On a different note, you may remember little Tony Nata from Slidell, Louisiana.  USECC helped in several projects with the family and the rebuilding of their home after Hurricane Katrina.  Tony was a leukemia patient and had been battling the disease for four years.  It is my sincere displeasure to inform you Tony died June 19, 2007.  He had just turned 8 years old May 11. 

At the family's request I returned to Slidell to assist with arrangements and officiate over the funeral.  This was actually the third funeral I had a part in for people we met in the Gulf area after the storm.  Tony is survived by two terrific parents, a sister, grandparents, seven aunts and uncles, and eight cousins. 

As you may remember from past letters, a special bond was formed with this family and will continue forever.  As a parent who has lost a child myself, your emotions go beyond pain to a hollowness that seems to have no end.  However, as 1Thes. 4:13-18 states, “we grieve not as those who have no hope”.  We know that God has eternal rewards for us, His children, as well as the grace this side of Heaven to not only see us through these tough times, but support and assist each other along the way. 

In addition to the visitation and funeral service, we wanted to end things on a respectful but upbeat note.  So, in line with the love of the great outdoors and fishing, so familiar to the area, we did a special Sunday (June 24^th) mid morning service for the family.  On his uncle Freddie's fishing boat, we loaded all the sprays from the service, along with the family, and took them out on Lake Pontchartrain to have church and spread the flowers on the water.  It was special time for all of us. 

Afterward, we had sandwiches, took a long swim, caught some crabs and finished the day with a crab boil.  A perfect way to bring the long week to a conclusion.  Now be honest with me, how many other ministers do you know (or would admit too) would do a service in a swim suit and t-shirt.  It's been said many times this is a non typical ministry.......and I love it that way, and I believe God does too.

I don't remember talking to him for a very long period of time as that day held it's own particular challenges.  But Jeff and I stayed in touch and talked many times.  As it turned out (this is the very short version) he started and organization called New York Says Thank You.  It is a way for New Yorkers to say thank you to the nation on the 911 anniversary each year for the kindness shown during the incredibly difficult time they endured.  

A community is selected that has been hit by disaster and some type of rebuilding project is done in accordance with the local community.  We have rebuilt houses, a church, a gazebo and planted memorial trees in different communities.  In keeping with the mission of USECC to First Responders, we provide a Sunday memorial service for the community and coordinate participation of the local First Responders.  It has become quite an eventful weekend with hundreds of uniformed personnel, bagpipers, color and honor guards and Old Glory high and waving proudly. 

Jeff and I have ventured way beyond what we first thought was possible years ago.  You see, it was Jeff who gave the eulogy at little Tony's funeral.  He's a fantastic guy and I've come to love and appreciate him.  As he would say, “what's a Jewish guy from New York doing with a Chaplain and all these firefighters in these little towns.”   God's hand is guiding us all and it's an amazing journey.  I don't know the entire plan but I can't wait for the next step.  After all, that's all He asks of us, one step at a time, or as scripture says, sufficient is the day for it's needs.

 You will hear more of my friend Jeff and some of the projects we do in the days to come.

Also needed are children's Bibles, materials and tapes in video/CD/DVD.  Materials for teens  is also needed as well as books from good Christian authors.  And last but not least is old fashion cash.  Our big goal for this year is a motorhome or airport limo we can convert for  emergency response and use as a respite center for First Responders.  More on this to come.  Remember, we are a non profit organization and all gifts are tax deductible.  

My sincerest thanks to everyone who keeps us in prayer, don't stop now.  In response to one question, yes I do speak for conferences, churches and community appearances, just call.  Our work is both increasing and expanding, I feel our best is yet to come and we need to prepare for the opportunities that present themselves.  

May the Lord bless you always................Chaplain Steve