When service is an expression of God's Providence

Jose Matos Auffant, Executive Director of Tecaboca Retreat Center, sends us this update with this message: In the spirit of Thanksgiving, this update from Tecaboca is a big shout-out to volunteers who share their time and talents to make a difference and help the environment along the way. The more people we can mobilize like this at our ministries, the better - and the upcoming date of December 5 is the international volunteer day, another opportunity to promote Marianist Encounters.

A number of Tecaboca neighbors called to offer any assistance as needed. The president of the Hill Country Fly Fishers Association texted to coordinate clean-up efforts along Johnson Creek, while the co-owner of the water operator firm put his chainsaw to work and removed a log that blocked the entrance road over the dam.

After the heavy rains and floods along the Hill Country in late July, the community and friends of Tecaboca reached out to see how they could help in an outpour of support!  The main impact was along the waterway, and the fact that the dry creeks that surround the property now have debris from higher grounds that were left once the waters retreated.

The Fly Fishers organized a series of service days in August and September to clean debris, remove heavy items down the creek, and help with whatever was needed after the rains.  Their volunteers replaced the walk bridge along the pond area of the Tecaboca entrance road.

Another long-time volunteer began working on the floating dock that was left on dry land.  While that project is still going, he invited other friends and family to assist. Being committed supporters of Tecaboca, these volunteers knew that this was a time to show their support in a different way and certainly leave a mark. 

During this season of Thanksgiving, let us express our deepest gratitude to all the volunteers who help in our ministries with myriad tasks that help advance our Marianist mission. Another great opportunity to highlight the importance of volunteering is the upcoming International Volunteer Day, celebrated on December 5th each year. 

More information at https://www.un.org/en/observances/volunteer-day

Keep praying for help and genuinely express your gratitude when people show up - in God's Providence, they will be the answer to many prayers!