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Noah's Ark

by Fr. Bill Van Oss

Noah’s Ark is truly an amazing place. I volunteered for a shift a couple of Fridays ago. I was a “bagger.” It was so great to see smiling volunteers engaging with customers. New customers were welcomed and had their questions answered. “Regulars” were greeted like it was a family reunion. 


The volunteers moved around the floor putting out new items, while the customers browsed and visited. I was amazed at the number of young adults. It was nice to see that there were shoppers who were likely just getting by. Hopefully, saving on cloths and household items enables them to afford other necessities (like food). 


It felt like Christian community. From the opening prayer around the table to conversations on the floor to catching up over coffee, there was a spirit of Christian fellowship. I continue to be amazed at how much good the Ark does. We all know about the impact the funds make for worthy causes, but there is so much good that happens in addition to that. So much good for our customers, volunteers and the community. 


Recently a small violin was donated to the Ark. Leadership immediately began thinking about how his gift could best be used. People were contacted, and eventually a man named Isaac, who works with youth in Harlem Heights, was contacted. Isaac came to accept the gift, which will find a home with a young person in Harlem Heights.


What a wonderful story. What a great way to grow the miracle that is Noah’s Ark by asking: Who could really use this? How can we do the most good with what we have been given? How might this benefit someone in need? That is our calling as Christian people: to always be finding ways to do good for others. 


I want to thank everyone who works hard to make Noah’s Ark a success. I want to especially thank the Leadership Team for all that they do to keep the Ark running smoothly. The Ark continues to do good in so many ways, and we can be very proud of that. 


Peace,

Bill+   

Moving Forward Updates from Fr. Bill

By Fr. Bill Van Oss 20 Dec, 2023
Today's Excitement Dear Friends, Today was a day to celebrate! LCEC trucks arrived to install the new meter and energize it so the new HVAC system in the sanctuary can be started up! Then a couple hours later, we passed the City of Sanibel final inspection and we were given the Certificate of Completion; the final step in our permit process which started last May. We are very grateful to Councilwoman Holly Smith, City Manager Dana Souza and all the city and LCEC employees who assisted in these final steps and of course to all the FP workers and their subs for all their hard work these past several months and the Property Restoration Team; the working group was there to receive the good news today. We are very busy getting the spaces ready for opening weekend starting with our 4th Advent services this Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 8am and 10:30am (livestreamed). Then we will have 3 Christmas Services at 4pm, 8pm (livestreamed) and 10:30am. Thanks to the volunteer teams who have been washing dishes in the kitchen, putting books on the bookshelf, hanging wreaths and a 100 other details. It is a stunningly beautiful space and we can't wait for all to experience it again for the first time in 15 months! Bill +
By Fr. Bill Van Oss 13 Dec, 2023
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