June 4, 2001
WOMAN'S MISSIONARY UNION volunteers minister to people who live in shelters near the loacl dump.
Church women look past dump, see needy souls
___By George Henson
___Staff Writer
___McALLEN--Some people look at a garbage dump and see mounds and mounds of smelly, rotten trash. Other people look at the dump and see treasure.
___Members of Woman's Missionary Union at Emmanuel Baptist Church in McAllen see lives in need of Christ.
___The dump for which they have a vision is El Basurero in Reynosa, Mexico, aboutseven miles from McAllen. When the garbage trucks amble down the road and dump their loads, the human stampede isn't far behind--people vying to be the first to find the best garbage.
VOLUNTEERS pass out drinks (above) as well as food, clothing, shoes and toiletries.
___Lumber, tin and cardboard are hot commodities for the pickers because these can be used to make shelters near the dump. One makeshift shelter sometimes may be home to seven to 10 people.
___The women of Emmanuel Baptist Church make a weekly trip to the dump as well, not to pick up cast-off goods but to lead people to true treasure through Jesus Christ.
___"We share the gospel, food, clothes and toys for the children," said Natalia Alaniz. "We just have a great time sharing God's word. There are just so many ministries we can do."
___The women lead Bible studies, sing hymns and memorize verses with the people who gather there. After the praise and worship, they share hot dogs and refreshments with the people who have gathered. The Texans also bring clothing, shoes and toiletries. They wear name badges provided by the church to identify them as volunteers.
___Church members also provide prayer and monetary support for the ministry. Pastor Ernie Chapa said he is proud of the women's ministry.
___"Our WMU lend their hearts and hands to a city in need, but they also share the love of Jesus, and that is the greatest need of all."
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