West Jasper Wesleyan Parsonage and the Mitchell’s update

07/21/08

            The morning of Monday, July 14, 2008 we were aroused from our “borrowed” camp bed at 7:15 AM.  It was the first morning we had to “sleep in” in probably three weeks.  Carmen Pickering, from Grace Lee Church was at our door.  She told me simply with a sad face that someone from our church had called to tell us that our home, the parsonage of the West Jasper Church had burned.  Of course we were in disbelief and shock.  Our first concern, since we were sure no people were home, was our pets, two dogs.  As the events unfolded that day we were both amazed and perplexed.  The house and all of its contents were a total loss.  We learned through conversation that the fire was first reported sometime around 5:30 AM.  The first responders to arrive were good friends and neighbors of ours.  They were able to rescue one of our dogs, Samson, who was still in the dog run next to the house.  The building was already gone.  Our other dog, Reuben, returned to the house around 10 AM later than morning.  Unfortunately, on Thursday afternoon, after examination by the Cornell University Veterinary Hospital, we had to have Reuben put down.  It was a devastating blow to our small family.

            In summary, we have not been given a final determination to the cause of the fire.  The County and Insurance Fire Investigators were leading towards an undetermined electrical malfunction, though each felt at the time there was not enough evidence to pinpoint a direct cause.  Due to some suspicious evidence as well as an unsuspected “flare-up” of the remains on Friday, July 18^th the Fire Investigators returned for some more investigation.  We have not been informed of any further or final determination.  We are still waiting for their approval to clear the site.

            We have already met with the insurance adjuster and have discussed a few items with the Guide One claims office.  The only immediate issue was restoring water service to the church.  Though a very temporary fix has been secured, the insurance will pay for us to restore it permanently.  We know there are many rebuilding questions to be answered but we are trying to be patient as we wait to hear what arrangements can be made.  Though the house was insured through the district policy, regrettably, we did not have insurance to cover our belongings.

            As a family we are doing as well as can be expected.  Our faith is strong, though our emotions at time are weak.  We would especially ask for your prayers for our son, T.J.  At the age of 13 life is difficult enough, but this has definitely placed a burden on his young heart and mind.  Please pray for healing and peace in his life.

            We were extremely blessed to have two different offers for temporary housing.  It was decided to accept the generous offer from the United Church of Jasper to stay in their unoccupied parsonage until ours can be rebuilt.  We are making plans to begin cleaning and preparing the house on Monday July 28^th.  This will allow us time to gather at least the immediately necessary furniture and arrangements such as phone and internet.  We have accepted the gracious offer from Leslie Fine, from Baldwinsville Wesleyan, of a number of pieces of furniture and house ware items.  She needs to clear her home by July 31^st as she prepares to leave for Honduras to minister in a children’s home.  God developed this plan to benefit both of us!

            The presence of God was very evident in our church on Sunday.  We openly shared the love God has for us and the love we have for one another.  Our family and friends around the country and across our district have already done so much to encourage and support us that we are speechless other than to offer a sincere “Thanks”.

                        There are a few items we will be securing ourselves and a list of immediate needs is included below.  The outpouring of love and generosity has been simply overwhelming.  Please pray for us as we work to rebuild both our lives and our church’s home.  We are a little uncomfortable being on the receiving end of giving but it has been both humbling and inspiring.  We will attempt to keep in touch as often as possible.

            God’s Blessings on every one of you as each of seeks to bring glory to HIS name.

In Christ,

Todd, Tammie and T.J. Mitchell

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