The Journey Begins - La Crosse, WI

Hi Everyone!

The journey has begun! On August 1st, I packed my car, said goodbye to my family and headed to La Crosse, Wisconsin. On the way out, I was able to swing through Lake City, Minnesota, to help my friend, Theresa, move in to her new house! On Sunday, I spent part of the morning and afternoon volunteering at the Bethany St. Joseph Care Center. In the morning, I helped to bring the residents from their rooms to the Catholic Mass in the chapel. During the Mass, I participated by doing the one of the readings. On the list of activities that I am comfortable with, reading at Mass is not one of them. Despite the fact that it may have appeared and sounded like I was learning to read for the first time, I made it through in one piece! At the end of Mass, the pastor allowed me to speak briefly about my mission trip and ask for prayers. Following that, I helped the residents get back to their rooms. The last one to leave the chapel was a fellow Minnesota Vikings fan who stuck around to wish me well!

Following my conversation with him, my friend, Paul, and I helped residents get to the Ecumenical worship service. Following that, we were able to sit and talk with the residents and visitors. One volunteer told us how she has been volunteering at the care center for the past five years since her mother died, following through on a promise to take care of her mother’s friends. Talking with her, it was easy to see that her time spent volunteering was very rewarding. Knowing what she knows now, she said that she wished she would have started volunteering sooner!

At the end of my visit, I met a couple who used to live in Alaska. After sharing my story and hearing their travel tips, I thanked them for their time and headed toward the door. As I exited, the man shook my hand and said, “Go do the work of God for me”. Tucked in his hand, was a generous donation. I do not know the names of that couple, and I may never see them again, but their kindness will not be forgotten! If you two are reading this, thank you for your generosity!

A special thanks to the Thompson family for hosting me! And thank you to everyone who has made a donation, is following along, and praying for a safe journey. Without your support, this trip would not be possible! I am excited to see where God takes me on this journey and I look forward to sharing every step along the way with you!