the joy of serving in the "near" Southside Community

Well there are actually countless joys, but having just completed our first ever VBS as a new church, I want to express some of what's on my heart with you.

1. We didn't have super star activites planned, but the children of Southside had a blast playing ball, simple crafts and especially the SPRAY BOTTLES provided by the Hankes.

2. My family. OMG, I have the most wonderful mom, sisters, brother-n-law 2 nieces, nephew and his fiance' that anyone could dream of. They are so faithful to serve the Lord alongside me....thank you....

3. Our Southside Team is amazing. So gifted and so willing to be available to be used by God in the small things as well as the great things......the Lord is most glorified in your heart of love and serving.

4. The stories....Bible Stories....WoW. Thanks to Ray and Tina and Catrina for teaching the children the love of God.......

5. Names that I cannot pronounce correctly. "near" Southside is a diverse community. I love that our church reflects the diversity of our community. The nations are at our doorstep.

6. Sponsor Churches. Southside is sponsored by Alsbury, Birdville and College Ave. Each of these churches played a significant role in helping us succeed this weekend. Birdville team is our newest partnership...we believe God has knit our hearts together in ministry. Alsbury - we could never thank you enough for the continuous support you offer every week..and this week was no different.

7. People find hope while eating hotdogs on tortillas, chicken on a stick and sausage on a stick.....language barriers were overcome, while sharing the simple meal...and let me say our guys are the best EVER cooks.....come see for yourself.

8. Everyone is welcome and everyone has a part in serving at Southside City Church....thanks to Dan who dropped by each evening and provided hats for our gals...and some of the guys....Dan, you totally rock and we love you.....we love to see you driving up on your scooter....keep coming.

9. Prayers are answered. We asked the Lord for at least 45 children to be impacted through VBS, as the last 30 minutes of the weekend rolled around, the last family showed up with 3 extra children, putting our numbers right on what we prayed for......

10. Come Sunday July 6 at 6:00 p.m. to see for yourself.....bring a heart to receive and a heart to give something away.....you'll be blessed....