Labors for Neighbors (“L4N”) - The L4N Mission

Labors for Neighbors is a mission initiative started in response to the extensive damage caused to the Texas Gulf Coast as a result of Hurricane Rita in 2005. Several individuals with a particular feel for mission went on L4N’s first trip in December 2005 to replace the roof on the fellowship hall of Sabine Pass United Methodist Church, and subsequent trips were planned upon their return to Dallas. L4N was incorporated as a non-profit in 2007, and has been going on regular trips for 3 years. L4N has continues to assist individuals on the Texas Gulf Coast affected by Hurricane Rita and now members of the same community affected by Hurricane Ike in 2008.

L4N focuses on what we call the “4 C’s” (Christ, Community, Camping, and Construction). The emphasis is on Christ, and this facet is covered by volunteer trip participants, who organize Bible studies and facilitate conversations on the necessity (and rewards) of active mission. The Community facet includes activities designed to allow trip participants to get to know one another; the short duration of the typical L4N trip (leave on Friday afternoon and return Sunday evening) makes this an important feature of the trip. This is also helpfully facilitated by the L4N bus, which allows for time for community development on the trip south. The Camping facet involves food, shelter, and “creature comforts.” This facet also provides an opportunity for trip participants to assist in a vital aspect of mission without being involved in construction or go onto the roof. The Construction facet of each trip is the materials and construction necessary to replace a hurricane-damaged roof in a single weekend.