DALLAS—Texas Baptists’ Disaster Response is attempting to recruit 100 people for a mission trip July 25-30 to Joplin, Mo., and another 100 people who will serve in Tuscaloosa, Ala., Aug. 1-6.
The need for new volunteers particularly is acute now as the people who have been serving suffer from fatigue as long hours are catching up to them, said Marla Bearden, Church2Church Partnerships coordinator with the Baptist General Convention of Texas.
“Our hope is that Texas Baptists can come together, at least 100 strong, in both of these areas and make a real difference in the lives of those who have been hurt so badly,” she said.
“While in Joplin, I met Mary, a church administrator, working to house and feed volunteers. She was tired and worn down. I prayed for her. She said, with tears in her eyes: ‘I have to go on. There is no one else to do this work, and it has to be done.’ She went on to say: ‘Most of us have a nice home, with a comfortable chair and a good TV to go home to at night. These people in Joplin affected by the tornadoes have nothing. I have to do it, and God will see me through.’”
Volunteers who participate in the trips will be involved in a variety of ministries, including construction projects, working in a distribution center and clean-up efforts.
“The people of Joplin, Mo., and Tuscaloosa, Ala., need our brotherly love,” Bearden said. “They need our fervent spirit and they need the hope of Jesus. Please join with other Texas Baptists to volunteer for one week to share your devotion with those who have been affected by this tragedy.”
Cost for the trip to Joplin is $100. Cost for the trip to Tuscaloosa is $50, and participants are asked to pay another $50 to the church where they stay in Tuscaloosa. The latter funds will cover their food during the trip. Participants will stay and be hosted by churches in each location. For more information and to register, visit www.texasbaptists.org/disaster. Individuals also can call Bearden at (888) 244-9400.
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