Bible Study Fun!

Twice a year my Wednesday Bible study has a "fun day". Usually it's shopping and lunch but this year we did something a little different. We spent the last month or so cleaning out our closets and took several vehicles of donations to one of the World Impact Thrift Stores in Wichita. One of the young men from our church left his school food service job to be on full-time World Impact staff. His responsibilities include planning and preparing all the hospitality events for the organization, plus managing their two thrift stores. The stores help support the organization, but even more importantly provide goods for the urban poor. The stories of the customers are incredible. Truly a fabulous ministry.

Mary Ellen, Sandy, Helen and I were in one vehicle loaded with boxes and bags.

Rosemary and Caryn in another loaded vehicle.

Marilyn drove Diane and Janice.


As soon as we arrived, David gave instructions on what needed to be done.

Being the book lovers they are, Mary Ellen and Debby went to organize the book room. Sorry gals, no photo!

Diane began organizing nick nacks. Rosemary and Janice began on a row of clothes. All garments are $1.00 each. What a bargain.

Helen and I worked on a row of clothing, and Marilyn, Deb, and Caryn as well. We were to remove garments that had been on the racks for an extended period of time. They were folded and packed into HUGE tubs and bags to be delivered to a church that is starting a clothes closet ministry where those in need can come and take any clothing they need - free! A.W.E.S.O.M.E.

We worked for nearly two hours and worked our way through all the clothes racks! Then we headed for lunch.

Mary Ellen made reservations a La Galette in the Delano district in downtown Wichita. This is a nice little restaurant that combines the French and Lebanese heritage of the long-time family owners. Soups, salads, sandwiches, and quiches were the order of the day. Plus fabulous desserts. So many choices!!!

We have such a good time together, it's a real joy to carve out this time.

Some of the gals had Christmas shopping to do, others had to return to Newton. Several of us planned to visit the African-American Museum, also in downtown Wichita, to see the traveling exhibit on the Freedom Riders.  When we arrived, the museum board was having a meeting in the gallery and so we could not see the exhibit. How disappointing! We headed back to Newton and all the things we each had to accomplish!

The following scripture verse was inscribed on the wall of the thrift store. What a privilege it was to serve the ministry in this way and to support the staff as they seek to demonstrate God's great love to those who are in great need. May God be praised!