West Virginia – Just a few days left!

Hey folks,

As I said in a blogpost a couple of weeks ago, Restoration is taking our annual trip to Philippi, West Virginia this summer from July 2-6.  And just to remind you, the last day to register for the trip is this Sunday, April 27th.  You can register here, and also sign up for the West VA small group if you’re interested.

In case you’re still on the fence, Wade Casstevens had the chance to go last year and wanted to share a few thoughts with you about the trip:

I went on the West Virginia trip in 2011 and 2013 and am planning to go back again this year.  Both years I was accompanied on the trip by Lucas, my 10-year old son.  Our project site was the home of the Daltons, a young family with two toddlers.  We helped to convert a burned-out mobile home into a suitable home for a growing family.  In 2011 our crew performed mostly exterior repairs, painting the home’s exterior and installing a new roof.  In 2013 we completed interior repairs, including installing wall paneling in the children’s room and putting the finishing touches on a master bedroom.

The West Virginia trip appeals to me from many angles, several of which are selfish.  I work in the building industry in the DC area, and I love to build things and work with my hands.  Additionally, I love the mountains, and the 4 days we spend in Philippi is a relaxing, scenic break from Washington.  

However, the trip also presents opportunities to give and receive some gifts from God that don’t crop up as easily in my regular routine.  For example:

• The work allows us to provide for the physical needs of the community in the form of shelter, warmth, and community space
• It gives us time with our families and church community that is not influenced by the needs to achieve, rush, or compete
• For those of us who don’t share our faith easily, it allows us to love others through acts of service
• It exposes us to a community (that of Philippi itself) that tends to value family, community, and faith above material possessions in a way that is important for us to be reminded of

If you are thinking of coming on the trip, don’t let the physical nature of the trip deter you; the vast majority of the work tasks are not technical in nature, but cooperative.  Also, if you have any questions about any details of the trip, I would be glad to speak with you.  I can be reached by e-mail at wadecass@aol.com or by phone at 703-244-5650.

Best,

Wade Casstevens

 I’m really excited about the trip, and I hope you’ll be able to join us.  If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me (clay@restorationarlington.org).

-Clay