Ministry Department Lends a Hand to Hurricane Victims

“It was a pleasure to put aside my 26 page paper to go out and do what I love to do—serve others,” said nursing major, Trecy Jefford. “I thank God for using me on this day, for choosing me to go out in the community and be a light to others.”

Forty students and three parents from Takoma Academy, led by music teacher Lulu Mwangi Mupfumbu, also shared the trip, providing songs of inspiration throughout.

“Just as this was an unforgettable experience for students, it was more so for residents, who, for a variety of reasons, did not leave their homes/neighborhoods seeking help. Today, help came to their door and they will never forget that,” said Minnie McNeil, Allegheny East Conference Director of Adventist Community Services, who coordinated the event.

Norman Miles, senior pastor of the Trinity Temple SDA Church in Trenton, New Jersey, presented the morning’s devotion with the story of the Good Samaritan as a framework. He left volunteers with a three-step formula for service in disaster relief: 1.) Be compassionate, 2.) Short-term needs must be met first, and 3) Be wise enough to move on after stabilizing the situation.