I'd do it again

I've been rather busy the past couple of weeks, moving into our new house, so I haven't had too much time to reflect on the workcamp. But I do know that given the opportunity I would definately go again. The work was *gasp* fun and the fellowship great. And that "random" computer program that assigns us to our crews, I don't think that it was completely random. There is no way on earth that crews could get along so well on a flawed, man made system. I thank God for the crew that he put me with. They were awesome and we all got along so well that it made the work fun.
One thing I'm not sure about though is whether or not I would go with a different Youth Group. It could possibly change my whole outlook on the group workcamps. We have a fantastic group at BRC. Here in Indiana I will have to try and find something that will compare, but will never take the place of my Youth Group in NY.

Still in West Virginia

It's 10 pm on the 4th of July. I can hear fireworks going off. I knew it would take me a few days to get my head back home, but it's been harder than I thought. The week was wonderful and uplifting. I loved being with our youth group, eating and playing, and just learning more about each other, but I especially enjoyed the time with my crew. It was very important to me that each person in my crew accomplish their job, enjoy themselves and each other, and grow closer to God. I know the first two happened, I hope the third happened. They certainly made all three happen for me. They were always flexible with our constantly changing circumstances, always positive and supportive in the face of adversity, and they made me laugh all week long. I came into this week praying that I would have a positive effect on the kids in my crew, what I didn't expect is how much they, and the BRC youth group, would effect me. And that's why I'm still in West Virginia.

Home

I'm ready to be back down south. Now that I'm back home, I wish things had gone longer. The trip was an incredible blessing for me. I'm glad that my role as "Chaplain" got easier for me as the week progressed, and am glad that others had a good experience. I love being with these people. I am so fortunate to be part of this group. I started to miss everyone the moment I got in our car to go home from the church. I'm grateful that God did his work this week, and I'm sure it will continue.

Life after Workcamp

Now that we have completed our mission of renovating Oak Hill, WV we need to keep that spirit of serving alive in our daily lives. We talked, learned and prayed about renovating ourselves in our choices, loving, forgiveness, peace, and living. We certainly were able to do all of that while we focused on our mission. That was easy as we worked with people who all had a common goal. The challange will be to carry that over into our everyday lives. This was an amazing experience and I could not think of a better group of people to do this with. Our Youth group is awesome! God bless each and every one of them. Thank you Rob and Kim for all your hard work to make this trip a success.

It's 9:12 on Sunday evening and I'm ready for youth group devotions. Of course, we won't be having youth group devotions this evening, because I'm at home and the workcamp trip is over. Our time together as a youth group had such an impact on my whole week. I love being with these kids and seeing them laugh, and talk, and grow together. This week was a gift to me, and I'm very grateful for it. I miss our group already... and I wish we could gather together again tonight for devotions.