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Urbana Lighthouse
The Story,
Lighthouse COTN held their first ever community Christmas Dinner. Held in their new location, the event was a totally free Christmas Dinner complete with all the trimmings provided for those the church ministers to and their families as well as their friends. Turkey in all varieties, ham, collared greens, noodles, green been casserole and Puerto Rican rice were just some of the many favorites available to dine on. With three eight foot tables packed with food to choose from those in attendance were assured to be filled.
Special guests in attendance were the District Secretary and his wife Rev. Doug Haynes and Nina. Also in attendance as an honored guest was an Army Special Forces Soldier just back from Iraq, Thorpe Facer. Thorpe was one individual who had been atop the intercessory prayer list of Lighthouse Church, as he saw front lines fire-fights during his deployment in Iraq. Home for some healing Thorpe was spared as his Humvee was blown up by an IED, leaving him with a skull fracture and several broken bones to his inner ear. Thorpe also sustained several enemy gunshot wounds to his back torso area but thanks to the body armor provided to him, only one round penetrated his body at the shoulder. He deemed himself able to fight still and signed a waiver that allowed him to remain on the battle grounds despite his injuries and continued to fight, until given his release. Thorpe was one of seven soldiers that remained combat ready out of fifty six in his unit. Because of his bravery and dedication he is set to receive a bronze star and a purple heart. God truly is watching over him and he asked that we continue to pray as he will soon be heading back to Afghanistan. The night closed out with an exhibition from the Children's quiz team. The impact of the Lighthouse Church and those involved is revealed in the lives of these young people. They are doing an excellent job!
All total Lighthouse church fed close to 126 people that night. With 73 people through our doors to visit and socialize, the advisory team of Lighthouse church took remaining servings of food to the local women's shelter as well as to several of the local shut ins that were unable to get out for the dinner. God is blessing us and it is such a blessing to do God's work here in the Urbana Community with such great people.
Wayne Clevenger, pastor
Lighthouse
Church of the Nazarene
PO Box 17094
1405 E Florida
Urbana, Il 61802
www.ussnaz.org
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