Day 11, Freedom Ministries and Aquilla Villa

After yesterday’s storm, this morning was bright and cloudless. Schools were cancelled because of the bad roads, and we waited until 10:00 to venture out. Even then, some roads were covered or deep with slush, but the sun cleared them by afternoon.

At Freedom Thrift store in New Holland, we helped the staff in their enormous job of moving into a new location next door. We scattered throughout the two buildings and sorted clothes on racks, attached price tags, and moved merchandise, furniture, and shelving.

The women worked there until 12:30, then ate our packed lunches in the van on the way to Aquilla Villa. The men stayed on at the thrift store until 4:00. They also got a tour of Revelations of Freedom Ministries, a residential discipleship program for men struggling with addictions. The thrift store helps with the financial support of the ministry.

The ladies visited Aquilla Villa, a residential home for struggling women. Mel and Barbie Esh, the parent figures, hosted us in the office and served us coffee and cookies while they shared their vision and experiences, and answered our questions.

They gave us a tour of the rest of the house, and introduced us to the staff and resident ladies. We saw where they cook for and host events as well as where they produce a craft project that they sell. It was a privilege to sit with these people and hear their vision and passion for this ministry.

Back at our base, we loaded up at 5:30 and headed for our hosts, Marvin and Miriam Weaver. They have been long-term supporters of Faith Builders and invited us to a delicious spread of food in their dining room. After the meal, they told us stories and answered our questions about their life experiences.