A small group of Aglow folks joined other believers from all
over the country to make our presence and that of the Lord’s presence
known in the city of Dearborn. There were around 90 people who came
simply to serve those living in Dearborn, both Arabs and other nationalities.
Members of that group were from New Mexico, North Carolina, Florida, New
York, Georgia, and more and of course, Michigan. We all were called to come and
show our love and support for the Arabs there, particularly the Arab
Chamber of Commerce, and to continue our involvement in building
relationships with them.
Because of the legal and insurance expenses incurred during the previous Festivals,
this year’s Festival was cancelled. We, however, felt that to travel to Dearborn and
show our concern/ God’s love for the people, not just the actual Festival, would speak loudly
to them. This is exactly what happened. The officials were so amazed and, on several occasions
moved to tears, when trying to express their gratitude. We weeded, planted, mulched and
watered day lilies on 16 blocks of Warren Ave., the major street on which the Festival is
usually held–praying that we were planting more than flowers! Because the time schedule
was not as organized, we were able to speak with many people as they passed by and especially
business owners as we worked on the area near their businesses.We were able to pray with
a number of those passing by as well as doing much prayer walking throughout
the neighborhood.Also some of the younger guys helped with a major basketball
tournament, running scoreboards and keeping books. There
was also some painting done on their recreational facility. Saturday evening we hosted a
banquet for the city officials, police and Chamber employees . Many kind and thankful words
were spoken–they still are in shock that we were willing to come to Dearborn.
Lastly, because of the situation, we had expected some ill will but that never happened.
Generally we were treated with gracious generosity wherever we went.
When we first heard the Festival was cancelled, we were saddened. However, our God has a plan
and much good was done and many “plants” planted for His glory.
By Cheryl Erbes
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