David W. Swanson

Pastor and Author

new orleans update #7

This came from (pastor) Glenn this morning before the team got on the road for the last leg of their drive.

Well it’s Saturday morning, we’re all safe and sound (but pretty much spent) and starting to do what we need to do to get back on the road for our final leg of this missions trip. I just wanted to update you on our debriefing meeting last night. In a word, it was wonderful.


We all enjoyed pizza and root beer floats for dinner in a conference room provided for us, before cleaning up for what turned out to be a 2 hour meeting of students and leaders giving God praise for what He has done this week in and through our group. Praise through spoken testimony, praise through music, praise through prayer. It was a powerful time together. You would be so proud of how these students and leaders worked tirelessly with overwhelmingly good attitudes and motivation. One theme I heard last night during this meeting was how God had formed a truly biblical community in our group. Throughout the week, when someone was down, others would step in to help them up, when someone was tired, others would provide encouragement to continue on, when someone needed prayer, or a listening ear, others would pray, and listen. I really wish everyone at Parkview could see what God can do through teenagers when they avail themselves to Him for the glory of Christ! Truly wonderful! Thanks for your prayers!

For His glory,

Glenn Westburg

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2 responses to “new orleans update #7”

  1. Julie Avatar
    Julie

    I guess I can’t sit and read these and not speak. My heart is overflowing so much that I just want to explode. Where do I begin… this past week was INCREDIBLE. God worked in so many ways. As we drove home I day-dreamt about bringing all the kids home with me, (I don’t think they would fit, plus I have 3 of my own I get to enjoy!) I have a heavy heart today because I miss them all.

    Some of the most prominant “God sightings” for me…

    As mentioned before by several… the unity amongst the team was otherwordly, supernatural, literally. What is so wonderful about that is, prior to these missions, the kids are encouraged to pray for unity, safety and fruitful ministry and God sure provided. The unity present was a shining example of God’s provision and presence.

    Another thing I love watching is how God uses these trips to soften adults to our group of teens. I loved watching Chris Whitson get familiar with our kids and seeing him evolve into quite a protective leader of our group! God has brought Cathy MacKay, Lorri Zander, and Celi and Anton Deitzen to serve in Ignite, through-out the ministry years, after going on a missions trip with the High School kids. You can’t spend a week with these guys and not fall totally in love! It’s impossible. 🙂

    All this to magnify who God is and what He has done in His teens at Parkview!!! God has blessed us with His touch and nearness. God has also brought a wonderful and humble man to shepherd them. A man who seeks to love God with all he’s got. It’s a pleasure to serve under Glenn’s leadership. I know he’s my husband but I hope that doesn’t disqualify me as a volunteer who can express my gratitude for his leadership. Thanks Glenn- I know you pour your heart and soul into these kids and God has honored you by allowing you to witness His moving amongst all these students that you love so much.

    Praise You Jesus.

    Reply
  2. David Avatar
    David

    Thanks for thoughts Julie. You’re comments make me wish I was on the trip! And I’m pretty sure the fact that you’re Glenn’s wife doesn’t disqualify you for expressing gratitude for his leadership. You’ve got a great guy there. Glad you guys are back safely.

    Reply

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