submitted article
Early in the afternoon of Sunday, November 25th, two vehicles full of eager helpers left St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Fulda and headed to the Ronald McDonald House (RMDH) at Sanford Children’s in Sioux Falls. This special House provides a “home away from home,” with private rooms, laundry facilities, hot meals, and personal support for families who have critically sick children. There are over 600 houses under the RMDH Foundation, and the one at Sanford, SF is known as the Lake House. One of St. Paul’s Lutheran Youth Fellowship (LYF) members had been in critical condition a couple months ago, and the Lake House had been a huge blessing to her family.
Now was an opportunity to return thanks for help received and share compassion with those facing similar trials.
The youth brought with them prepared food, groceries, and two quilts made by members of St. Paul’s, all to be freely given to current residents at the Lake House. Troy and Elizabeth Stapek came with their children, Lukas, Ella, Silas and Matthew. Pastor and Davina Ethridge also brought their children, Rachael, Hannah, Caleb and Ruth.
At the RMDH site, the LYF were welcomed by the Lake House staff. They set to work preparing an evening meal, served daily from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The Caring Cooks program at the RMDH allows outside groups to provide meals, giving staff and residents the opportunity to focus on other needs. Up to 40 people were guests at the RMDH that night, plus staff and volunteers, so the meal was a large one consisting of turkey, ham, and trimmings with a selection of desserts, including several gluten-free options.
Additionally the LYF youth decorated the RMDH for Christmas, stringing garland and setting up Christmas trees, including the 14 foot tall tree in the main entryway.
When it was time to eat, Rev. Ethridge led everyone in a prayer of thanksgiving. Some of the residents shared their stories, and the LYF volunteers helped to put away the leftovers. Four hours after arriving, the youth said their goodbyes to satisfied residents and cheerfully lit rooms, happy to have served and cared for those in need.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)”
