The New York trip was simply phenomenal. Our trip there was a long one. We didn't expect our
             layover to be, some eight hours in Chicago enroute, so without having any expectations, it wasn't a
             problem. This was our first visit to New York City, and it was truly an amazing experience.

            The one outstanding memory we have is the resolve of the people of New York. This huge city
            of many immigrants, has pulled together in a way that is almost indescribable. The teamwork of
            the fireman and police force, and all the other entities working in the pit, was beyond compre-
            hension.

            They are all there because they want to be and some are working 12 hour days, seven days-a-week.
            The Holy Spirit is present throughout the city and our team felt his presence daily. It is still
            hard to believe that a disaster like this could conceivably take place, but harder to believe is the
            method in which the New Yorkers from the mayor on down, have reacted to the call of aiding their
            fellow man. We felt it greatly and we fell in accordingly. What a testimony to our American
            fundamentals as a nation under God, and to Christ's teachings!

            As others have said before us, we served where we were asked. At St. Joseph's Chapel,
            we served as dishouts, waiters, and friends with understanding hearts. We made friends we
            will never forget. Brian Sullivan of the Port Authority and Captain Dennis DeGartolo of the
            police force are two that will be in our memories and prayers forever. There are many more
            we ministered to at the Salvation Army tent, and many stories we could tell. As we worked
            these shifts, sometimes through the night, the faces of these men and women, told a story of
            courage, strength, and hope. And oftentimes we felt they ministered to us as much as we
            ministered to them.

            The highlight of the trip for us counselors was ministering to the folks at Lambs Bookstore
            and Nazarene Church.   This place was filled with hope, mercy, and grace. We had people here
            from all walks of life, from every point on the spirituality measuring stick, and from all over
            the world. People here were loved, they were given gifts at Christmas time, and some were
            brought to Christ. What a positive place and an effective ministry! Most of these people
            just needed someone to care, to listen, and to encourage.

            As we reflect back on our trip, it becomes more and more apparent that America is a big
            country with a big heart. But as big as we are, we still have an intimacy about us that can't
            be found anywhere in the world. While talking to the firemen, policemen, and countless other
            folks affiliated with the effort, we felt a closeness, like that of brothers. It made no
            difference what accent we had, or how our name was spelled, or from what burough we were
            from. We knew this would be a life-changing experience before we left for New York. And
            it was. We now feel that the city of New York is a serious contender with Philadelphia,
            as "the City of Brotherly Love".

            Ted & Diann Mullen