Brother Vance can be contacted at 1-504-715-1465

BroVance@westsidemission.org

Good Morning! Today is May 31 and I'm working on the new website

www.WhereDidYouSeeGodToday.com

If you want to look at some of the work we've done in the past please continue to use this website for the time being.

The new website will be up and going no later than 6/15/08. Thanks for your patience. Have a blessed Day!

By the way, WHERE DID YOU SEE GOD TODAY?  :-)

It's March--things are busy at Westside

COME ON DOWN !!

Lots to update so let's get started.

1. We're done with our part of the Elijah Lowerline project. Most of the outside sports remodeled exterior including new paint. We wish the Elijah folks blessings with this project.

2. Willie Foxworth 1525 Benton (lower 9th ward) is close--SO CLOSE to moving in. All the interior work is almost done. We have a couple of closet doors to hang and paint, and the new ceramic tile floors to seal as well as the cabinet installation to complete. We're waiting on the electrical final inspection. I spoke with Willie yesterday. He's excited and says to say "Hi" and send his love to all ya'll. Once the inspection is done and electricity is on we're less than two weeks away from seeing Willie move in!!!!!!!

3. Lawrence Williams and mother 1881 Treasure (Gentilly) Lawrence has been able to purchase the insulation for the walls. We installed all that this week and we're waiting on the next delivery of material. Lawrence is working hard to support his family and earn enough extra to purchase materials for his mothers house. He's blessed and I highly admire this man's determination to help his mother.

4. Ray & Clara Foxworth 2526 Delery (lower 9th ward) Yep, Willie's older brother. Another case of too little money to fix up their home. Ray and Clara are in their 70's, living with another brother up in Mississippi while we get their home ready. The house is now gutted, we've removed the double carport that fell on the rear of the home. Hopefully the city will soon tear down the house that washed into the yard from the next street over! This week we're installing doors and sub floors after we replace and repair some rotteh wood. Last week we installed the new roof.

5. Thelma Tyler 2549 Delery (lower 9th ward across the street from Ray and Clara and a few doors down from Dee Jones). Thelma is a senior citizen, alone and disabled. She has some money. We'll have to help her with some materials money after hers is exhausted. We've already put a new roof on and insullation has been installed. We're in the process of repairing some termite damage and have begun hanging sheetrock.

6. Tyiece Howard 1626/1628 Mandeville St (upper 9th ward) What a story. Single woman in her 30's. Bought this house at auction to rebuild for her parents (they were flooded out of the lower 9th ward and just too old and tired to rebuild). She'll live in one side with mom and dad and let her uncle (single parent with 6 kids live in the other side). I asked her "Why". Her answer was, "They're family. If I don't help, who will? That's ATTITUDE!!! We've helped with some of the demolition work and will continue to help as time and volunteers are available.

Folks, we have other projects in process and waiting. Just wanted to give you a birdseye of the active ones. There are many ways to do volunteer work here. At Westside Mission Center, we've chosen to work on complete rebuild. We start with deserving receipents and work with them until they are ready to move in. That means we'll have lots of projects in different phases of reconstruction. We need help. Give me a call and let's talk about how you and your group can be blessed.

God is GOOD! Where did you see HIM today?

********************************************************************************************************

It's February--Springtime is close at Westside :-)

Call and come on down!!

Update

Pastor Elijah and the Lowerline Project: All the doors and windows have been installed. We still have to install the siding on the upper level in the rear and then complete painting. We have volunteers coming mid month and hope to complete this Phase of the project.

Willie Foxworth--1525 Benton--Lower 9th ward. All the sheetrock is hung and finished. All interior and exterior doors have been hung save one. Most of the outside repair has been done and the trash hauled off. We're ready to start painting and finishing the inside. We'll begin this with volunteers coming next. Come on down!!

Lawrence Williams and Mother--1881 Treasure--Gentilly. House has been gutted and ceilings (sheetrock) hung. Ready for insulation and sheetrock hanging. If you're coming in March, we should meet these folks.

Elijah Christian Ministries--Willow Street Project. We'll collobrate with Pastor Elijah on this 10 unit "affordable housing" project. A sister project to Lowerline, we're excited to be a part of helping Pastor Elijah give folks a "hand up".

*****There are more projects waiting. We need you. The process is in place and we're positioned to be a meaningful and important part of the recovery. If you think it's done or you're not needed, just come down and look for yourself.*****

God Bless and hope to see you soon.

********************************************************************************************************

2008's gonna be GREAT!!

updates

Pastor Elijah and the Lowerline project:     Well, Pastor Elijahs' dream of affordable housing at Lowerline got started in ernest in the last couple weeks. We've had many challenges, i.e. rotten wood, termite damage, to say the least. We've dealt with those problems now and the windows and doors have been installed. Over the next two weeks we'll repair and replaced outside siding as needed, trim out the windows and doors and paint.

Willie Foxworth--1525 Benton--Lower 9th ward: Over the last few weeks I've been reminded of when we started working on Dee Jones house. I watched as hundreds of volunteers came in and fell in love with Dee. Many of you stay in touch with her now. Well, I need to get some pictures of Wille. We haven't had hundreds of volunteers here yet but those of you that have come are already excited about Willie and his return. Willie's 69, (he will tell you proudly that he'll be 70 in June), a widower, works two jobs, is a devout Christian and has an attitude that'll make you fall in love with him and his spirit day one. You have insulated, hung sheetrock, taped, floated and we'll texture walls this week. Stay tuned!! Willie was so excited he wanted to go find a bed and move in right after we hung the sheetrock. It's starting to look a lot like home. Hang on Willie, won't be long.

That's all for now:  It's time for you to come and help us Re-New Orleans. Lives are being changed. Come be a part of MISSION ON OUR WESTBANK. We need you and you'll truly be transformed. Call me--let's talk.

Blessings,

Oh, by the way, where did you see God today?

Bro. Vance

**********************************************************************

December Update and New Project!

See Ms. Cosey on CNN! :-)

Click on the link below and you'll view a clip of the cnn piece on Ms. Cosey's homecoming. The man escorting Mrs. Cosey on the house tour is Fred Franke with Operation Nehemiah. We partnered with them and Elijah Christian Ministries (he's interviewed at the end of the clip). Hope you enjoy!

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2007/12/09/norton.nola.happy.homecoming.wdsu?iref=videosearch

NEW PROJECT WITH ELIJAH CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES

Check out the pictures on this site. They're the ones of the fourplex. We're parterning with Elijah Christian Ministries to rebuild this fourplex. Each unit will house someone that does not own their own home, has either no place to live, or is living somewhere temporarily and needs a hand up, not a hand out. These folks are currently working within the Elijah Christian Ministry network.

Westside has committed to renovate the outside. We'll furnish materials and volunteer workers to:

• frame in and install 8 exterior doors
• frame in and install 16 single hung insulated windows
• trim out all windows and doors on the outside
• repair and install soffit and fascia around the perimeter of the home
• replace gutters on east and west sides
• paint all exterior walls
• repair railings going to the upstairs apartments

We'll start this project on December 31 and our goal is to complete the outside within the month of January. Donations for materials are currently underway. If you'd like to help we anticipate the materials cost to be approximately $3000. Donations in any amount will be greatly appreciated.

                                   Westside Christian Church

                                   P.O. Box 6217

                                  New Orleans, LA  70174

Thanks for your prayerful consideration.

Well, that's all for now. I pray that you'll have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.

Oh, by the way, WHERE DID YOU SEE GOD TODAY?

Have a B lessed Day,

Brother Vance

December Update on Mrs. Cosey

I really wish all of you could have been at Mrs. Cosey's home  today. About 100 volunteers, friends, media (tv stations and newspaper folks) were in attendance to see her walk into her completely renovated home.

Talking about ecumenical, non profit and other opportunities  realized. Just look at this list  of groups that came together to make it happen: Elijah Christian Ministries, S.O.W.N. Realty, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Lutheran Disaster Services, Hope Center, Mennonities Disaster Services, Greater King Solomon, Miracle Faith Healing and Deliverance Temple, Operation Nehemiah (Churches of Christ), Westside Christian Church, Crescent Alliance Recovery Effort (C.A.R.E.), and the Islam Center (Muslim area ministries based in Baton Rouge, LA.).

Pastor Elijah headed this effort and as you can see from the list above, he was able to bring a diverse group of non profit, community and religous community groups together. What a testimony to being able to come together and make it happen. What a blessing to see that we can do this.

I want to mention that we had many groups working together on the "Rose Cosey" projects. Groups from Arkansas, Colorado, Kentucky. We were blessed to have several of the Regional Ministers stop by and work Thursday afternoon.  The group from Highland Drive CC and First CC in Jonesboro represented us at the service today. They said to tell all of you how beautiful the house turned out.

I have been blessed having spent time with Mrs. Cosey. It's amazing the "pearls of wisdom" she's amassed in her 100+ years. You would have been amazed and uplifted by listening to her speak to the groups today. Frail, yes, powerful, YES. You'd have thought she was many years younger in age. Few people have I met in life that I believe have the maturity and santification that this sweet, lovely lady has. All who know her love and revere her. We (YOU and me) are so fortunate and blessed to have been a part of making her return home possible. I thank you for helping make it possible.

I leave you with this: Today I spoke briefly at the event. When I finished, l leaned over and said to her, "Miss Rose" we love you. Sitting in a chair in the corner of her yard, December sunshine on her face, with a twinkle in her eye she looked deep into my eyes, smiled and said in a firm voice, "I love you too!". Wanna know where I saw God today?

Blessings from Nawlins'

Brother Vance

I'm working on getting some pictures up on the site and should have them up within a week.

*************************************************************************************************************

Update on Our Projects

11/13/07

Over the last few weeks we've started three major projects; Mr. and Mrs. Ambrose, Ms. Linn and Mrs. Cosey. All live in New Orleans east.

1. Mr. and Mrs. Ambrose home. Disciples from 7 Denver area churches in conjunction with volunteers from the Churches of Christ in Lufkin, TX (Operation Nehemiah) completed repair of the roof including tear off of the old shingles, repair of rotten wood and installation of new roof shingles. GREAT JOB!!!

2. Ms. Linn home. The same Disciples from the Denver area churches and Lufkin Churhes of Christ from Lufkin partnered together to tear off the old roof replace 20 sheets of decking, and installing new roof shingles. Another great job. This week volunteers from FCC Arrowsmith, Illinois repaired the rear wall, soffit and fascia as well as installing a new rear door. Great job!!

3. MEET Rose Cosey! I sincerely wish you could. I'll get pictures real soon. She had a birthday on October 13. I mention that 'cause she was born in 1907!! Yep, she's 100 years young. the Denver area Disciples started our participation working on sheetrock repair. We're partnering with Elijah Ministries, Operation Nehemiah and are commited to getting her back in her home by Thanksgiving. Many different churches are coming together on this one. I've met folks from many different groups including Mennonites from Canada working on this project. This week volunteers from FCC Frankfort, KY rebuilt the screen porch as well replacing the front and side fence and gate.  Great job!! 

4. MRS. JONES update. Dee has been in her home for several weeks now. We're going back over with a couple of volunteers from Frankfort to finish the last "little" details this week. Some of the Denver folks got us real close to completion a couple of weeks ago. Dee sends her love and deepest thanks. Keeps saying she's sooooo pleased.

5. The Denver area churches installed stairs and platforms in the baptismal area as well as the lighting over the baptismal area. The ladies from the Denver area spent most of their week in the parsonage helping a man (me :-) ) do what most men can't do. The curtains and rearraging and unpacking helped to put the finishing touches on moving in. Thanks ladies.

That's all for now.  Oh, by the way, where did you see God today?

Blessings,

BV 

October 7, 2007

Fall is in the air here in New Orleans. And NEW THINGS are happening.

First, a brief update and then let's talk about new projects.

1. The Mission Center is done for now.  Hot water heaters up and running, two new gas stoves up and running, heat and air up and running. Sleeping accomodations for 40+ in place.

2. The Sanctuary is in good shape. The kitchen is in and functional. We are working on the baptismal area. This is an ongoing project and should complete soon.

3. The Parsonage only has the little things, i.e., curtains, a few doors to be hung, lite painting. These things will be handled as "fill ins" as we have time.

4. The Sunday School Building rooms that remain to be worked on and we'll handle that as we move out some of the things we have stored there.

NOW ON TO THE NEW PROJECTS--WE'RE EXCITED

1. Take a look at the two newest pictures. Picture one is Ms. Linn's home in New Orleans east. We're partnering with Operation Nehemiah to completely repair or rebuild (as needed) this property. Ms. Linn is living in Baton Rouge until we can get her back home. She supports herself and her elderly mother. I'll post her "story" in the next few days. This is a joint effort project. I'm so proud to announce the partnership with Operation Nehemiah. There's a story there also, we're working on a press release. Stay tuned !!

2. Picture two is of the home of Jacob and Patrice Ambrose in the Lake Barrington area of New Orleans east. We're partnering again with Operation Nehemiah. We'll  repair and reroof this house so they can get the rebuilding process started inside and begin their long awaited journey home.

THAT'S ALL  for now. Stay tuned. We're back on track and working to RENew Orleans.

Have a blessed day

Bro. Vance

August 14,2007

Johnny Wray came for a visit yesterday. Sure was good to have him come by and see how we're doing. I want all of you to know that we're "lookin' good":

•      Sanctuary--We're 90%+. The kitchen has lower cabinets and is ready for the upper cabinets to be installed. That will happen as we enclose the a/c area. The bathrooms have been installed and are currently ready for use. We have a little paint and touch up to do. We're going to start the work around the baptismal as soon as we complete to balance of the sanctuary.
• Mission Center--We're 99%. We've completed most all of the things we intended to do in this phase of construction. The "on demand" water heaters are up and running! Yea!!! No more water rationing. The two gas stoves (Thanks Adam and crew) are ready to be installed (hopefully the plumber will do this soon).
• Parsonage--We're 98%. There are those things that make a house a home and a few other "little extras".
• Mrs. Jones--We're 85%. All sort of activity since our last update. We're painting and installing cabinets now. Plumber still has to come back and do some "top out" and Dee is getting bids on Central Air. We may have to help her get a couple of window units to make do for this season. We'll just have to look at bids and resources. Hopefully Dee and her daughter and grandkids will be in their home soon. Thanks go all of you, it's going to happen.
• New Project--We're starting to talk to our next rebuild. Several folks are qualified. We just have to make a decision. That's the hard part. Keep me in your prayers.

I'm planning on taking 4 weeks of my vacation. I've not had any time off since Jeannie and I started the mission in New Orleans. Now I need to go and grieve my loss and recharge my batteries. Plans are to take the weeks of August 26, September 2, (back in New Orleans for the 9th) and then be out for the 16th and 23rd of September. I already look forward to our next group coming in October!!! There'll be no groups at Westide until after Oct 1 and my two good friends and collegues Michael Elmore and Curt Burge will fill the pulpit for me.

Except for a couple of days on the mountain (Subiaco) I'll have my cell phone on.

That's all for now. Oh! by the way, WHERE DID YOU SEE GOD TODAY?

B.A.S.I.C.S.

Brother And Sisters In Christ Serving

Brother Vance

********************************************************************************************************

July 23, 2007

Time for a quick update!

1. The Mission Center: We're almost complete. The plumber stopped by the other day. WE HAVE THE MAIN HOT WATER SYSTEM HOOKED UP!!!!! All of you that had to ration hot water in order to have enough can now shower, shower, shower (being good stewards, tho) :-) I'll send pictures when I get back to Westside on the 28th.

2. The Sanctuary: Things are really looking up. We're in the process of completing installation of the bathrooms. Within the last couple of weeks we've installed the floors in the sanctuary and applied "poly" to the sanctuary. I'll send pictures. We still have to work on the baptismal area as well as the kitchen. We're on the move.

3. Sunday School Building: Lots of work left to do here but mostly cleaning, paint, etc.

4. Parsonage: Still have some shelves and a couple of closet doors to install. Minor things. It looks so good. And you should see the front yard. The sod has been installed and it looks great. I'll send pictures.

5. Dee Jones house: Plans are to purchase and install doors/trim. We'll have some volunteer carpenters coming soon to install. I'll keep you posted. and Dee and I will take some pictures.

That's all for now--except--"Where'd you see God today?"  I saw Him in Ft. Worth at the Assembly. He spoke to me through so many of you that came up and gave me a "We love you hug". Have a blessed day. 

July 22, 2007

A personal note

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of you for the outpouring of love and compassion during my time of loss. We've conducted two memorial services, one in New Orleans and another in Sherwood. Many of you sent cards to me that brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. It is so very comforting to know how much you loved Jeannie and how she impacted so many lives. I'm reminded daily of how much she loved all of us. Some day soon we'll all be together with Jesus. Thanks and be blessed.            Bro Vance

**********************************************************************************************************

July 4, 2007 UPDATE

There will be a memorial service for Jeannie at Westside CC on Friday, July 13 at 1:00 p.m.  All who wish to attend are welcome and invited.

We have decided to postpone (just for  a short while) the sanctuary dedication service. We'll keep you posted. Thanks for you outpouring of love and compassion.

Blessings,

Bro Vance 

July 3, 2007

A personal note from Brother Vance

This morning at 3:25am God granted a prayer request. Jeannie passed, in my arms, in our home. She's with Jesus now, her race well run. Thanks to all of you for your prayers, your love and your compassion. I saw God today. The look of a peace that passes all understanding is unmistakable. Have a blessed day.                              Bro. Vance

June 30th, 2007

I've posted a few new pictures on the website for you. Some are in the mission center and  Dee Jones house.

Campus update: Lots of work has been done in the sanctuary over the last couple of weeks. I'll get a picture on the website as soon as I can. Most of the woodwork has been completed. We'll try to apply two coats of "poly" next week. We still have lots of work to do but are quickly getting to the point of hosting lots of visitors. In fact we passed out about 1700 flyers in the local neighborhood this week inviting folks to come and worship with us. Plans are for 5000 per week to be passed out over the next few weeks as donations allow. All of this is building up to our dedications Sunday, August 5, 2007 @ 2pm. YOU'RE INVITED! We still have room in the Mission Center bunkhouse. If you want to overnight let me know so we can reserve a spot for you. In the sanctuary we still have to complete the bathrooms, the kitchen, and the baptismal area as well as the chancel. The Mission Center is up and running. The parsonage is still 90% percent complete. We'll do more later on.

Jeannie update:  Jeannie remains at home in the parsonage. I think daily of all of you who helped me to bring her home. Please know how much BOTH of us appreciate her at home. She continues to decline slowly. She is in some pain now but we have wonderful Hospice nurses that have taught me how to keep Jeannie pain free.

Mrs. Jones update: Many of you know Dee Jones because you've helped work on her house. We (Westside Mission Center--which is all of us including you), chose to select one home owner and help them get back in their house. Dee was an easy choice. Before Katrina she worked for the city of New Orleans in the streets department full time and also worked second jobs to be able to support herself and help her daughters and grandchildren. Many of you met her grandchildren, Sedrick and Destiny. Dee lost everything when Katrina hit. Her home is on Delery St. in the lower 9th ward. 14 feet of water flooded her home. After the storm she had a heart attack and as a result, lost her jobs. The insurance company issued a check to her and the mortgage company (normal practice) and the mortgage company chose to pay her loan off with the proceeds. That left Dee in a position with little $, no job, and no way to help herself. Folks, she needed a hand up not a hand out. Those of us that have worked on this project will tell you that Dee is at the house every day working right along with the volunteers, learning how to do and then doing. She is a determined, hardworking, Christian woman. We picked the right person for our 1st renovation project.

I'm sure Dee would like to hear from you. If you chose to send her a card her mailing address is:

          Mrs. Daphne Jones

          P.O. Box 771071

          New Orleans, LA 70177

If you would like to help purchase materials for rebuilding her house send your check to Westside Christian Church, P.O. Box 6217, New Orleans, LA 70174 and PLEASE note on the check that the funds are for the Dee Jones rebuilding.

The sheetrock has been hung and is 90% finished. We still need to do some sanding; then we're ready to paint and start putting in trim, doors, etc.

Other Projects:

This week we also did a "cut & gut" for JoAnn Born in the Chalmette area. She was overwhelmed at what a great job the volunteers did as well as how clean her place was when we finished. Thanks to all the volunteers.

That's all for now. Have a blessed day! Oh, by the way, WHERE DID YOU SEE GOD TODAY?

***********************************************end of June 30th update*****************************

June 17th, 2007

We're Almost at the end of Phase 3

Last Thursday several of us gathered on the campus for a blessing. Barb Jones had wanted to have a blessing when we got the parsonage livable and Jeannie home. I moved in the parsonage on Friday the 8th and brought Jeannie home from the Hospice Center on Saturday the 9th. We didn't think that would happen but once again God has blessed us beyond our expectations. A special thanks to all the volunteers that made it possible. Especially, Meridian and St. Louis (area including ILL) for the final "push". Ain't God Great! :-)

The Great River Region is blessed to have Michael Elmore as the area pastor. His area? Just look at a map of Katrina and Rita. That pretty well covers it! When I grow up I want to be a lot like Michael. Thanks Brother.

We had a work group here from Kokomo, IN as well as visitors from Meridian,MS,  Baton Rouge,LA,  McComb, MS, Vicksburg, MS, Jackson, MS and some of the Westside folks. Wish you could have been here with us.

You'll have another opportunity. Mark your calendars for August 5th. We're planning on having the sancturary complete and do our dedication at that time. We're extending an invitation to all the volunteers and friends that have helped us to "walk the walk". We have some openings in the bunkhouse for that weekend. If you want to stay overnight let me know asap.

CAMPUS UPDATE:

The Sunday School building is about 85% complete. Most of the things we'll do at this time are done.

The Mission Center is 95% complete in the plans we have for Phase 3. More down the line but we're up and running, housing volunteers and beginning to work out in the community.

The parsonage is 90% complete. Several "little details" remain. We're in tho. My heart felt thanks to all who helped to build the parsonage. It's big enough to accomodate not only Jeannie and I but the "Pastors and families" that will come in the future to serve Westside.

The Sanctuary is 85% complete and plans are to be 95% complete by August 5. We feel so blessed. Not only is it beautiful, I stand tall and tell all who'll listen that this church was built by VOLUNTEERS, Christians who cared enough to come and share of their resources and time. :-) That's kind of a "restoration" thing (Campbell and Stone would smile) OR is it another GOD THING!! I think maybe it's a little Campbell and Stone and a whole lot of a GOD THING.

The Grounds need work! Nancy Evans, her crew, and some of the youth from Lindenwood in Memphis, TN will be here soon to help! Once you meet her you know why they call her the "Queen of Dirt". What she can do with some dirt and a Bobcat tractor is poetry!!!

WHAT'S NEXT:

We working on a series flyers that will be distributed (5000+) to the Algiers community announcing "We're back" and asking our neighbors to come and worship with us. Plans are to utilize a campaign of directed events throughout the summer to the community to spur interest and begin our evangelism campaign. Keep us in your prayers. We're entering Phase 4. Time to grow God's kingdom.

Oh, by the way, "WHERE DID YOU SEE GOD TODAY?"

***********************************end of June 17th update*****************************************

A Note from Bro. Vance and Jeannie

May 2,2007

Eight years ago today, Jeannie and I sat in a Doctor's office and heard the news no one wants to hear--cancer. That day Jeannie cast her faith with our Father and she's never looked back, never complained. Today, 6 major surgeries later, she's even stronger. Last Thursday I had to sit at her bedside and tell her that the cancer has returned to her brain and this time the Doctors tell us there is no hope of stopping it from spreading. No more chemo, no more radiation, no more steriods, no more pain.

Today, Jeannie is in a Hospice facility in New Orleans. Her faith is strong and simple; if God wants her here, He'll stop the spread of the cancer. If He wants her home, in her words, "Let's GO!" She even told me it's ok if I come too!

I told her about needing to write this note to ya'll. She asked that I tell each of you how much she loves you and that she'll see you in heaven.

I can only think of one way to end this note. Please know that we both love all of you and that we wish for each of you the blessings that come from serving an awesome God.

Oh, by the way, where did I see God today? Sitting with one of his children, in a hospice center in New Orleans, reading His word, Praying, and Praising Him.

Have a blessed day................................................Bro. Vance and Jeannie

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

April 2007

It's been a while since our last update. We've been real busy---"gittin her done" as they say. Here's where we stand today:

1. The sanctuary is progressing. We've hung most of the sheetrock (still have the bathrooms to go) as around the baptismal and dressing rooms. We need to continue to work on installing the air conditioning, and all the kitchen and baths, etc. But, boy oh boy, take a look at the work pictures. Looks a lot like the steeple that Memphis donated has arrived and is in place!

2. We've hung the sheetrock in the "Director's House". Several groups participated in the hanging.  Don Miller came down from St. Louis and finished the sheetrock. Trip number 5 for Don. Guess it's a "God Thing", huh Don.

3. The Mission Center remains 85% complete. We're waiting on "gas inspections" and for the permanent electricity to be hooked up. Hopefully that will happen in May while we're down. The electrician tells us that it could take up to 30 days for the switch over. Hopefully not. We'll be back up and running in June.

Projections at this time are to be finished on campus by the end of June and then work will begin in earnest in the community--ReNew Orleans.

In the last few weeks we've gutted 3 houses and hung sheetrock for Mrs. Dee Jones in the lower 9th ward. We hoping to help her further. Stay tuned!

So many of you have helped it's impossible to name all of you. As I walk into the Mission Center each day, I have the opportunity to reflect though. You see, there are now 6 crosses hanging, with your names etched there. It's a "God Thing" folks. And all of you are a part of that "God Thing". We call it Westside Mission Center. But it's so much more than just the members of Westside Christian Church here in Algiers. It's all of you. You are a part of WCC and we pray that each of you will return someday soon. You're in our hearts each and every day. Oh, by the way---"Where did you see God today?"!!!!!!!

end of April update

*****************************************************************

  WOW IT'S MARCH !

It's in the 70's today. Almost spring time in New Orleans. Truly beautiful. Come on down. Lots of things have happened since our last update. Take a look at the latest worksite pictures.

The Mission Center is about 85% complete now. We're working on the finishing touches. Plans are to be completely finished within the next 30 days. Sleeping accomodations for 40 are already in place with 7 showers and 7 bathrooms. Kitchen and dining room are almost finished. As soon as the heating and air is finished we'll have the electricity switched from temporary to permanent.

The sanctuary pictures are on the worksite pictures. Aren't the faceted glass windows beautiful. All we part of the old church and were transplanted into the new sanctuary. Most of the exterior siding is up. We plan to complete the siding application in the next two weeks. The electrician is beginning to do his basic wiring. As soon as that is done we'll insulate and start hanging sheetrock.  Plans  are to start worshiping in the unfinished sanctuary within the next two weeks. It's time we moved out of the 1 room sanctuary we've been in for the last 18 months!!!! We should be finished with the sanctuary by the end of June. It's been a long road. But thanks to so many of you, we're almost there.

The Director's Housing is now almost "dryed in". The electrician will begin wiring on Thursday. Then it's sheetrock time. We're starting to think about the transition from the "mansion" to the Directors Housing. We hope to be in the house by the end of May. We'll miss our travel trailer "mansion" BUT boy are we looking forward to our new home. Thanks to all of you for helping make it possible.

We'll try to update again soon. Have a blessed day!

                                               Brother Vance, Jeannie, and Westside Christian Church

*******************************************end of March 1 update***********************************

December 2006

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...........Our Mission Center :-)

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! The stores are full. We see hope in the eyes and faces of the people of New Orleans. Is it the season or is it the reason for the season? Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place. Those are our thoughts as we look at the campus and see the progress. I hope you'll take a moment and look at the photos on this website. We try to post a few each month to give you a sense of progress.

November brought folks from FCC,Frankfort, KY (2nd trip this year--and you left Francis here to help through January), FCC, Rowlett, TX, Fairhill CC, Washington PA, and FCC, Sedalia, MO. Each of you were so different in your personalities and skills yet all of you had the greatest quality of all....you came to serve our Lord. And serve you did. Thanks for all your hard work.

Remember the three "S's". The greatest by far of these is Spirituality. We came together as Brothers and Sisters in Christ. You came and you brought with you a sense of serving and a deep and abiding love for our Lord. Then, we shared . . . laughter and sometimes tears; but always an openess to hear the softness of His love. We will always cherish your sweet spirits. As we look back at all of you from the beginning in May until today, your spirit remains. Namaste'

Where are we?

1. The bunk beds are made and in place. Thanks National Ave (Springfield, MO) and Harvard Ave. (Tulsa, OK)

2. The bunk beds now have mattress. Top quality and VERY comfortable. Thanks FCC, Meridian, MS

3. The plumbing and electrical is roughed in and ready for the "top out" process as soon as the drywall and associated items are complete.

4. The kitchen is in process. Cabinets are 75% done. Thanks FCC, Frankfort, KY

5. Most of the steel walls are up, the drywall hung and mostly finished. Thanks National Ave., Harvard Ave, FCC Frankfort, Francis Tileston, FCC Rowlett, Fairhill CC, FCC Sedalia.

6. The foundation additions are poured and curing. Awaiting construction of sanctuary beginning in mid December.

7. The foundation for the Mission Center Directors House (aka parsonage, rectory) has been poured and we've begun erecting the walls.

What's next?

A. Getting the Mission Center completed. Time frame--Late January

B. Sanctuary--

     1. frame up--mid December to mid January

     2. dry in--windows, doors, insulatiion--January

     3. completion--late spring

C. Mission Center Director's House (parsonage)

     1. Frame and dry in--late December

     2. Basic construction complete--January, February

     3. Move in--March

What are our needs?

1. We need your prayers. Westside Mission Center is a vital part of the Disciple response to Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Our Father has blessed us. He needs to hear from all of us. Prayer works!

2. We need you to continue to come to Westside as volunteers. All skills are needed. YOU CAN HELP NO MATTER WHAT YOUR SKILL LEVEL IS. Special needs upcoming:

             a. HVAC (without experienced volunteer help this is a $40,000. costs)

             b. Stucco contractor (without experienced volunteer help this is cost prohibitive)

3. We need donations and funds to help defray the cost of materials. As was the case with most folks here, we received only a small portion  of the money needed from the insurance company. All monies you send will go directly to purchase materials. Thanks to the Great River Region and the Week of Compassion, our living expenses are covered.

You can send donations to:

     Westside Christian Church     P.O. Box 6217     New Orleans, LA  70174

or if you prefer

     Great River Region     P.O. Box 192058     Little Rock, AR 722119-2058

**** if you send to GRR please note your check  "Westside Mission Center"

Well, that's all for this month. We would like to wish each of you a Merry Christmas. May the "Reason for the Season" alway remain Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

B.A.S.I.C.S.

     Brothers and Sisters In Christ Serving

Brother Vance and Jeannie

 *************************This is the end of the December Update****************************

November--------------------------Already?

October has come and gone---But WOW did you leave a mark on this one.  Two groups left their names on the cross. We've had to make a second one now. You see, we ask each volunteer coming to Westside to sign the cross. When the mission center is complete those crosses will occupy a prominent place on the high wall as you enter the building. It's our way to remember you and also a statement about unity, love, sister churches, mission, Jesus . . . .

Springfield, MO, National Ave CC that is; 16 strong and determined. Yes, you came and yes you left your mark. My idea was to build a protype of the bunk bed we planned to use. The "plans" called for a 2X6 construction undergirded with a 3/4" MDF mattress support. You looked and Roger (Ray) and I went shopping. Little did I know that you and Roger had plans (I've learned a lot about Roger, he always has plans). This time it was for not one bunk bed rather ALL of them. So much material that it took multiple loads in my double axle trailer. You set up "jigs", you cut, you sanded, you assembled. 16 in all before you left. A monumental weeks work. Not to mention the roof. You came a long way towards putting the roofing on the Sunday School building. And the walls and ceilings in the bath/shower area. Up and lookin' good. Great week, thanks guys. We're really looking forward to "round two" week in December!

Then there's the Tulsa (OK) dozen! You came determined to work. And work you did. 1st you finished the other 9 beds. I gotta admit, when I saw Kent and crew working on that first one, I didn't think you'd have enough time. Then all of a sudden I looked back and you had your own assembly line going.  Then own to walls of your own. Kitchen walls, dining area walls, wall between kitchen/dining and sleeping area. YES!  It rained Springfield out on the Sunday School roof; you finished all we can do 'till the Sanctuary is up. And we could not finish your accolades without mentioning about Dan and the "ditch". Straight ;-), well close, but LONG. Thanks, Dan.

Pilings are down and we're ready to pour foundations on the Parsonage and Sanctuary additions. Then we'll frame both of those projects. November (hopefully) will see us complete the bathroom/showers and kitchen/dining area in the mission building. It's an ambitous month but we have lots of good help coming.

I really need to take a moment to share something. I continue to be amazed at you. You come, you work, we worship, we glorify God. I really wish I had the words to paint the picture. This thing we're doing here truly is a "God Thing". It blesses everyone it touches. If you haven't been here, you need to do so. For God and for You.

Have a Blessed Month!

*****************THIS IS THE END OF THE NOVEMBER 2006 UPDATE*******************

It's October

Lot's of good "stuff" is going on at Westside. September brought three groups, Grace from Mandeville on Saturday the 8th, Memphis for Saturday the 16th and the other from Frankfort, Ky just this past week. What a contrast!

The 8th started out with a downpour. I called John Kirby on his cell to see if I could stop them. The sky looked like an all day rain event. All ten of the volunteers were in route. We waited, the rain finally stopped and we had a productive day. Talk about determination. Guys on a jackhammer all day, others moving lumber, loading a dumpster (one board at a time to utilize space!). Great day folks, Thanks.

On the 16th (what a 60th birthday present), a chartered bus pulled up and 51 hearty souls from Memphis (Lindenwood and New Directions) unloaded. For the next 5 hours there was activity everywhere. They worked on the sanctuary (the old youth activities building) getting planned demolition about 80% complete. Another group worked on getting the front of the Sunday School building ready for metal siding to match the new Community Center. Others put up tents for Sunday worship. Great idea--the afternoon rains and fire ants nixed that idea :-).  Morning worship found us in the Community Center. No air conditioning, no electricity. Just 60 plus folks, singing, praising God and having a good time on God's day (aren't they all). Thanks Memphis. I heard a rumor about Nov. 3 & 4. I'll be watching for a bus!

Last Sunday the Kentucky Six came. I gave them that name. Seems as though another group is coming from Frankfort in November that thinks they can out work this bunch. :-) I can be made a believer. Just want you to know though that you've quite a record to top. They finished the other 20% of the demolition on the sanctuary, loaded a dumpster one board at a time (I hope the truck can pick it up), completed helping me move the showers, moved the dryer, washer, sink, hot water heater from the old location to the temporary one, formed for the concrete pour in the community center, moved and rearranged everything in the community center, installed cots it the sleeping area. I bet one of the Six emails me and tells me I forgot to mention something. Great weeks work. Thanks.

Jeannie and I also went to Jonesboro to speak at the NEA Womens' annual meeting. They invited the men also. We were there to update them on what's happening in New Orleans recovery. NEA and Highland Dr. Christian Church blessed us with over $3200. in much needed donations. Thanks, Highland Dr. and all the folks in Northeast Arkansas.

We also attended the Regional Board and made an update presentation for the Board. Pastor Lester Brooks challenged all churches in the Region to donate at least $500. each to the Long Term Recovery Center at Westside. If all of our churches did donate, we'd soon raise the other $65,000 needed to finish the materials purchase for all of the center.

October 11 the materials to complete the outside of the sanctuary and Sunday School Building are scheduled to arrive. Thanks to Will Feland and all the folks at Pinnacle Steel for your help and genorosity.

Several churches and groups have expressed an interest in having us come and give an update on the progress in greater New Orleans and surrounding areas. We'll be glad, as time allows, to come and speak to your church or group. Please let us hear from you. So much is needed.

What, you ask?

1. $65,000 to finish pilings, pour concrete, finish work, etc. Platinum Industries is donating some of the wall and ceiling framing materials. Thanks to Del Poling and all of his folks.

2. $5000. to purchase materials for bunk beds for community center. I understand Don in St. Louis is working on this project as well as possibly Dallas at Lindenwood and Morris at New Directions. Give them a call and see if you can help.

Thanks for all your love and support. Together we can do. With Christ ALL things are possible.

Have a blessed day!

***************THIS IS THE END OF THE OCTOBER UPDATE ARTICLE******************

Greetings from Westside