November was another amazing month, so FULL there wasn’t much time to rest or to write what God’s been up-to in ministry. I’m sure if you’re a friend of mine on Facebook, you’ve seen some blips of what I’ve been up-to over there.
In my Fall 2024 message, I shared that I was considering going to our Beauty for Ashes training and asking God whether or not that was in the plans He had for me. Though Beauty for Ashes and Women’s ministry is something I want to dive deeper into at some point, God turned my sites towards Disaster Relief ministry instead. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene Adventures Relief felt called to set-up and serve over the next few years in the hills and valleys of Black Mountain, North Carolina. My hometown churches and supporters felt called to action right from the start! 32 of us headed off to get involved right at the start of November. God was able to use the “yes” of so many to greatly impact the hope and restoration process of this community. We were able to distribute a tractor trailer truck FULL of donated supplies to individuals, families and distribution centers in the area. We were able to bless homeowners with specific needs like heaters, generators, a washer and dryer, meals and so much more through the additional donations sent with us.
It was extraordinary to watch so many be activated to serve, give, go and pray as this opportunity came to the forefront of our hearts. Additionally, I have been able to step into a large role of mission coordinator for the entire 2-3 year project with Adventures Relief. This means I am helping to set-up, plan and organize the majority of all volunteers that will come to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I’ve been on calls and sending emails on a daily basis this entire month to help over 1,600 volunteers get connected to the work being down in Black Mountain.
The response to this mission from donations to volunteers has been nothing short of miraculous. It is evident that God has a big plan for totally restoring the entire valley, for making His name known through this process and bringing new life, new hope and new perspective to those living there. We serve the God who sees and who knows the needs and He desires to make everything good in His time! What a wonderful promise to be reminded of as we partner with Him in this project.
Within the entire ministry of Adventures, we are seeing more and more people sign-up to serve with us in 2025. Including one trip already on the books for Maine in June 2025! I’m looking forward for all God has in-store for us as we get closer and closer to this new year.
As the month came to a close through Thanksgiving week, I was able to spend time visiting with close friends and family. This week I will so cherish as I reflect on how many wonderful people God has surrounded me with. We also grew in anticipation as a family all month as my sister expected her first child to be born Thanksgiving week. Our newest member of the family, Baby Bailey was welcomed into Vacationland on Dec. 1st, 2024! We couldn’t be more grateful for a health mom and a healthy baby!
My biggest prayer as we enter into December is again asking God, where are you leading me? To who do you want me to minister to? AND how can I be a helping hand no matter where I am?
What are you thanking God for as we celebrate His goodness this holiday season? What are your biggest prayers as we finish up another year?
Message me! I’d love to join you in celebration and in prayer!
See below for our November Newsletter from our STM Team! We are always, always, always grateful for your support, your encouragement, your generosity and your prayers as we continue to share the invitation to be His hands and feet through missions.
In gratitude,
Savanna
. .
Leave a Reply