Pictures coming soon!!!

Well our 8th grade confirmation is back from a fantastic experience working with the folks at the Woodland in White Oak, TN.  The Woodland is a non-profit organization that holds a large portion of land in trust for residents who wish to return to the area which was largely vacated after the major industry (the coal mining business) left town.  We spent the week working on a variety of projects throughout the community including the construction of a new deck, building a chicken pin, making a perennial garden bed, painting, tiling, and ripping up carpet.  In addition, we all had a wonderful time making new friends with community members of all ages!  It was incredible to hear especially the older folks tell all about their experiences and stories from growing up in coal mining families!  While the people we ministered to this past week had very few material possessions, they had very big hearts, very generous hands, and deeply faithful spirits!  Our youth were truly humbled to be in their presence.

Moreover, there was NO CELL PHONE SERVICE!!!  While a nightmare at first, in the end everyone appreciated the experience of living so simply and free of distractions and subsequently felt closer to the Lord and his creation.  It was a fantastic week of hard work, ministry, and fellowship as our eighth grade class continued to consider what confirmation meant to them.