From September 9 to the 14, eight Aglow women joined together, feeling called by God to go to New York City during the days of the tenth year commemoration of the 9/11 attack. We were advised by Pastor Rick Del Rio, not specifically to save the city, but rather to comfort the city and bring God’s hope there. Led by Mary Willette and Janet Mangum we visited much of lower Manhattan, Ground Zero, Wall Street, Trinity Church and Battery Park as well as the United Nations and spent time in prayer at each of these locations. On that Saturday we also joined with Pastor Rick’s church and many other Christian
organizations for a Sacred Assembly held on the East River that afternoon. On Sept. 11, we spent the day walking the streets near Ground Zero talking to, comforting and praying with many people throughout the day. The next two days we conducted two outreaches in the Lower East side of Manhattan (David Wilkerson and Nicky Cruz country) one for children in a nearby park after school and one for the women of the neighborhood. At each event we were able to give gifts and food as well as speak of Jesus and encourage those who did not know Him to welcome Him into their heart. Much ministry was done through smiles, hugs and love as well as prayers.
Here are two of the team members sharing their observations of the trip;
Judy Stittsworth- NYC was a wonderful experience for all of us. God was certainly faithful to us as we shared with the hungry, hurting and healing people everywhere we went. It is difficult to pinpoint a favorite part of the week. I was touched as Jody and Joann educated us as to the history of NYC; probably the most moving time was a
s we were permitted to sit at the walkway where the families exited after speaking their love messages of the lost ones in 9/11. Being there to pray in the Spirit and to be available was very emotional as we were able to pray with several people. I found the NY’ers to be friendly and open, more than ever at any other time I’ve been to NYC on a mission.
Mary Ellen Earles- My memories include spending time with the team God brought together, praying over the city. I loved the boat trip where we saw the beams of light over the city and felt it looked like God’s glory cloud over NYC.Especially enjoyed praying with the policemen, firemen and families of 9/11/01. I had opportunity to speak with two moms who lost their sons. I felt such favor from God as we sat during the ceremony so close to the exiting family members.When asking the policeman in charge of that area, why he allowed us to sit so closely to the activities, he said “You’re my favorite ladies.” We definitely had God’s favor. Jim, a first responder who wept in my arms, was certainly one I will never forget. The 9/11 ceremony in the future will always be more meaningful after our trip.
I also felt a renewed “recovery” among the New Yorkers who were glad the memorial is done and also closure for the families with the fountain/trees, names and Freedom Tower construction.I think that people are moving on.
Cheryl Erbes-God certainly surprised us on this trip. His presence was very evident wherever we went from the 9/11 ceremony, to the young Puerto Rican children and
their mothers and other relatives at the outreaches. We all learned much about the NYC area, the people and their struggles. Most of all God was able to use us to share His hope and His love to many.
- The Bull at Wall Street
Written by Judy Stittsworth, Mary Ellen Earles and Cheryl Erbes
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