2007 New Orleans Mission Team #7 Testimonies .
Jake Ludwig
"Pick me up Lord-pick me up." I found myself repeating this in my head one night on the mission trip--and He did. He picked me up and held me above all worries and fear. He held me above all darkness, and held me safe in his arms-right where I belong.
This mission in New Orleans was absolutely amazing beyond words. The experiences we encountered were incredible and life changing. Love was spread, joy was found, and peace was discovered. Many cannot fathom the terror the lives of many who live in New Orleans face-ever after 2 years since the hurricane. Hearts were broken, to what seemed beyond repair, until God stepped in. New beginnings, new emotions, new hope-that was our mission. Everywhere we went we could feel the brokenness; more noticeably, though, we could see the healing hands of Christ being placed upon them. That's a sight we won't forget-that's the sight that gives up hope.
And beyond a doubt-that's what lets us know God is there--in times of fear, in times of brokenness, in times of despair. Because where Love shines through-God shines through.
Alyssa Fanella
I have been on 5 mission trips now, I live for missions and I'm so thankful God called me on this trip to New Orleans. Also I feel so blessed to be able to go early and participate in a Young Apostles Ministry where we interceded for the participants of the Steubenville on the Bayou Youth Conference, which started off the New Orleans Team 7 mission trip. The two weeks I spent in Louisiana have been the hardest two weeks of my life, but I wouldn't have wanted to spend any less time serving others. As I have said, I struggled every single day of the trip and the one reason I can give my witness today is that I never lost my faith or trust in Jesus. I went to bed every night praising Jesus for everything he had done for me whether I was sad, angry or had all the joy and peace in world. There were always bumps in the road that would cause me to stumble but because of Jesus I never fell. After a week at Young Apostles I was exhausted but God gave me the strength to start ministering to the people of New Orleans right away and spoke to me of where He wanted me to go. He led me for the first time to Project Lazarus, an inpatient AIDS house, and intercessory prayer. Once I decided to go my own direction and sign up for a ministry I was not called to do but of course God made submit to His plans for me. When I was tired God sent me the good sense of other people to take a break and rest. When I was feeling attacked or melancholy, God sent me people to lift my spirits and pray over me.
God has shown Himself to me in so many ways during this trip. I've blessed with the gift of knowledge and I feel like I finally discern what God wants me to do. But most importantly I am able to put my complete trust in God. He gives and takes away but I will still say blessed be His name.
Colleen Favuzzo
This was my third mission trip, and my second one to New Orleans. Last year I fell in love with the city of New Orleans and more importantly the people in it. New Orleans is a city like none other; the colors of the houses in the French Quarter, the music, the unique smells, the wonderfully appreciative people, the amazing spirit, and last but certainly not least, the FOOD: including beignets, gumbo, red beans and rice, and my personal favorite, crawfish!! I love that city more than I could ever express, but what is most important that these mission trips have shown me is my amazing love for Jesus Christ! On these trips there is no hiding from God. Adults, teenagers, Catholics or not, everyone is greatly changed by their experiences with the Holy Spirit in New Orleans. Each day we would wake up around 8:00, have a wonderful morning prayer at the cross at 8:20, and have breakfast and then devotions. Devotions were a time where we would all go find a quiet spot of our own to pray, read scripture, and journal. During this time we would also discern where we were supposed to go that day. There were ministry sites where you could bust concrete, paint, or put up walls; others where you could host Vacation Bible School. Another site where you could just be a companion to people diagnosed with AIDS and one where you could go into the French Quarter holding a 'Free Prayer' sign. And last but certainly not least, intercessory prayer: which were the people that stayed behind and fervently prayed for those out at the ministry sites. After we all got back from our ministries we would perhaps have some down time and then dinner and worship! Having amazing praise and worship almost every night and sometimes our own mass. Every one on this trip got so filled with the Holy Spirit and grew someway in their faith. God worked through everyone in different ways to minister to the people of New Orleans and each other. We went down to make a difference in their city and help the wonderful people of New Orleans., we did accomplish this, but I believe that all of us were really the ones who were changed for the better! God Bless New Orleans!
Janelle Smith
Words cannot do justice to describe the incredible experience I had on this mission trip. They cannot describe the hope and appreciation in a homeless person's eyes when you hand them a simple plate of food, or the connection you make when someone just needs the warmth of a hug. We use so many words throughout our lifetime, but rarely do they share the same love and compassion as our actions show. Although this was my second time down in N'awlins it still proved to be an unforgettable experience. I felt that I was able to open up more and make more connection both with our group and to those that I served. We live in such a fast paced and structured world that it was nice to just slow down, soak in my surrounding and be thankful for what I have. I relived the devastation from Hurricane Katrina. I will admit that this trip was more challenging than my last one, but I through struggling that we learn to love and doubt we learn how to trust. As humans, as believers, as individuals, we want to change the world and we can only to that by one random act of kindness at a time. We often forget how much the beautiful effect and value at a kind word. So through this trip I have learned to open my eyes and my heart to the love and beauty God has blessed us with in this lifetime.
Katie Browning
I left my house with a lot of anger and sadness. Going down to New Orleans changed my outlook on my life completely. When I came out of the airport and saw the devastation for the first time I almost cried. It has been almost 2 years and there is still so much destruction. The first day at the center of Jesus the Lord was awesome. We had a worship night and it was amazing. I gave my life completely up to God. I didn't think I could ever feel so good about worshipping but I was extremely wrong. When we got to Steubenville I would say that my life has changed forever. I made relationships new and better than they were and I made new friends many from Texas. I enjoyed myself so much and had a blast. From the infestations of cockroaches to Adoration night, my Steubenville conference experience was amazing. Adoration was the best it has ever been before. I got so much out of it and took away more confidence and friendships than I thought I'd ever have.Then it was on to New Orleans. The first days of ministries were awesome but the last were even better. I formed some amazing bonds with many of the people at New Orleans, especially with a woman by the name of Miss Ava. She changed my outlook on life completely. She has shown me that no matter how many bad things happen to you that there is still hope in what comes out of it. I will never forget her.My mission experience has been one of the best ones in my life. My entire outlook on life has changed not only the way I see God but in the way that I view my peers and myself. I have gained so much confidence in myself and have found out that no matter how many bad things happen, there is always something good that comes out of it!
Emily Disselhorst
As I started to get ready to leave at 4:30 am Thursday morning, I was jumping up and down. I was so nervous but very excited at the same time. This was my second mission trip, and by far the best experience of my life. As we entered into the Center of Jesus Christ the Lord, I was so ready to experience God in a new way. Before going on our mission, we went to a Catholic Youth Conference. It is from the college in Steubenville, Ohio. This is where it started. Steubenville is a great time to really get connected with God, and get pumped to go on missions! Each day we had Mass and praised and worshipped God. Before going down to New Orleans my relationship with God was pretty good and I was just looking to grow more.Over this mission trip, my faith with God grew SO much stronger than it was when I arrived. During time of prayer, was when I could really just sit and have one on one time God. This trip really taught me how to pray better and have a stronger connection when I am praying.Each morning we had devotions, and in that time we would talk to God and see what His will for us was to do that day. Each day there were different ministries we could work at. To me, it didn't matter what ministry I was working in, just as long as I was doing God's will.One night we had Mass and it was the most amazing mass I had been to. That night, God had really opened us all up to the spirit and no one held back. The room was surrounded God's Love. After the mass, Father Capuci led us in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I felt a rush of God's love filling inside of me. It's a feeling I will never forget. After being baptized in the Spirit, Father had invited us to learn and receive the gift of speaking in tongues. After learning this new gift, I feel like I have gotten that extra step and become ever closer to God.Throughout the week of being in New Orleans, I have seen things I never thought I would see in my lifetime. The devastation I saw in the Lower Ninth Ward was simply unbearable. Even though these people have gone through so much, they still put a smile on their face each day. I respect them so much for their bravery and strength they show. You can see God so much in the people you meet down there. Even though I went to New Orleans to help other, I believe they help me even more than I could help them. They helped me realize to never take anything for granted in life. Also, to remember that it's God's will that will keep me going for He has a purpose for me that I need to follow. His will, will forever be my way.
Sam Pauletti
When I first signed up to go on another mission trip last fall I was really excited, to the point where I was counting down the days. About a month before we left, I got really nervous and started doubting my faith. It was obvious that I needed to refill up on God! It is so hard for me to even begin to describe my love for New Orleans and the people there. They were my blessing from God, without a doubt, they filled me with so much joy, happiness and love, I can't even describe it. When we got to New Orleans, I was so amazed by how much God had filled in me already, just by watching and looking up to the people of New Orleans.This mission trip has allowed me to really connect with God, one on one. Every morning we would have time just to talk to God and let Him tell us what He wants us to do and how He wants to use us. I feel this is very important and it truly helped in the process of increasing my faith.One of my favorite parts about New Orleans missions was the different ministries. My favorite ministry was being an intercessor. Intercessors spend the day praying for all the other ministries. Missionaries can call in and request specific prayers, then we stop what we're doing to pray for that request. I felt it was the most fulfilling, exhilarating and exhausting ministry. All in all, this mission trip has been the best experience of my life and I will never stop thanking God for calling me to New Orleans! Nor will I ever stop thanking and praising Him for the wonderful people I go on missions with. I could never ask for a better group of people, all who are so devoted to God and their faith. They give so much love with every move they make that it makes me really want to be a better person. They always make me strive for more and are always completely honest with me. I love them all so much and can't wait to continue to grow in faith together! Praise Jesus!
Nancy Venne
What an awesome group of young people I have had the opportunity to work with. Thanks to all who had made me feel so welcome. God has blessed me in many ways this week; doors have been opened to me that I would not have opened in this past. New thoughts and new ministries-and yes-I was truly ministered to as well. All Praise Be to God!
Mat Wellington
Before this trip I really wasn't looking forward to going to New Orleans. I was even questioning my faith a little, I wasn't sure I was making the right decision until the moment I got to church and saw every one waiting for Robin my mom and I. Then we went. Jason and I ran up to our room unpacked and settled in a bit. That night Eldridge came to dinner from the Lazarus house we had crawfish, gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice. It was all so delicious. That night I had my first praise and worship with Will which was awesome. The next day we went to Steubie where we were so into the praise and worship we were looked at like maniacs. The Adoration was amazing, I met Tommy Marrah for the first time at adoration. He is an amazing man, two days later we left back to the center. My favorite ministry was at project Lazarus. Wanda and a bunch of the residents said I was handsome. Joe was my favorite Lazarus House resident, he is very thin and loves food. Then there was confession with Fr. Capuci. Going to confession was the best decision I made all trip. I felt so good afterwards. Fr. Capuci knew exactly what I was going through. It was an awesome amazing rip. My faith was strengthened beyond belief.
Adam Smyth
As I walked out the front gate of the Center of Jesus the Lord to return home, I couldn't help but to reflect upon what an amazing spiritual journey I had just experienced. The past week had been by far the best time of my life. Having gone to West Virginia the year before, I had an idea of what this trip would be like. I was dead wrong. This trip is so much more spiritually centered. So much more relaxed, when I first stepped into the front courtyard of the Center of Jesus the Lord, I had a feeling I was in for a ride. We hit the week off with Steubie on the Bayou, which was amazing. We came back to the Center with a huge amount of energy and fire for God. As we began our ministries for the week, I was unsure of what to do. Finally, after much discernment, I found myself called to Vacation Bible School. I didn't know the ages or race or wellness of any of the kids, but as soon as they walked up to the site, I fell in love. They were the coolest bunch of kids in the world. They all loved to dance, play football, and talk about Christ. One boy named Kevin actually wrote on the road in chalk "I love Jesus". The faith that these kids had at such a young age was inspiring. The next ministry I did was what we call "Free Prayer." Basically, a small group goes out into the city and offers to pray with others. The stories you hear and the people you pray for are inspiring. They are so unfortunate, in a way its actually heart breaking, but it also makes you see reality in a new way. The final ministry I participated in was Project Lazarus. Project Lazarus is where we give those living in an AIDS house company. The ministry taught me the most, seeing all of those people with such a short time and such unfortunate circumstances, and seeing how much faith they still have blows my mind. It really makes you think twice about what you have. Overall, this mission trip has changed me. It has made me realize that what I have is so much more than what others have. In my life there is happiness, wellness and health, and all these people have is faith. So all I can say is God bless the people and city of New Orleans. It is my home away from home.
Deyhonn Brown
My faith has never been something that I really ever looked into. I always doubted myself. I never relied on God for really anything. I'd been so angry with God about some real bad things that had happened in the past. I thought that this mission trip was going to be a good experience for me, then go back to my old habits when I got back home. But I was wrong! After Steubie, my life has turned around 180 degrees! I recommitted my life to Christ! I feel so great! The mission trip for me was over way too quickly!! I wish it were longer because I just enjoy it so much in New Orleans. Anyone who is thinking going next year or in the future, don't turn it down. Steubie is such a wonderful event! Don't turn it down! God doesn't want us to back down on Him. I received a calling from God telling me that I should become a youth minister. If God is calling you - do it. Put your life into His hands, because you know that He will take care of you like He always has.
Joel Parker
Many people know me as a person who is always smiling. What some people don't know is why I'm always smiling. The reason I always smile is because I am so in love with God. Also knowing everyday that there's a person out there whom I don't even know that well who would die for me. This is my second mission trip but the first one to New Orleans. Let me tell you New Orleans is awesome. Many of the people in New Orleans are really into their faith. We stayed at the Center of Jesus Our Lord with Fr. Capuci. Father is an amazing priest with an awesome faith. His faith inspires all of us and gives us something to look up to. Father Capuci taught me a lot about the spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit. He taught basically our whole group to be able to speak in tongues. Personally not only did I receive the gift of tongue but also the gift of prophecy. This mission has given me not only these spiritual gifts but has changed my personality as well. This mission trip has changed me tremendously and is hard to put in words but if you re around me you will notice the difference. I recommend that everyone should go on a mission trip so that everyone can see the real love of God.
Collin Cooper
This mission trip was the best "vacation" I've ever been on. I absolutely loved every minute of it. I went to West Virginia last year and absolutely loved it and this year was 100% better than it. It's so fun worshipping with all of my friends and I though Fr. Capuci was awesome. The worship was unbelievable and I finally rested in the spirit in a healing mass. I absolutely loved New Orleans and I can't wait to go back.
Alison Schaefer
Trying to describe the ways that God worked, the ways that the Holy Spirit moved through us on this trip is like trying to nail jello to a tree. I can only try to give a small glimpse into the trip, you needed to be there to understand. There were so many small "miracles" and so much love going between all of us. I could talk about all the bizarre coincidences that brought us through the week and the gifts we were blessed with, but I really think that would take away from God's glory. It's not about that, all that matters it that we praise God, trust Him, and love Him with everything we can muster. That we give our lives to His plan and allow Him to change us, because if I knew anything, I know that God changed me this week. God changed me through suffering and sorrow and His infinite love. I have leaned to offer up my life to God, that I cannot drop my Christianity at the door. To wake up every morning and ask, "How can we love each other more?" How can we show this? There is still a lot more to learn, but missions helped me start. God is great, and has great things planned. It's up to everyone to lead lives worthy of God's callings. Missions are a wonderful way to start, meet people and grow closer to God. May God's peace be with everyone.
Ryan Gatza
Some people say that God maps out each of our decisions to determine what He feels its best for all of us. I believe this because I felt a second calling back to New Orleans. This was my second mission trip with St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Mission Trips. I went last year to New Orleans. I think it was great for several reasons. One was going to Steubenville on the Bayou. This conference was my first one and this really got me hyped up for worship in New Orleans. Another reason was seeing old friends again from last year. Fr. Capuci is just a great man who can make anyone laugh or he can relate to you in any way. He's such a good priest who's filled so much with the Holy Spirit. It was also fun to see Dawnell. She's such a lively woman who is very in tune with God. It was great to see George and Mae from last year, whom I helped along with others to gut their home. They are in high spirits because they are getting their new home very soon. One thing that I love was on this trip I met a lot more people and made many new friends. I feel that I changed a bit during missions. As Fr. Capuci put it, I didn't change like I thought I did at Steubie. You really change when you live by God's example by three plus months. I know it will be hard to break some of my old habits but I now God can help.
Eric Parker
Arriving back at the Center of Jesus the Lord felt like I had been away from home for a year and was returning. The staff there are so welcoming and loving. Especially Dawnell and Fr. Capuci. Both poured their love to our group and made themselves readily available for whatever we needed. For the majority of the week I would stay back at the Center during the day and I would intercede for our various ministries across the New Orleans area. I was so overjoyed everyday when the team would arrive home and tell us all their stories and continually thank us for all their prayers. We had a wonderful week in New Orleans and are sad to leave but also got to return home again after being away for so long.
Andrew Hoggatt
This was my first mission trip and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I made so many new friends, and grew closer to God that not even words can express. When I left on this mission trip I really didn't know what to expect. I though you just helped people, and hung out, and ate good food, but I was totally wrong. Yes we helped people, and hung out, and ate good food, but we also built relationships and friendships, and experienced God in a way most couldn't imagine. If you are a teen, and haven't gone on a mission trip you should, it will change your life. This mission tip has changed my life, and I view things in so many different ways now. This mission trip was one of the best things that has ever happened to me!
Katie Byron
I chose to go on this trip because I went last year and I knew I had to go back and I am so glad I did! Starting off the trip with the Steubenville conference was such a good way to get in tune with God. The conference helped me realize that the focus of the trip is on God and God's will. I learned more about myself and now I want to go about living. When we started I was nervous that I wouldn't be able to discern which ministry to go to but God showed me the way. I went way out of my comfort zone and with lots of hard work building a driveway. After the first day I knew I would be ok. God had a plan for me and guided me where to go. I started to put my trust in God. That was very hard for me but trusting God was the best thing ever.Throughout this trip I grew closer in my relationship with God. During our worship nights I opened my heart and let him fill it. I asked God to help me keep my faith alive when I got home and I can't wait to share my experiences with everyone at home. Another amazing part about his trip was the group of people we had on the trip. We all looked out for each other and were there if someone needed a person to talk to .Working on the different projects with the people from New Orleans was so amazing. I especially grew close to Hy and Libba Mcenry who are building a center for kids to lead them to Christ. I felt called to go and help build a driveway they were walking on and it was so amazing on how appreciative they are of our help. I also got very close to a girl named Treachelle who is close with Hy and Libba. All of her love for the Lord was such an inspiration to me. I helped tutor her this week and hung out with her and talked. I definitely saw God through her.New Orleans changed my life. God changed my life. I live for Him. I want to do his will. I pray that I can keep having "all access" to Him and praise Him in all I do. I am different now, in a good way. Thank you Lord! I love You!
Kristin Bryar
After going on my first mission trip to West Virginia last year, I knew I had to go on another one. I am so glad that I chose to go to New Orleans because this experience molded me into a better person. What I love most about missions in general is that God always shows up in all situations. My faith has grown more in these ten days than in the rest of my life. I've learned that I can trust in God and that He'll always be with me. He has shown me those who are less fortunate than I am, which makes me appreciate all of the opportunities I have. I've also learned from the people of New Orleans how to love no matter what the circumstances. There are amazing people that lost everything to Hurricane Katrina, yet still treat you with hospitality and kindness. They are truly wonderful, strong people, and are so grateful for our help.Helping those who need it improved my relationship with God. It made me feel so good to put a smile on someone's face. It created a feeling of happiness and peace. It also humbled me to learn about working hard, and I will remember it forever. The place where I could always feel God's presence was during praise and worship. Pouring out my love to God along with people I cared about was such a powerful experience. It was nice to be able to just praise God and not worry about anything else but Him.The relationships I developed in New Orleans mean so much to me. Some were brand new and I made new friends that are closer to me after this short time that those I have known for years. I also strengthened and fixed old relationships. Sharing a love of God forms such a strong bond between people.I really needed this mission trip. It has created so much love and compassion in me and everyone who went. I thank God so much that He lead me to go to New Orleans, and my relationship with Him has grown to where I can trust Him and put my life in His hands. I will never forget all that I learned and accomplished and I know that I always have a home in New Orleans.
Jason Liuzzi
This was my second mission trip, my first to New Orleans. I had high expectations coming into New Orleans because of family and friends who went previously and telling me how awesome it is. All of my expectations were exceeded. I met some awesome people while I was there.
Before the mission, we were all were told that we are there to help them. But they helped us more than we could ever imagine. I worked on a house for a couple named Hy and Libba. We where helping them prepare a driveway for a ministry center soon to be put up across the street. Our job was to smash up concrete with sledgehammers. After that we dug a trench, and placed the heavy rocks in. We were to make the driveway 65ft. Instead we made it 90ft. and cleared some of the rocks out of the way so it was more accessible. Hy and Libba were so happy and so grateful for our work. I don't believe I will ever forget the look of happiness on their faces. It really just reminded me why I was there and it's those moments that make it worthwhile. Thank you and God Bless!
Alissa Serio
This my 3rd mission trip but my first time in New Orleans. When I first signed up I was really excited but once the rip came closer I was getting really nervous. I didn't know if I was ready. Steubie was awesome and really moving, but it was New Orleans that made the biggest impact. The first day I went to Miss Ava's house. She is the nicest lady ever! Her and her husband Tracy were so touched that we did some work on their house and were overwhelmed that we even took the time to get to know them. It was amazing that we made such a big impact. One day I went to VBS. It was amazing how excited these kids were just to hang out with us for a little while and learn about God. The ministry that made the biggest impact on my life through was Project Lazarus. That was the home for people with AIDS. It moved me so much to see how genuinely happy they were to see us, talk to us, spent time with us and just have us listen to what hey had to say. It was so touching to see how excited they were just to talk about their day with someone. They really live life to the fullest and are so grateful to be alive. I will take that experience with me for the rest of my life. I can't wait to come back!
John Ryan
This is my 2nd mission trip and by far the better of the two. I got so much out of this one. The workcamps are great but there is less freedom in them. After last years trip I really wasn't that secure with my faith and I thought if I loved God at church and then forgot about Him the rest of the week, I'd be good. But that's not what we are called to do. I tried to be so many different people and impress people this year, I had forgotten who I was. There were things like Winter Xtreme camp and the confirmation retreat that helped, but nothing like this trip. I feel free and have a stronger faith than I left with last year. The people in New Orleans have so much faith and hope even after what happened during Katrina. Things such as Steubenville really helped prep me for a thing like this mission.
The VBS kids were so enthusiastic about learning the work of God. I was awestruck when an eight-year-old, Edward wrote “I love Jesus” and “In God we trust” on the sidewalk with chalk. The people at Project Lazarus are just so excited to have someone visit, listen to their story and play a game of Taboo with them. A car ride is a blessing for them because they don't get out much. It really puts things in perspective for you.
Anyway, I grew much stronger in my faith and am going to carry on to next year when I go again to wherever the Lord calls me to go and I recommend everyone try to go because it is a life changing experience.
Katie Devita
This week was a great experience for me. I've never experienced God before this week. I've never been involved in the church all that much; just going to Sunday mass. But finally I built up the courage to sign up for missions. I was so incredible scared to go because the majority of the team had already been on at least one mission trip before. I was scared first of all because I didn't know if I would fit in. But more importantly I was scared I was going to be the one to not experience God. But I soon realized I had nothing to worry about. The people were amazing and very welcoming. And the first weekend we attended the Steubenville conference. Wow did God show himself to me then! I felt and thought things I've never felt before! During adoration I just could feel the Holy Spirit moving through me. I worshipped with all my heart and sang my heart out. I knew that God wanted me. I was so scared He wasn't going to accept me because I had the need or want to be close with Him. But I learned that God will always love and help me no matter how many times I stray away from Him or sin. The whole week was just amazing for me from on out. I loved helping people and I started to meet so many great friends that shared the passion for God with me. During the week I felt called to go to Project Lazarus, which is a ministry home for people with AIDS. As soon as I got there I made a huge connection with patients. Especially a woman named Wanda. She shared so many stories with me and I soon became her "daughter." I kept getting called to Lazarus and even was noticed God had given me a gift in all the residents. Going to Lazarus taught me so very much. But, the main thing I learned was this; God shows Himself in so many ways. Not only is God present with you during worship, but also through everyday life. I looked at the patients from Lazarus with the loving eyes of God. It didn't matter to me if they were black, white, in a wheelchair, or had not teeth! All I knew or cared about was they all needed a friend, somebody to listen, and someone to love them. And I did that with God inside of me the whole time. I knew this because I walked out of Lazarus with an "I Love You" from every resident there. All in all, this mission has strengthened me in too many ways to count. My faith has increased 100% and I have so much more confidence in myself as a person. I believe God has so much in store for all of us, and I feel blessed that He chose me to share His unconditional love with me.
Kristin Theros
My name is Kristin Theros and this is my second SEAS mission trip, having gone to Lockport, NY two years ago. My first experience to New Orleans was nothing short of amazing. I never would have expected to see God in a place that has been shaken with so much devastation and ruin. I expected to be changing lives; I did not expect to have my life changed. After a high-energy, spirit filling weekend at the Steubenville on the Bayou Youth Conference, our team retreated to The Center of Jesus The Lord to begin our mission work in New Orleans. Among the ministries we worked with was LAMB Project. A project devoted to construction type work on a house and future ministry site; Project Lazarus, a facility for people with AIDS; and Hoover House, another home renovation project. But the ministry that I encountered most, and that really impacted me, was Vacation Bible School. For 3 days, I worked with some of the best kids to grace this earth. We ministered to them through playing football, arts and crafts, snacks, and story time. We shared the bible with them, and they with us. I'll never forget when Miss Libba came by and gave each kid a Bible. They were so excited; they eagerly bragged about how much they were going to read that night. Throughout the week, I heard Bible versed, laughter, songs, and stories from these kids. Some shared stories that broke my heart, but they always followed it up with a joke or a dance move. These kids showed me something. It's not hard to love Jesus. It's not hard to believe He's there. If you open your heart, Jesus will enter. And these kids opened my heart and let me let Jesus in. I could go on for hours with stories about this trip, but I wouldn't have any of them if God didn't bring these kids into my life. I learned to two-step, I learned where the Levee swing is, I learned how to eat a beignet. But more importantly, learned to love, I learned to trust, and I learned to share and I can't wait to share everything New Orleans has given me with our church in Crystal Lake.
Tammy Marrah
It's the first time in 17 days that I can't get my hands on a Bible at a moments notice. I'm on the plane coming home and my Bible is in my checked luggage. But as I sit here a verse keeps coming to mind. I believe from I Corinthians. God has graced us with 3 things - faith, hope and love. All three have permeated our time in New Orleans.Faith. We each walked into the Center of Jesus the Lord at different stages in our faith life. I walked through the front gate knowing that my faith in God and Jesus would deepen. I didn't know how but I was confident it would. And it did- God is so very good to us! Each of us has taken at least one step closer to God while in New Orleans. Hope. I came hoping to learn more about myself. I came hoping to overcome some fears and concerns. And I came hoping to figure out the next step in my life all while ministering to the people of New Orleans and my fellow missionaries. And I learned that sometimes the next step is to keep putting one foot in front of the other even when you don't know where you are heading yet.Love. This one caught me by surprise. I didn't expect it. I didn't think I could fall in love with a city, with its people-a people who are completely genuine and unpretentious in their faith in God. But it was really the love of our group that left me in awe, the love our teens-my friends-poured out on everyone around them. Whether it was VBS, painting a shed or feeding the multitudes, our teens rose to the occasion. Without fail, our teens did whatever needed to be done, whenever it needed to be done. In fact, God's love truly bubbled out of each and every one of them on both teams. It was nothing short of amazing to witness. It is no wonder that God Himself said that of these three things, the greatest of these is love.
Danielle Knaizer
Team. When people hear this word, most think of a group of people coming together for a common cause-winning a game, saving a life, or getting a job done. In our case, it’s so much more. We call ourselves a mission team; a team who comes together to do God's will, spread His word and help those in need.New Orleans is still in dire need of assistance and we jumped right in as soon as we got here. We helped rebuild houses that last summer we gutted. We formed friendships at Lazarus Project. We played with and loved the kids at Vacation Bible School and we helped get a site ready for ministry in a neighborhood.While lending a helping hand we immersed ourselves in New Orleans culture. Soon we were sayin' "Hay y'all" and cravin' some good Cajun food.In addition we prayed with anyone and everyone who wanted to. The power of prayer is unfathomable at times and Katrina victims love to pray. Vacation Bible School and a rebuilding project were across the street from each other. One day a man on a motorcycle drove up and thanked us for all we were doing. He expressed his gratitude toward God for sending us to New Orleans. We offered to pray with him and right there we all dropped everything, held hands in the street and prayed-this man, vacation bible school kids and us missionaries.I am humbled by this entire experience. Just not the fact of how fortunate we all are, but that we came down to help the people of New Orleans and thy ended up helping us more than I could've ever imagined. Their belief in God and their faith is inspiring-they've been to hell and back and their faith hasn't hindered one bit. In fact, it's only grown stronger.Our last team came down together; we worked together, side by side. Our faith grew together. Friendships formed that'll last a lifetime, and now we're leaving together.Yes we came together to help others, but we came together with God at heart, and that's what makes this team so hard to leave.
Hannah Brown
I had the best time ever on this trip, I feel myself growing stronger in faith and in life! I would love to share my story of my growing faith: all year I was so excited to come her to New Orleans just to see how much we can help the people down here, but I was not expecting to become God's follower. At Steubie on June 29th, Bishop Sam Jacobs called us up and said "If you have not given yourself to Christ in public, I ask you now to come forth." So I did, I felt like I was doing the right thing, but I was really only doing it because everyone else was - but the next day came around and the bishop again asked if anyone would like to go again or who was too shy last time. I was saying to myself, "Hannah you went yesterday." But I felt like God was calling me forward. So I threw my body off my chair and walked down the stairs. While walking down, I fell off of the wheel chair ramp. And this is really important to me because I feel like all my life I've been stumbling and not reaching out to God for help, but as I was on the ground, I lifted my hand up and I felt God pulling me and I closed my eyes and dragged my feet while sobbing all the way to the altar. I heard a calling saying "Yes cry, He is calling you with arms wide open." I cried even more hysterically. I didn't' know what was happening to me so I stood there, eyes shut, heart open and hands lifted; waiting for Jesus to knock on my door. The bishop then said "Close your eyes and imagine Jesus in front of you," and at that instant, I saw the light of Jesus' white cloak and I threw myself upon the floor and I called out "God I'm so sorry," and I can't remember how many time I said that remembering all the horrible things I've done, until I saw these faint white brick stairs, but they were going forward. So I put just one hand forward and grasped the step as hard as I could, and I saw His feet running towards me. He stopped where I knelt and I laid my hands on His sacred feet. I still can't get over the fact that I felt and touched the feet of Jesus Christ the Lamb! It was the best day of my life! When I went back up the stairs, I couldn't go to my seat, so I just knelt on the stairs and worshipped with all my soul, with all my strength, with every breath and screech in my voice. I heard by so many people that my face was glowing, but I knew that it was. I was so happy that I could feel my own face and heart glowing. My cheeks hurt from smiling so much! Ever since that day I have such a joy in praising God. The Spirit has moved through me like never before! And For Jesus, my door is always open; He wouldn't even have to knock on my door. My door, my hands and my heart are forever open for Him!
Alex Plump
Well, this is my first official mission trip with SEAS, so I am not quite sure what to say. I will begin to say that God healed me over this week and unlocked some of my dormant spiritual gifts. I have felt more of an outpouring of the light of the Holy Spirit this week more than perhaps the entire year that I have know God. This week has truly been a gift from God and I have felt, seen and heard things that I don’t think I have ever felt before. It’s funny. I came here feeling spiritually together only to have my spiritual power completely apprehended by God the first weekend we were here. It’s as if God wanted me to start a mew journey from scratch. He let loose all of the emotions I had bottled up inside me in order to start me a fresh. While it had been a difficult to build myself back up to where I thought I was, I feel I am standing on much higher ground than when I got here. And I feel like I have attained a new sense of union with the Holy Spirit that I have never had before. I thank God and my family for the opportunity to grow in the light. I apologize if this seemed more like rambling than a testimony. I never have been really good with words.
2007 New Orleans Mission Team #6 Testimonies.
We're still waiting for most of the Team #6 testimonies to come in. Here's what we have so far:
Daniel Bartlett
At first I didn’t want to come on this mission trip. I would bug my mom every week I don’t want to go. But when I got to New Orleans I was like fine I’ll try to think positive. So we started or ministries and the first day we all went to a worksite where we started to bust up concrete and build a driveway for VBS. Later in the day the local kids came over and helped us paint the house which the driveway was next to. So I was thinking this is really cool that these kids just come and want to help.
One of the days I was doing free prayer with Adam, Eva and Renee and this woman named Sandra came up to us and asked us to pray for her. So, we did and while we were praying for her she started to cry and pray for things like safety of her brother because he was in trouble, for her hygiene, then she prayed for health because she said that she was sick and had something bad inside her. She also said that every day she moves from place to place to sleep. I could tell that God had brought us to that street to help Sandra and pray for her.
Doug Westhoven
Back to New Orleans with expectations of it being about the same as last year. Once we arrived though, I saw changes right away. Over all it was greener with a little less trash in the streets. But the needs of the people were still as great as ever. God had a special project in mind for me when I arrived. To design and move interior walls of the Hoover home. This home had been completely gutted from the destruction of hurricane Katrina and had over 5 feet of water! Yet through all this devastation, the Hoover’s still dreamed of moving back in one day soon. Although I was limited by time – I was not able to accomplish all that I wold have liked for them - when they came back out to their home and at the end of the week and saw the changes that had taken place they were overwhelmed with joy. Which reminded me that “ anything done for the glory of God, no matter how small, does not go unnoticed”. God gave me joy in return for doing His works.
God put me together with a team of incredible people from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and New Orleans to work with. People to give to and receive from. Thank you Jesus for al that you have done for God is great – all the time!
Steve Hodgson
I left home feeling as if I was in a spiritual desert. My prayer life had become stagnant and felt as if I was talking to God and not hearing anything back. My prayer for the mission trip was that God would make me aware of His presence. I told him I didn’t need to feel him, just to be aware that he was there.
It took one worship session with our team for my prayer to be answered, I struggled with singing and letting go as many of the group do, but when I forced myself to pray, God began to help me see His work. I opened my eyes and saw one person resting in the Spirit at my left and then at my right. Shortly another in front and soon one behind. I was standing in the midst of the work of the Holy Spirit and knew God made sure I wouldn’t mess his sign to me.
Each day our worship seemed to become more intense and my involvement grew. The Holy Spirit seemed to show me who to go to. I was greatly moved and used by Him to minister to others. My desert was a well, flowing with fresh water. Thank you God.
Then there was Steubenville. Ten times the energy. Then times the power of the Spirit. Ten times the intensity. I was greatly blessed.
Now I pray that I can bring the mission back to everyday life. I pray I can always remember this joy and share it with everyone. I pray that I trust God and listen with this renewed awareness.
Thank you for supporting our mission trips.
Dean Ramis
Well, another great trip. The weird thing is I really didn’t want to go, even more so as the departure day got close. I was afraid and worried that it would be as good and the first and second trip. But all is good. I felt that our group received more healing and ministry this trip. Maybe we all needed it and the Big Man knew it. My journey has been more evolutionary than revolutionary and this week I got closer to Jesus and definitely took some big steps and many things got more into focus. I made new friendship, strengthened some past ones, and brought myself a little closer to God. Thanks for having me.
Alex Prochaska
God is truly amazing! I can’t believe how much I’ve changed since I went on this mission’s trip. I never liked Christian music before. Now, it’s all I listen to! I am hoping to go for two weeks next year!
The day of departure, we had to be at St. Elizabeth at 5:30 a.m., so I woke up at 4am. When we got to N’Orleans, we waited about two hours to get seven rental cars. It was kind of fun because I played Uno with a couple of friends. When we got to the retreat center, I met my roommate, David. He was really nice, and I found out that we attended the same middle school.
When we had mass, I was really surprised because I witnessed something called “speaking in tongues” and “resting in the spirit.” I had no idea what that was and I thought to myself, “What have I gotten myself into! Is this a cult?!” I wish I had been told earlier about this, but I found out that this was a Charismatic Catholic Church, so they do things a little different than a regular Catholic church. After I was informed about what everyone was doing, I got a little bit more comfortable.
The second day was really great, and I felt God’s presence in everyone who helped serve by busting up rock to build a driveway and painting a house. We had worship sometime late that night; and while we were worshiping, I had my hands in my pockets and wasn’t singing because I think I have a horrible voice and I’m really shy.
Well, the next day worshiping, I actually started to sing a little bit and my hands were opened up just below my ribs. The fourth day worshiping, my hands were by my head and I was singing a little bit louder. The fifth day was when it all happened… I had my hands up as high as I could reach and singing so loud. I thought to myself “Oh no! I can’t reach any higher!” It was that day that I first “rested in the spirit.” This sometimes happens when you’re worshiping, and you let the Holy Spirit’s power consume you, and flows through your body. You can’t stay standing any longer and usually fall backward. There are people around to catch you. I was fully aware of what was happening around my but I didn’t care, I felt that I was in the presence of God. It was awesome!
Steubenville was awesome! The best part was worshiping. God was preparing my heart and my soul for the Steubenville conference.
I met a new friend, Alison, at Steubenville, she was on team seven. (I was on Team six). Sadly, I had to go the day after I met her because Steubenville was over. What is cool though, is the fact that she goes to my school and is in Anime Club. So I’ll be seeing a lot of friends from the trip when school starts.
God can change a person so much that you wouldn’t recognize them. I think I was one of those people. Praise the Lord!!!
