Last year I was blessed with the opportunity to participate in the Capuchin Appalachian Mission for the first time. I was not prepared for the tremendous impact that those nine days would have on me. I returned home changed. I participated in Vacation Bible School which didn’t require me to leave our “base camp” very often. But when I had the opportunity to, I saw homes that had tarps for walls and holes in the roof. I vividly remember thinking that these children that I’ve been with all week couldn’t possibly live here. They all have such positive attitudes. Prior to our arrival, I had been told that the people of Harlan County have a very strong sense of community. I began to worry that they wouldn’t accept me into their community. This was not the case. Upon our arrival, we were greeted with smiles and hugs. It felt like I had known these people my entire life. That week I left my heart in Harlan County.

     From July 6-14 myself and 75 other volunteers will be journeying back to Harlan County, Kentucky. Each of us has our assignments- manual labor, outreach, senior ministry or Vacation Bible School- and we are almost ready to go. Of the many retreats that I have participated in or led at CYFM, the Capuchin Appalachian Mission (CAM) is my favorite simply because as a community we are able to physically imitate the ways of St. Francis of Assisi and so many of the saints, who showed us that one of the best ways to serve God is by severing His children.

     Father Fred’s definition of a Christian is someone in whom and through whom Christ lives. I ask for your support finically or spiritually to help show Christ’s love to as many people as possible in Harlan County. If possible, please share this link with your friends and family. Thank you and God bless.