This experience encouraged a lively dialogue in our home about our responsibility as Christians to serve others and promote justice and how we can do that in a variety of ways. Our family decided to split our check 3 ways. We wanted to support Panama City as they continue to rebuild from Hurricane Michael. After some research, we found Family Service Agency is a non-profit that serves individuals and families in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson and Washington Counties with a variety of assistance programs. They have very little overhead and are staffed mostly by volunteers (our Aunt Alice being one). We also donated to Common Ground where we hope it removes social and physical barriers and sparks a sense of adventure in us all. ”Common Ground is an all-inclusive playground designed to encourage children and adults of all levels and abilities to interact with each other. Common Ground is about much more than simply providing accessibility for children with physical disabilities. The playground's educational and interactive environment is unlike any other in the region, going beyond the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act to promote complete social inclusion and cooperative play. Common Ground will be located on 23-acres near US 42 and Snider Road in Mason.” Lastly, we made a donation to Women Helping Women. “WHW helps survivors find hope, healing, and empowerment through our confidential support services. We inspire the community to speak out against gender-based violence, and speak up for equal and healthy relationships. We educate and advocate that generations after us grow into change agents to prevent gender-based violence before it ever starts.” For is, Gods Work Our Hands is the fulfillment of the commandment of Love Your Neighbor.

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My daughter was married in the Bahamas and lived there for fifteen years. She and David called Green Turtle Cay home. It is a water taxi ride from Abaco. Her children were born in Florida, and were taken back home at six weeks old. They had weathered several hurricanes before moving to Charleston, South Carolina. They kept their home on Green turtle and have many friends there. When the latest hurricane Durian struck the Caribbean, Green Turtle was in line with the eye wall. The eye never passed them so there was no relief. While Abaco was flattened with a wall of water, Green turtle was damaged with the tornadoes in the wall along with the wind and rain. A group in the community has set up a foundation to help with relief on the island. Abaco supplied their electricity and it is not projected to have power for two years. Green turtle would like to create a power source and rebuild their community. I have heard that the school is back in session already. I received a check for $100 and added $200 to it to make a donation to the Green Turtle Cay Foundation.

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Dear Good Shepherd, This week I received a gift of grace from one of your members. Currently I am raising support to do Engineering as mission in developing countries. I have been asked to help in the Bahamas with hurricane relief. So your gift was very timely. Thank you for blessing me and my work. In Christ, Natalie Thompson.

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