MFUGE: Transformation revisted

Donna Broussard

Dutchtown Baptist

Prairieville, Louisiana

Adult volunteer

Working for God is a passion, and a direction I feel that He continually affirms as my act of service. In preparing my heart and mind for camp, I was reminded about my last camp experience two years ago as a chaperone. As a PCY (painting/construction and yard work) enthusiast, I signed up as a PCY leader/driver. I was blessed by being brought to Mission First. Driving to Mission First you quickly realize that the area in which it resides is somewhat forgotten and dilapidated. How surprising to drive up and see a real community center in the middle of this seemingly "forgotten" neighborhood. Two years ago the surrounding houses, commercial area across the street and the fence surrounding this beautiful campus were in such disarray that the prospect of parking on the street (because there was no other choice) was a more than a little disheartening. But the Lord blessed our week and we were able to do our little part in maintaining the campus to allow them to continue to bless this neighborhood.

Now fast forward two years . . . I was excited as we drove up to Mission First and to park in the new parking lot that a generous donor had been lead by the Lord to provide for them. The fence that was falling down around the center to make it a secure area had been replaced by a beautiful iron fence that not only gave you a sense of safety and comfort but it looked beautiful! But the most exciting news was to learn that the commercial strip center that had been abandoned for many years is being renovated to move the medical, dental and legal aid offices so that they are better able to serve even more brothers and sisters in Christ and those that don't know Him! God has blessed the community center in so many ways because of their steadfastness in Him. None of the “projects” have been done haphazardly and without much prayer . . . it is evident in the joy found in every person you come across at the center and the ease at which the children of the neighborhood play, laugh and smile as they walk through this amazing place. What better way to share your love of Christ than to paint, construct and tend to the wonders He has provided to us!

Mission First will always have a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to come back next year and the year after that to see how God has continued to make this His Mission First.