Pneuma Winds of Hope

Signs of the Times

2011-06-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

Lately with the "No Rapture" day...tornadoes, earthquakes, floods...times of great sorrows, lots of signs....lots of questions....our response is???

Two weeks ago I was blessed to take care of my 7 week old grandson Jaymeson, a delightful time. However, the week was a time to reflect on PNEUMA and the ministry that God has called us to, and the impact that we are having for the Kingdom. We have been blessed in the past couple years as friends of PNEUMA have drawn deeper to God and fulfilling their purpose in this earthly life. I clap with support as people like Kenny Frerichs and his family bring birth to OSCA (operation starfish california), his committment to giving youth a place to give, learn and draw deeper to Christ will transform the world around him!! Bonnie has recently began her journey to pray across America, her mission is to be Watchman's Wheels...bringing the news of the Gospel and calling people to a deeper relationship, revival, reconciliation and renewal. Then of course there are the young adults going to college and committing themselves to fulfill the call on their lives....SO HOW DOES THIS RELATE TO JAYMESON??? Well I have realized that just like my Grandma postion in my family, I am excited to be in a spiritual position that I can encourage, mentor, share Godly wisdom and watch as others bring to life and grow the mission God has given them. Very humbling and so incredible, cause each one who reaches other makes the effect for the Kingdom EXPONENTIAL!!

Really isnt that what we should ALL be doing, not only fulfilling our destiny, but reaching out and helping others so that indeed we can not be troubled by the times but rejoice in what Jesus is doing!! So today as I sit and reflect on our recent trip to Smithville, MS...a community who lost 80% of their homes, 17 lives and 12 of 14 business...I wonder...WHO LORD will rise up, who will become the one to walk with them...JESUS told us...prayer for laborers, for the harvest is plentiful....and in this time of sorrows, the need has never been greater.

Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy!!
Be on the watch, your moment to make a difference is NOW!!

Love ya BIG like JESUS,
di

Back to the Basics

2011-03-06T21:04:00.001-08:00

This has been an incredible year...and it is only March!! I began the year with a 40 day fast, seeking the Lord for what He had in store for PNEUMA this coming year. In my heart I kept sensing the Spirit say...Back to the Beginning. Like Abraham years ago I began a journey to know God deeper...to know Him as my Abba Daddy, to know Him as my Savior and Lover and to know Him as the Comforter and Instructor of my life. Like Abraham this year I am returning to Bethel, where I go back to the altar where I first became aware of His great love.
So I have been focusing on Him, reading the Bible and books by those old great saints who refused to fall into "normal" of the world and seek the Kingdom of God. I have learned and relearned so much...one thing that has stood out....there should be no difference between the sacred and the secular...if truly my life is a living sacrifice to Jesus Christ, then whatever I do...is all for HIS glory. Not exactly the way the world or the church looks at it...we serve in church, or on the streets in "Ministry"...yet what do we do when we aren't doing that??? I should at all times and in all ways be devoted and ministering to the heart of Jesus...walking with Him....praying with Him....serving with Him and even my eating and drinking...ALL for HIS glory....
WOW it is going to be a great year as we devote our lives to getting back to the basics...loving God with WHOLEHEARTEDLY....heart, soul, mind, strength...then add the neighbors as myself....WHEW....COME LORD JESUS COME!!!

Challenge Day Next Step

2010-02-23T13:20:00.000-08:00

WOW, what an incredible weekend. Bonnie and I had the opportunity to spend the weekend in Next Step training with the Challenge Day organization.

The weekend started with a circle of "If you REALLY knew ME"....as each person in the group shared their stories of what lies beneath the safe watermark of our soul, the Lord began to bubble things in my heart...some old, some new all with purpose of greater freedom and life for my soul!!

During the weekend we had the privilege to provide a birthday party for a young woman, love through hugs and love and most of all the opportunity to BE the LOVE of JESUS to each one we met.

The weekend has already begun to bring some wonderful new and exiting opportunities for the summer "the Stirring" in Pittsburgh.....

Hang on it is going to be a WILD RIDE!! Jesus you are so cool and I am so grateful for the advantage to experience another day of your grace, love and JOY....

Have a wonderful day in celebration of God's LOVE!

Hancock County Food Pantry Christmas Blessing

2009-12-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

When the Ringdahl family delivered food to Lafayette County, WI a couple weeks ago they discovered that the food pantry had a surplus of collard greens looking for a home.

Bonnie, being very familiar with the Hancock Count Food Pantry, knew just the place.

Bonnie returned this week from WI with her truck loaded full of greens, sauerkraut, juice and playing cards.

The pantry was so thankful for the surprise Christmas Blessing from their sister food pantry in Wisconsin.

As is the case with food pantries across America, the food pantry here in Hancock County is facing a serious hardship.

Currently, the pantry serves over 2,000 families and those families under the age of 60 are only able to receive a small box every 90 days. Families over the age of 60 are able to come once a month.

While donations of canned goods and grocery items are always welcome, we learned that the same dollar that you might spend on a can of tuna fish could help the food pantry to buy between 5 to 15 pounds of food through their distribution channels.

Please consider making financial donations to the Hancock County food pantry and every dollar makes a huge difference.

Please keep praying as more people try to navigate the difficulties of surviving in these challenging times.

The Legacy of SOAR

2009-11-29T16:10:00.000-08:00

St. Rose de Lima Church today celebrated a beautiful Mass in honor of all the volunteers who have assisted in the Katrina rescue and recovery efforts.

Volunteers returned “home” from California, Colorado, Washington DC, New York, Idaho and other areas to join in the closure of the organization that has provided the life blood of love to the community since August of 2005.

The mass included a beautiful dance by the Handmaidens interpretive dance team of the parish.

Following the Mass there was a celebration continental breakfast in honor of all the volunteers in the Holy Spirit Center.

Brief inspirational messages of thanks were given by Margaret Taylor, wife of Senator Gene Taylor, David Barria Mississippi State Representative and Les Fillingame Bay St. Louis Mayor.

The room was filled with laughter, lots of story telling and hugs for everyone. Thank you Father Sebastian and SOAR for the legacy of love to Bay St. Louis.

Love Reaches LaFayette County WI

2009-11-20T12:47:00.000-08:00

The grip of the national economic hardship has reached into the heartland of America’s farmers.

Many families are struggling and in LaFayette County, Wisconsin, the local food pantries are trying to care for double their usual load.

Wes and Ellie Ringdahl, board members of PNEUMA have responded to the call for help. The red Dodge truck began the journey to Chicago to “Gleaners for God” a surplus food supplier that assists food pantries in need.

Fresh items such as beets, cabbage, pumpkins and squash supplemented juice, bread, crackers and sauerkraut and filled the truck to overflowing. Following lunch with other believers from “Gleaners for God”, they headed back to Wisconsin their souls and truck full of encouragement for others.

Food was distributed to families in need through two local food pantries. Both pantry managers were encouraged and renewed in the belief that “Hope does not disappoint….” PNEUMA continues to find opportunities to share the love of Jesus, through the avenues of prayer, proclamation and provision.

Join us as we pray for God to continue to provide for families in need as our nation continues to face the hardships of the economic down turn. As we prepare for the celebration of Christmas, let us love like He taught us. Share His love with those in need in your community.

God bless you and your family this holiday season.

Intern Appreciation Day

2009-10-31T22:19:00.000-07:00

During the course of the past two years, PNEUMA has been blessed in so many ways!

Among our many blessings is our wonderful interns who have sacrificed in so many ways through their daily acts of devotion and service to the organization and the people of Hancock County.

Today it was all about them and celebrating their contributions and unconditional love! A progressive dinner began at Lil Rays in Long Beach and ended at Marble Creamery in Gulfport.

We laughed and ate, laughed and ate, and LAUGHED and ATE! We talked about all God has done in them and through them, what He is doing now and pondered what He is up to as they head into a new season of serving.

As the girls make preparations for the closing of this chapter, and prepare for the next, they will ALWAYS be near and dear to our hearts and the people of Bay St. Louis!

Thank you Ashley, Morgan and Heather, WELL DONE GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANTS, we love you!!

Di and Bonnie

Team Pneuma 2009

First Annual Fundraiser

2009-10-30T22:03:00.000-07:00

On October 30th, PNEUMA Winds of Hope celebrated four years of accomplishments and unveiled the vision for the future of Resiliency Training through Habitat and the Bay/Waveland School district.

For those who may not know, St. Rose Outreach and Recovery (SOAR) will close operations in December, 2009 leaving a void in the outreach and community recovery efforts.

During the past 18 months di and bonnie have become certified resiliency trainers and are excited to continue the work begun in Bay St. Louis and througout the US.

Our first annual fundraising dinner kicked off with the sweet aroma of love, coupled with the tantalizing fragrance from the kitchen of Chef Zac. Hugs and laughter were the attire for the evening. The evening began with appetizers and music by Relative Unknown, followed by lovely dinner and Celebration program.

As Joy and RJ began the evening with soft music, people gathered around the appetizer table reminiscing of when we all gathered together on the McDonald Ballfield.

Stories were free flowing as people shared their favorite distribution center, women’s luncheon and celebration memories.

Jamie and Ms. Mike shared the MC for the evening taking everyone on a wonderful ride of triumph and beauty.

There was plenty of laughter and a few tears as we celebrated Di and Bonnie’s impact in the Bay over the past four years.

Testimonials painted a beautiful picture of transformation, healing and hope birthed out of Katrina’s destruction.

Love offerings were accpeted and 10% of the proceeds will be used to help fund the next Challenge Day in the Bay.

If you were unable to attend the fundraiser, you can donate your love offering to support the ministry here on our site.

As always, we are grateful for your prayers and support and let’s be ready as God blows a new breeze through PNEUMA Winds of Hope.

October Bouncing Back Resiliency Training

2009-10-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

As participants registered for the October 13-15th Resiliency Training, many came with burdens clearly weighing them down.

Some participants facing multiple hardships post Katrina with health, housing and hopelessness came with shoulders bent over, heads down and unable to make eye contact.

Others came challenged by life’s hardships long before Katrina tore away the remaining fiber of their being, were seeking help for themselves and others.

In the midst of all the obstacles, men and women came looking for answers and help to break free and bounce back.

As day one unfolded, the participants were challenged to create a poster of “Yes I Can”. This poster would become the foundation to build a life structure of hope to regain and restore hidden coping strengths lost in the challenges of repeated disappointments, loss of physical mobility, and facing the long road of restoration and recovery in the face of Katrina’s destruction.

Many people were challenged to say “Yes I Can”, instead of using adjectives like “Hope I Can” or “Wish I Can”.

Yet as the instruction unfolded and specifically designed activities reinforced the teaching, glimmers of hope began to shine through.

Day two opened with a few participants coming in with heads held higher, brighter clothing and even a few smiles. Teaching focused on coping methods according to the BASIC Ph with Ruvie Rogel, Deputy CEO, The Community Stress Prevention Center providing instruction.

Participants engaged each other in small groups, sharing and exploring their personal coping methods and practicing listening skills. As the day ended, a ripple of laughter could be heard as people said good bye, many feeling like they had “found new friends”.

The final day of training included the opportunity for participants to practice the skills taught over the three days. Many found they were leaving with tools to help themselves, their family and friends.

Smiles, hugs and exchanging of contact information kept a buzz in the room as people celebrated their new sense of community, having found others who are on the journey of overcoming life’s challenges.

Busy Week for Resiliency Workshops

2009-10-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

So what does a week of Resiliency training look like? Glad you asked. The following summary highlights the events of this past week and we will post other stories down the road.

Monday October 12th: Care for the Care Giver
An important part of rebuilding healthy community is helping those responsible for the caring of others. Monday morning began with Ruvie Rogel, Deputy CEO of The Community Stress Prevention Center presenting the topic of Compassion Fatigue and Burnout.

The training included a self test offering participants opportunity to evaluate their current state of being in regards to self care. Compassion Fatigue occurs when a person “Just can’t do enough”. Burnout however occurs when a person says “I’m DONE! Gotta get out of here!”

The symptoms of both Compassion Fatigue and Burnout are the same, and the solution rests in Self Care. We gave participants time to practice what they were taught, the afternoon was spent with free massage, haircuts, an art box to create cards and posters, a writing corner with journals, and a chatting corner with tea, coffee and cookies All the participants had time to spend on themselves, a true luxury! Participants took their smiles home to share with family and friends.

Tuesday October 13th – Thursday October 15th: Educating and Influencing Others
This program was developed to help equip participants to grasp the concepts of Resiliency and share them in their sphere of influence. The three days were filled with intensive training and exercises to improve implementation of the concepts.

During the course of the three days, participants had opportunity to explore their personal coping channels, listening skills, restoring continuities in the lives of those affected by traumatic or stressful situations and learning the art of walking with others through their challenges and leading them to positive choices for recovery.

The workshop was attended by residents, clergy, caregivers and others interested in helping others cope with difficult situations. Participants were pleased with the training given by Ruvie Rogel, Deputy CEO of The Community Stress Prevention Center and found the information to be helpful both personally and as a tool to help others. The Certificate of Completion was given to three attendees who completed round three of training.

Friday October 16th: Orientation to Resiliency
Local government, law enforcement, and fire fighter leadership gathered for a presentation by Ruvie Rogel, Deputy CEO of The Community Stress Prevention Center on Disaster Preparedness. The participants offered their insights into the challenges encountered in the face of Katrina. Ruvie shared his experience and expertise in helping municipalities and communities prepare for disaster around the world.

The day ended with a commitment to pursue funding for more training in this area for Bay St. Louis city government.

Saturday October 17th: Youth Resiliency Day
Bouncing balls, hoola hoops, play dough and markers, what do they all have in common? These are the tools to help youth develop the skills to encourage and help one another though difficult times. Thirty youth gathered and spent their day exploring the coping methods of the BASIC Ph, implementing the information presented and challenging one another to change the world around them.

The teens were divided into groups who developed a “book” on coping to be presented to the community during the “Community Resiliency Day” December 12th, 2009, during Second Saturday. Intensive training will be offered to interested youth on December 8-9th.

There are so many personal stories and miracles that come about every time we conduct a Resiliency Workshop. God truly has blessed us to bless others through this program.

One story that really made us smile during the week was we had a woman come and on the first day she had a cane, bandaid on head (from someone throwing something at her), her head down, dressed in black and bent over.

On the second day, she had her hair combed, ribbon in her hair, navy dress and making eye contact

On day three she was wearing teal colored pants and shirt with pink flowers, NO cane and smiling offering to help.

So, on Saturday she arrived with a mat, gloves and weeded the flower bed at the church. That is the power of what God puts into resiliency.

We are truly blessed to bless others and thank everyone for their support and prayers.
Di

Three Day Youth Art Camp

2009-10-12T09:28:00.000-07:00

Youth Art Camp (YAC) was a summer program that we planned for kids grade K-5.

It was designed to give children a fun place to do art, while also learning some basic coping tools from our current Resiliency program. Through art and older youth leadership we have been able to show children a number of positive outlets for their daily and disaster crisis.

We did “Yes I Can” posters on the first day to help the kids find good things that they are capable of doing for themselves and to help others.

It also helps them to think about what they want and expect from themselves.

On the second day we transform our bad experiences into something good using Play Doh. Every child is given a can of Play Doh to work with and take home at the end of the day.

They use the clay to make something that represents a bad experience and then use the same clump of clay to transform that into something that helps them or that represents a good experience since. It was incredible to witness the things that kids are willing and wanting to share.

Day three we talked about the things we are thankful for and what has helped us to make it to where we are using all different materials to make a collage. We also had a “coin contest” that encouraged the youth to make a difference in the lives of others.

Each kid brought any change they could find and added to their group’s jar. The team with the most change won a prize.

The kids raised over $55 to be put toward school supplies for students that couldn’t afford the necessary academic materials they will need for the coming school year.

They were enthusiastic and excited about contributing and learned that they can give back and help others no matter how young they are.

Youth Art Camp has been a catalyst in the community for future community organized and run programs like it. It also has created many opportunities for future collaboration and partnerships of different businesses, organizations and citizens in Hancock County.

Over 40 kids ages Kindergarten through Fifth Grade have had the opportunity to experience art, resiliency, socialization and most importantly, fun, over the last three days. Next week a new group of kids will have the same experience.

Perhaps one of the greatest surprises and successes of the YAC program has been the youth leaders that have helped with the camp. High School students from different schools and churches in the area have come out to help with the Youth Art Camp.

Each helper and a friend become partners in leading a team of kids. The older youth have really stepped up in their leadership roles and have become an irreplaceable asset to the program. Their enthusiasm, willingness and desire to help has made it obvious that the youth are really looking for something they can be a part of; they want to help in their community.

The YAC program also gave them the opportunity to interact and become involved in the well being of the next generation after them. It really gave them a chance to be positive leaders for those kids that will make a difference next. The youth have been a light in the community this week.

YAC was not only a chance for children of all different ages, from all different schools and home lives to learn about art and creativity, but it has been a safe, fun environment for them to meet peers, make friends and learn a few tools and ideas for helping them cope with different difficulties throughout the coming year.

Youth Resiliency Training

2009-09-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

Challenge Day involved 400 youth and over 100 adult facilitators last week in Bay St. Louis. The question was, where do we go from here?

The answer is YOUTH RESILIENCY DAY. The next scheduled training will be held on October 17th from 9:00am to 3:00pm at the St. Rose de Lima pavilion behind the parish center on Necaise Ave.

This event will take the fire from Challenge Day and keep it burning by providing the youth with skills to take their compassion to the next level!

Resiliency is the “art of bouncing back” and the topics for the day will be recognizing the difference each person can make in the world around them.

We will be using the BASIC Ph model to build on the work accomplished during Challenge Day. The BASIC Ph model was designed to help identify and understand the ongoing dialogue, struggles and survival mechanisms a person uses to deal with a situation, as well as establishes a starting point to develop the necessary rapport going forward.

We are also looking for adult volunteers who are willing to come and join in the fun. To register or sign up to participate as an adult volunteer, click here.

There is no fee for the event, however registration must be received by October 15th. Sorry no walk-ins will be accepted.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Youth Challenge Day

2009-09-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

As the four year anniversary passed by the students at Bay High and Our Lady Academy in Bay St. Louis had the opportunity to “Get Real” about the issues they face in school at home.

Nervous laughter and tremors quickly faded as the games began. Each activity specially designed by Challenge Day to break down barriers and build relationships.

Following the activities time to talk and listen from the heart. The youth were placed in a group with an adult facilitator where we shared “If you really knew me you would know….”

Challenges and circumstances from life began to flow as their group listened with compassionate concern.

The day ended with the youth making a commitment to “Be the Change” in the world around them.

AND THEY ARE!!

At Friday nights football game when a player was injured from the home team as well as the visiting team, the youth stood up and showed their love by displaying the hand signal for love (that is the thumb, first and pinky up), parents and teacher alike are awed at the significant change in a week…..and it will keep on growing!!

Challenge Day was partially funded through grant monies from UJC and SOAR. The community is hoping to raise money to sponsor another event in the spring.

Teaching Resiliency Training

2009-05-18T16:03:00.000-07:00

The school year finishes in 8 days and you can tell that the children are eager for summer and the teachers are ready for a break.

When we arrived at the school today for the teacher training, many of the teachers had just been told 2 hours before of the meeting. I knew we had some work ahead of us!!

We gave a brief review of how our coping channel is just like our favorite radio station. When events and stress happen, things get all static and we hit the scan button looking for a clear channel.

So it is with coping, our core channel gets lost sometimes in all the emotional and physical stress of an event. Gradually we began to see teachers let down a bit, nod their heads and become engaged in what resiliency is.

Then the FUN began. As the teachers squirted the paint, some started laughing, some sighing and few said “I am so glad we can play!”

Discussions about the uses of this exercise in the classroom were well received with many teachers hoping to have their students begin the project, some even tomorrow. An invitation was given for them to join us at the teacher training in June.

As they rushed out the door, many smiles and Thank You’s was a reminder of what a resilient people God has made us all to be.

AAAHHHH another great day in the Bay.

The Bay is Coming Back

2009-05-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

In 2005 Hurricane Katrina wiped out the Bay Bridge. For those not from here, we had little ability to understand the significance of the catastrophe.

Yes it was inconvenient to travel out on I-10, but we had never known another life as disaster relief workers. When the bridge reopened on May 17th, 2007, shouts of joy as the community felt like it was coming back.

TODAY IT DID! The Bridgefest Festival was the first since Katrina to be held on Main Street.

The overwhelming spirit and vibe in the air was "we are coming BACK!" Reverberated everywhere, two bandstands were set up, over 80 vendor booths and of course lots of great southern food ;-)

Children played on water slides and painted murals with their hands, artists painted pictures, candidates for office kissed babies and the memories of Katrina faded yet again.

Prior to Katrina Bay St Louis was known for its festivals, art shows, and Second Saturday. For residents today, it felt like HOME AGAIN!

Thanks be to God who brings Hope that does not disappoint -- Romans 5:5. What a great day.

Yes I Can

2009-05-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Our mission for the 2nd Annual Crawfish Boil was to provide the children with fun things to do during the event.

Not sure who had more fun, the children or us!

A beautiful sunny warm day with low humidity and a great sea breeze! Everyone was ready to play.

One of our activities we learned from the Resiliency Training is to have the children create a "Yes I Can" poster.

We sat and talked with each child about what they Can Do! At first they were a bit reluctant, however after a brief time, posters were filled with positive fun goals, such as; have a great summer, do good in school and go to college.

We also had lots of beautiful Mother's Day Cards made with loving hands and hearts.

Of course the day would not have been complete without some BIG FUN….we supervised a slide and the biggest event of the day was BUBBLES!

Children of ALL ages participated. It was especially fun to watch the adults in the main pavilion, as the bubbles passed by, smiles and memories invaded.

Giggles, awe and wonder filled the place, then again isn't that what God desires, for us to come as little children filled with laughter, awe and wonder…

...aaaahhh A great day!

Delores D. Manyama Tribute

2009-04-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

The first time I met Stephen and Dee Manyama was in NYC at a friends ordination. Stephen and Dee extended their arms of love and invited us to come and join their family in Birmingham.

On my first trip to their home, the sound of praise met me at the door. Dee was a worship warrior.

She deeply understood bringing heaven to earth. She constantly sang with the angels the unending hymn of praise: Holy Holy Holy is the Lord God Almighty, Worthy is the Lamb of God to receive all glory, honor, and power.

Two years ago when God defeated breast cancer in her life, she dedicated whatever time the Lord gave her to building the Kingdom of God.

Her daily focus was sharing the love and saving knowledge of Christ to all. Her stories of students set free from self hatred, suicide, anger, gangs and violence permeated every conversation I had with her.

Most of all I truly believe that the love relationship she shared with Jesus had become so deeply intimate the next step was for her to be joined with Him in heaven.

The Dance of Eternity is now celebrated in wholeness as she is wrapped in His loving arms. A wonderful example for all of us to follow.

To my dear Brother Stephen, Jaron and Malima, I love you and will walk beside you as we seek the Lord to fill us with more of Him and learn to live and celebrate as Dee gave us the template for life with Christ.

Love ya,
Di

Click Here to see the Memorial Page

Hancock County Health Fair

2009-04-20T11:08:00.000-07:00

The forecast for April 20th was 70% chance of rain, tornado warnings and thunder storms; however God had a different plan.
The sun came shining through by 10AM, and the day was beautiful. Not a cloud in the sky or a drop of rain to dampen the excitement of the second annual SOAR Health Fair.

The Health Fair is sponsored by SOAR, University of Southern Mississippi, United Jewish Communities, Hancock Medical Center, Hancock County Department of Health, Mississippi Nurses Association District 5, and Coastal Family Health Clinics.

The University of Southern Mississippi students did a phenomenal job preparing for the event. The topics were extensively researched and well presented to the public.

Participants had the opportunity to have bone scans, glucose checking, circulation assessment, BMI and over 25 other health related topics were presented.

Following the Health Assessments, all enjoyed a wonderfully healthy grilled chicken supper.

Plans are already in place to repeat the event this fall. Check out our Memories section of our Web site for more photos from the day and other events.

Women's Luncheon - Beauty for Ashes

2009-03-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

There was an excitement in the air and another beautiful spring day in Mississippi. Everything was perfect for the monthly Bay St. Louis Women’s Luncheon!

Mel Mitchell was this months host and 42 women celebrated the day. As always we prayed for people, special needs and closed with the Lord’s Prayer. We began with community action items, like getting involved in local politics such as the Mayor’s race and City Councilman. The women were also encouraged to welcome volunteers to the community. This month Bay St. Louis has over 1,000 volunteers between SOAR, Habitat and Lagniappe. Lots of work getting done and everyone in the community is so grateful for the love and support.

We collected food items for the local food bank. We welcomed back women who had been absent and welcomed new friends to the crowd. Bonnie Ringdahl had donated a beautiful hand crafted bird house for a raffle to support the monthly craft and supplies. A total of $107 was raised.

It has been decided by the women to meet monthly and that each month they will collect items for the food pantry and send all left over food to the local home for foster children. Outreach to the community is our theme for this year!

It was discussed to do a food drive for the food pantry at Wal-Mart again, so check back for more information on next month's drive.

As we sat around the table and celebrated the future, I realized how little the talk of Katrina is now on the tongue. Hearts have opened up to serve one other with LOVE. Mother Teresa has it right, “Do ordinary things, with extraordinary LOVE." I am so thankful to God for allowing me to remain here in the Bay and watch the community rise from the ashes.

Beauty for Ashes, what an AMAZING GOD we serve. Check out our Memories section of our Web site for more photos from the day and other events.

Resiliency - Train the Trainer

2009-02-23T08:24:00.000-08:00

SO what is RESILIENCY? Simply put, it's the ability to “Bounce Back” from things that take you down, whether briefly or from a major catastrophe.

Even though it's been three and a half years since Katrina devastated the community of Bay St. Louis, our downtown roads are still a mixture of dirt and new concrete as the replacement infrastructure is being put in place, and like the rest of the nation, the local economy is in the tank. Truth be told, we were running on an empty tank before the rest of the world started to feel the pinch and around here some days even finding the car keys can be a major challenge.

In August 2008, SOAR received a grant from the United Jewish Communities (UJC) and introduction to the Community Stress Prevention Center (CSPC) in Kiryat Shmona, Israel, which enabled the ministries to engage in a collaborative effort to help the community bounce back.

Monday through Wednesday 28 people, including School Guidance Counselors, Case Managers, Clergy, and long term volunteers, met to tackle some of the challenges keeping us on the ground and learning ways to bring restoration to weary souls.

Ruvie Rogel, Deputy CEO of The Community Stress Prevention Center in Kiryat Shmona, Israel, provided the training and oversaw the trainee’s presentations. Interactive activities included floor painting, posters and role playing.

Evaluations again proved this is the most useful and friendly training participants have ever attended. Following the next session many participants will be certified to expand the role of the training in Hancock County and along the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. WE ARE BLESSED! Check out our Memories section of our Web site for more photos from the day and other events.

Resiliency - Youth Bouncing Back

2009-02-22T08:25:00.000-08:00

Being a teenager has always been a challenging time of life, however add to that loosing everything you own 3 years ago and moving from one location to another and waiting daily for your trailer to be taken away and the everyday challenges of loss of loved ones and accidents and parents unemployment and...

The solution, RESILIENCY WORKSHOPS!

For two days, 19 youth from three Bay St. Louis High Schools gathered together with a devoted heart to be able to help them and help others.

YES I CAN became the theme of the workshops, as the youth touched tender issues in their lives post Katrina, many of them realized that they CAN and WILL make a difference.

Through art, music, role playing and JUST PLAIN FUN, the youth addressed the challenges they have faced in the past few years and came out SMILING.

Follow up training will be held in the next few months, with many of them saying “I learned so much-Thank You!”

Women's Luncheon - Hearts Alive

2009-02-02T07:41:00.000-08:00

As I walked up the steps of Ms. Nola’s home on this bright sunny Mississippi afternoon, memories of three years ago flooded my mind.

Images of food being prepared on gas burners, tables set with make shift tablecloths and foam decorations, and women walking with heads down, quiet with hollow eyes of grief and shock.

Today was a day of true celebration as over 35 women gathered for the Bay St. Louis, Women’s Luncheon.

Our third anniversary, the sound of laughter cascaded from the door as the women greeted each other with hugs and kisses. True to Southern Hospitality the table was filled with chicken, potato salad, corn pudding and desserts galore.

We began celebrating our time with Leverne and Pat Hendricks, they have served here in the bay for two years and have become part or our community heart and will be moving on this month. Leverne said “I am humbled and honored, this is home for us.”

Each woman brought their favorite Women’s Luncheon memory to share with the group! We laughed, cried, hugged and did it all again and AGAIN!

At the end of the afternoon, we all sat back in our chairs, tummies and hearts FULL and gave thanks to God for the remarkable legacy He has left from Katrina.

A group of women, none who knew each other three years ago, that have bonded and made Christian community their talk and walk!

Praise the Lord for His faithfulness and love as He indeed is healing the broken hearted!

Faith, Family and Friends

2008-10-10T10:24:00.000-07:00

Blank faces, clenched jaws, and tear filled eyes full of unexplainable pain and fear were the expressions the people in Cameron community displayed.

Many people were still in shock, others were frantic about fixing their homes, not wanting to give up their land that was passed down from generations. A vast majority had no intention of returning.

These were the responses after hurricane Ike hit.

Ashley and I met many hurting, but strong people while mucking out homes. A closer relationship was formed with a wonderful woman, Yvett.

Her home went through hurricane Rita three years ago when she had to tear everything out. She had been back in her home for a year and a half and now she is back in the same situation.

This time, after hurricane Ike, she is left to do it all over again, getting three feet of water and thick, black mud throughout her home.

A week after the storm she couldn't even get to her house due to all the water.

Everything was destroyed: her sausage making business along with the freshly butchered cow in her freezer and the okra she used to sell.

This hard-working woman who drove school buses and made sausage for a living was beaten down, and on the verge of tears she asked us to help with the work on her house.

With sadness she told us about the volunteers prior to our arrival throwing out everything in her house and ripping the doors off of her high kitchen cabinets, which were never touched by the water.

They had thrown away many other personal items that could have been saved because they weren't damaged. We soon realized the severity of her trauma after the storm.

She asked me to ride with her in her car to her damaged home, feeling uneasy with driving alone and wanting to be with someone during the time.

She explained to me her fear about the insurance company dropping her because they claimed she missed a payment and that made them free from giving her the money to help her with her house. She also carried a huge burden aside from Ike.

Two weeks after the storm her daughter-in-law's mother was missing after falling from a shrimp boat in the middle of the night and she had the job of finding sitters to watch her son's kids and comforting the family through their hard time.

Luckily, two days later, they found her body and she attended the funeral. Not only did she have to deal with the family death, but she also was busy mucking her own home and fulfilling her responsibilities as a local school bus driver.

Her husband told her not to cry so when she saw her house destroyed she held back her tears and never cried about it.

This woman is someone with a heart of gold who wants to help others with their homes while also restoring her own.

She wants to make a difference in her community, along with so many others.

This is only one story of the many who were affected by hurricane Ike.

Giving out of Nothing

2008-10-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

I met a wonderful woman in Creole, LA that Christ used to transform my ideas about giving out of nothing and enduring whatever comes.

When Morgan and I were down in Cameron Parish on the forth we had the heartbreaking privilege of treasure hunting with Stephanie.

She had lost her home in Rita and again her house was completely irreparable after Ike. We were sliding through each mud covered room salvaging what we could.

It wasn't a fast, adrenaline powered job. We worked slowly, somberly, treating every possession, whether lost or savable, with reverent care.

In one of the kids rooms, under a water damaged mattress and boxspring we came across a yearbook, completely covered and mangled by mud and water. It had probably made it through Rita.

Now all the memories and loyalties and attachments that a yearbook can create or recall were gone.

On my way out of one room, seemingly finished, Stephanie stopped me. "Can you get that too?" She pointed to a tiny pink wind chime hanging from the ceiling in the back corner of the room. Small enough to be missed by me but unforgettable to Stephanie. I got a stool and lifted it off its tiny hook and she placed it among her savable items. It was a hard day.

But Stephanie's constitution and her deep hospitality and love overshadowed any anger or sadness or selfishness that would be completely acceptable and expected from someone who has lost everything... again.

Stephanie's brother brought water to drink and Stephanie and her friend Cheryl got lunch from the Salvation Army food truck for our team. When she had so much work to do and so much must have been going through her mind, she stopped to make sure we were fed.

At the end of the day we sat around outside and just talked with them and listened to their individual stories. Her house devastated behind us, mud covering every article of clothing, we sat and shared and became friends.

I'll never forget that day.

Perseverance will always seem attainable to me after meeting Stephanie and her family. Most unforgettable is her giving heart.

A few days after we got home I got a call from Stephanie.

She said that she really wanted to make our crew dinner as soon as her food stamps were in.

She is living in a hotel room with no money, no home, waiting for assistance to buy food so that she can make us dinner. I have thought this, and said this so many times... I am so blessed.

When people thank me I cannot help but say it back. If only they knew! If only they could see what they show me... about life, about hope, about love... about Christ!

If only they knew how God was using them!

Communities serving Communities

2008-09-24T21:01:00.000-07:00

From all accounts, this has been a very difficult season for many up and down the Gulf Coast and our nation as a whole.

Having survived the threats of Fay and Dolly, and weathered the storms of Gustav and Ike, we are all very thankful that the physical damage in our area didn't live up to the dire forecasts.

Unfortunately, those directly in the paths of the most recent storms weren't so lucky, and the financial burdens from the past and recent storms continue to hinder ongoing recovery efforts for us all.

The one thing we have learned from all of the trials and tribulations of disaster recovery is that the people in this region are survivors.

Having lived through similar destruction from Hurricane Katrina, our community and surrounding neighbors began collecting necessary supplies and helpful relief items with the intent of giving back and serving a community that was out of the spotlight.

Our FEMA field representative told us that Cameron Parish Louisiana had been hit very hard and there were very little in recovery resources allocated to that area.

Representatives from St. Rose Outreach and Recovery, PNEUMA - Winds of Hope, Habitat for Humanity, Lagnaippe Presterberian Disaster Relief, small churches, and the Medical Clinic came together to organize a community relief effort to help our neighbors in Cameron.

When we pulled up to the check point outside Cameron, the Sheriff said “You are in the right place!” Bonnie and I smiled, “Right Place at the Right Time”, sure sounds like home.

The people we met were amazed and encouraged that the community of Bay St. Louis is able to help anyone. As we pulled into town there was an ambulance driver named Rusty that said, “It is the smile, that is what we need.”

Rita hit this region in 2005 with demolishing winds and high water that wiped homes and businesses off their foundations.

This time around, Louisiana was on the northeast side of Ike's surging waters and, according to figures from the National Weather Service, took on an extroardinary amount of water with an estimated storm surge of up to 15 feet.

The recent round of flooding was a significant blow to efforts to repopulate the extremities of south Louisiana, a subtropical landscape that has steadily vanished and become more vulnerable to hurricanes because of 2,000 square miles of coastal erosion.

In addition to downed power lines, washed out roads and destruction for miles, complicating clean up efforts are the number of roaming alligators and poisonous snakes, flushed from habitats making extreme southwestern Louisiana unsafe for residents to return after the storm.

Prior to Ike, Cameron Parish’s population had rebounded by nearly 80 percent of its pre-Rita population of about 10,000.

However, the cost of construction to meet new standards is high, and there have been long waits for insurance payouts and government recovery money needed to meet the expenses.