cooking for a crowd
volunteer experience
Denis Sabourin took a leap of faith when he signed up to volunteer with MDS ten years ago. He was introduced to the organization in 2014 when a group of weekly volunteers received an outgoing blessing at his church, The Meeting Place, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The introduction piqued Sabourin’s interest so much that he jumped on an opportunity to join them and helped with an MDS flood response in High River, Alberta, that same year. “I really enjoyed the first trip and couldn’t stop,” he said. Sabourin became the MDS representative to his congregation a year later. As church representative, he organized more than a dozen weekly service trips for The Meeting Place at MDS disaster sites across Canada and the U.S. — and attended all of them too. The organization’s approach to Christian service resonates deeply with Sabourin. It’s about faith with works, he said. Recently, Sabourin retired from his day job and made his way to an MDS project a few days later. He joined a long-term volunteer team for the final month of a flood response in eastern Kentucky. Serving as the site’s office manager, Sabourin manages the response’s finances, communications and hospitality. “My favorite part is meeting all of the volunteers and making sure that their stay is enjoyable,” he said. It’s always a thrill to hear homeowner stories, Sabourin added. “It’s very empowering for volunteers and the leadership here to be told that they’re appreciated and to be told they’re called angels.” Coming into someone’s backyard and helping them rebuild or clean up after disaster is love in action, he reflected. On his 19th volunteer placement, Sabourin doesn’t show signs of slowing down in retirement. After wrapping up in eastern Kentucky, he anticipates filling more long- term roles. His next assignment is already confirmed in Shuswap, British Columbia — with more opportunities on the horizon. “There’s something satisfying about doing what you’re called to do,” Sabourin said. — Nikki Hamm Gwala It’s about putting love into action
Date Pudding Cake This delicious dessert was created by Susie Raber, from Baltic, Ohio. She served with Disaster Aid Ohio in Selma, Alabama, in March. Serves 17.
Meet Nikki Hamm Gwala MDS Canada Communications Coordinator Q: WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO WANT TO SHARE THE STORIES OF MDS? MDS chooses to be present in devastated communities. I see the fullness of what it means to be human — grief, anger, compassion, love, humor, etc. — in the responses that MDS is a part of. I see this fullness in disaster survivors and volunteers. As we navigate complex and disheartening local and global challenges today, I think stories of human vulnerability, compassion, harmony and good news have never been more important. It’s a privilege to share hopeful stories of MDS’ work. Q: HAS ANYTHING SURPRISED YOU ABOUT YOUR JOB SO FAR? I hadn’t realized how many and how deeply people, so close to home, are affected by disasters. I know it will be eye opening to learn more about how neighbors, across provinces and states, are increasingly impacted by disasters and to learn about their priorities in recovery. Q: IS THERE A FAVORITE PRAYER OR BIBLE VERSE THAT INSPIRES YOU ON THE JOB? The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) come to mind. It’s so easy to see both MDS volunteers and disaster survivors among those blessed — those who mourn, the poor in spirit, merciful, peacemakers and pure in heart. These are blessings that will be on my heart as I meet volunteers and disaster survivors.
2 cups dates, cut fine 2 teaspoons baking soda 4 tablespoons butter, cubed 2 cups boiling water 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon maple flavoring 2 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 teaspoon baking powder 2 cups flour 1/4 teaspoon salt
It’s always a thrill to hear homeowner stories. It’s very empowering for volunteers and the leadership here to be told that they’re appreciated and to be told they’re called angels.”
Put dates, soda, and butter in a large bowl. Pour boiling water over all. Let sit until cool, then add the rest of the ingredients. (Make sure it is cool before adding.) Bake in large cookie sheet at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes.
BUTTERSCOTCH SAUCE: 1 cup butter 4 cups brown sugar 1 teaspoon salt 4 cups water
— DENIS SABOURIN
3/4 cup clear gel, heaping 2 cups cold water, scant 11/2 tablespoons maple flavoring 1 tablespoon vanilla
Brown butter in a large saucepan. Add brown sugar. Heat a few minutes before adding salt and four cups water. Meanwhile, combine clear gel with 2 cups cold water; mix well. Add to above mixture. Cook until thick. Remove from heat and add maple flavoring and vanilla. Fix in layers with cake, sauce, and whipped cream.
12 behind the hammer
behind the hammer 13
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