chicago - All Hands on Deck

All Hands on Deck

Last week we had our third Safe Haven location we are working with start (Maranatha Church) and with a team of nineteen total people we had to have ALL hands on deck for the week to help love on the kids.

It was an interesting week to say the least. Not only did we have to juggle all three locations of Safe Haven we are helping with this summer, but we also had to deal with it being the week of July 4th.

Our team of nineteen, however, totally rocked it and took the reins with pouring themselves out to love on the kids at each location.

Bryan and his blue crew!

Piggy-back rides

Kristen and two of her kids

Performing a story

On Wednesday, July 4th, the team could have just had us take them out into the city for site-seeing as there was no Safe Haven on that day; however, they all wanted to serve in some way or fashion. So, one group of the team went off to pick up bags of trash on the streets, while the other group stayed at the church and did a PHENOMENAL deep clean of the sanctuary, Safe Haven room, kitchen AND the bathrooms.

The man with the plan to get the place clean

Creativity for writing encouragement!

I was in shock for such hearts to serve and loved spending the time with them throughout the week getting to know them and encourage them along their walks.

They also got spoiled with time at Pastor's house for July 4th for a cookout, play time in an open fire hydrant, and fireworks. A ridiculous amazing day and for me, I went up on the roof to just look around the city and see the fireworks going off in EVERY direction!!

Friendly competition

I think they were in water every chance they got. Haha.

Epic shot from Pastor's roof of some fireworks

~By: AJ Wagoner

P.S.~To our New Jersey crew, continue forward in your walks and don't be afraid of what's next...God has everything under control and ready for each of you to step into who He created you to be. Be ready! God Bless!!