us to witness to these people who have little to nothing and try to give them a glimmer of hope. I ask that you pray that God helps keep that as my focus through out the duration of the trip.

- Amanda Berglund, 2008 graduate

Andy Berglund - Finishing the Work

I have been very blessed over the past year becoming more involved with FBC student ministry. I have met some incredible kids and made some really great friends along the way. I was very impressed and touched by the powerful effect the NOLA mission trip last year had on my two daughters; Kelsey and Amanda. Not that they aren't hard workers, they are, but I thought the trip to NOLA would be a stretch for them. It was a stretch but I have seen God continue to work in them in such powerful ways over the past year. They have a hunger to go back despite how hard the work and conditions are.

I have been reading the book of James. James talks of perserverence and finishing the work to become mature and complete. I see the maturity in my daughters and how God has been working in their lives. I feel I am growing in my Christian walk daily but can become quite complacent not recognizing the areas of growth I may need to work on. I am looking forward to what God has in store for me in New Orleans as our team tries to help the thousands of people that still struggle daily due to the effects of Hurricane Katrina.

- Andy Berglund, adult leader

Shara Linscott - God's Plan in Uncertainty

Initially I wasn't planning on going on the trip to New Orleans this summer. I was graduating and said to myself "I don't belong on this trip, I don't want to take someone's spot.", "I have to work.", "I have to prepare for college." Today, as you can see, I'm on the list. I'm going to New Orleans. Those things that I initially said to myself and a few more still constantly come to mind, but I'm still going. I'm not entirely sure why I am going to New Orleans this year and how God will use me, but I know that God has a plan. I'm looking forward to seeing the progress that has been made since last year and hoping to see fewer of those ominous X's on the doorways to the houses. I'm looking forward to serving others, bringing hope and changing lives.

- Shara Linscott, 2008 graduate

Is there anything left to do in NOLA?

PICTURES FROM 2008

Bill Simpson - A privilege to go Back

People asked me last year why I would "waste" a weeks vacation to go off and help strangers in New Orleans, and this year they are beside themselves that I would return. I usually ask them when the last time it was that any one of them had done something for nothing for someone. Then I ask them what they would do if they were forced to live in a small camper. I remind them that it has been YEARS that thousands of families have been doing it!

We actually lived in a trailer for a month or so when we were waiting to move into a house a number of years ago. We were always getting in each other's way, and going totally stir crazy with no place to go. I can still see the trailer at the site we worked at last year, with Lester and his Mom's entire life stored away in a 20 foot trailer. I count it a privilege to go back to serve a stranger or two again, and try to bring a little hope to those that are waiting to get a new start!

Heather Erdmann - Working as a Family

When I found out that there was going to be a return trip to NOLA there was no question in my mind about signing up. Last year God revealed himself to us in amazing ways and I don't want to miss being a part of that this year. It's a different experience going back though, as I'm able to look forward more to the trip rather than worry about it. I pray though that this more relaxed attitude won't lead me to depending on my own strength, because I know I can't do it alone. I'm really excited to see what God has in store for us this year (train ride? hmm) and I'm so pumped about the new team members!! My prayer is that this year we'd really be able to put aside relational issues among ourselves and realize that we're all a family in Christ, just doing what we've been called to do.

-Heather Erdmann, grade 10

Going Back to New Orleans

Scott Linscott - A Sad Face is Good for the Heart

I am a "glass-half-full" type of guy. I am generally able to have fun and make others laugh no matter where I find myself. But last summer in New Orleans, I found myself experiencing true sorrow. While I knew that the Bible tells us that a sad face is good for the heart (Ecc. 7:3), I had never understood until my summer experience in New Orleans. Somehow, through the ache in my heart, I connected with God's desire to minister to hurting people. It was a mystical and wonderful experience that helped me better understand God's character and the motivation of Jesus that often gets lost in the institutional church.

I cannot say I am excited to return. I can say that I am compelled to return. When we understand Jesus and have a relationship with Him, His love and grace compels, pushes and prods us to serve. It's not out of guilt and not to somehow earn heaven, it's simply an outflow of His love that we have experienced. I learned that last summer.

Please pray for my health and for strength. Fat guys and heat tend not to get along.

- Scott Linscott, Associate Pastor/ Student Ministries

Kids processing life after returning to New Orleans

Look at this neighborhood. It's nice and green. It looks like a nice place, as it seem. Nobody is here. Nothing is here. It is so quiet, that the rats are in fear.
Robert age 12

From the Kid Camera Project
http://www.kidcameraproject.org/index.html

The New Orleans Kid Camera Project was created to address the psychological and emotional impacts of Hurricane Katrina on children returning home to New Orleans. Through the use of photography, creative writing and mixed media, children from flooded neighborhoods explore their environment and express themselves, their stories and feelings with their friends. This project provides a venue for growth and recovery. By teaching the children tangible skills and exposing them to new means of expression, we hope to empower them to impact their lives and environment.

Michael Gardner - Hungry for More

Leaving New Orleans last year left me hungry for more. I was Hungry to serve and reach out to the needy. Then I was told we were going back and at that moment, I decided I wanted to go back again.

________________________________
"When I am sitting at home, I feel like I'm useless and I'm not making an impact like when we were down in New Orleans. "
______________________________

Last year's experience really showed me how much I enjoy helping and serving people. Upon returning home last year, I felt a sense of longing to be with the people in New Orleans. When I am sitting at home, I feel like I'm useless and I'm not making an impact like when we were down in New Orleans. I'm constantly wondering how the families are doing that we helped last year.

I was asked to write a poem in English class this year and it was supposed to be about a moving experience. So, I decided to write about my trip to New Orleans last summer. I really put my emotions down on the paper when I wrote it. The poem was filled with anger, anxiety, sympathy and judgment. That was one of the moments during the past year when I wanted to be in New Orleans the most. I am worried about being useful to the team and not being a hindrance to the leaders. I don't have any elaborate explanation for why I would like to go to New Orleans this summer other than wanting to serve other people and make a difference.

- Michael Gardner, grade 11