On Sunday morning, March 19th, twenty-seven people from the Diocese of Massachusetts left Logan Airport for Biloxi, MS where they spent the following week volunteering to help victims of Hurricane Katrina. This multi-talented group provided care and support to individuals in many ways. Roofing, dry walling and carpentry was provided to people's homes.Medical care was provided by the doctor and two nurses in the group. Pastoral care and psychological support was provided by clergy and others trained in this area. Other missioners worked in the clothing distribution center and in the kitchen. Everyone was kept busy.
"Transforming" and "profound" were the most frequently used words by the missioners to describe their experience. One of the highlights of the trip was an evening visit to the Church of the Redeemer where the group worshiped with members of this parish with whom we are partnered. Gifts From the Heart merchandise cards valued at $15,475, a check for $16,650 from the Church of the Redeemer in Chestnut Hill and a box of handmade quilts form St. Andrew's in Framingham were presented to Rev. Harold Roberts, rector of the Church of the Redeemer in Biloxi, from the Diocese of Massachusetts during the offering. In addition to providing meaningful help to hurricane victims, participants on the mission trip also became friends to one another as they worked, prayed and served together.