East Tennessee LaFollette Mission Team in Willow, Alaska

The LaFollette Mission Team got settled in today at LaFollette United Methodist Church. Startling, is the adjustment to the 4 hour time difference.

To fill in time this morning most members went exploring and were treated to their first views of Denali Mountain. Wikipedia says this is the tallest mountain peak in North America. Even though the team is 160 miles away from the mountain, the peak could easily be seen by driving less than 2 miles from the church.

The team headed back to church and was introduced to the church at the 10:00 am worship service. Invited to play an instrumental flute solo for worship was Alexandria Crabtree. She is a member of Caryville United Methodist in Caryville, Tennessee and is on the Band Staff at Berea, College in Berea, Kentucky.

Following worship, team members got to meet parishioners during a time of fellowship. Several of the church members expressed ties to family and friends in the East Tennessee area.

Later, the team enjoyed a grilled hot dog lunch before leaving for Hatcher's Pass. This is a historic gold mine and tourist attraction. More information can be found on the link above.

Tomorrow the team plans to begin work at the job site at 9:00 am. The plans are to install doors and windows in a new parsonage that is being constructed. A full slate of other weeklong mission activities and mixers are planned for church members.

Life is very different in Willow, Alaska than in East Tennessee.

There is running water and electricty but a shaky septic system. Team members are being asked to use an outhouse. The computer is old and slow. Cell phones may or may not work. The people are hardy and filled with a generous spirit. Their love for God and care for each other are evident.

The team members eagerly anticipate learning more. Photos are available online here. More will be posted as they are available.

Keep viewing this blog for more updates from the East Tennessee LaFollette Mission Team as we serve in Willow, Alaska.