Thrivent Builds

Andy Lakatos welcoming and thanking everyone

Dayo expressing her thanks

Wil Mefford of St. Luke's in Ann Arbor with me (Lynne)

Ribbon cutting (note the little family member at front who just had to be a part of everything)

Greetings to all who have followed the 2009 Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity home of the Burrell family on Watling in Ypsilanti. A group of dedication folks from various churches and even some from Miller Canfield law firm in Ann Arbor on Saturday to help prepare the house for Sunday’s dedication.

The only that outshined the fantastic weather was the beauty of the home and the excitement of those present sharing in this celebration. There were lots of compliments on the gorgeous laminate flooring throughout and Dayo’s brand new appliances including a new washer & dryer in the basement.

The celebration began when houseleader Andy Lakatos welcomed everyone and turned the ceremony over the Pastor Julianne Smeck of St. Mark Lutheran Church in Ypsilanti to offer the opening prayer and blessing. Then Dayo’s family support partner, Gwynn Sterken, introduced the family who expressed gratitude for everyone who helped make this day and owning a brand new, affordable home possible.

Rose Marquardt from Christ the King church in Saline presented each family member with their own personalized quilt and then Dayo’s Pastor, the Rev. Deborah South of St. Mary’s Baptist Church in Ypsilanti offered a blessing on the home and family and gave thanks for God’s amazing love and provisions for each of us.

Many churches pitched by providing a variety of refreshments and drinks and paper to serve and eat it all on. There were cookies and some veges leftover, which the family was pleased to take home for school lunches  and snacks.

Thank you so much everyone, I mean that from the bottom of my heart, for all you’ve done this year to complete this home for Dayo Burrell and her two children. It has been an amazing and excellent experience to manage the project and work with all of you.

Lynne Punnett, Faith Relations & Volunteer Coordinator