Memoir from Geezer James

Words cannot adequately reflect the joys I experienced on our trip to Gulfport. There were so many people who personally touched me with their humble wish to serve God through helping others.

No one of us could singly have accomplished the valuable tasks that were completed. Most of us had little skill to begin with, and we each learned and were rewarded with the satisfaction of contributing to jobs well done. The folks who knew what they were doing dedicated long hours to organizing our tasks and showed gracious patience in teaching the rest of us how to do the work. Our pastors touched each of us, gave us encouragement, and let us each of us know that we are important to God and to his children. Those who worked such long hours to feed us kept us healthy and put smiles on our faces every day. The UMCOR staff and our host church partnered with us as fellow missioners. The people that we were able to help responded with sincerity and truly opened themselves to God in our presence.

The patience and caring that was shown by our young people when working with Mr. Gunderson was especially impressive. Because of their response to his spiritual needs, I believe his life was turned around on that day.

Being of a more traditional nature, I was surprised by how meaningful the music was that was shared during our evening worship services. The leaders are talented and accomplished musicians, and the participation of the whole group is inspiring. That and the special communion service, during which Phil spoke to the heart of each person individually, are memories that I will always treasure.