CareFest Report … making Jesus’ mark in 2009!

God told His ancient people who were transplanted to Babylon, Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare (Jeremiah 29:5). The timeless principle remains for us that our heavenly citizenship should make a real difference in Rochester today. Our city should be a better place to live because Christians are here.

On June 20, 2009, nearly 1500 of you made Jesus’ caring presence known throughout Rochester. Through your good works offered in His name, the city of God extraordinarily intersected with the city of Rochester. You served at over 60 sites including 18 schools, 20 parks, and 17 homes associated with the Salvation Army, Bear Creek Services, or other people-helping agencies. Our bright, lime green t-shirts could also be seen at the Boys & Girls Club, Seasons Hospice, Camp Victory, Crossroads College, Friendship Place, New Life Family Services, PossAbilities, Graham Park, and a private residence.

The work done this year focused on much needed cleaning in the schools (lockers and desks) and parks. Our largest project included some 200 workers landscaping and refreshing the county fairgrounds. Other work around the city included such diverse tasks as power-washing, landscaping, painting, building a fence, shelving unit, and storage shed, reroofing a home, concreting a curb and driveway, and refurbishing broken doors and dented walls.

At the residence of an elderly couple, large trees were removed and the septic system repaired on the outside, while inside old carpet was removed and important home repairs made. The owner remarked, "I can’t believe that people would do this for people they don’t know!"

The consistent feedback from this fourth annual CareFest mission to Rochester again highlighted your outstanding quality and great attitudes as together we experienced God’s Spirit orchestrating the event to the glory of His Son. Thanks to our leaders and all who served to make Jesus well-known in our city; He promises to reward you (Revelation 22:12)!

Please keep your eyes open for late-summer and winter projects at the schools! Also, Lord willing, next year’s CareFest is scheduled for June 19, 2010. In the meantime, let’s continue to contribute to the health of our city, making Jesus famous in all we say and do (Colossians 3:17)!

Here is a video capturing the day:

2009 CareFest Photo Album

Select a image below to view complete album