One Year After Katrina, God Remains Faithful

Feb 07 | Nov 06 | Oct 06 | Aug 06 | July 06 | Mar 06 | Jan 06 | Oct 05 | Sept 05

I had the great pleasure of attending the Christian Community Development Association this fall. The conference gathers ministries focused on community development and Christian outreach to the poor. I appreciated the opportunity to network with those around the country who are committed to caring “for the least of these.” I was encouraged to affirm that Desire Street Ministries is focused on transforming children, families and communities.

I recently asked our Dean of Students, “What’s the coolest thing happening at DSA?” She responded that someone generously donated a collection of books written especially for urban teens. And our students are reading these books in the halls! Urban teens typically don’t view reading as a leisure activity or something to enjoy, so it is every exciting to witness a growing interest in reading.

I have enjoyed getting to know some of our new staff members at DSA. I wish you could sit down with each of our teachers and hear their passion for education, their commitment to Christ, and their love for our students. I’d like to share a little bit about Evelyn Francois, our new Librarian, and her thoughts on DSA:

“I am impressed with DSA’s small student to teacher ratio. It allows for much-needed individualized attention to students’ specific needs, learning styles and abilities. I can share scripture, pray with and for them and offer a listening ear without the fear of reprimand from administration. I could never do that in a public school setting. I feel that I am where I am supposed to be at this juncture in my life. I began my teaching career at Carver Middle School in the Desire Housing Development over 30 years ago. God has brought me full circle. I love this school and I love these kids.”

As the City of New Orleans moves from disaster recovery to redevelopment, Desire Street Ministries anticipates playing a significant role in long-term development initiatives. You’ll hear more in coming months about the following efforts.

Rebuilding Spiritual Centers - We are working to help establish a church plant in New Orleans’ Eighth Ward. This church will reach residents in the St. Roch neighborhood - an area of downtown New Orleans, adjacent to the Desire neighborhood, where many evacuees have returned. We are eager to establish a multi-cultural congregation that preaches the Gospel in word and deed, and intentionally reaches youth and seeks to address the community’s felt needs.

Rebuilding Houses - In partnership with CURE (Churches United for Revitalization and Evangelism), we are forming a Community Development Corporation called CDC 58:12. CDC 58:12 will focus on developing affordable housing and providing economic development opportunities beginning within the Ninth Ward.

Rebuilding Communities - We are continuing, through CURE, to empower indigenous leaders to take the lead in redeveloping the Ninth Ward. We will participate with and support CURE in a number of initiatives including restoring playgrounds, training local churches in Christian community development and establishing after school tutoring and recreation programs.

Thank you for your prayers and support. Your partnership enables us to make a difference. Check out recently posted pictures.

Serving with you,

Danny Wuerffel